Upholstering a lumbar pillow can be a rewarding DIY project that allows you to customize the design to suit your decor. Here’s a step-by-step guide to upholstering a lumbar pillow:
Materials Needed:
- Insert (lumbar size).
- Fabric of your choice (elegant velvet, versatile cotton, or lightweight linen).
- Sewing machine (or needle and thread for hand sewing).
- Thread (matching your fabric color).
- Scissors.
- Measuring tape.
- Straight pins.
- Zipper, buttons, or hook-and-loop tape (optional, for closures).
- Iron and ironing board.
Instructions:
1. Measure the Pillow Insert
- Measure the width and height of your pillow insert.
- Add 1 inch to each dimension for seam allowances (e.g., for a 12×20-inch pillow, cut fabric pieces that are 13×21 inches).
2. Cut the Fabric
- Cut two pieces of fabric to the dimensions determined above. These will form the front and back of the pillow.
3. Prepare the Fabric
- Iron the fabric to remove wrinkles.
- Decide which piece will be the front and back, and consider adding decorative details like piping, tufting, or embroidery to the front if desired.
4. Optional: Add a Closure
- If you want the pillow cover to be removable:
- Install a zipper along one of the long edges.
- Alternatively, sew in buttons or use hook-and-loop tape for a closure. Ensure this step is completed before sewing the other sides together.
5. Pin the Fabric
- Place the two fabric pieces right sides together (the patterned or front-facing sides should touch).
- Align the edges and secure with straight pins, leaving a small opening for stuffing if you’re not using a closure.
6. Sew the Seams
- Sew along all edges with a 1/2-inch seam allowance, leaving the small opening unstitched for turning the fabric right-side out.
- For corners, stop sewing at each corner, lift the presser foot, turn the fabric, and continue sewing.
7. Trim and Turn
- Trim excess fabric at the corners (being careful not to cut the stitches) to reduce bulk.
- Turn the pillow cover right-side out through the opening or zipper.
8. Insert the Pillow
- Insert the lumbar pillow insert into the cover through the opening or zipper.
9. Close the Opening
- If you left an opening for stuffing, fold the raw edges inward and hand-stitch the opening closed using an invisible stitch.
Tips for Success
- Use upholstery-grade fabric for durability if the pillow will see heavy use.
- Consider adding piping or a decorative trim to elevate the look.
- If you’re a beginner, start with a simple envelope-style closure that doesn’t require zippers or buttons.
Once complete, your lumbar pillow is ready to enhance your space with comfort and style!