DIY Blogger’s Beat: Create Unique Pillows from Thrift Shop Clothing

Categories: Blog

This is one of those “why didn’t I think of this before” kind of projects. Simple but genius! See how to repurpose thrift shop clothing to create stunning, unique throw pillows. In the example shown, an intricate dress is used, but you can use any kind of garment.

1. Lay the garment out to measure how many pillows you can make.

2. Cut the dress down each side seam and across the shoulder seams to create two separate pieces.

3. If there are any beaded and jeweled areas on your garment like the hem and neckline on this dress, cut them off and set them aside.

4. Measure approximately 14” x 17” starting at the top of the garment (for a 12” x 16” pillow), allow 1” hem at the bottom, 1” seam and 1” on either side. (Ensure the large piece of fabric has a consistent width and length. If it doesn’t, trim it so you can create more uniform pillows.)

5. Lay the neckline and hemline pieces out on the top piece of fabric and make a pattern that echoes the dress design.

6. To sew the pillow: Iron a 1” hem or use a fusible hem tape onto the front and back piece of fabric. Pin the fabric together with like sides facing. Sew three sides and part of the fouth side, leaving an opening large enough to fit the pillow form. Insert the pillow form and hand-whipstitch the opening.

7. Lay your pillow down with the front of the pillow facing you. Take the hem and neckline and arrange them on the pillow. Hot glue the fabric to secure it in place then let dry. You’re done!

Then learn how to style your throw pillows