How to Make a Flanged Pillow: A Step-by-Step Guide

Learning how to make a flanged pillow is an easy way to add a sophisticated and stylish touch to your home decor.

Whether you’re looking to refresh your bedding or create a custom accent piece for your living room, flanged pillows provide an effortless way to enhance aesthetics.

This guide will walk you through the entire process, from choosing materials to sewing the perfect flange.

What Is a Flange on a Pillow?

A flange on a pillow is a decorative border that extends beyond the pillow’s edges, giving it a more structured and polished look.

The flange is typically 1-3 inches wide and sewn around all four edges of the pillow cover.

This extra fabric creates a tailored, high-end appearance, making flanged pillows a popular choice for bedroom and living room decor.

Benefits of a Flanged Pillow

• Adds a luxurious touch to any bedding or furniture set.

• Provides a structured and elegant design that enhances the pillow’s appearance.

• Customizable in different fabrics, colors, and sizes to match any style.

• Easy to sew for both beginners and experienced crafters.

How to Make a Flange Pillow

Making a DIY flanged pillow is simple with the right materials and techniques. Follow these steps to create a stunning, professional-looking pillow.

Materials Needed:

• Fabric of choice (cotton, linen, velvet, or upholstery fabric)

• Pillow insert (standard, queen, or king size)

• Matching thread

• Sewing machine

• Scissors

• Pins or clips

• Measuring tape or ruler

• Fabric chalk or marker

• Iron

Step-by-Step Guide:

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Fabric

• Measure the pillow insert dimensions carefully to ensure a snug fit.

• Add 1-inch seam allowance plus 2-3 inches for the flange width on each side.

• Cut two identical fabric pieces for the front and back of the pillow cover, ensuring straight and even edges.

• Use fabric chalk or a washable fabric marker to make precise cutting lines, reducing potential errors.

Step 2: Sew the Pillow Cover

• Place the fabric pieces right sides together and pin around the edges to hold them in place.

• Sew along three sides using a ½-inch seam allowance, leaving one side open for inserting the pillow.

• Trim the seam allowance slightly to reduce bulk and ensure cleaner edges.

• Turn the fabric right-side out, gently pushing out the corners for a sharp finish, and press it flat with an iron to remove any wrinkles.

Step 3: Create the Flange

• Mark a 2-3 inch border from the edge around all four sides using a ruler for even measurements.

• Sew a topstitch along the marked area to define the flange and create a structured, professional look.

• Reinforce the stitching at the corners to prevent unraveling over time.

• Press with an iron to set the edges and ensure a crisp, finished appearance that maintains its shape after washing.

A Puffy Lux Mattress paired with custom flanged pillows creates an inviting and cozy sleep environment, elevating both comfort and style.

How to Make a Flange Pillow with Zipper

Adding a zipper to your flanged pillow allows for easy removal and washing, making it a practical and stylish choice for home decor.

A zippered closure not only keeps the pillow insert secure but also provides convenience for maintenance, especially for high-use pillows.

Step-by-Step Guide:

• Cut fabric pieces as mentioned in the previous section, ensuring precise measurements for a snug fit.

• Attach the zipper along one edge before sewing the pillow together. Align it carefully and use pins or clips to keep it in place.

• Use a zipper foot on your sewing machine to sew close to the zipper teeth, ensuring a clean and professional finish.

• Once the zipper is securely attached, sew the remaining three sides, reinforcing the seams for added durability.

• Turn the pillow right-side out, smooth out any creases, and press it flat with an iron to maintain a crisp, structured look.

• Finish by topstitching the flange border as previously explained, ensuring even stitching and a polished final appearance.

Tips for a Professional Finish

• Pre-wash fabric to prevent shrinkage after sewing, ensuring the pillow maintains its shape over time.

• Use a fabric stabilizer for lightweight fabrics to maintain structure and prevent sagging.

• Press seams after each step to achieve a crisp, polished appearance that enhances the final product.

• Topstitch with a slightly longer stitch length for a more professional and decorative look, giving the pillow a designer-style finish.

• Choose a durable, high-quality zipper that blends seamlessly with the fabric, ensuring long-term functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Pairing flanged pillows with a Puffy Cloud Mattress enhances your bedroom’s comfort and elegance, providing a cozy and stylish retreat.

Final Thoughts

Making a flanged pillow is a fun and creative way to add a decorative touch to your home.

Whether you choose a simple sewn edge or an added zipper, this DIY project is a perfect blend of style and function.