Sew a bolster pillow with decorative stitching in 10 Steps

We’ll start with the inner cushion, which is made from the cotton fabric. Cut a piece measuring 62 cm x 70 cm. Then cut two circles with a 22 cm diameter. This includes a 1 cm seam allowance.

Fold the fabric in half along the short side and pin the 62 cm edge. Leave a 12 cm opening in the center for filling later. Stitch the long edge, except for the opening, and press the seam open.

Pin each of the open ends to the circles and sew them in place.

Fill the inner cushion with two bags of cushion filling. Distribute the filling evenly. Once filled, pin the opening closed and sew it shut by hand.

Cut the pieces for the outer cushion from the velour fabric:

• one piece measuring 62 cm x 70 cm
• two circles with a 22 cm diameter

Overlock all fabric edges.

Divide the circles into four equal parts. Pin a line from the top pin to the side pin, as shown in the photo. Using the Gütermann embroidery thread, stitch a line with a long stitch length (e.g. 5). Then stitch one line to the left and one to the right, one presser foot’s width apart. Repeat this 5 cm to the left and 5 cm to the right again. Repeat the same perpendicular to these lines, a total of three times, to create a diamond pattern.

Along the 62 cm edge, place pins 12 cm in from each side. This is where the zipper will go.

Pin the concealed zipper along the edge and sew from pin to pin.

Then stitch the remaining openings closed, stopping exactly where the zipper ends.

Pin and sew the piping around the openings where the circles will be attached. Let the piping ends overlap neatly, as shown in the photos.

Divide the openings into four equal parts, and do the same with the circles.

Turn the zipped piece inside out so the right side is facing in.

Pin the circles to the openings, right sides together, and sew them on. Stitch directly on top of the existing piping seam.

Turn the cover right side out and topstitch the seam flat, about one presser foot width from the edge.

Next, pin the first trim (fringe trim) 3 cm from the edge and sew it all the way around, overlapping the ends at the seam. Then add the next two trims with about 0.75 cm space in between. Stitch both trims in place, all around each end of the bolster pillow.

Once all trims are attached, carefully insert the inner cushion. Close the invisible zipper—and your pillow is ready!

Look how fabulous it turned out! Can you already picture it among your other beautiful pieces in the bedroom? Or maybe you’d love it on the couch in your living room. No matter where you place it, it’s a dream to use.
Good luck and have fun sewing!
Love, Renata