Random Ruffles Pillow Tutorial

1.  First you need to cut out your fabric.  For one pillow you will need:

        2 squares cut to the size of your pillow

        several bias strips 1" wide.

2.  To determine your pillow size if you are using a pillow form.  Measure you pillow form and cut your squares to this size or slightly smaller for a nice full pillow.

3.  To cut 1" bias strips you cut your fabric at a 45 degree angle to your selvage edge.  My ruler has this angle marked for easy cutting.  Fabric cut on the bias is does not fray and has a more stretch.

4.  Next you need to sew your bias strips together.  You place them right sides together and at a 90 degree angle.  You will sew them together on the line I have marked with a push pin.  (Sorry about this picture).

5.  Then you will press you seam open and trim any little bits that stick out.  Your joined bias tape should look like in the picture above.  Join several pieces together, you can always trim off any extra at the end.

6.  Using the longest stitch on your sewing machine sew down the center of your bias strip.  A gathering thread.

 7.  Now you will pull one of the threads to create ruffles.  I like to pull from both ends, so if I have it too ruffly I will not be pushing ruffles off the thread (in case I need them later).



9.  Once you have your bias strip ruffled you will then take you pillow top and working on the right side you will start pinning the ruffle down randomly.  I did not want a loose end so I started mine off the edge.  If you are going to cross over your ruffles, like making a loop, then don't pin all of your ruffles down.  You could also draw or mark out your entire design.  I just went for it.

10.  Then you will top stitch your ruffle down by sewing down the middle (basically you will be stitching over top of your gathering thread).  When you are nearing the end of your pinned section of ruffles, leave your needle in the down position and start pinning some more.  ***After you are all sewn down, trim off any excess and REMOVE your gathering thread***

11.  After you have your ruffles all sewn down, you will pin you pillow back to your pillow front - right sides together.  I use pins to mark where I will be starting and stopping, so I will leave adequate space for my pillow form or stuffing (back stitch to ensure that it doesn't come apart as you fill it).
***I never like square corners on my pillows, they always look too pointy on the finished project.  To make rounded corners, grab a cup and mark your corners for a rounded look.***

12.  Trim your corners so they will look their best and then turn your pillow right side out. 

13.  Next you will slide your pillow form inside or stuff it.

14.  Now you will grab a needle and thread and hand sew your pillow closed.  You can always top stitch it closed if you prefer.

15.  Throw them on your bed or couch and enjoy.