Wednesday, 6 December 2017

How to Make a Simple Bolster Cover with Drawstring



Before we start making the bolster cover, we have to know the circumference and the length of the bolster. If you want a spacious bolster ,add 3 inches more for the circumference and 2 inches more for the length. The correct way to get the length of the cover is making measurement from the middle point at the top of one end to the middle point at the top of the opposite end of the bolster. The width of the rectangle is equal to the circumference. Base on the measurement, draw a rectangle on a piece of paper.Then cut and put the pattern on the wrong side of the fabric. Draw along the pattern with fabric pen, leave three-quarters (3/4) inch seam allowance for the long sides and two and a half (2-1/2) inches for the short sides. Then cut out the fabric piece.



1.  We will start sewing at the long side. Place the fabric piece wrong side up. Double fold the long side to make a quarter inch hem (this is to prevent fabric fraying). Repeat the same for the other side.



2.  Fold the fabric hem to hem (lengthwise) and right side facing in. Then sew a seam along the folded edge as shows in the picture. Once finish, press the hems open either with your thumb-nail or a hot iron. you will get a tube shaped case.




4.  It is time to make tunnels(casings) for drawstring. Double fold the short edge to make a bigger hem. The first fold should be half inch wide and the second fold should be around one inch wide. Pin the hem. Mark the opening as shown in the picture. The size of the opening should be around one inch wide. Then, sew the hem about 1/8 inch from the folded edge. You should start sewing from the second mark and stop sewing at the first mark so the opening will be formed automatically. Repeat the step for the other short edge.




5.   Thread a length of drawstring or ribbon through each tunnel. You can use a safety pin to lead the drawstring through.




6.  Now, put on the cover for your bolster, pull the drawstring and tie in a bow. Then keep the bow inside the bolster cover so it always looks neat.