Do you have orphan blocks to turn into pillows? How many test blocks do you have that you love and don’t know what to do with it, or you love a block pattern so much that you want to make a block into a pillow? Here’s how to make an envelope pillowcase – with NO ZIPPERS! This project is also a great way to use up scrap batting and binding!
quilt the orphan block
First, lay your orphan quilt block right-side up on a piece of batting. Cut out the batting 1 inch larger (on all sides) than the size of your block. For our example, we are using a 20” square block, so we will cut out a 22” x 22” piece of batting. I recommend using a thin, good quality batting that is 100% cotton!
Next, quilt the block and batting, just like you would on a quilt. This is a great opportunity to try out a new quilting technique since you’re working with a smaller project. Don’t be afraid to try something new. Once you’re done quilting your block, trim off the excess batting by squaring up your block.
Prep the pillow back
To find how much fabric you need for the back of your pillow, you’ll take the same size of your block and add 4″. The length will be the same as the size of your pillow. You’ll need two of these cut pieces of fabric. Since our pillow is 20″, our two pieces of fabric will be 24″ x 20″ each.
Take the back pieces and lay them right-sides down. Along one length edge of each piece, fold and press the edge ½” in. Fold and press another ½” over to create a double ½” seam. Increase your stitch length to a 3 and top stitch along the edge of the inner fold.
finishing option 1
There are two ways to finish your “orphan block to pillow”. The simple finish is to now place your quilted block right side up with the folded back pieces on top, lining up the edges. The back pieces will overlap. Just make sure that all the raw edges line up. Pin or clip in place and sew a ¼” seam around the edges.
Trim your corners (careful not to clip the thread in your seam) and turn your pillow inside out! You may need to use a turning tool to poke the corners out more. Stuff your pillow case with your pillow form and enjoy!
Finishing option 2
The other way to finish your “orphan block to pillow” is with binding, to make a faux cording look around your pillow. First, place the quilted block right side down. Then place the folded back pieces on the back of the quilted block, with raw edges lining up. The back pieces will overlap. Pin or clip in place and sew a ¼” seam around the edges.
Now create you binding (or use scrap binding) and attach all the way around the block just as you would a quilt. Stuff your pillow case with your pillow form and enjoy!
Need some ideas for quilt blocks that would make good pillows? The Chillin’ With My Gnomies pattern makes great pillows! I also have some modern pillow designs in my book, “Modern Day Quilter”.
