I have been making pillowcases for 16″ square pillows. I used some of my sons’ old t-shirts, as they are for their beds. I am not totally happy with the result, so I am calling it a prototype. So far, I made two identical pillowcases that are as follow:
The front made of 4 squares and 4 rectangles. One of the square was already made of two rectangles–the sleeve of a sweater. You know, the ones made of a t-shirt with long sleeves added to it.
The back made of 4 squares of equal measurements. I did not use a zipper or buttons as it would have lessen their comfort quality.
A close up of the front: I sew stripes over the joining lines with a zig zag stitch in the middle. These pictures where taken after the pillowcases where washed in the washing machine. Therefore, the stripes are no longer laying flat.
A close up of the back that may not seem straight because of the pillow insert. I made a decorative stitch with my sewing machine (feather stitch) over the sewing line of the top flap.
Working with small pieces of stretchy fabric is one thing (like I did for my Tea in the Rose Garden mug rugs). Working with big pieces is much less easy. The idea of adding stripes came to my mind after ripping decorative stitches I tried to add to the joining lines. Let me tell you that making decorative stitches with the sewing machine on such fabrics creates a mess. I added a layer of batting before doing so because I thought it would efficiently stabilise the fabric. Not so. And let me add that ripping thoses stitches left an even bigger mess. Translation: lots of holes. In an effort to salvage the two pillowcases, I added the stripes. It worked well in the end because there are no more holes visible and they add a “young and carefree” effect. In any cases, I am happy to report that Raphaël and Gabriel love them and are totally happy with how they look.
That was a happy ending. Ouf!
France
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(Yes, it is my arm.)
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You’ve done a great job! Great way to use the old T-shirts!
I was not please with the result at first… But if people like them, I’m happy! Thank you for telling me. 🙂
love the prototypes 🙂 I bet they will be so awesome to snuggle with too!
You are right… They became the favorite pillows in my sons’ beds. 😉 Thank you for visiting!
I bet your pillows are VERY soft! very nice.
Oh yes, they are, as the fabric went through so many washing. That’s why my sons now rest their heads on them instead of their regular pillows. 🙂 Thank you for your visit!
A great way to reuse old t-shirts, France. Your combination of squares and rectangles looks really good.
Thank you, Pam! I love your idea of making ribbons with scraps!
Cute pillows – what a great way to upcycle and use old t-shirts. I have some I was going to donate – maybe I will try this out. I like the decorative stitching detail, too.
Thank you, Kimberlee! If you do try it, please let me know. I would love to see them!
I really like them, especially the stripes and the raw edges. Great way to use old tee shirts.
Thank you so much, Sally! 🙂
Pretty pillow, France! This will be well loved. Thanks for sharing your process and experiences with us!
They’re already well loved. Thank you for your visit, Lorna! I always appreciate it.