I just finished my first one! Love it! I added a handle on top. Plan on giving to my husband for his birthday. He always props his book on a pillow when reading. Will now make for my grandchildren! Thanks for great tutorial!
I noticed a lot of people were asking you for a written instruction, all they need to do is click and highlight your words and scroll down to the end and right click to copy, then go to a word program and click paste and print them out. Thanks for the great tutorial.
My granddaughters each made a pillow as their first sewing project. I did the boring stuff, cut out the pieces, and hemmed the back two pieces, they had a great time with it!! Something that might help others, after washing and drying the material, there was too much shrinkage to get the three pieces cut from it. Make sure and cut the 16x16 first. The 13x16’s can cheat a little, since they form the envelope. Thank you for the tutorial!
I did mine with three hoopings of 4x4 each. The instructions were so clear! It just took me all day to embroider the two designs and figure out the name placement. Then I stitched everything backwards.....yes...I did... Even as I watched the video. BUT! I fixed everything and all is beautiful!
Thank you for the tutorial, it was excellent. One change I made was adding SF101 to the front fabric and on the back panels. It gave it a little more stability.
Thanks for the tutorial with measurements! I wish I had seen your video sooner!! I just made one for my great-granddaughter and had to "wing it" with my measurements but it worked out fine in the end. Now with your measurements, my next one will be better. I also added a handle at the top of the pillow (made with the pocket fabric) to make it easier for her to carry around the house or to the car, etc.
You did a great video. So easy to follow. I think I should be able to make one now. Thank you so much for doing this for us. I hope you have more teaching videos in the future. Thanks again.
Wow! Thank you so much! Very easy to follow. My reading pillow is done and ready to ship to my Grandson. "Cars" theme with a Cars book and I added a tiny pocket to the pocket to hold a small "Car's Mater". His Favorite.
Thanks so much! I need to make 2 of these for twins and their grandma wants a unicorn embroidered on one and a mermaid on the other. This tutorial is exactly what I needed!!!😁
Thank you. I'm a visual learner, and when I'm trying to learn something I just want to see the steps shown in order with the information I need to follow along, so I'm glad this format works for others as well.
You make it look so easy to make, thanks for a well explained tutorial! I'm learning to sew, I have the designs and with this tutorial I'm ready to make my first one!
I'm glad it's helpful to you. Pillows were one of the first thing I sewed when I was learning, and I especially like these because there is no hand stitching or zippers to insert. Have fun learning to sew!
Used your tutorial to make a pocket reading pillow for my granddaughter. Your instructions were clear and easy to follow. Thank you for making my first reading pillow much easier!
Great video!! I used your tutorial and made a pillow for my granddaughter who graduates Kindergarten this week. It turned out super cute! I can't wait to gift it to her!
The instructions are in the description, I don’t know why RUclips wouldn’t let you save them though. Glad your pillow turned out great. Some other viewers have told me they play the video and pause each step while they sew along. Whatever works for you!
Best video I've found! Brilliantly explained. I like how you used vertical positioning for the envelope opening on the back. It seems like pillow forms fold over in half. Using a vertical opening gets rid of that problem. And, generous allowances so that you don't see the form too. I'm going to try it with 20"x20" forms. I was toying with the idea of cutting the fabric 19"x19" to allow for the future when the polyester starts to get compact in the form. Thoughts?
This is a great tutorial! I was wondering how to make these! I'm going to try making one myself now!!! Thank you very much. I've subscribed to your channel.
Brilliant Video.. could I just ask do you remove the stabiliser after you’ve done the embroidery or do you leave it to be sewn into the seams..?? Many thanks
I have several 12x12 pillows. Would that be too small for kids? I'd like to make use of my supplies. What would the fabric demensions be for 12x12 pillow form?
12x12 is quite small and the pocket might not quite fit anything but a small board book. I would say make the pocket larger, so the main front pillow would be cut 12x12”, then the pocket lining 7x12” and the outer pocket fabric 6.5x12” (cut these out of paper first and play with the sizes...possibly make the pocket even taller if necessary).
I have made about 10 of these pillows so far. Love your tutorial, so easy to follows. I do want to make an 18X18 size. How would I change the measurements for the required pieces?
I would probably do the front piece 18" x 18" and the back pieces 14" x 18" and the pocket outside that you will embroider on 12" x 18" and the pocket lining 13" x 18". Some people like the pockets to be taller to have more room to embroider, and others like them shorter to see more of the main fabric, so it's really personal preference. I would lay the fabric out before cutting and make sure you're happy with it.
I have always made them vertical, but honestly I don't know that it really matters. The overlap is deep enough that the pillow shouldn't show regardless of which direction they are.
I saw you had 2 separate print outs of the design, what size hoop did you use and was it 2 hoopings? I have the PE800 and have the 5x7 hoop but have 2 designs on the pillow, or do u have a separate video showing it?
I did 2 hoopings. Use the printed designs to align them on the fabric. Mark the center horizontal line and place them where you like the spacing between the two and use a reinforcement to mark the center points. Then you can hoop one side and stitch it out, and hoop the other side and stitch it out, making sure your design is centered.
If I’m not using an embroidered pocket front, do I still use my patterned piece AND a pocket lining piece or just my patterned front? Sorry first time project here.
Wow just in time finding your video....Excellent....I only have a couple of questions. I've read all the comments but did not find my answer. I know that you used a 5x7 hoop, so my question is, what size font did you use and what size was your design? Also, do I still need to use a stabilizer if I use fusible fleece on the back? Thanks bunches❤
It’s been a long time since I made this, but I am pretty sure the unicorn was 5x7” (I hooped twice to make this). I’m not 100% sure of the font size but I will guess it was either 1” or 3/4” and then I curved it. If you use fusible fleece, you could float the fabric on tear-away (I would do a basting stitch or pin well).
I love this pattern; however most cushion forms that I am finding are 18 x 18 inches. :( I have adapted, but curious where one would find the smaller cushion forms.
@@carasorellasewing I did adjust it for an 18 x 18 cushion. I must say that your tutorial saved me from fussing with a zipper like the other patterns I had found. I love this pattern and how easy it is. I will be showing my 15 year old how to make a book pocket cushion for her friends. Thank you for that.
I did the designs in two hoopings, each in a 5x7 hoop. Many people do them in two 4x4 hoopings though, so even if you have a machine with smaller capabilities, please don't let that stop you from trying this project!
Hi I am fairly new to sewing and loved your tutorial you made it looked so easy, cant wait to try and make one. Can you please tell me what serger means, many thanks.
A serger is a type of sewing machine that has a stitch which prevents fabric from fraying at the edges. It especially works well with stretchy fabrics. You can use a zigzag stitch on a regular machine to prevent fraying.
If you have a patterned material which end or side would you hem? I’m finding it difficult to understand which order the pieces I put together when layering it all together. Do I overlap the serge piece with the hemmed piece?
If you are talking about the back pieces - go to 4:42 in the video and watch it again: the hemmed piece goes right sides together to the pillow front, then the serged piece goes on top of that.
I would take a piece of fabric 4” wide by about 10” long. Cut a 1” x 10” piece of fusible interfacing and iron it on to one end across the length of the strip. Fold the strip in half lengthwise, then fold each long edge to the middle fold so the raw ends are enclosed. Sew along the long edge of both sides with a straight stitch. When you are making the pillow sandwich, find the center point of the pillow on top (opposite side of the pocket) and measure 2” out from the center left to right and make a small mark. Align the center of each end of the handle with the center of the mark and pin or baste the handle to the front of the pillow so it is sandwiched between the front and the back, with about 14” sticking out above the sandwich so you’re sure to catch it when you sew around the edges. Because kids can be tough on pillow handles, I would zigzag stitch the handle in the seam allowance of the pillow after you’ve stitched it closed to ensure it won’t come loose. When you turn the pillow, the handle should be centered at the top. Hope this makes sense!
Thanks for this tutorial. I just completed one for my neighbors little boy. You said you use fuse stabilizer. Is that a fuse and tear or one that stays on?
When I get the 16" x 16" pillows, I usually get them on sale at Joann's or use a coupon - they come in 2 packs for the best value. I also sometimes find them at Walmart in the craft / sewing department, but they are not consistent from store to store.
Walmart has Crafter's Choice from Fairfield. It has excellent reviews and you can buy multiple packs of 4. This item was the best price that I could find.
You are using a 16x16 pillow form but still only cutting your fabric to 16 inches, is that correct? The video is great. detailed and orderly. Thank you.
Yes. When I first started making envelope pillows, I used to make them bigger, but I found the case to be saggy around the edges and I like them taut. You do have to be careful not to sew with wider than a 1/4" seam allowance though, so if you aren't good with measuring or sewing a straight line, there is nothing wrong with cutting the entire thing a little bigger - just don't forget to make the pocket pieces a little wider as well!
How do you calculate your sizing please, I love your video but my form is 18x18 so not sure on the adjustment size for backing pieces and pocket pieces.
I would do the front piece 18" x 18" and the back pieces 14" x 18" and the pocket outside that you will embroider on 12" x 18" and the pocket lining 13" x 18".
This is the tutorial I head for when I want to make a book pillow for a gift.
This is great instruction and Like that all the detail instruction is provided in the drop down below thank you 😊
Thanks for a great, easy to follow, to the point video. I love how you gave little tips as you went through the process. Adorable pillow!! 🙂
Best one yet quick easy,, no batting, looks great
This one was a lot easier to understand! Thank you.
I just finished my first one! Love it! I added a handle on top. Plan on giving to my husband for his birthday. He always props his book on a pillow when reading. Will now make for my grandchildren! Thanks for great tutorial!
I noticed a lot of people were asking you for a written instruction, all they need to do is click and highlight your words and scroll down to the end and right click to copy, then go to a word program and click paste and print them out. Thanks for the great tutorial.
Just wanted to tell you thank you. I've made four of these now and I just come back to this video and watch it every time.
I watched your video again and you have made it very clear and easy to understand. Thank you. I love the unicorn with matching fabric.
My granddaughters each made a pillow as their first sewing project. I did the boring stuff, cut out the pieces, and hemmed the back two pieces, they had a great time with it!! Something that might help others, after washing and drying the material, there was too much shrinkage to get the three pieces cut from it. Make sure and cut the 16x16 first. The 13x16’s can cheat a little, since they form the envelope. Thank you for the tutorial!
My 9 year old daughter and I have just made one. Lovely, easy instructions.
I've been searching for a tutorial on these pocket pillows for days! This is by far the best one I've seen so far! Thank you for sharing.
You are welcome, so kind of you to let me know it's helpful!
I did mine with three hoopings of 4x4 each. The instructions were so clear! It just took me all day to embroider the two designs and figure out the name placement. Then I stitched everything backwards.....yes...I did... Even as I watched the video. BUT! I fixed everything and all is beautiful!
Thank You for the written instructions. Very clear and understandable.
Thank you for your excellent tutorial. I am making 10 for Christmas (great grandchildren). Thank you.
Thanks. Always handy to have a video to watch before I begin a new project.
Your insructions were great-thank you. First pillow-but not the last.
Thank you for the tutorial, it was excellent. One change I made was adding SF101 to the front fabric and on the back panels. It gave it a little more stability.
Thank you for your comment. Some people also like to use fusible fleece on the pocket prior to embroidery. So many great ideas to try!
I love this pattern. Looked at many patterns. I made for 4 pillows. Great Tutorial. Thanks
You’re welcome 😊
Thanks for the tutorial with measurements! I wish I had seen your video sooner!! I just made one for my great-granddaughter and had to "wing it" with my measurements but it worked out fine in the end. Now with your measurements, my next one will be better. I also added a handle at the top of the pillow (made with the pocket fabric) to make it easier for her to carry around the house or to the car, etc.
You did a great video. So easy to follow. I think I should be able to make one now. Thank you so much for doing this for us. I hope you have more teaching videos in the future. Thanks again.
Great video! Instructions were clear and precise.
One of the best tutorials I’ve seen. Thank you so much
Thanks for this posting. Easy to follow directions and a great set of written directions. Final product looked great
Wow! Thank you so much! Very easy to follow. My reading pillow is done and ready to ship to my Grandson. "Cars" theme with a Cars book and I added a tiny pocket to the pocket to hold a small "Car's Mater". His Favorite.
What a clever idea. I'm sure he will love it!
Thank you for the clear and concise instructions....very easy to follow.
Love your instructions. I made a pillow and was very please how simple you made your instructions. Thank you!!
Thank you so much for this pocket reading pillow video. Clear and easy to understand instructions make it great for the beginner.
Thanks so much! I need to make 2 of these for twins and their grandma wants a unicorn embroidered on one and a mermaid on the other. This tutorial is exactly what I needed!!!😁
Best video I have seen on making the pocket pillows so far!! Thank you for making this quick and to the point video.
Thank you. I'm a visual learner, and when I'm trying to learn something I just want to see the steps shown in order with the information I need to follow along, so I'm glad this format works for others as well.
You make it look so easy to make, thanks for a well explained tutorial!
I'm learning to sew, I have the designs and with this tutorial I'm ready to make my first one!
I'm glad it's helpful to you. Pillows were one of the first thing I sewed when I was learning, and I especially like these because there is no hand stitching or zippers to insert. Have fun learning to sew!
Best pocket pillow tutorial have seen! Love quick, to the point and great facts in order! Good job!
Thank you, I am so glad it's helpful!
Used your tutorial to make a pocket reading pillow for my granddaughter. Your instructions were clear and easy to follow. Thank you for making my first reading pillow much easier!
Thank you . You did a great job on your reading book pillow. Enjoyed it very much.
Great video!! I used your tutorial and made a pillow for my granddaughter who graduates Kindergarten this week. It turned out super cute! I can't wait to gift it to her!
Excellent tutorial! Thank you so much for walking us through the process and also the pattern size to cut. Blessings, Linda Hardesty
Thank you. Very concise.
Thank you for the straight forward video.
I could not copy the instructions darn but had to write them out but it turned out great, Thank You so much.
The instructions are in the description, I don’t know why RUclips wouldn’t let you save them though. Glad your pillow turned out great. Some other viewers have told me they play the video and pause each step while they sew along. Whatever works for you!
love your tutorials, so easy to follow! please keep them coming!! 😊❤
Terrific video and instructions. Thank you so much. I will definitely made them!
Brilliant video and you explained very well. Thank you
You did a nice job on your video, very good directions. You should make more videos!
Thank you for writing the complete supplies list and instructions! Very helpful!
Thank you so much. Your instructions are clear.
Thank you very much, the instructions are very easy, thanks
Excellent instructions! You made this so fun and easy to do! Thank you!
Awesome video and instructions. Thanks for posting!
Thank you for showing us how to make this gorgeous pillow.
Best video I've found! Brilliantly explained. I like how you used vertical positioning for the envelope opening on the back. It seems like pillow forms fold over in half. Using a vertical opening gets rid of that problem. And, generous allowances so that you don't see the form too. I'm going to try it with 20"x20" forms. I was toying with the idea of cutting the fabric 19"x19" to allow for the future when the polyester starts to get compact in the form. Thoughts?
can't wait to try this! Thanks for the clear instructions.
Thank you very much, Great Instructions!!!
Excellent instructions!!!
Thank you so much for this wonderful video tutorial.
Thanks so easy to understand your instructions!
Love this tutorial! Very easy to follow!
This is a great tutorial! I was wondering how to make these! I'm going to try making one myself now!!! Thank you very much. I've subscribed to your channel.
Thank you for the great tutorial video
Excellent video, thank you
Really good instructions, thanks so much!
Brilliant Video.. could I just ask do you remove the stabiliser after you’ve done the embroidery or do you leave it to be sewn into the seams..?? Many thanks
I leave it in to support the stitching. Depending on the density of the design, you can use fusible fleece in addition to regular stabilizer.
fantastic tutorial. Thanks
Great video tutorial. Thank you so much
Thank you! Great instructions!
Great instruction.
love it..am definitely making tis weekend
I have several 12x12 pillows. Would that be too small for kids? I'd like to make use of my supplies.
What would the fabric demensions be for 12x12 pillow form?
12x12 is quite small and the pocket might not quite fit anything but a small board book. I would say make the pocket larger, so the main front pillow would be cut 12x12”, then the pocket lining 7x12” and the outer pocket fabric 6.5x12” (cut these out of paper first and play with the sizes...possibly make the pocket even taller if necessary).
nice,Very concise.👍👍
Thanks, great tutorial!
I have made about 10 of these pillows so far. Love your tutorial, so easy to follows. I do want to make an 18X18 size. How would I change the measurements for the required pieces?
I would probably do the front piece 18" x 18" and the back pieces 14" x 18" and the pocket outside that you will embroider on 12" x 18" and the pocket lining 13" x 18". Some people like the pockets to be taller to have more room to embroider, and others like them shorter to see more of the main fabric, so it's really personal preference. I would lay the fabric out before cutting and make sure you're happy with it.
thank you
Thank you. Like This. Christmas presents. Coming up.
Love it! Thanks.
Thanks for making this great tutorial. Should the back 'overlap opening' run horizontal or vertical to the embroidered pocket or does it not matter?
I have always made them vertical, but honestly I don't know that it really matters. The overlap is deep enough that the pillow shouldn't show regardless of which direction they are.
Thanks for the video. What size pillow did you use? And where can I find this design? Thanks!
Beautiful!
Loved this video
Great video! Do you, by chance, have written directions as well?
I added them in the description. Hope that helps!
I saw you had 2 separate print outs of the design, what size hoop did you use and was it 2 hoopings? I have the PE800 and have the 5x7 hoop but have 2 designs on the pillow, or do u have a separate video showing it?
I did 2 hoopings. Use the printed designs to align them on the fabric. Mark the center horizontal line and place them where you like the spacing between the two and use a reinforcement to mark the center points. Then you can hoop one side and stitch it out, and hoop the other side and stitch it out, making sure your design is centered.
If I’m not using an embroidered pocket front, do I still use my patterned piece AND a pocket lining piece or just my patterned front? Sorry first time project here.
Use the front patterned piece and a lining piece.
Awesome tutorial. Very clear and short.
Love the font. Do you mind sharing what font this is?
Thank you. I believe the font I used is Natalie Script from Applique Corner.
Wow just in time finding your video....Excellent....I only have a couple of questions. I've read all the comments but did not find my answer. I know that you used a 5x7 hoop, so my question is, what size font did you use and what size was your design? Also, do I still need to use a stabilizer if I use fusible fleece on the back? Thanks bunches❤
It’s been a long time since I made this, but I am pretty sure the unicorn was 5x7” (I hooped twice to make this). I’m not 100% sure of the font size but I will guess it was either 1” or 3/4” and then I curved it. If you use fusible fleece, you could float the fabric on tear-away (I would do a basting stitch or pin well).
thank you, looks super easy :)
Great Job!
I love this pattern; however most cushion forms that I am finding are 18 x 18 inches. :( I have adapted, but curious where one would find the smaller cushion forms.
I find the 16x16” pillows quite common at Joann’s and Walmart (in the US).
@@carasorellasewing I am in Canada. I will check Walmart here. Thanks.
@@carasorellasewing I did adjust it for an 18 x 18 cushion. I must say that your tutorial saved me from fussing with a zipper like the other patterns I had found. I love this pattern and how easy it is. I will be showing my 15 year old how to make a book pocket cushion for her friends. Thank you for that.
Cute. Thank you
I love the tutorial. Thanks for the clear instructions. How large are the designs on your pillow?
I did the designs in two hoopings, each in a 5x7 hoop. Many people do them in two 4x4 hoopings though, so even if you have a machine with smaller capabilities, please don't let that stop you from trying this project!
I love the unicorn and would love to know where you got the pattern to make it?
The pattern for the unicorn is from Planet Appliqué!
Hi I am fairly new to sewing and loved your tutorial you made it looked so easy, cant wait to try and make one. Can you please tell me what serger means, many thanks.
A serger is a type of sewing machine that has a stitch which prevents fabric from fraying at the edges. It especially works well with stretchy fabrics. You can use a zigzag stitch on a regular machine to prevent fraying.
If you have a patterned material which end or side would you hem? I’m finding it difficult to understand which order the pieces I put together when layering it all together. Do I overlap the serge piece with the hemmed piece?
If you are talking about the back pieces - go to 4:42 in the video and watch it again: the hemmed piece goes right sides together to the pillow front, then the serged piece goes on top of that.
Hi Cara, I realised my mistake eventually, I then made one in less than an hour! Thank you for replying. Happy sewing
Thank you very much!
Love, love your tutorial - simple and to the point. Can you tell me where you purchased the embroidery designs?
Thank you, I am glad it is helpful to you. The unicorn is from Planet Applique, and the saying I created myself using Embrilliance Essentials
What font did you use?
I used Natalie Script from Applique Corner.
Great video! I would like to add the handle. How do I do that?
I would take a piece of fabric 4” wide by about 10” long. Cut a 1” x 10” piece of fusible interfacing and iron it on to one end across the length of the strip. Fold the strip in half lengthwise, then fold each long edge to the middle fold so the raw ends are enclosed. Sew along the long edge of both sides with a straight stitch. When you are making the pillow sandwich, find the center point of the pillow on top (opposite side of the pocket) and measure 2” out from the center left to right and make a small mark. Align the center of each end of the handle with the center of the mark and pin or baste the handle to the front of the pillow so it is sandwiched between the front and the back, with about 14” sticking out above the sandwich so you’re sure to catch it when you sew around the edges. Because kids can be tough on pillow handles, I would zigzag stitch the handle in the seam allowance of the pillow after you’ve stitched it closed to ensure it won’t come loose. When you turn the pillow, the handle should be centered at the top. Hope this makes sense!
@@carasorellasewing Thank you so much! I hope I can do this.
Thanks for this tutorial. I just completed one for my neighbors little boy. You said you use fuse stabilizer. Is that a fuse and tear or one that stays on?
I use one that stays on. You can also use a fusible fleece if you want the pocket to have a little more body.
Thank you for taking the time to reply. This is helpful and your tutorial was perfect. Pillow was loved by our neighbors son.
Do you have a source for pillow forms that doesn't break the bank? Wonderful video-thank you!
When I get the 16" x 16" pillows, I usually get them on sale at Joann's or use a coupon - they come in 2 packs for the best value. I also sometimes find them at Walmart in the craft / sewing department, but they are not consistent from store to store.
Walmart has Crafter's Choice from Fairfield. It has excellent reviews and you can buy multiple packs of 4. This item was the best price that I could find.
You are using a 16x16 pillow form but still only cutting your fabric to 16 inches, is that correct? The video is great. detailed and orderly. Thank you.
Yes. When I first started making envelope pillows, I used to make them bigger, but I found the case to be saggy around the edges and I like them taut. You do have to be careful not to sew with wider than a 1/4" seam allowance though, so if you aren't good with measuring or sewing a straight line, there is nothing wrong with cutting the entire thing a little bigger - just don't forget to make the pocket pieces a little wider as well!
How cute
Thank you for the wonderful video, would you mind sharing where the unicorn design came from?
You're welcome. Unicorn came from Planet Applique.
Can you link where you got the embroidery design? I want it!!
I got the unicorn from Planet Appliqué. The words I just put together myself.
Thank you for this video! Where did you find the unicorn and saying pattern?
The unicorn is from Planet Applique. The saying I created myself using Embrilliance Essentials.
How do you calculate your sizing please, I love your video but my form is 18x18 so not sure on the adjustment size for backing pieces and pocket pieces.
I would do the front piece 18" x 18" and the back pieces 14" x 18" and the pocket outside that you will embroider on 12" x 18" and the pocket lining 13" x 18".
Cara Sorella - Sewing and Embroidery Tutorials thank you so much