SewLibra: 75% off upholstery remnants! I got all this for $13.75 at Joann Fabrics.
SewLibra: My pillow forms are 18 in. square. I cut out two 18 1/2 in. squares for each pillow.
SewLibra: Round off the ends to avoid the corners being too "pointy". It is more professional looking, as is a tight fit over the pillow form.
SewLibra: Serge and press under 3/4 in. in the zipper seam.
SewLibra: I had to shorten my invisible zips because they were too long. Remember to sew a new stopper at the bottom. I use the button sewing feature on my machine.
SewLibra: Pin your first zip side on. I sewed through both layers, not typical for an invisible zip but with a pillow the seams bulge from pressure of the pillow form. I did not want those teeth to show! Upholstery fabric is thick so the stitches get buried.
SewLibra: If you don't have an invisible zip foot, you won't regret getting one. They are wonderful!
SewLibra: I matched up the print on the zip side but not all the sides match up. Oh well!
SewLibra: After sewing both sides of the zip, sew the rest of the seam on each end. Remember to pull out the zip tape ends so they don't get in the seam.
SewLibra: Open the zip first, turn inside out, baste the perimeter on your sewing machine and then serge. The rounded corners make this easy, all in one swoop.
SewLibra: Press your seam allowances then insert your pillow form.
SewLibra: Side view of invisible zips. No gaping at all!
SewLibra: They're done and the covers are nice and tight.
SewLibra: Here they are on the living room recliner. I'm pleased that they coordinate well with the leather sofa and loveseat in the room. Update 10 years later in 2024, still using these pillows and they're in great shape!