Beginner · 30–45 minutes · 7 steps
How to sew a envelope pillowcase
An envelope pillowcase needs no zip, no buttons and about half an hour. The measuring is the only place it goes wrong, so it's worth doing that carefully and treating the sewing itself as the easy part.
How it's constructed
- Shape
- Front panel plus two overlapping back panels
- Overlap
- At least 15 cm so the pad stays hidden
- Closure
- None — the overlap holds it closed
- Insides
- French seams, or overlocked allowances
Fabrics that work
- Cotton percale or sateen for bed pillows
- Linen for a relaxed, rumpled look
- Cotton canvas or velvet for cushions
What you'll need
- Matching thread
- Nothing else
The steps, in order
- 01
Measure the pad, not the old cover
Measure the pad flat. For a snug cushion cover, cut the front the pad size plus 1 cm seam allowance on each edge; for a bed pillow add a little ease.
- 02
Cut one front and two back panels
Each back panel should be about 60% of the front's length, so together they overlap generously in the middle.
- 03
Hem the overlapping edges first
Double-turn and stitch the inner edge of each back panel. These are the only edges that stay visible, so press them well.
- 04
Layer the panels
Lay the front right side up, then place both back panels on top right side down, hemmed edges overlapping in the middle. Pin around all four edges.
- 05
Stitch around the whole cover
Sew all four sides, stitching twice over the overlap area where the panels cross — that's where the strain lands.
- 06
Trim the corners and finish the edges
Snip the corners diagonally, then overlock or zigzag the allowances. For a fully enclosed finish, sew the whole cover as a French seam instead.
- 07
Turn through, press and stuff
Turn right side out, poke the corners out with a point turner, press and insert the pad.
Mistakes worth avoiding
Too little overlap
The pad shows through the gap every time the cushion is used. 15 cm minimum.
Forgetting to hem before assembling
Once the cover is sewn, those inner edges are impossible to hem neatly.
Cutting the cover the same size as the pad
After seam allowances it ends up too tight and the corners look pinched.
Techniques used in this project
Each one is explained on its own page, step by step.
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