Skill Level: Beginner
Project Type: Home Décor – Pillow Cover
Style: Envelope Closure with Flange Border
Project Overview:
This free pattern will show you how to make a flanged pillow cover, a pillowcase with a decorative rim (flange) around the edges.
The envelope-style closure makes it simple to sew and easy to remove for washing, while the flange adds a polished, dressier look.
This tutorial uses a 24-inch pillow form and creates a 4-inch flange border around the finished cover.
Materials Needed:
- Fabric (enough for front and two back pieces)
- 24″ pillow form (or an old throw pillow)
- Scissors
- Straight pins
- Tape measure or ruler
- Sewing machine & matching thread
- Iron and ironing board
Measurements & Cutting Guide:
Example pillow size: 24″ × 24″
Flange width: 4″
Seam allowance: 1″
1. Front Fabric Piece
Formula:
(pillow size) + (flange × 2) + (seam allowance × 2)
Example Calculation:
24″ + (4″ × 2) + (1″ × 2) = 34″
Cut: 1 piece, 34″ × 34″
2. Back Fabric Pieces (Envelope Closure)
Formula (for length):
width of front – (½ × width of front) + 6
Example Calculation:
34″ – (0.5 × 34″) + 6 = 23″
Cut: 2 pieces, 34″ wide × 23″ long
Instructions for Making the Flanged Pillowcase Pattern:
Step 1: Hem the Back Pieces
- On each back piece, turn under ½″ twice along one long edge.
- Press and stitch the hems neatly.
- These will form the envelope opening.
Step 2: Assemble the Pillow Cover
- Lay out the front piece right side up.
- Place one back piece right side down, aligning raw edges at the top.
- Place the second back piece right side down, aligning raw edges at the bottom.
- The hemmed edges of the two back pieces should overlap in the center.
- The hemmed edges of the two back pieces should overlap in the center.
- Pin all around to secure the layers.
Step 3: Stitch Around the Edges
- Sew all the way around the pillow using a 1″ seam allowance.
- Trim the corners to reduce bulk, being careful not to cut through stitching.
Step 4: Turn and Press
- Turn the pillow cover right side out through the envelope opening.
- Press all seams flat for crisp edges.
Step 5: Create the Flange Border
- Measure 4″ in from each edge of the pillow cover.
- Mark the flange line all the way around using pins or fabric chalk.
- Stitch along the marked line to form the 4″ flange border.
- Press the entire cover again for a professional finish.
Final Touch
Insert your 24″ pillow form through the envelope opening. The result is a beautiful, custom flanged pillow cover, perfect for refreshing old pillows or adding a touch of elegance to your décor.
Quick Reference Summary
| Piece | Quantity | Dimensions | Notes |
| Front | 1 | 34″ × 34″ | Includes flange & seam allowance |
| Back | 2 | 34″ × 23″ | Hem one long edge on each piece |
| Flange | 4″ | Around entire edge | Mark & topstitch after turning |
Download Free PDF:
