DIY: Ribbon Embellished Plush Pillow

So last week I made over that boring pen holder with ribbon and this week I'm going to show you how I made a pillow using the same ribbon.  Pillows are fairly easy to make, so have no fear if you've never done it before and comment with any questions.  This pillow is made using polyfil instead of a pre-made pillow form.  I really like the flexibility I have with stuffing one as opposed to a pillow form especially if I have a limited amount of fabric like a vintage print.

So lets get started.  I cut two pieces of fabric to the same size approximately 15 x 30.  To embellish any pillow on the front you really want to do the embellishing before you sew the two sides together.  I cut my ribbons 2 inches longer than the width of the fabric.  I measured the same distance on each side, pinned and sewed the ribbon in place on the right side of the fabric.  Next I placed the right sides of the pillow together and pinned it in place.  If you are new to sewing the "right" side of the fabric refers to the side of fabric that will show when the project is complete and the "wrong" side is the part that will be on the inside.   I then stitched all the way around the rectangle leaving an opening big enough for my hand.  I trimmed the corners (from a point to a straight edge) and made sure I didn't miss any seems before turning it right side out.

Once turned out I started stuffing making sure to really press it into the corners.  I always give it a bit more than I think it needs because it will flatten out just a bit.  Once all the stuffing was in, I pushed the stuffing away from the opening, turned the fabric in and pinned it in place. By pushing the stuffing back I can sew the opening using the sewing machine, I only hand sew when I have to.  Make sure to make a back stitch any time you start and stop sewing so that the thread won't unravel.

Since I have kids, little kids, I like to use fabrics that won't show things like snot or drool spots, can be washed and are comfortable.  I can't say enough good things about ultra cuddle fabric.  I use it in my Etsy shop and it is the softest stuff ever!  The cool thing about making your own pillows is that they can be whatever you want.  I've got some more to share with you, next week maybe?  Have a great weekend!