How to Sew a Zipper in a Pillow Cover: A Step-by-Step Guide

Adding a zipper to your pillow cover is a great way to make it easier to remove for washing while also adding a stylish touch. In this step-by-step tutorial, we’ll walk you through the process of sewing a zipper onto your pillow cover, even if you’re a beginner. With a few simple tools and techniques, you’ll be able to create a professional-looking pillow cover that you can be proud of.

Why should you add a zipper to your pillow cover?

First and foremost, zippers provide easy access to the pillow insert. This convenience cannot be overstated, especially when it comes to cleaning and maintenance. With a zippered cover, you can quickly remove the insert for washing or replacement without struggling to stuff it back into a tight, sewn-shut cover. This simple feature extends the life of your pillows by allowing you to keep the covers clean and fresh with minimal effort.

Moreover, zippered pillow covers offer versatility in your home decor. They allow you to effortlessly swap out covers to match different seasons, holidays, or simply to refresh your living space. Instead of buying new pillows every time you want to change your decor, you can invest in high-quality inserts and switch out the covers as often as you like. This not only saves money in the long run but also reduces waste, making it an environmentally friendly choice.

Another advantage of adding a zipper to your pillow cover is the professional and polished look it provides. A well-sewn zipper gives your homemade pillow covers a store-bought appearance, elevating the overall aesthetic of your DIY projects. It demonstrates attention to detail and craftsmanship, which can be a source of pride for avid sewers and home decorators.

Zippers also allow for a snug fit around the pillow insert, creating a crisp, tailored appearance. Unlike envelope-style closures or ties, which can sometimes gape or bunch, a properly installed zipper ensures that your pillow cover fits smoothly and looks neat from every angle. This is particularly important for throw pillows or decorative cushions that are on display in your living areas.

Lastly, adding a zipper to your pillow cover can be an excellent opportunity to add a subtle design element or pop of contrast. Choose a zipper color that complements or contrasts with your fabric for an extra touch of style. You can even opt for decorative zipper pulls to add a unique, personalized detail to your pillow covers.

What materials and tools do you need for this project?

First and foremost, you’ll need fabric for your pillow cover. The choice of fabric will depend on your personal preference and the intended use of the pillow. Cotton, linen, or polyester blends are popular choices for their durability and ease of care. Remember to choose a fabric weight appropriate for your pillow insert – lighter fabrics for decorative pillows, and sturdier options for everyday use. You’ll also want to ensure you have enough fabric to accommodate your pillow size plus seam allowances.

The star of this project is, of course, the zipper. Choose a zipper that’s slightly shorter than the width of your pillow. For most standard throw pillows, a 14-inch to 18-inch zipper works well. Opt for a plastic or nylon coil zipper for softer pillows, or a metal zipper for a more industrial look. Make sure the zipper color complements or intentionally contrasts with your chosen fabric.

In terms of sewing supplies, you’ll need thread that matches your fabric. Polyester all-purpose thread is suitable for most projects. Don’t forget pins to hold your fabric and zipper in place during the sewing process. Straight pins are fine, but safety pins can be helpful when working with slippery fabrics.

Now, let’s talk about the tools you’ll need. A sewing machine is essential for this project. While it’s possible to sew a zipper by hand, a machine will give you more consistent results and save time. Your sewing machine should have a zipper foot attachment – this specialized presser foot allows you to sew close to the zipper teeth without the foot getting caught.

You’ll also need a few hand tools. Sharp fabric scissors are crucial for cutting your fabric cleanly. A seam ripper is invaluable for correcting mistakes or removing basting stitches. A tape measure or ruler will help you measure and mark your fabric accurately.

For marking your fabric, you have several options. Tailor’s chalk or a fabric marking pen that disappears with heat or water are both excellent choices. These will allow you to make clear marks on your fabric that won’t be visible on the finished product.

Lastly, don’t forget about pressing tools. An iron and ironing board are essential for creating crisp seams and ensuring your zipper lies flat. A pressing cloth can be helpful to protect delicate fabrics from direct heat.

How do you prepare your pillow cover fabric?

Begin by washing and drying your fabric according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This pre-washing step is essential as it removes any sizing or chemicals present in new fabric and allows for any shrinkage to occur before you cut and sew. It also helps prevent unexpected changes in size or shape after you’ve completed your pillow cover. Once washed, iron the fabric to remove all wrinkles, creating a smooth surface for accurate cutting and sewing.

Next, measure and cut your fabric to the appropriate size. Remember to account for seam allowances and the pillow insert size. A general rule of thumb is to cut your fabric one inch larger on all sides than your desired finished size. For example, if you want an 18×18 inch pillow cover, cut two pieces of fabric that are 19×19 inches each. This extra inch allows for a half-inch seam allowance on all sides.

After cutting, it’s time to prepare the edges of your fabric. If you’re working with a fabric that frays easily, you might want to finish the edges with a zigzag stitch or by using a serger. This step isn’t always necessary, especially if you’re using a tightly woven fabric, but it can add durability to your pillow cover and prevent fraying during use and washing.

Now, lay out your fabric pieces and decide where you want to place the zipper. Typically, the zipper is sewn into one of the side seams, about an inch from the bottom edge of the pillow. Mark this placement clearly on the wrong side of your fabric using tailor’s chalk or a fabric marker. This will serve as a guide when you’re ready to attach the zipper.

If your fabric has a pattern or nap, take some time to consider pattern matching. Lay out your cut pieces and ensure that any patterns align properly, especially where the zipper will be inserted. This attention to detail will result in a more professional-looking finished product.

Finally, press your fabric pieces one last time, paying special attention to the area where you’ll be inserting the zipper. Crisp, flat fabric will be much easier to work with when it comes time to pin and sew your zipper in place.

Where should you position the zipper on your pillow cover?

Traditionally, the most popular location for a pillow cover zipper is along one of the side seams, typically about an inch or two from the bottom edge. This placement offers several advantages. First, it allows for easy insertion and removal of the pillow form while keeping the zipper relatively hidden when the pillow is displayed. The bottom placement also means that any slight imperfections in your zipper sewing technique are less likely to be noticed, making it an excellent choice for beginners.

However, you might consider alternative placements depending on your specific needs or design preferences. For instance, some sewers prefer to position the zipper along the center of the back panel of the pillow cover. This placement can create a sleeker look, especially for larger pillows or those with intricate designs on the front. It also distributes the stress on the zipper more evenly when inserting or removing the pillow form.

Another option is to place the zipper along the bottom edge of the pillow cover. This placement can be particularly effective for floor pillows or large cushions that experience a lot of weight and pressure. By positioning the zipper at the bottom, you reduce the likelihood of it being sat on directly, which can prolong its lifespan.

When deciding on zipper placement, consider the fabric and design of your pillow cover. If you’re working with a patterned fabric, you might want to position the zipper in a way that least disrupts the pattern. For solid fabrics, you have more flexibility and can focus more on functionality.

It’s also worth considering the size of your pillow and the length of your zipper. For smaller pillows, a side or bottom placement often works best, as it allows for a shorter zipper. Larger pillows might benefit from a longer zipper placed across the entire back or bottom edge, making it easier to insert and remove bulky pillow forms.

Remember that the zipper placement can affect the overall look of your pillow when it’s on display. If you’re creating decorative throw pillows, you might want to prioritize a placement that keeps the zipper as hidden as possible. On the other hand, if you’re going for a more industrial or modern look, you might choose to make the zipper a visible design element by using a contrasting color or decorative zipper pull.

Ultimately, the best zipper position for your pillow cover will depend on a combination of factors including the pillow’s size, its intended use, your fabric choice, and your personal aesthetic preferences. By carefully considering these elements, you can choose a zipper placement that enhances both the functionality and appearance of your finished pillow cover.

What’s the best way to pin the zipper in place?

Begin by laying your fabric pieces right sides together, with the edges aligned where you intend to insert the zipper. Using a regular straight stitch on your sewing machine, sew the seam closed where the zipper will go, using a long basting stitch. This temporary seam will be removed later, but it helps to keep everything aligned as you work with the zipper.

Next, press the seam open with an iron. This creates a flat surface for the zipper to sit against and makes the next steps easier. Once the seam is pressed, place your zipper face down on the wrong side of the fabric, centering it over the seam you just sewed. The zipper teeth should align with the seam line.

Now comes the pinning. Start by placing pins perpendicular to the zipper tape, about every inch or so. This method allows you to remove the pins easily as you sew. Make sure to pin both sides of the zipper tape securely to the fabric. As you pin, gently pull the zipper tape taut to prevent any puckering or bunching when you sew.

Pay special attention to the top and bottom of the zipper. At the top, fold back the zipper tape slightly before pinning to create a neat finish. At the bottom, make sure the zipper stop is just below where your seam will end. This ensures the zipper pull will be able to move freely when the pillow cover is finished.

If you’re working with a particularly slippery fabric, you might want to use a combination of pins and basting tape. Basting tape is a double-sided tape that temporarily holds the zipper in place and can be sewn through. Apply the tape to the back of the zipper tape, remove the protective strip, and press the zipper into place before adding pins for extra security.

For those who prefer a no-pin method, you can use fabric glue sticks designed for sewing. These washable glue sticks allow you to temporarily adhere the zipper to the fabric without pins. Simply apply a thin line of glue to the back of the zipper tape, press it in place, and allow it to dry before sewing.

How do you sew the zipper onto the pillow cover?

Begin by attaching the zipper foot to your sewing machine. This specialized foot allows you to sew close to the zipper teeth without the foot getting caught. Adjust your machine settings to a straight stitch with a medium stitch length.

Start sewing at the bottom of one side of the zipper, about 1/8 inch from the zipper teeth. Go slowly, keeping your stitching line straight and consistent. As you approach each pin, stop with the needle down in the fabric, lift the presser foot, remove the pin, and then continue sewing. This prevents the pins from interfering with your stitching and reduces the risk of breaking a needle.

When you reach the zipper pull, stop with the needle down in the fabric. Lift the presser foot and carefully move the zipper pull out of the way, behind the foot. Lower the foot and continue sewing. This ensures you can sew the entire length of the zipper without the pull getting in your way.

At the top of the zipper, sew a few backstitches to secure your stitching, then pivot your fabric to sew across the top of the zipper. This creates a neat finish and prevents the zipper from pulling away from the fabric edge.

Now, sew down the other side of the zipper in the same manner, starting from the top this time. Remember to keep your stitching line parallel to the zipper teeth and consistent with the other side.

Once both sides are sewn, it’s time to remove the basting stitches you made earlier. Use a seam ripper to carefully unpick these temporary stitches, revealing the functional zipper underneath. Be cautious not to catch or cut the permanent stitching or the fabric as you do this.

After removing the basting stitches, open the zipper and press the fabric on both sides, being careful not to melt the zipper teeth with your iron. This helps the fabric lie flat against the zipper and gives a crisp, professional finish.

Finally, topstitch along both sides of the zipper, about 1/4 inch from your first line of stitching. This not only adds a decorative touch but also helps to keep the fabric from getting caught in the zipper when it’s in use. Start at the bottom on one side, sew up and across the top, then down the other side in one continuous line.

What are some common mistakes to avoid when sewing zippers?

One frequent error is improper zipper placement. Some sewers position the zipper too close to the edge of the fabric, making it difficult to open and close smoothly. To avoid this, ensure you leave enough seam allowance – typically about 5/8 inch – between the zipper and the fabric edge. This gives the zipper room to function properly and creates a more polished look.

Another common mistake is uneven stitching. This often occurs when sewers rush through the process or don’t pay close attention to their machine’s alignment. Uneven stitching not only looks unprofessional but can also affect the zipper’s functionality. To prevent this, take your time and use the edge of your zipper foot as a guide to maintain a consistent distance from the zipper teeth as you sew.

Many beginners struggle with puckering fabric along the zipper. This usually happens when the fabric isn’t held taut while sewing or when the zipper isn’t properly pinned. To avoid puckering, make sure to smooth out your fabric as you pin the zipper in place, and maintain gentle tension on the fabric as you sew. Using a walking foot on your sewing machine can also help prevent this issue, especially with slippery or stretchy fabrics.

Sewing over the zipper teeth is another frequent mishap. This can break your needle, damage your zipper, or cause your stitches to be uneven. Always remember to move the zipper pull out of the way as you sew. When you reach the pull, stop with the needle down, raise the presser foot, slide the pull past, then continue sewing.

Some sewers make the mistake of not securing the ends of their stitching properly. This can lead to the zipper coming loose over time. Always backstitch at the beginning and end of your seams to lock your stitches in place. Additionally, sew a bar tack (a tight zigzag stitch) at the top and bottom of the zipper for extra reinforcement.

Using the wrong type of zipper for your project is another common error. For example, using a heavy-duty metal zipper on a delicate fabric can cause the fabric to tear. Always choose a zipper that complements your fabric weight and the intended use of your pillow cover.

Lastly, many people forget to remove the basting stitches after sewing in the zipper. These temporary stitches can prevent the zipper from opening if left in place. Always take the time to carefully remove these stitches with a seam ripper once your zipper is securely attached.

How can you ensure a professional-looking finish?

First and foremost, precision is crucial. Take the time to measure and mark your fabric accurately before you begin. Use tailor’s chalk or fabric markers to indicate exactly where your zipper will be placed. This careful preparation will result in a symmetrical, balanced appearance that’s the hallmark of professional work.

Pay close attention to your topstitching, as this is often the most visible part of the zipper installation. Aim for perfectly straight, even stitches. To achieve this, use the edge of your zipper foot as a guide, maintaining a consistent distance from the zipper teeth. Consider using a slightly longer stitch length for topstitching – about 3mm – as this can create a more elegant look.

The corners where the zipper meets the seam are often telltale signs of amateur work. To create sharp, professional-looking corners, sew to the exact point where the zipper ends, leave the needle down in the fabric, lift the presser foot, pivot the fabric 90 degrees, then continue sewing. This technique creates crisp, clean corners that elevate the overall appearance of your pillow cover.

Pressing is another crucial step in achieving a professional finish. After sewing your zipper in place, press the fabric on both sides of the zipper, being careful not to directly iron the zipper teeth. This helps the fabric lie flat and creates clean, crisp edges. For an extra touch of professionalism, consider under-stitching – sewing a line of stitching close to the seam on the facing side. This helps the fabric around the zipper lie flat and prevents it from rolling to the outside.

Choose a zipper that complements your fabric in both color and weight. A well-matched zipper will blend seamlessly with your pillow cover, enhancing the overall professional appearance. If you can’t find an exact color match, opt for a zipper slightly darker than your fabric – this tends to be less noticeable than a lighter zipper.

Finally, pay attention to the little details. Trim any loose threads, and make sure the zipper pull is positioned correctly when the pillow cover is closed. These small touches can make a big difference in the final look of your project.

Enjoyed this guide of how to sew a zipper in a pillow cover? Then be sure to check out our other sewing and quilting guides.

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