This pillow uses stitching embellishments inspired by traditional Korean patchwork techniques. They are stitched by machine with western quilting materials so the result is a totally unique project.
The pillow covers are small to store, so you can make a different colour for each season.
If you have never done this type of stitching before, practice on some scraps first. This will help you decide what stitch length and width you prefer and what colour combination to use. When you decide on stitch dimensions, make a note of it so you can duplicate it in the future.
Materials
- 20” square colour one (light neutral)
- 12-1/2” WOF (width of fabric) or colour two
Thread
You can be creative with thread choice. You might choose to use a third colour, or you can match one (or both) of the fabric colours. Any type of thread will work – regular sewing thread or machine embroidery or quilting thread. Variegated thread is nice.
Whatever thread you choose, just try it out on scraps first because the weight will affect your stitching choices.
Pillow
Directions are given for a 12” pillow cover. You can put it over an old pillow, buy an insert or make your own. Check out my IKEA pillow hack to save money!
Cutting
Cut the following pieces from the colour two fabric:
- Two 10” x 12-1/2” rectangles
- Two 2-1/2” x 12-1/2” rectangles
- Two 2-/12” x 8-/12” rectangles
Assembly
Pillow Front
On the 20” square fabric, stitch embellished pin tucks, aligning with the grain using 1/2” spaces.
When the stitching is done, press well on the back, slightly stretching the fabric so that it lays flat.
Trim down to a 8-1/2” square, cutting so that the pin tucks are diagonal or on a slant.
Stitch the 2-1/2” x 8-1/2” pieces to opposite sides of the square with a regular 1/4” quilting seam. Press the seam toward the coloured piece.
If desired, stitch a decorative stitch on top of the seam to imitate traditional lined pojagi. This is a way to try out all the fun stitches that you never use.
Add the 2-1/2” x 12-1/2” pieces to the other sides in the same way.
This is the front of the pillow.
Pillow Back
Hem both of the 10” x 12-1/2” pieces on a long side by folding under 1/4” twice and then top stitching.
These pieces will overlap to be the pillow back.
Putting it together
Lay the pillow front right side up on a flat surface.
Place the two pillow back pieces on it, right sides down aligning the raw edges with the edges of the pillow front. The hemmed edges should overlap in the middle.
Stitch around the edge of the pillow with a 1/4” seam. Finish the seam allowances with a zig zag stitch to hold it secure.
Turn right side out and press.
You’re done!
Elizabeth DeCroos
designer, teacher, speaker
Elizabeth enjoys doing all types of sewing and needlework and teaching others new techniques. Find out how to take a course or workshop.