The journal
Sew an envelope pillowcase: measure the pillow first
How to sew an envelope pillowcase from one rectangle of fabric: measure the pillow, work out the cut size, hem, fold and sew the two side seams.
Quick answer: how to sew an envelope pillowcase
Measure the pillow, cut one rectangle of cotton wide enough for the pillow plus seam allowances and long enough to wrap around it twice plus an overlapping flap, hem both short ends, fold the fabric into an envelope with the flap tucked inside, and sew the two long sides. Turn it right side out and it is done. It is one of the best first projects on a sewing machine because every seam is straight.
1. Measure the pillow, not the label
Lay the pillow flat and measure its width and length across the middle, without squashing it. Pillow sizes on labels are a starting point, and a lofty pillow needs a little more room than its nominal size. TalkAboutSleep's pillow size guide lists the common standard, queen and king dimensions if you are sewing for a pillow you do not have to hand.
2. Work out the cut size
Use 1/2 inch (about 1.3 cm) seam allowances and simple double-fold hems. Our note on drawing cut size and seam lines shows how to mark both on the fabric.
| Dimension | Formula | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Width | Pillow width + 1 inch | Two 1/2 inch side seams, plus a little ease if the pillow is lofty |
| Length | Pillow length x 2 + 8 inches | Front and back, a 6 inch overlapping flap, and two 1 inch hems |
For example, a pillow measuring 20 by 26 inches needs a rectangle about 21 inches wide and 60 inches long. Cut the length along the grain of the fabric so the case hangs straight.
3. Sew it
- Prewash and press the fabric. Cotton can shrink in its first wash.
- Hem both short ends. Fold 1/2 inch, press, fold again, press, and stitch close to the inner fold.
- Fold the envelope. Lay the strip right side up. Fold both hemmed ends toward the middle so the folded piece measures exactly the pillow length and the two ends overlap by about 6 inches.
- Pin and sew the long sides with a 1/2 inch seam, backstitching at each end and across the overlap.
- Finish the seams with a zigzag stitch or pinking shears, clip the corners and turn right side out. Press, then insert the pillow through the flap.
Sharp scissors make cutting a long straight rectangle much easier; see our guide to sharpening fabric scissors.
Choosing the fabric
Pick a medium-weight woven cotton, percale or linen that feels good against your face and washes easily. Avoid very loose weaves, which fray and snag, and stretch fabrics until you are comfortable handling them on the machine.
Envelope pillowcase
Frequently asked questions
How big should the overlap be?
About 6 inches keeps the pillow in securely. A smaller flap can gape; a larger one uses more fabric but stays neater.
Can I sew a pillowcase by hand?
Yes. A backstitch is strong enough for the side seams; it just takes longer.
Do I need to prewash the fabric?
Yes, for cotton and linen. It removes shrinkage before you cut, so the case still fits after its first wash.