Decorating your home doesn’t have to be expensive or wasteful. In fact, if you’re looking for a creative, eco-friendly, and budget-conscious project, you can reuse old fabrics to create pillow covers that look custom-made. This simple DIY idea not only reduces textile waste but also adds a personal touch to your living space.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to turn old shirts, curtains, tablecloths, and other fabrics into beautiful pillow covers — even if you have zero sewing experience.
Why Reuse Old Fabrics?
Reusing old fabrics is a fantastic way to practice sustainability and reduce landfill waste. Here are a few great reasons to start:
- Eco-Friendly: It keeps textiles out of landfills and reduces the demand for new materials.
- Cost-Effective: You avoid buying new fabric or pillow covers.
- Sentimental Value: Repurpose a favorite shirt or baby blanket into something new and useful.
- Creative Control: You choose the colors, textures, and styles that fit your décor perfectly.
Best Fabrics to Use for DIY Pillow Covers
Before you start, take a look around your home. The following items are excellent candidates for repurposing:
- Old button-up shirts (especially flannel or cotton)
- Outdated or torn bedsheets
- Fabric napkins or tablecloths
- Curtains
- Worn-out dresses or skirts
- Leftover upholstery fabric scraps
Make sure the fabric is clean, in decent condition, and doesn’t stretch too much.
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Here’s a simple checklist before starting:
- Old fabric of your choice
- Scissors or a rotary cutter
- Sewing machine or fabric glue for no-sew version
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Straight pins or clips
- Iron (optional but helpful)
- Pillow insert or old pillow
How to Make Pillow Covers from Old Fabric (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Measure Your Pillow
Start by measuring your pillow insert. Standard square pillows are usually 16×16 or 18×18 inches. Add 1 inch to each side for seam allowance. So if your pillow is 18×18, cut fabric pieces to 19×19 inches.
Step 2: Cut the Fabric
Cut two pieces:
- Front Panel: One square the size of your pillow plus seam allowance.
- Back Panels (Envelope Closure): Two rectangular pieces, each the width of the pillow and half the height + 3 inches for overlap and hems.
Example for 18×18 pillow:
- Front: 19×19 inches
- Back pieces: 19×13 inches (each)
Step 3: Hem the Back Panels
Hem one long edge of each back panel by folding the edge over twice (about ½ inch), then sewing or using fabric glue.
Step 4: Assemble the Pieces
Place the front panel right side up. Layer the two back panels right side down, overlapping them in the center. Pin or clip everything in place.
Step 5: Sew or Glue the Edges
Sew around all four sides with a ½ inch seam allowance. If using glue, apply a thin, even line and press firmly.
Step 6: Turn Inside Out and Insert Pillow
Flip the cover right side out through the envelope opening, iron the edges if needed, and insert the pillow.
No-Sew Version Using Fabric Glue
If you don’t have a sewing machine, fabric glue works great. Just follow the same steps and replace the stitching with glue. Let it dry according to the instructions before inserting the pillow.
Design Tips to Customize Your Covers
- Mix and Match: Use two types of fabrics (like a denim front and floral back).
- Add Texture: Repurpose textured materials like corduroy, velvet, or lace overlays.
- Embellish: Add buttons, fabric paint, embroidery, or iron-on patches for extra flair.
- Seasonal Swaps: Create different covers for holidays or seasons using themed fabrics.
Where to Get Extra Materials (If Needed)
If you’re missing fabric glue or need pillow inserts, check local thrift stores or order online.
You can find eco-friendly glue options at: Buy Fabric Glue on Amazon
For more creative ways to repurpose household items, check out our guide on how to make recycled mason jar centerpieces.
Conclusion: Give Your Home a Fresh Look Sustainably
You don’t need to be a professional seamstress or spend money on new décor to make your home beautiful. By learning how to reuse old fabrics to create pillow covers, you reduce waste, save money, and give new life to items you already own.
Save this guide for your next crafting weekend — and share it with a friend who loves DIY projects!
FAQ: Pillow Covers from Old Fabric
Q1: Can I make a pillow cover without a sewing machine?
Yes! Use fabric glue for a strong, no-sew option.
Q2: What if my fabric is too thin?
You can double-layer it or back it with sturdier material like canvas or denim.
Q3: Can I wash these DIY pillow covers?
Absolutely. If you’ve sewn them, wash gently. If using glue, check if it’s washable before laundering.
Need fabric glue for your no-sew pillow project? You can find affordable, eco-friendly options on Amazon.
Written by Kate Smith | Plant Care Enthusiast & Urban Gardener