Why I Started Making My Own Body Pillow Covers
I used to buy generic body pillow covers without giving it much thought. But after too many nights of scratchy fabrics, boring designs, and covers that just didn’t fit right, I decided to try something new: DIY body pillow covers. And let me tell you—it was one of the most satisfying and surprisingly fun home projects I’ve ever tackled.
Now I get to choose exactly what fabric I want, make covers that match my space, and enjoy the comfort of materials that feel good against my skin. Whether you’re tired of stiff fabrics or just looking to flex some creative muscles, making your own custom body pillow cover is 100% worth the effort.
Benefits of Making DIY Body Pillow Covers
There’s a ton of reasons to try this out:
- Customization: Choose your fabric, design, and closure style.
- Comfort: Use soft, breathable fabrics that suit your sleeping style.
- Savings: DIY projects can be budget-friendly and reduce waste.
- Style: Match your pillow to your room, season, or mood.
- Sustainability: Reuse fabric scraps or old linens for an eco-friendly win.
Materials You’ll Need for Your DIY Project
Before diving in, here’s what I like to keep on hand for any homemade pillow cover project:
- Soft fabric (cotton, flannel, linen, or bamboo blends are great)
- Fabric scissors
- Measuring tape
- Sewing pins or clips
- Sewing machine (or needle and thread if doing by hand)
- Zipper, buttons, or extra fabric for envelope closure
- Iron and ironing board (trust me, this helps!)
Choosing the Right Fabric for Your Body Pillow Cover
Fabric makes all the difference. I’ve experimented with a few and found that:
- Cotton is breathable, easy to sew, and machine washable.
- Flannel is cozy for winter months.
- Bamboo blends are naturally cooling and great for hot sleepers.
- Linen has a casual, luxe look but wrinkles easily (which can be charming, honestly).
If you’re after a cozy body pillow cover or something that matches your boho bedroom aesthetic, don’t be afraid to mix textures and patterns. That’s the fun part!
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Sew a Body Pillow Cover
Let’s break it down into simple steps. You’ve got this.
Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
First, measure your pillow. Most standard body pillows are 20×54 inches, so I cut my fabric to 21×56 inches to account for seam allowance. You’ll need two pieces of fabric: front and back.
Sewing the Sides and Creating the Opening
Place the fabric pieces together with the right sides facing in. Sew along three sides, leaving one short end open. I like to double-stitch for durability—especially if your pillow gets a lot of use.
Adding a Zipper, Buttons, or Envelope Closure
Here’s where you can get creative.
- Zippers look neat and are easy to open/close.
- Buttons add charm but take longer to install.
- Envelope closures are my go-to for simplicity—just fold the fabric over itself and sew the edges.
Each style works great for a washable body pillow cover that’s easy to maintain.
No-Sew Body Pillow Cover Options
If sewing isn’t your thing—don’t worry! You can still make a cute cover.
Try this:
- Use a soft scarf or blanket, wrap it tightly around your pillow, and tie the ends.
- Use fabric glue or iron-on hem tape to secure seams.
- Wrap the pillow burrito-style and secure with decorative ties.
Great for temporary updates or themed designs like holidays!
Design Ideas to Match Your Space and Style
Here’s where your creativity shines. A few fun ideas I’ve tried:
Minimalist Looks
Neutral fabrics like white, gray, or beige. Clean lines, no patterns. Soothing and calm.
Boho and Cozy Vibes
Think fringe, soft textures, or tribal prints. Use linen, woven cotton, or tie-dye patterns.
Seasonal and Themed Designs
Use cozy flannel for fall, bright florals for spring, or festive fabric for holidays. It’s like decorating your bed for the season!
Tips for Making Covers That Last
After making a few covers myself, here are my must-know tips:
- Always pre-wash your fabric—it helps avoid shrinkage later.
- Double-stitch high-stress seams.
- Reinforce corners if your pillow gets squished a lot.
- Choose closures that are easy to undo (no one wants a battle at bedtime).
Eco-Friendly and Budget-Friendly Tips
Sustainability is a big part of why I DIY. Here’s how I save money and reduce waste:
- Repurpose old sheets or curtains.
- Look for fabric remnants at craft stores.
- Swap fabric with friends or thrift.
- Reuse pillow covers for other cushions.
Your sustainable pillow cover doesn’t need to be fancy to be fabulous!
FAQ: DIY Body Pillow Covers
How much fabric do I need for a body pillow cover?
For a standard 20×54 inch pillow, you’ll need about 2 yards of fabric.
What’s the easiest closure to make?
An envelope pillowcase tutorial is perfect for beginners—no hardware needed!
Can I machine wash DIY covers?
Yes! Just make sure you’ve used washable fabric and reinforced seams.
Is it okay to make a no-sew version?
Absolutely. For decorative purposes or temporary use, no-sew covers are fast and fun.
Can I use stretch fabric?
Sure—but keep in mind it may shift more and require tighter seams.
Final Thoughts: Your Body Pillow, Your Style
Making your own DIY body pillow cover isn’t just about saving money—it’s about turning something simple into something uniquely yours. Whether you sew it from scratch, glue it, wrap it, or pin it together, you’re adding personal comfort and character to your sleep space.
I’d love to hear what you create! Drop a comment below and share your favorite fabrics, designs, or clever tricks. Let’s keep each other inspired!