You see, I have a problem. I love looking, touching and buying fabric, but I hate to sew.
So anytime, I can make a no sew project with cute fabrics, I am ready to go!
Most no-sew pillow cover tutorials using glue, use fabric glue, but this tutorial has a slightly different variation, so keep reading, and I will explain.
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I always have IKEA pillow covers on hand, and with the 4th of July around the corner, I decided to do a simple flag applique on top of an existing pillow cover.
The IKEA pillow cover measures 20 x 20 inches, and the flag design measures 17 x 17. I picked three different fabrics I felt coordinated nicely together to make up the flag.
Supplies Needed For the No-Sew Pillow Design
Here are the supplies you will need for this project.
- IKEA 20 x 20 canvas pillow cover or similar
- Three coordinating 1/2 yard fabrics
- Heat n Bond Ultra Hold
- Buttons
- Embroidery thread
- PVA glue
- Scissors
- Ruler
- Hot glue gun
- Tape – optional
Follow along to see how I made this cute nautical pillow cover…
No Sew Pillow Design
- Gather Supplies
Gather the supplies needed to complete the project
- Cut and Iron Fabrics
I rough-cut the fabrics I was using and ironed them flat.
- Add Heat and Bond to the back of each fabric
I always use Heat and Bond Ultra Hold, follow the manufacturers’ directions for use. I use this product on the back because it prevents the glue from seeping through the fabric. It is an important step…
- Cut the Flag Fabric
Lobster Material is 17 x 17 inches
Nautical Navigational Fabric – 5 1/2 x 8 inches
Red Stripes – (3) @ 1 1/2 x 9 inches and (3) @ 1 1/2 x 15 inches
Fabric size is easily adjusted to fit the pillow cover if different than a 20 x 20 pillow cover.
I used this fabric cutter, but use what you have that will give you a straight cut. - Iron the Stripes and Nautical Rectangle to the Flag
These will stay adhered nicely with the Heat and Bond. But for added strength, you can use the PVA glue here and skip adhering the pieces with the Heat and Bond. It depends on the use of the pillow; if it is going to be tossed around and used, you may want to use the PVA glue, but I skipped gluing it for my purpose.
- Iron on Stripes
Again, adhere the stripes onto the fabric using the heat and bond.
- Add Buttons
For an additive decorative touch, add a button to replicate stars. Thread embroidery thread through the buttonholes and tie a knot, and cut a small fringe. Make sure your buttons are on the larger side, and the holes will allow the thread to pass through.
- Prepare the PVA Glue
It is easier to apply the glue using a roller for this large surface, but it can also be applied using a brush. Liberally apply the glue to the back of lobster material and adhere the flag to the IKEA pillow cover. Smooth it out and make sure the edges are lying flat. I placed a couple of heavy books on top also.
Allow drying overnight.
*Note* Always, start in the middle of the fabric and brush outward to the edges. - Glue Buttons
Hot glue the buttons onto the rectangle, resembling stars.
This method gives a strong hold. The Heat and Bond alone will not hold the appliqued fabric to the pillow cover, and by not using the Heat and Bond, the PVA glue would seep through the fabric. The combination works very well together.
The PVA glue will also stop the small fraying of the fabric; PVA is also archival quality and will not yellow. A variation of this method is used in bookbinding, and it has proven to last a very long time.
I make my own bookbinding fabric this way…you can check out my Etsy store here, where I made handmade albums.
Once the fabric has dried overnight, it is ready to be stuffed with a pillow form.
It is now ready to be displayed and enjoyed. This process can be used with any combination of material. I would love to see what ideas you can come up with!
Pin For Later
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Cindy says
Karen,
To say I love this is an understatement! I don’t sew and the tutorial you gave is fantastic. I use the heat and bond tape often. This new product will be perfect for me.
Believe it or not I was thinking of making a pillow just a week ago so perfect timing!
Pinned!
Karen says
Yes..give it a try, it is a very strong product and easy to use when the heat and bond just won’t do the trick…
Kate says
Beautiful pillow! I love how you added the buttons. Very clever!
Karen says
Thanks Kate!
Kim Waldorf says
As someone who loves to sew, I love this no-sew pillow! The patterns you used are so cute. Red ticking is one of my favorites. Nice job and thanks for sharing!
Karen says
Thanks Kim! I admire people who can sew, so I appreciate this comment 🙂
Stacey says
What a creative idea! I love the way this turned out! Thanks for sharing, I can’t wait to give it a try.
<3 Stacey
Karen says
Thanks Stacey!
Danielle says
This is such a great no-sew project! If it involves sewing, it’s probably not going to get done in my house!
Karen says
LOL…I know what you mean, this is a great alternative.
Alda says
oh this is so cute…and so easy! the buttons just make this with their fringe detail. I have a box of scraps and getting to work on a pillow!
Karen says
Thanks! I’m sure whatever you make will be beautiful…
Marie says
What an easy way to change up your look. Cute fabrics too.
Linda Johnston says
So cute! I have always liked that material.
Karen says
I like Hobby Lobby for fabric. It’s not overwhelming either!
Thanks…
Paula@SweetPea says
What a unique idea!
Jayne says
I’m a sewer myself but this no sew method would be a great option if you don’t have a sewing machine! I love the fabric you used and the buttons are so pretty – it looks great!
Karen says
I’m so glad you like it, what’s great about PVA is how strong it is. Someday…I hope to become a better sewer!
Libbie@alifeunfolding says
I really love this idea! Thank you for sharing!
Karen says
Thanks so much! I enjoyed making it…
Kim says
This is a great DIY. I’m a fabric junkie, too, and I do sew, but I’m always happy when I find a shortcut! My sewing machine and I don’t always get along…so the less interaction, the better! 😉
Karen says
Lol! I totally understand:)
Rosemary says
I really need to remember this. I have all kinds of fabric and ribbon on hand, and usually pillow covers too.
Karen says
I’m so glad you like it! I hope you have a chance to give it a try…