How To Make A Pillow Insert. Best Beginner’s Guide

Make your pillow fluffier by learning how to make a pillow insert in three easy steps. Why will this be useful? A pillow insert is an addition to your pillow to make it snug and create a better loft.

As a result, the pillow will be more supportive and fluffy to feel. The good news is that those who have experience making pillows will have an easy time making a pillow insert because of the similarities in the process. Below is a quick three-step guide to getting you started. 

 

How Do You Make A Pillow Insert?

 

Step #1. Preparation

The first step is to prepare the materials you’ll need for the pillow insert. You can use any fabric you want and then cut the appropriate size according to your pillow. Since there are different bed pillow sizes, you want your pillow insert material to have a bigger dimension. 

If you have a standard size pillow measuring 20 by 26 inches, then you must cut two fabric pieces measuring 21 and 27 inches each. Pin these pieces in their right sides for easier sewing, but have half an inch of allowance for the seam. You also want to leave an opening for stuffing it later on, typically around 3 inches. 

 

Step #2. Sewing

You can then sew the pillow insert and reinforce the seam by adding another row of stitches close to the original one. Check for the security of your stitching before clipping the corners and excess seam allowance on the insert. Once done, you can turn the liner right side out and begin stuffing. 

 

Step #3. Stuffing

You can select the filling you want for the insert, but do note that materials will vary in the firmness they can provide. A typical stuffing for pillow inserts is polyfill, but you can also mix it with other materials to achieve the structure you want. Add as much stuffing as you need to get a flat, firm, or lofty pillow insert. 

When stuffing the liner, you want to leave no spaces, so you’ll end up with a snug insert. Start filling the corners outward and check the firmness as you go. After you’re done filling the insert, pin the opening for more comfortable sewing with the seam folded inwards. 

 

What Is A Pillow Insert?

A pillow insert is a liner with a filling to puff up pillows. You’ll add it inside the pillow cover to create a better shape, which is why it’s common for homeowners to use pillow inserts on decorative pillows. However, you can also benefit from pillow inserts when you add them to your bed pillows since they improve the form and make the pillow more supportive and comfortable. 

 

Why Pillow Inserts Matter

Pillow inserts matter because they add to aesthetics and comfort. Adding them to our pillows make the latter cozier and plumper for improved looks and usability. You can recreate the pillow’s original form and make it seem brand new rather than looking worn down. 

Because your pillow will be plumper, it will also be more enjoyable to use. The loft will be appropriate for keeping your spine straight, and the fullness makes the pillow more responsive for support. However, you want to ensure that you’re getting the correct insert for your pillow.

 

What Size Of Pillow Insert Should I Get?

The insert’s size will depend on the pillow type and the finish you want to get. A useful tip is to get an insert two inches larger than the pillow size to create a plump form. However, you can adjust the sizing for small pillows and get inserts an inch larger, and large pillows should have inserts three inches larger than them. 

 

What Fill Should I Use For A Pillow Insert?

As mentioned earlier, polyfill is a typical stuffing for pillow inserts. It is easy to clean and relatively cheap but still provides a soft finish. However, you can get the best filling for your pillow insert, which is down.

What makes down special? Down is a fluffy cluster from the chest area of birds that contains no quill. Therefore, using this material for pillow inserts make them breathable, bouncy, and soft. 

You can also experiment with down and add feathers to achieve the feel you want for the insert. 

 

What Cover Should I Use For A Pillow Insert?

Besides the stuffing, the pillow insert’s liner also plays a significant role in its longevity. You want a durable material that will last wear and tear. More so, it’s best if it’s easy to clean to ensure our pillows’ cleanliness. 

You can use cotton with a high thread count because this indicates the thickness. It should be durable enough against tearing and usage. However, if you make the pillow insert, your stitching quality will affect it as well. 

 

Conclusion

If you want to improve your pillow structure, you can simply add a pillow insert along with it inside the case. You can even learn how to make a pillow insert at home since it only takes three steps. Start by preparing two pieces of fabric with the appropriate size and sew them together. 

As you have read, making a pillow insert is similar to how you’ll make a pillow liner. After sewing, stuff it with your choice of filling to achieve the firmness or flatness you need. Sew the opening close, and you’re done.