How To Make An Easy Designer Style Pillow Slipcover For Less

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How To Find Inexpensive Decorative Fabric For DIY Pillow Covers

First, search out high-end websites that sell pillows. Snap a screenshot of the ones you’d like to duplicate and take it with you when you shop. I saw this one on Ballard Designs, but I regularly look at Pottery Barn and Serena & Lily for inspiration.

When I was looking for a decorative fabric to add a colorful pillow like the ones I saw at Ballard Designs, I didn’t want to spend much money. So I didn’t look for weather-proof or Sunbrella fabrics. Instead, I looked for an inexpensive but fun pattern.

I found a fabric pattern at Walmart that’s somewhat similar to the designer pillow. It was less than $10.00 a yard, and I only needed one yard for a 12 x 20 pillow cover. I already have several pillow fillers that I switch out seasonally, so this pillow costs only 10% as much as the Ballard Designs one. Here is a comparison of the fabrics.

NOTE: If you want fade-resistant, waterproof pillow fabric, expect to pay anywhere from $25.00 to $80.00 per yard. The pattern options may be limited, so purchasing a ready-made pillow may be the best option. See below how to protect your inexpensive fabric.

How To Make An Easy Pillow Slip Cover

If you love sewing and adding zippers to pillows, go for it. I can make the complicated pillows, but I’d rather whip something up quick and easy, and that’s what I did with this one. I made this slip cover in less than 15 minutes. If you don’t sew, I’m including a no-sew option. But first, here is how I made mine.

Step 1 – How to Cut Fabric to Fit Pillow Filler

I decided to add a flange to my pillow, so I needed to allow for extra fabric to create a flat edge around the cover.

• 12 x 20 pillow filler – cut two pieces of fabric 16 1/2 inches by 24 1/2 inches. This is allowing for the seam allowance and a two-inch flange.

Step 2 – How To Sew a Flange Pillow Cover

• Place the right sides of the fabric together and stitch around three sides. Leave one of the short ends open.
• Turn the pillow cover right side out and ensure that the edges are smooth. You can use pins to hold the two sides in place or use an iron to press them flat.
• With the sewing machine, sew a 2-inch stitch around the edge of the fabric, except at the open end. Once completed, the pillow filler should fit easily inside the cover, leaving a decorative flat edge flange around 3 sides.

Step 2 – No-Sew Pillow Slip Cover Tutorial Alternative

To make a no-sew pillow slip version, you will not be able to add the flange edge, but the pillow will still look lovely.

• Cut the fabric without the extra 4 inches for the flange. For a 12 x 20 pillow, cut the fabric 12 1/2 x 20 1/2 inches.
• Place the right sides together, and apply a line of permanent fabric glue 1/4 inch from the edge of the fabric on 3 sides. Keep one short side open.
  • Note: It’s important to keep the glue line thin and straight so the edge of the pillow is smooth.
• Once the glue is dry, turn the right side out and press the outside seams evenly with a warm iron.
• Continue to Step 3

Step 3 – Add Ties to Pillow Slip Cover

For this next step, I used some ribbon I had on hand, but you can use strips of fabric if you don’t have a ribbon.

• Cut 4 pieces of ribbon approximately 4 inches long.
• Stitch to the inside of the pillow cover at the open end. You can hand stitch, use a sewing machine, or adhere with glue.
• Be sure to align the ribbons evenly so that you can tie them together.
• Add the pillow filler and tie the ribbon to hold it in place.

Decorate With Your $10.00 Ballard Designs Inspired Pillow

I’m loving the fabric and how fast this pillow cover came together. It adds the pop of color I was desiring. So glad I didn’t pay the Ballard Designs price for this look.

I first added it to my porch swing, but then moved it to its permanent location.

It adds just the right pop of color on the screen porch sofa, so it will stay here for a while. Now I wish I’d made two. LOL

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Thank you for stopping by, and I look forward to sharing my next adventure with you.