Free Reading Pillowcase Pattern

Pattern Description:

This free reading pillowcase pattern teaches you how to sew a cozy reading pillowcase featuring a handy front pocket and an envelope-style back. 

Designed to fit an 18″ × 18″ pillow insert, it’s perfect for holding books, journals, or small tablets.

With simple steps and a half-inch seam allowance, this beginner-friendly project makes a thoughtful, functional, and stylish handmade gift.

Materials Needed & Measurements:

• Pillow Front: One piece of fabric, 19″ × 19″ (includes seam allowance)
• Envelope Backing: Four pieces of fabric, each 11″ × 19″
• Pocket: Two pieces of fabric, each 11″ × 19″
• Tools: Sewing machine, pins, thread, scissors, measuring tools, and an iron
• (Optional: Choose a sturdy cotton or canvas fabric for the front and a coordinating fabric for the pocket and backing.)

Instructions for Making the Reading Pillowcase Pattern:

Step 1: Prepare the Pocket

• Take the two 11″ × 19″ pocket pieces and place them right sides together.
• Pin along one long edge (the top).
• Using a straight stitch (length 2-3), sew a ½-inch seam allowance along the pinned edge. Backstitch at the beginning and end for strength.
• Press the seam open with an iron, then fold along the seam so the right sides are facing out and the seam lies neatly at the top edge. Press flat again to create a crisp edge.

Your pocket piece is now ready to attach to the front panel.

Step 2: Prepare the Envelope Backing

• Take the four 11″ × 19″ pieces of fabric. Pair them up, placing right sides together for each pair.
• Pin and sew along one long edge of each pair using a ½-inch seam allowance.
• Press both seams open, then fold the fabric so the seam forms a clean edge, pressing flat once more.

Tip: If your fabric has a directional pattern (like text or images), be mindful of orientation. One backing piece should have the finished seam along the top of the pattern, and the other should have the seam along the bottom. This ensures that the design appears upright once the two back pieces overlap.

Step 3: Attach the Pocket to the Front

• Lay the 19″ × 19″ pillow front fabric right side up.
• Place the pocket piece on top, aligning all raw edges. The finished seam should be at the top of the pocket.
• Pin the sides and bottom edges to hold in place.
• Set your sewing machine to a long basting stitch (length 4) and baste along both sides using a ½-inch seam allowance. There’s no need to backstitch here, this step simply keeps the pocket in place for assembly.

Step 4: Assemble the Pillow Case

• With the pocket basted to the front, place the two backing pieces on top of the pillow front, right sides together.
  • The backing pieces should overlap at the center, forming the envelope opening.
  • Make sure the finished edges are toward the center overlap.
• Align all outer edges and pin the entire square securely, especially where the envelope pieces overlap.
• Switch your stitch length back to normal (2–3). Starting on one side, sew around the entire perimeter with a ½-inch seam allowance, pivoting carefully at the corners.
• When you return to your starting point, backstitch to secure the seam. For added durability, sew a second line of stitching directly over the first all the way around.

Step 5: Finish the Edges

• Trim all loose threads and clip the corners diagonally to reduce bulk (be careful not to cut through your stitching).
• Turn the pillow cover right side out through the envelope opening. Use your finger or a blunt tool to push out the corners neatly.
• Press the pillow cover flat, carefully rolling out the seams with your fingers as you iron to achieve crisp edges.

Finally, insert your 18″ × 18″ pillow form through the envelope opening. The front pocket will be perfect for tucking in a favorite book, journal, or even a small tablet, making this pillow ideal for cozy reading sessions or gifting.

Finished Size: Fits an 18″ × 18″ pillow insert Skill Level: Beginner-friendly Time Required: Approximately 1-2 hours

With just a few seams and some thoughtful ironing, you’ll have a beautiful handmade reading pillowcase that’s both decorative and practical!

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