Pattern Description:
Create a durable, easy-to-make pillowcase for your pet’s bed with this simple sewing project.
Designed for beginners, this pattern allows you to craft a functional and washable pillowcase in just 10-15 minutes.
Using a single yard of 100% cotton fabric folded lengthwise, you can eliminate one side seam, making the process faster and cleaner.
The finished pillowcase protects your pet’s bed, keeps it clean, and fits a variety of bed sizes, from small to jumbo.
Materials Needed & Measurements:
Materials Needed:
- 1 yard of 100% cotton fabric (patterned fabric is ideal for concealing minor wear or stains)
- Matching thread
- Scissors
- Sewing machine
- Straight pins
Tip: Wash, dry, and iron the fabric before starting. This ensures it’s clean, smooth, and ready for easy handling. Avoid silk or delicate fabrics, as pets’ claws can snag them, and they may not hold up in repeated washes.
Fabric Measurements:
- Fold 1 yard of fabric lengthwise.
- After folding, the fabric should measure approximately 29 inches wide × 36 inches long.
- Fabric widths may vary; adjust measurements if needed.
- The finished pillowcase will be slightly smaller than the folded fabric, approximately 22 ½ inches wide × 35 inches long.
- One-size design makes it versatile for most pet bed sizes.
Instructions for Making the Pet Pillowcase Pattern:
Step 1: Preparing the Opening Hem
Begin by creating an inside hem at the opening. Measure ¾ inch from the top edge and fold the fabric inward. Pin along this edge.
Next, fold the hem over itself to enclose any raw edges, giving the opening a neat finish. Replace horizontal pins with vertical ones to secure the fold for sewing.
Using a sewing machine, sew along the hem, reinforcing the ends by stitching forward one inch, then reversing one inch.
Continue sewing the entire hem, removing pins as you go. This creates a clean, strong opening that will withstand regular use.
Step 2: Sewing the Side and Bottom Seams
Turn the fabric inside out, placing the patterned side on the inside, and fold it so the hemmed edge remains the opening. Pin the side and bottom edges, aligning corners carefully. Avoid pinning the open edge.
Start sewing the side seam from the top near the hem, guiding the fabric along the machine foot for a straight seam. For durability, reinforce corners by backstitching at the start and end.
Once the side is complete, sew along the bottom edge in the same manner. Minor fraying on the inside is acceptable, as it won’t be visible.
Step 3: Finishing the Pillowcase
Remove all pins and carefully turn the pillowcase right-side out. Gently push out the corners using a pencil or scissors tip for sharp, crisp edges. Avoid using your fingers alone, as this can result in rounded corners.
The finished pillowcase is now ready to use. Its one-size design allows it to fit multiple bed shapes and sizes. For smaller beds, simply fold the extra fabric over to provide added softness and support.
The durable cotton material ensures comfort year-round and is easy to wash and maintain, keeping your pet’s space fresh and clean.
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