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Make a Standard Pillowcase in 15 Minutes with Any Fabric

Learn how to make a pillowcase for your bed using any fabric. This simple project is perfect for beginners.

Pattern pillowcases that are handmade, on white bedding with sunlight streaming through

Want to make your own pillowcases for your bedroom or guest room? I do too. I love changing pillowcases to match a new color palette, season, or mood. It’s surprisingly easy to sew pillowcases with any fabric you choose.

You can use linen, cotton, jersey, or any fabric you like. The choice is yours, so you can mix and match fabrics whenever inspiration strikes.

This is an excellent beginner sewing project that takes about 15 minutes from start to finish. If you’re brand new to sewing, plan on around 30 minutes. Still quick and totally doable. Read on for a clear tutorial to make standard pillowcases.

Terrazzo print standard pillowcases resting on a white linen bed with natural light

What size is a standard pillowcase?

A standard pillowcase measures 20 inches by 26 inches (51 cm by 56 cm).

What are the dimensions for other pillowcase sizes?

A queen pillowcase is 20 × 30 inches (51 cm × 76 cm). A king pillowcase is 20 × 36 inches (51 cm × 92 cm).

Can a beginner sew these pillowcases?

Yes. This is a fast, straightforward sewing project. True beginners may take longer at first, but the steps are simple and forgiving. Many new sewers make a pillowcase as their first or second project.

White bedroom with white bedding and a pop of pattern

Supplies to Make a Pillowcase

  • 1–2 yards of fabric (amount depends on whether you’re making one or two pillowcases)
  • Sewing machine
  • Iron
  • Straight pins
  • Thread
  • Scissors

How to Make a Pillowcase

Note: The measurements below are for a standard pillowcase. If you’re making a queen or king size pillowcase, see the alternate measurements in step one—only minor adjustments are needed.

1. Cut the fabric

Cut two identical pieces of fabric. For a standard pillowcase, each piece should be 29.5 inches long and 21 inches wide. After sewing, this yields a finished pillowcase of 20 × 26 inches.

For a queen pillowcase, cut two pieces at 33.5 inches long by 21 inches wide. For a king pillowcase, cut two pieces at 39.5 inches long by 21 inches wide.

2. Fold, iron, pin, and sew the cuff

On the long end that will become the opening, fold the fabric over 3.5 inches to create a cuff. Press the fold with an iron and pin it in place. Sew the folded edge down along the bottom of the fold to form a neat, faux cuff—this gives a finished look similar to a French seam.

3. Repeat step 2 with the second piece

Make the same folded cuff on the second fabric piece so both pieces have matching openings.

4. Assemble and sew the pillowcase

Place the two fabric pieces right sides together, aligning the cuffs so the cuffed edges match. Pin the remaining three sides together—do not pin the cuffed, opening side. Sew a straight seam around the three pinned sides to join the pieces.

5. Turn and finish

Flip the pillowcase right side out through the cuff opening, smooth the corners, and press if desired. Your pillowcase is ready to use.

Instructional photos for making DIY pillowcases with scissors and a sewing machine

That’s it—now you can make standard pillowcases whenever you want to refresh your bedding. It’s fast, fun, and lets you experiment with different fabrics and patterns.

More pillow DIY ideas

  • Try an extra-long lumbar pillow for a dramatic bed accent.
  • Create a reversible mudcloth-style pillow for two looks in one.
  • Make velvet, color-blocked geometric pillows for a bold statement.
  • Try a round or circle pillow to add a sculptural touch to chairs or sofas.

Minimal, white bedroom with modern pattern pillowcases

Pattern pillowcases, using literally any fabric (including yardage from a fabric shower curtain)

Multiple pillowcases on white bedding with terrazzo print fabric and grid pattern

Minimal white bedding and bold pattern pillowcases and simple nightstand

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How to Make a Standard Pillowcase

Brittni

This DIY standard pillowcase project is a great beginner sewing task and takes about 15 minutes from start to finish. Follow the tutorial for a quick result.

Ingredients

  • 1-2 yards of fabric depending on whether you’re making one pillowcase or two
  • Sewing machine
  • Iron
  • Straight pins
  • Thread
  • Scissors

Instructions

  • Quick note: The measurements below are for a standard pillowcase. If you want to make a queen or king size pillowcase, the measurement will vary slightly but the changes are minor. See step one for alternate measurements.

Cut fabric down to size

  • Cut two identical pieces of fabric, each 29.5 inches long and 21 inches wide for a standard pillowcase. For a queen, cut two pieces 33.5 inches long by 21 inches wide. For a king, cut two pieces 39.5 inches long by 21 inches wide.

Fold, iron, pin, and sew

  • On the long end that becomes the opening, fold over 3.5 inches, press with an iron, and pin. Sew the bottom edge of the fold to create a neat cuff.

Assemble and sew

  • Repeat the cuff on the second piece. Place right sides together with cuffs aligned, pin the three remaining sides (leave the cuff open), and sew around the pinned edges.

Finish

  • Turn the pillowcase right side out through the cuff, press if needed, and it’s ready to use.

Notes

What size is a standard pillowcase?

A standard pillowcase measures 20 inches by 26 inches (51 cm by 56 cm).

What are the dimensions for other pillowcase sizes?

A queen pillowcase is 20 × 30 inches (51 cm × 76 cm). A king pillowcase is 20 × 36 inches (51 cm × 92 cm).



Did you make this?
Share your results and tag the creator if you like.

Note about the decorative pillows shown in some photos: those were purchased, not made. The grid print is an older purchase and the quilted shams in white are retail items. If you have questions about sourcing or styling, ask and I’ll help where I can.

What do you think of this DIY pillowcase project? Would you try making one at home?