How to Cover a Foam Pillow With Material

Making your own throw pillows is an economical way to add color to a room. Covering a preformed piece of foam with fabric is a straightforward job that can be done by a sewing novice. The stitching can be done by hand if you don't have a sewing machine. Only straight lines are involved and you don't have to add a zipper. Linen and cotton are easier to sew than slick fabrics like silk or satin, so choose a heavier fabric if this is your first project.

Things You'll Need

Foam pillow
Tape measure
Fabric

Scissors
Straight pins
Needle and thread

Instructions

- 1
  Measure the pillow. Double the size of one side and add 2 inches of fabric for each of the four sides. If your pillow is 12-by12 inches, buy a piece of fabric that is at least 26 inches long and 26 inches wide.
- 2
  Fold the fabric in the middle and cut it in half.
- 3
  Pin the 2 pieces of fabric together, with the right sides facing each other. Place the pins ½ inch from the edge of the fabric.
- 4
  Stitch three sides of the fabric together along the pins by sliding the threaded needle through the fabric and then making another stitch about an eighth of an inch away from the first stitch. Before you pull the stitch tight, thread the tip of the needle through the loop you made when you started the second stitch. Continue stitching this way.
- 5
  Turn the fabric pillowcase you've just made right side out and slide the foam pillow inside and tuck the corners into the corners of the cover. Pat the pillow into place.
- 6
  Finish the project by sewing together the fourth seam. Fold ½ inch of fabric on each side inward and pin the two folded pieces together. Use small, uniform stitches so that the seam is less noticeable.

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