Have you ever opened your linen closet and found a pile of pillowcases you don’t use anymore? Maybe the colors have faded, or they’ve lost their matching sheets. Don’t throw them out just yet those pillowcases are perfect material for easy sewing projects!
In this tutorial-style guide, I’ll Walk through a collection of beginner-friendly DIY projects you can make using old pillowcases. From reusable produce bags to cute skirts and cozy home décor, you’ll find plenty of ideas to spark your creativity while keeping fabric waste out of landfills.
8 Easy to Do Sewing Projects Using Old Pillowcases
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Why Pillowcases Are Perfect for Sewing Projects
Before we grab our scissors, it helps to know why pillowcases are a hidden gem for crafters:
– Pre-washed and soft: No need to worry about shrinking or stiff fabric.
– Easy to sew: Most are made from cotton or cotton blends, perfect for beginners.
– Eco-friendly: Repurposing fabric keeps it out of the trash and reduces demand for new textiles.
– Budget-friendly: Free fabric from your own home — it doesn’t get cheaper than that!
Pro tip: Wash and iron your pillowcases before cutting! It’ll make them easier to work with and help ensure accurate measurements.
Project 1: Easy Drawstring Bag
A drawstring bag is one of the simplest and most useful sewing projects you can start with. Use it for shoes, laundry, travel, or even gift wrapping!
You’ll Need:
– One pillowcase
– Scissors
– Sewing machine or needle
– Ribbon or cord (about 1 yard)
Instructions:
– Cut your pillowcase:
– Cut across the pillowcase about 16 inches from the open end. This will be your bag body.
– Create the casing:
– Fold the open edge down 1/2 inch, then again by 1 inch. Iron flat and stitch along the lower fold to form a casing (leave a small gap for threading).
– Sew the sides:
– If one side is open (depending on how you cut it), sew it shut with a 1/4-inch seam.
– Thread your drawstring:
– Attach a safety pin to one end of your ribbon or cord, then feed it through the casing.
Finish:
– Tie the ends, and you’ve got a reusable drawstring bag — perfect for travel or storage!
Project 2: Reusable Produce Bags
Skip plastic and make your own eco-friendly produce bags! Pillowcases made from lightweight cotton are ideal for this.
You’ll Need:
– One pillowcase
– Sewing machine
– Ribbon or twine for drawstring
– Scissors
Instructions:
– Cut the fabric:
– Cut your pillowcase into rectangles — about 12″ x 15″ is a good size for produce bags.
– Hem the top edge:
– Fold the top edge down 1/2 inch twice, then sew along the lower fold to form a neat edge.
– Sew the sides and bottom:
– With right sides together, sew along the two long sides and bottom edge.
– Add drawstring:
– Fold the top over about 1 inch to form a casing, stitch it down (leave a gap), and thread your ribbon or twine through.
Finish:
– Turn the bag right side out, and you’re done!
Project 3: Envelope Pillow Cover
Give your living room or bedroom an instant refresh with new pillow covers made from your old ones! The envelope-style closure means no zippers or buttons — perfect for beginners.
You’ll Need:
– One standard pillowcase (makes one 18″ x 18″ cover)
– Measuring tape
– Sewing machine
– Scissors
Instructions:
– Measure and cut:
– Cut a 19″ x 45″ rectangle from your pillowcase (this allows for 1/2″ seam allowance).
– Hem the short edges:
– Fold each short edge 1/2 inch twice and stitch to form a clean hem.
– Form the envelope:
– With right sides facing, fold the fabric so it measures 18″ across and overlaps about 5″ in the center.
– Sew the top and bottom seams:
– Stitch along both long sides with a 1/2″ seam allowance.
– Turn right side out:
– Turn the cover inside-out, press flat, and insert your pillow form.
Project 4: Pillowcase Skirt
A pillowcase skirt is quick, comfy, and surprisingly stylish. It’s perfect for lounging, beach days, or casual summer wear.
You’ll Need:
– One pillowcase (standard size fits most adults for a short skirt)
– 1-inch wide elastic (your waist measurement)
– Safety pin
– Sewing machine
Instructions:
– Cut the top edge:
– Cut off the sewn end of the pillowcase so both ends are open.
– Make the waistband casing:
– Fold the top edge down 1/2 inch, then again 1 1/4 inches. Stitch near the lower edge, leaving a small opening to insert the elastic.
– Insert the elastic:
– Attach the safety pin to one end of the elastic and feed it through the casing. Overlap the ends and sew securely.
– Close the casing:
– Stitch the small opening shut.
– Hem if needed:
– Try it on — if it’s too long, trim and hem to your desired length.
Tip: For a child’s version, use a smaller pillowcase!
Project 5: Rice or Lavender Heat Pack
These soothing heat packs are perfect for muscle aches or chilly nights — and they make great gifts!
You’ll Need:
– One pillowcase
– Rice (about 3 cups)
– Essential oil or dried lavender (optional)
– Sewing machine
Instructions:
– Cut the fabric:
– Cut a 10″ x 20″ rectangle from your pillowcase.
– Sew the pouch:
– Fold in half (right sides together) and sew along two sides.
– Fill:
– Turn right side out, fill with rice (and lavender if desired), leaving about 1 inch at the top.
– Sew closed:
– Fold the raw edges in and stitch the opening closed.
To use: Microwave for 30–60 seconds or freeze for a cool compress.
Project 6: Fabric Bunting Garland
This cheerful decoration is perfect for parties, nurseries, or just adding a cozy touch to your home.
You’ll Need:
– Several pillowcases (mix and match prints)
– Bias tape or ribbon (about 2 yards)
– Scissors
– Sewing machine
Instructions:
– Cut your triangles:
– Create a triangle template (about 6″ across the top, 7″ tall). Trace and cut several from your pillowcase fabric.
– Sew the edges:
– You can leave them raw for a rustic look or sew two triangles right sides together and turn out for clean edges.
– Attach to bias tape:
– Fold your bias tape in half, sandwiching the top of each triangle inside, and sew along the tape’s edge to secure.
Finish:
– Leave extra tape on each end for hanging.
Project 7: Fabric Gift Bags
Reusable fabric gift bags are beautiful, sustainable, and endlessly reusable. Plus, they take less time to make than wrapping a present!
You’ll Need:
– Pillowcase fabric
– Ribbon or twine
– Scissors
– Sewing machine
Instructions:
– Cut your fabric:
– Cut rectangles in any size you like — 12″ x 16″ works great for medium gifts.
– Sew the sides:
– Fold right sides together and stitch along both sides and the bottom.
– Make the drawstring casing:
– Fold the top edge down 1/2 inch twice and stitch near the lower fold, leaving a gap.
– Add ribbon:
– Thread your ribbon through, tie, and you’re done!
Project 8: Simple Apron
Turn a pillowcase into a practical apron — no pattern required!
You’ll Need:
– One pillowcase
– Scissors
– Sewing machine
– Ribbon or bias tape for ties
Instructions:
– Cut the shape:
– Cut the pillowcase to the size of your apron (about 20″ x 25″).
– Shape the arm curves:
– Cut gentle curves from each top corner down about 10″.
– Hem the edges:
– Fold and sew a narrow hem along all sides.
– Attach ties:
– Sew one long piece of ribbon across the top edge for the neck strap, and two shorter pieces to the sides for waist ties.
– Add a pocket from the leftover fabric for bonus points!
Bonus Tips for Customizing Your Projects
Once you’ve mastered the basics, add a little personality to your upcycled creations:
Embellish: Add lace trim, embroidery, or fabric paint.
Patchwork: Combine different pillowcases for a colorful, boho look.
Personalize: Use iron-on letters or fabric markers for names and monograms.
Natural Dye: Try tea, coffee, or avocado pits for soft, vintage tones.
Old pillowcases might not seem like much, but with a little thread and imagination, they can become something entirely new. Whether you’re sewing to save money, reduce waste, or just enjoy a relaxing creative hobby, these projects prove that sustainable crafting can be both simple and satisfying. So, the next time you come across a forgotten pillowcase, don’t toss it — sleep on it, then sew on it!
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Questions and Answers
Question: What are some easy sewing projects I can make with old pillowcases?
Answer: You can make tote bags, aprons, laundry bags, drawstring pouches, cushion covers, and even skirts. Pillowcases are pre-hemmed, which makes them ideal for quick and simple sewing projects.
Question: How can I turn a pillowcase into a reusable shopping bag?
Answer: Cut off the top seam and create two handles from the top edge. Reinforce the handles with stitching, box the bottom corners (optional for depth), and you’re done! It’s a beginner-friendly way to create a stylish, eco-friendly tote.
Question: Can I make clothing items from old pillowcases?
Answer: Yes! Pillowcases are great for making simple elastic-waist skirts for kids or adults, sleeveless tops, or even baby dresses. Their soft fabric and rectangular shape make them easy to repurpose into wearable items.
Question: Do I need a sewing machine for pillowcase projects?
Answer: Not necessarily. Many small pillowcase projects, like drawstring bags or handkerchiefs, can be sewn by hand using basic stitches. However, a sewing machine will make the process faster and give a cleaner finish.
Question: How do I choose the right pillowcases for a project?
Answer: Look for pillowcases made from durable fabric like cotton or linen. Avoid overly worn or thin areas, and consider the pattern or color — vintage or floral prints often add charm to upcycled crafts.
Question: Can I use decorated or embroidered pillowcases in my sewing projects?
Answer: Absolutely! Embellished pillowcases can add a unique, decorative touch. Just plan your cuts to feature the embroidery or lace in the most visible parts of the project, such as the front of a tote bag or apron.