Sewing a pillow is simple and inexpensive, and it's also a great way to learn and practice some basic sewing and handicraft skills. Why spend money on commercial pillows when you can easily make your own? Square and rectangular pillows are easiest to make. The instructions below will walk you through the entire process, but once you master it, you can improvise and create new creations, all for less than buying them from the store.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Preparing the fabric

Step 1. Find the fabric
Almost any fabric can work, but consider the purpose of the future pillow. If you will be using it to sleep on it at night, choose a fabric that feels good to lean your face against. If your pillow is going to be decorative, choose a fabric that matches the decor.

Step 2. Cut the fabric into two equal squares or rectangles
A simple pillow usually consists of two pieces of fabric sewn together and stuffed with soft filler. Your two flaps should be slightly larger than you want the finished pillow to be in length and width.
- Add 4cm seam allowance to the length and width. The seam allowance is the fabric that will go into the seams when sewing.
- Zig-zag the edges of the fabric. This is required if the fabric is fraying.
Method 2 of 3: Sew the pillow

Step 1. Measure the sides of the fabric patches to determine how many threads you need
Make sure they don't run out in the middle of sewing.

Step 2. Fold the two flaps right sides inward
After stitching, you will need to turn the cushion inside out, so make sure you sew the cushion with the right sides together so that they end up facing outward.

Step 3. Sew the details on three sides
This can be done either by hand or on a sewing machine. It is best to use a line stitch. Again, do not forget to step back 2 cm from the edge of the parts.

Step 4. Turn the pillow face out
You should now see the "pocket" (which will be stuffing) formed from the side of the fabric that should be on the outside.

Step 5. Iron the pillow
If the pillow is wrinkled when you fill it with filler, it will be nearly impossible to smooth out the wrinkles.

Step 6. Process the opening
Along the open edge of the pillow, tuck the allowance on both sides 2 cm inward and iron. You are now ready to fill and finish the pillow.
Method 3 of 3: Stuff and Close

Step 1. Stuff your pillow
Take some filler and stuff it into the open opening of your pillow. Try to distribute the filler evenly when filling. Do not stop until the pillow is full and you can see areas of apparent lack of filler. It is best to use commercially available cotton fill, but anything from lint to scraps of fabric can work.

Step 2. Sew both sides of the opening with fine stitches over the edge
Over the edge stitches are performed by piercing both sides to be sewn along the edge with a needle at once, bringing the thread from one side to the other and throwing it over the edge, etc.
You can also use blind stitches to create a cleaner look
Advice
- Cotton or synthetic filling is available at most fabric or craft stores.
- Make sure you don't overdo it with the filling. Otherwise, your pillow will be too tight, or you won't be able to join the edges, or worse, it will burst as someone squeezes it.