Are you a bookworm who loves to curl up with a good read? Do you wish you had a comfy, supportive pillow specifically designed for your reading pleasure? Then this DIY project is for you! Learn how to make a reading pillow with a handy pocket to hold your book, phone, or glasses. This tutorial provides step-by-step instructions, making it perfect for beginners. Get ready to transform your reading experience with this cozy creation!
Materials You'll Need:
Before you start, gather these materials:
- Fabric: Approximately 2 yards of soft, durable fabric. Flannel, fleece, or even a sturdy cotton are great choices. Choose a fabric you love to snuggle up with! Consider the color and pattern to match your décor.
- Fabric for the Pocket: About ½ yard of coordinating or contrasting fabric for the pocket. This can be a fun accent!
- Thread: Matching thread for your chosen fabric.
- Scissors: A good pair of sharp scissors is crucial for clean cuts.
- Pins: Plenty of pins to secure the fabric pieces before sewing.
- Sewing Machine: While you could hand-sew this, a sewing machine will make the process much faster and easier.
- Measuring Tape: For accurate measurements.
- Iron and Ironing Board: To press seams and ensure a neat finish.
- Stuffing: Polyester fiberfill or another suitable stuffing material. Aim for a generous amount for a plump pillow.
Cutting Your Fabric:
First, let's cut the main pillow pieces:
- Pillow Front: Cut one rectangle of fabric measuring 24" x 20".
- Pillow Back: Cut two rectangles of fabric measuring 24" x 10".
Next, cut the pocket pieces:
- Pocket: Cut one rectangle of your pocket fabric measuring 10" x 8". You can adjust these measurements to your preference. Larger pocket = more storage!
Sewing the Pocket:
- Fold and Press: Fold the 10" x 8" pocket fabric in half with right sides together, along the 8" side. Press the fold.
- Sew the Sides: Sew along the 8" side, using a ½" seam allowance. Turn right side out. Press the seam.
Assembling the Reading Pillow:
- Attach the Pocket: Position the finished pocket onto the lower section of one of the 24" x 10" pillow back pieces. Pin it securely, ensuring the top edge of the pocket aligns with the raw edge of the fabric.
- Sew the Pocket: Stitch the pocket to the fabric, using a straight stitch and a ½" seam allowance.
- Attach Pillow Backs: Pin the two pillow back pieces together with right sides facing. Sew along the long sides and one short side, leaving one short side open for stuffing.
- Attach the Front: Pin the pillow front (24" x 20") and the assembled pillow back together, right sides facing. Make sure the seams are well-aligned.
- Sew the Pillow: Sew around the perimeter, leaving an opening of about 6-8 inches on one side for turning and stuffing.
- Turn and Stuff: Carefully turn the pillow right side out through the opening. Use a long, thin tool like a chopstick or knitting needle to help push out the corners.
- Stuff Generously: Fill the pillow generously with stuffing. Make sure it’s evenly distributed for a comfortable reading experience.
- Close the Opening: Hand stitch the remaining opening closed using a ladder stitch or a slip stitch for a neat, invisible closure.
Finishing Touches:
Press the seams again for a crisp finish. Admire your handiwork! Now you have a cozy, customized reading pillow with a convenient pocket for all your reading essentials.
Tips and Variations:
- Add a Zipper: For a more secure pocket, consider adding a zipper instead of simply sewing the sides.
- Different Shapes: Experiment with different shapes and sizes. A crescent moon shape could be lovely!
- Embellishments: Personalize your pillow with buttons, embroidery, or fabric appliqué.
Enjoy your new reading pillow! Let us know in the comments how yours turned out! #readingpillow #DIY #sewingproject #cozy #handmade #booklover
