DIY Autumn Pillow Covers: Easy Envelope Closure Method

Updated at: 13/03/2025

Autumn is in the air, bringing with it the crisp scent of fallen leaves and the cozy feeling of snuggling up indoors. Transform your living space into a warm and inviting haven with the simple addition of beautifully crafted autumn-themed pillow covers. Forget expensive store-bought options; this season, embrace the creativity and cost-effectiveness of DIY! With readily available materials and a little bit of time, you can easily create stunning pillow covers that perfectly capture the essence of fall, adding a touch of handcrafted charm to your home décor. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a complete beginner, this project is perfectly accessible.

This guide will walk you through a straightforward and elegant method for creating your own autumnal pillow covers using the easy envelope closure technique. This eliminates the need for zippers or buttons, resulting in a clean and professional finish. Ready to add a warm and personalized touch to your home? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions and create some beautiful, autumnal pillow covers!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Sewing Machine
  • Scissors
  • Pins
  • Fabric (main & backing)
  • Pillow Form
  • Felt Leaf (or other decoration)
  • Fabric Glue (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter away from your body to prevent accidental cuts. Handle fabric scissors carefully, and never leave them lying around where children or pets could reach them.
  • If using a sewing machine, ensure it's properly plugged in and operating correctly. Keep your fingers clear of the needle at all times. Use a sewing machine finger guard if you have one.
  • When ironing, always unplug the iron when not in use and place it on a heat-resistant surface. Test the iron's heat setting on a scrap piece of fabric before using it on your project to avoid damaging or burning your materials.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Fabric

    • Measure your pillow form and cut the front fabric piece, adding 1-2 inches for seam allowance. For a square pillow, ensure all sides are equal.
    • Cut the backing fabric. The width should match the front piece. Add extra length to create an envelope closure (approximately 10 inches more).
    • Fold the backing fabric in half lengthwise and cut it in half, creating two pieces.
    Fold the backing fabric in half lengthwise and cut it in half, creating two pieces.Fold the backing fabric in half lengthwise and cut it in half, creating two pieces.Fold the backing fabric in half lengthwise and cut it in half, creating two pieces.Fold the backing fabric in half lengthwise and cut it in half, creating two pieces.
    Prepare the Fabric

  2. Hem the Backing

    • Create a narrow hem on each of the two backing pieces using your sewing machine.
    Create a narrow hem on each of the two backing pieces using your sewing machine.Create a narrow hem on each of the two backing pieces using your sewing machine.
    Hem the Backing

  3. Decorate the Front

    • Decorate the front fabric piece. Glue or sew on your chosen embellishment (felt leaf, silk leaves, buttons, etc.).
    Decorate the front fabric piece. Glue or sew on your chosen embellishment (felt leaf, silk leaves, buttons, etc.).Decorate the front fabric piece. Glue or sew on your chosen embellishment (felt leaf, silk leaves, buttons, etc.).
    Decorate the Front

  4. Sew the Back

    • Place the two backing pieces right sides together, matching corners. Pin around the edges.
    • Sew all the way around the backing pieces. No need to leave an opening; the envelope closure creates the opening for inserting the pillow.
    Sew all the way around the backing pieces. No need to leave an opening; the envelope closure creates the opening for inserting the pillow.Sew all the way around the backing pieces. No need to leave an opening; the envelope closure creates the opening for inserting the pillow.Sew all the way around the backing pieces. No need to leave an opening; the envelope closure creates the opening for inserting the pillow.Sew all the way around the backing pieces. No need to leave an opening; the envelope closure creates the opening for inserting the pillow.
    Sew the Back

  5. Finish the Pillow Cover

    • Turn the pillow cover right side out. Use pins or a needle to poke out the corners for a crisp finish.
    • Insert the pillow form into the cover through the envelope opening in the back.
    Insert the pillow form into the cover through the envelope opening in the back.Insert the pillow form into the cover through the envelope opening in the back.Insert the pillow form into the cover through the envelope opening in the back.Insert the pillow form into the cover through the envelope opening in the back.
    Finish the Pillow Cover

Read more: DIY Super Cute Whale Shower Curtain: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Tips

  • Use a more expensive fabric for the front and a less expensive one (like a painter's drop cloth or muslin) for the back to save costs.
  • Make the pillow cover so it can be easily removed for seasonal changes or cleaning.
  • Snip the corners of the sewn cover before turning it right side out to reduce bulk.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Seam Allowances

Reason: Inconsistent seam allowances can lead to a pillow cover that doesn't fit the pillow properly or looks sloppy.
Solution: Use a seam gauge to ensure consistent seam allowances throughout the project.

2. Incorrect Fabric Cutting

Reason: Cutting the fabric pieces the wrong size will result in a pillow cover that is too small or too large for your pillow.
Solution: Double-check your measurements and cutting lines before cutting the fabric.

3. Improper Envelope Flap Overlap

Reason: Insufficient overlap on the envelope flap will make the cover difficult to close or prone to opening.
Solution: Add extra seam allowance to the flap to ensure sufficient overlap for a secure closure.

FAQs

What type of fabric is best for autumn pillow covers?
Flannel, corduroy, linen, and cotton are all excellent choices for autumn pillow covers. They offer varying textures and warmth, perfect for the season. Consider fabrics with autumnal prints or colors for added effect.
How do I ensure a neat and professional finish on my envelope closure?
Precise cutting and careful pinning before sewing are crucial. Use a sewing machine with a straight stitch for consistent seams. Pressing the seams flat after sewing will create a crisp, clean finish. Consider using a coordinating thread to enhance the overall look.