ONE

Cut around the dashed line for the front and back of the pillow.

TWO

Match up the front and back pieces, right sides (printed sides) together. Pin around, if desired.

THREE

Sew around the pillow with a seam allowance of 3/8" being sure to leave a small opening (about 3") along the bottom of the pillow.

FOUR

Trim excess fabric around the seam (excluding the unsewn portion left open for turning) and clip small triangular notches into the curved areas, being careful to avoid cutting into the actual seam. This helps reduce bulk and makes for smoother curves.

FIVE

Turn your pillow right side out through the opening you left in the bottom. You can use the eraser end of a pencil (or another long, dull-ended object) to gently push out any areas that you can’t reach.

SIX

Begin adding fiberfill, starting by pushing it all the way to the top of the pillow. It’s best to fill slowly, with small pinches of fluff to help ensure there won’t be any lumps. It’s also helpful to flip the pillow over periodically while filling so you can check both sides for unevenness or lumps.

SEVEN

Once you’ve filled your pillow as much as you’d like, begin ladder stitching (see below for a quick tutorial) it closed. Doubling the thread on your needle will help keep your seam secure. You can add a little bit more fiberfill as you stitch so that the bottom of your pillow will be uniformly filled.

You did it!

Share a photo of your new pillow friend on Instagram and tag @fluffedanimals!

Ladder Stitch

Pull your needle up through the folded edge of the seam, hiding the knotted end inside the crease. Insert the needle directly across from where the thread comes up on the opposite side and make a small stitch.

Continue stitching across the pillow opening, pulling your stitches taught but not so much that the fabric bunches up.

I’ve used contrasting thread here so you can see the stitches, but if you match your thread to the fabric, your stitches should disappear into the seam like magic!