Measuring fabric for pillows primarily involves understanding the actual dimensions of the pillow cover and then adding necessary allowances for seams and closure types. The most important thing to remember is that pillow dimensions always refer to the pillow cover's width and length while lying flat unstuffed. These measurements are taken along the seams from corner to corner and are almost always rounded up to the nearest whole inch.
Understanding Pillow Dimensions
When you see a pillow advertised as "20x20 inches," this measurement refers to the intended size of the pillow cover itself, not necessarily the exact size of the fluffy insert you put inside. This distinction is crucial for accurate fabric measurement. Fabric for the cover needs to accommodate this flat, unstuffed dimension, along with extra for construction.
Step-by-Step Guide to Measuring for Pillow Fabric
To accurately determine how much fabric you need, follow these steps:
1. Measure Your Pillow Insert
Begin by measuring your pillow insert (the inner cushion). Lay it flat and measure its width and length from seam to seam. For very fluffy or overstuffed inserts, gently flatten or "squish" them to get a more accurate measurement of their true dimensions.
- Tip: If your insert measures, for example, 19.5 inches, round it up to 20 inches for simplicity, aligning with the general practice mentioned in the reference.
2. Determine Finished Pillow Cover Dimensions
While a 20x20-inch insert might suggest a 20x20-inch cover, it's common practice to make the cover slightly smaller than the insert. This ensures a plump, full look rather than a saggy one. For most standard inserts, making the cover 0.5 to 1 inch smaller in both width and length works well.
- Example: For a 20" x 20" insert, aim for a finished pillow cover size of 19.5" x 19.5".
3. Calculate Fabric for Seam Allowance
Every seam requires extra fabric. A standard seam allowance for pillows is typically 0.5 inches (1/2 inch) or 0.625 inches (5/8 inch). You'll need to add this allowance to all four sides of your front and back pillow pieces.
- For a single pillow panel (front or back):
- Cut Width = Finished Cover Width + (2 x Seam Allowance)
- Cut Length = Finished Cover Length + (2 x Seam Allowance)
- Example (for a 19.5" x 19.5" finished cover with 0.5" seam allowance):
- Cut Width = 19.5" + (2 x 0.5") = 19.5" + 1" = 20.5"
- Cut Length = 19.5" + (2 x 0.5") = 19.5" + 1" = 20.5"
4. Account for Closure Type
The type of closure you choose for your pillow cover significantly impacts the amount of fabric needed, especially for the back panel(s).
- Zipper Closure: Often uses two separate back panels. For a simple zipper, the total length of the two back pieces combined (plus seam allowances for the zipper insertion) will roughly equal the front panel's length.
- Fabric Needed: One front piece (e.g., 20.5" x 20.5") and two back pieces (e.g., 20.5" x ~11" each, allowing for overlap at the zipper).
- Envelope Closure: This popular, easy method requires two overlapping back panels. The total length needed for the back fabric will be about 1.5 to 2 times the length of the front panel, depending on the desired overlap.
- Calculation Example: For a 19.5" long finished cover, you'll need two back panels.
- Panel 1 Length: (Half of Cover Length) + Overlap + Hem Allowance + Seam Allowance (e.g., 19.5"/2 + 4" + 2" + 0.5" = 9.75" + 4" + 2" + 0.5" = 16.25")
- Panel 2 Length: (Half of Cover Length) + Overlap + Hem Allowance + Seam Allowance (e.g., 9.75" + 4" + 2" + 0.5" = 16.25")
- So, two back pieces, each approximately 20.5" wide x 16.25" long.
- Calculation Example: For a 19.5" long finished cover, you'll need two back panels.
5. Consider Fabric Orientation and Pattern Repeat
If your fabric has a distinct pattern, nap (like velvet or corduroy), or a one-way design, you'll need to purchase extra.
- Pattern Repeat: Large patterns or those that need to be centered will require more fabric to ensure matching across seams or centering on the pillow.
- Nap/One-Way Design: All pieces must be cut in the same direction to ensure the nap lies correctly or the pattern faces the right way. This often means you can't "flip" pieces to save fabric, requiring more yardage.
Essential Fabric Measurement Chart (Example Sizes)
The following table provides approximate fabric needs for common pillow sizes, assuming a standard 54-inch wide fabric and a basic envelope or zipper closure. Always calculate your specific needs based on your exact design, chosen seam allowances, and fabric width.
| Pillow Insert Size | Suggested Finished Cover Size | Fabric Needed (54" wide fabric)* | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 18" x 18" | 17.5" x 17.5" | 0.75 - 1 yard | Allows for snug fit, seam allowance (0.5"), and basic back (2 pieces for zipper or overlapping for envelope) |
| 20" x 20" | 19.5" x 19.5" | 1 - 1.25 yards | Standard throw pillow size; provides enough for front and back panels. |
| 22" x 22" | 21.5" x 21.5" | 1.25 - 1.5 yards | Good for larger accent pillows. |
| 24" x 24" | 23.5" x 23.5" | 1.5 - 1.75 yards | Often used for Euro shams or large floor pillows. |
| 12" x 16" (Lumbar) | 11.5" x 15.5" | 0.75 - 1 yard | For rectangular accent pillows; often fits efficiently on 54" wide fabric. |
| 12" x 20" (Lumbar) | 11.5" x 19.5" | 1 - 1.25 yards | Another common lumbar size; check if a single front piece fits across fabric width with seam allowance, or if piecing is needed. |
*These are general estimates. Always calculate based on your exact design, seam allowances, and chosen fabric width. Consider buying slightly more for error margin or pattern matching.
Tips for Accurate Fabric Measurement
- Pre-Wash Fabric: If your fabric is prone to shrinkage (e.g., cotton, linen), pre-wash and dry it before measuring and cutting to prevent shrinkage after your pillow is sewn.
- Use a Reliable Measuring Tool: A good quality fabric measuring tape or a clear ruler is essential.
- Lay Fabric Flat: Ensure the fabric is flat and smooth without wrinkles or distortions when measuring and cutting.
- Buy Extra: It's always a good idea to purchase a small amount of extra fabric, especially for beginners or if working with a complex pattern. A little extra can save you from a major headache later.
Key Takeaway
The most accurate way to measure fabric for pillows starts with understanding that pillow dimensions refer to the flat, unstuffed cover size. From there, carefully add all necessary seam allowances, consider your chosen closure, and account for any fabric pattern considerations to ensure you have enough material for a perfectly finished pillow.
