Hey everyone. Today you will learn how to sew a standard pillowcase using the easy burrito method.
Here we go.
Meet the fabric first
This is Homespun Patriotic White Stars on Blue from Santee Printworks.
It is a 100% cotton quilting fabric.
It measures 44"/45" wide.
It is sold by the yard.
The brand is Santee Printworks, from TC Studio.
The collection is called Homespun Patriotic.
The color is a homespun-look blue.
The print is white stars scattered across that blue.
It has that warm, homespun feel I really love.
The product notes say it suits patriotic quilts.
It suits flag blocks too.
And it works with other Homespun coordinates.
Those white stars are bold enough to carry a whole project.
You do not need fancy piecing to make them shine.
Why it suits a pillowcase
We are making one standard pillowcase, about 20" by 30" finished.
A pillowcase is a kind first project, folks.
It is useful, washable, and quick to finish.
This fabric becomes the main body of the case.
Those stars show up big and cheerful on a bed.
It is a sweet touch for a guest room.
It also makes a thoughtful gift for a veteran.
Or for anyone who loves a little Americana at home.
The burrito method hides the cuff seam completely.
No raw edges peek out inside the cuff.
Super duper easy, and it looks really professional.
Materials list
- 1 yard of Homespun Patriotic White Stars on Blue — you will cut a 27" piece for the pillowcase body
- 1/3 yard of a coordinating fabric for the cuff — you will cut a 9" strip
- A 2" accent strip, cut across the width of fabric, if you want a little trim line
- Thread to blend for sewing
- Rotary cutter, mat, and a clear ruler, or fabric scissors
- Pins or clips, and a marking pencil
- Your sewing machine and an iron
- A standard pillow, about 20" by 26", to dress when you finish
Brief steps
First, press everything well.
Cut the star fabric to 27" by the full width of fabric.
Cut your cuff fabric to 9" by the same width.
Cut the accent strip to 2" wide, then press it in half lengthwise.
Lay the cuff fabric right side up on your table.
Lay the folded accent strip along the top edge.
Now lay the star fabric right side down on top.
Line up all those top edges and pin them.
Roll the star fabric up toward the pins, like a burrito.
Fold the bottom of the cuff up and over that roll.
Pin through every layer along the top edge.
Sew that edge with a 1/2" seam allowance.
Use a regular stitch length, about 2.5 mm.
That is roughly 10 to 12 stitches per inch.
Now reach inside and gently pull the roll out.
Just like that, your cuff seam is hidden.
Press the cuff flat, and press the accent strip down.
Fold the case right sides together, matching the cuff.
Sew the side and the bottom with a 1/2" seam.
Want a cleaner inside? Sew French seams instead.
Wrong sides together first, trim, then sew again.
Completely up to you, and both ways work fine.
Turn it right side out and press once more.
Slip in your pillow and smooth the cuff.
Practical tips from my sewing table
Prewash if the case will be washed often.
Cotton can shrink a little on the first wash.
Washing first keeps your finished size honest.
Slow down when you sew through the rolled layers.
That cuff edge is thick, so take your time.
Rushing there can bend or snap a needle.
And check your pins before you sew each seam.
I have sewn right over a pin before.
We learn, we laugh, and we keep sewing.
Here is your permission beat, folks.
It does not have to be perfect.
If one seam wanders a tiny bit, breathe.
You are your own worst critic.
Everybody else will just see sweet white stars.
Take your time. It is not a race.
If I can do this, y'all can do it.
Alrighty. Go dress that bed in stars.
Thanks for spending a little time with me today.
We'll see you next time. Bye.
Shop the Homespun Patriotic White Stars on Blue Cotton 44"/45" Fabric Per Yard at Linda's Electric Quilters.
