Do you have a sewing machine that you haven't used for ages? Perhaps it's gathering dust in a corner somewhere and you've forgotten how to use it. Maybe it's still in it's box and you're a little scared of it? Well this tutorial is for YOU! *points finger in a non-rude way*
You will learn how to make a fabulous ZIP-LESS cushion cover...as a gift for you - because you're worth it - or a very lucky friend!
Compulsory ingredients; 1 piece of (non-stretchy) fabric 18ins x 18ins. 2 pieces of fabric 12ins x 18ins. Fabric scissors, thread, a sewing machine, and iron and some pins.
Optional extras; A 16ins cushion pad, thread scissors or snippers, chocolate treats and wine (see compulsory)
Ready? So let's start!
Turn over approx 1/2 inch of a long edge of the back panel. Press. Repeat with the other panel.
Turn the hem over 1/2 inch again to hide the raw edge. Press. Repeat.
Sewing machine time! (can I get a 'WOOP'?) Sew in a straight line close to the pressed edge to create a hem on both panels.
Place both pieces, right sides down, on top of the front panel (which should be facing up towards you). The overlap is deliberate.
If you have fancy bead head pins you could position them so that they peek-a-boo and are easy to see. If you don't, no worries. They're just showing off anyway!
Tip: Whilst you're in a pinning mood, pop one in the middle to stop the back panels shifting around when you sew. Trust me.
Start with a short backstitch (most electric sewing machines have this wonderful facility) on the overlap and sew an approximately 5/8 inch seam all around the cushion cover.
Tip: When turning the corners, stop the machine and use the hand-wheel to place the needle at the corner. Lift up the presser foot and turn your fabric before returning the presser foot and continuing on your journey.
Backstitch to secure the threads when you get to the end.
Cut the threads an inch or so in on both sides. It won't show when you turn your cushion cover so please don't stress!
Snip the corners. This will reduce bulk when you turn your cover and give you professional looking sharp-tastic corners. Oo-er!
Trim the edges to about 3/8 inch...
...but leave the overlap part untouched. This gives you more fabric to play with/sew through and make the opening more durable. Promise!
Remove the central pin. Then place your thumb into one corner and use your forefinger to turn it. Repeat with the other three. Tip: If you have one, use a chopstick to push the corners out very gently - makes them fabulously crisp!
Now stand back and bask in your Creative Genius. This is the optimum time for an edible/quaffable TREAT(s)!
Not long now...
Pin at decent intervals around your cover (and pop that pin back in the middle whilst you're at it...)
Gently press the edges between the pins. Then remove them and repeat.
Start on the overlap with a backstitch and sew a border approximately 5/8 inch from the edge all the way round.
This time when you snip, do so close to the stitching so that they become invisible.
In theory your cushion cover is complete! (WOOP time again!)
But if you happen to have a cushion pad lying around your household (or you can 'borrow' one from an old cushion like I did)...
...you can magically turn it into...
...THIS!!!
Well HELLOOOOOOOOO YOU SSSSHHEXY MAMA!
So there you have it! STILL think you can't sew? Do give it a go and let me know how you get on!
Which Sewing Project you would like to tackle after this one?