DIY Bolster Pillow: Precise Cutting & Sewing Guide

Updated at: 22/02/2025

Bolster pillows offer luxurious comfort and stylish support, perfectly complementing any bed or seating area. However, commercially-made bolsters can be surprisingly expensive. Why not craft your own, perfectly tailored to your desired size, fabric, and fill? This DIY project allows for complete customization, letting you express your personal style while saving money. You’ll be amazed at how easily you can achieve professional-looking results with readily available materials and a little patience.

This guide provides a precise, step-by-step approach to creating your own bolster pillow, focusing on accurate cutting and sewing techniques to ensure a beautifully finished product. From choosing the right fabric and filling to mastering the crucial seam allowances, we'll walk you through every stage of the process, equipping you with the knowledge and confidence to create a stunning bolster pillow you'll be proud of. Let's begin!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Fabric
  • Sewing Machine
  • Scissors
  • Measuring Tape
Safety Guidelines
  • Use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter for precise fabric cuts to avoid frayed edges and ensure a clean finish.
  • Always handle your sewing machine with care and follow the manufacturer's instructions. Never put your fingers near the needle while the machine is running.
  • When using a filling material like kapok or buckwheat hulls, avoid inhaling the dust. Work in a well-ventilated area and consider wearing a dust mask.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Determine Bolster Dimensions

    • Decide on the desired diameter (8 inches in this example) and length (24 inches).
    Determine Bolster Dimensions: Decide on the desired diameter (8 inches in this example) and length (24 inches).
    Determine Bolster Dimensions

  2. Calculate Circumference

    • Use the formula πd (where d is the diameter) to find the circumference of the circular ends. (π ≈ 3.142)
    Calculate Circumference: Use the formula πd (where d is the diameter) to find the circumference of the circular ends. (π ≈ 3.142)
    Calculate Circumference

  3. Calculate Rectangular Piece Dimensions

    • The rectangular piece will have a length equal to the bolster's length (24 inches) and a width equal to the calculated circumference (approximately 25 inches in this case).
    Calculate Rectangular Piece Dimensions: The rectangular piece will have a length equal to the bolster's length (24 inches) and a width equal to the calculated circumference (approximately 25 inches in this case).
    Calculate Rectangular Piece Dimensions

  4. Add Seam Allowance

    • Add seam allowance (0.5 inches per side in this example) to the rectangular piece's width. This accounts for sewing. The total width becomes 26 inches (25 + 0.5 + 0.5).
    Add Seam Allowance: Add seam allowance (0.5 inches per side in this example) to the rectangular piece's width. This accounts for sewing. The total width becomes 26 inches (25 + 0.5 + 0.5).
    Add Seam Allowance

  5. Cut Fabric Pieces

    • Cut two circular pieces for the ends and one rectangular piece with the dimensions calculated in steps 3 and 4.
    Cut Fabric Pieces: Cut two circular pieces for the ends and one rectangular piece with the dimensions calculated in steps 3 and 4.
    Cut Fabric Pieces

  6. Sew Bolster

    • Sew the rectangular piece to the two circular pieces. Consider using a zipper for closure (as shown in the video).
    Sewing: Sew the rectangular piece to the two circular pieces. Consider using a zipper for closure (as shown in the video).
    Sew Bolster

Read more: King Size Quilt Tutorial: Efficient Chain Piecing Method

Tips

  • Use accurate measurements for a well-fitting bolster.
  • Always add seam allowance to ensure accurate fitting during sewing.
  • Consider adding a zipper for easy bolster cover removal and cleaning.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inaccurate Fabric Cutting

Reason: Improper measuring or cutting techniques lead to uneven fabric pieces, resulting in a misshapen bolster pillow.
Solution: Carefully re-measure and cut the fabric using a sharp rotary cutter and a self-healing mat for precise cuts.

2. Uneven Seam Allowance

Reason: Inconsistent seam allowances create a lumpy or uneven bolster pillow, affecting its overall appearance and comfort.
Solution: Use a seam gauge to ensure consistent seam allowances throughout the sewing process.

FAQs

What type of fabric is best for a bolster pillow?
Durable fabrics like canvas, linen, or cotton duck work well for bolster pillow covers. Avoid overly delicate fabrics that might tear easily.
What kind of filling should I use?
Polyester fiberfill is a popular and readily available choice. It's inexpensive, easy to work with, and provides comfortable support. You can also use buckwheat hulls for a firmer, more supportive pillow.