Have you noticed the abundance of tufted pillows adorning homes and online stores? These charming pieces exude a cozy, farmhouse aesthetic that’s impossible to resist. As a fellow crafter, I was immediately inspired to recreate this look using my favorite tool – the punch needle!
Today, I’m excited to share a detailed tutorial on how to handcraft your own unique punch needle pillow cover with a removable design. We’ll delve into the materials needed, break down each step, and equip you with helpful tips along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or just starting on your crafting adventure, this project is approachable for all skill levels. Let’s dive in!
Materials Needed
Before we embark on our crafting journey, let’s gather all the essentials. Here’s a list of materials you’ll need to create your very own farmhouse-style punch needle pillow cover:
- 1 yard of cotton fabric in your preferred color
- 1 yard of fusible woven interfacing
- 9 skeins of DMC Black (310) embroidery floss
- 4 skeins of DMC Ecru (ECRU) embroidery floss
- Ultra Punch Needle
- 14″ or 17″ Morgan No-Slip Embroidery Hoop
- 18″ pillow insert
- Sharp scissors
- Sewing machine
- Thread that matches your fabric
- Tape measure
- Pen
- Free printable pattern (download available on Robert Kline Art)
Creating Your Punch Needle Masterpiece: A Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Preparing the Fabric
- Begin by cutting your fabric. For the front square piece, cut a piece that measures 18″ x 18″. This size allows for a slight reduction after sewing, ensuring a snug fit for your pillow insert.
- For the back panel, cut two rectangles measuring 18″ x 14″. These pieces will form the envelope-style closure.
Step 2: Applying the Interfacing
- On the backside of the front fabric square, iron the fusible woven interfacing. Center the interfacing to ensure even coverage.
- If your interfacing isn’t as wide as the fabric, don’t worry! Simply align it in the center, leaving a small gap at the top and bottom.
- Adhere the interfacing according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This step provides stability and prevents the fabric from stretching while punching.
Step 3: Transferring the Pattern
- Download and print the free punch needle pattern provided on Robert Kline Art. As this is an oversized pattern, you’ll need to print it across multiple sheets and then carefully tape them together.
- To transfer the design, tape the pattern to a window or use a lightbox to illuminate it from behind. Secure the fabric over the pattern and using a ballpoint pen, trace the design onto the fabric.
Step 4: Punching the Design
- Insert the medium needle into your Ultra Punch and set the stitch height to 3.
- Thread your first skein of black embroidery floss into the punch needle.
- Start punching along the outlines of the letters, keeping the stitches close together.
- Once the outlines are complete, begin filling in the insides of the letters row by row.
- Remember to check the front of your fabric periodically to ensure you’re punching close enough together to avoid gaps.
Step 5: Repositioning and Continuing
- As you work, you may need to reposition the fabric within your embroidery hoop. Don’t worry about flattening the loops, they’ll bounce back!
- Simply loosen the hoop, adjust the fabric, and tighten it back up, ensuring the previously punched sections remain aligned.
Step 6: Final Touches on the Punch Needle Design
- To enhance the design, outline the letters with a contrasting color. Set the stitch height to 2, thread the Ecru colored floss into your Ultra Punch, and carefully outline each letter, including the inside edges.
- Once the punch needle portion is finished, it’s time to “park” the loops. This involves gently maneuvering any stray loops into their proper places for a polished look.
- Finally, use a handheld steamer to remove any wrinkles and set the loops, giving your design a professional finish.
Step 7: Hemming the Back Panels
- Thread your sewing machine with thread that matches your fabric.
- Take one of the 18″ x 14″ back rectangle pieces and on one of the 18″ edges, fold the fabric edge about 1/2″ inward. Press with an iron to create a crisp fold.
- Fold this edge over one more time and repeat the ironing process.
- Sew a straight seam along the folded edge to secure the hem. Repeat this hemming process for the other 18″ edge of the same rectangle and then on both 18″ edges of the second back piece.
Step 8: Assembling the Pillow Cover
- Lay the main punched square piece right side up on your work surface.
- Position one of the back pieces on the left side of the square, aligning the raw edges with the hemmed edge facing towards the center. Repeat this process with the other back piece, aligning it on the right side.
- The hemmed edges of the back pieces will overlap in the center.
- Pin all the layers in place and sew a straight stitch around all four edges of the pillow cover.
- For added durability and a professional finish, set your sewing machine to a zigzag stitch and sew around all four edges again. This second seam should be positioned between the straight stitch and the raw edge.
Step 9: Final Touches
- Turn your newly constructed pillow cover right side out.
- Gently poke out the corners to create crisp edges.
- Insert your 18″ pillow insert into the cover.
- Fluff up the pillow to achieve your desired fullness.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You’ve successfully created your very own farmhouse-style punch needle pillow cover! This project is a testament to the beauty of handmade crafts and the unique, personalized touch they bring to our homes.
Now it’s your turn! I encourage you to try out this project and experience the joy of crafting. Don’t be afraid to personalize it by experimenting with different color combinations, fabric choices, or even adding your own unique design elements.
For more inspiring DIY projects, tips, and tricks, be sure to visit the Robert Kline Art website. We’re passionate about all things handmade and dedicated to providing you with the resources you need to unleash your inner artist!