If you’re ever looking to change up a room in a way that doesn’t cost a lot of money and doesn’t require a lot of commitment, then pillows are certainly the way to go. They’re interchangeable, they immediately add something to the room (whether it’s color, texture, or both), and they’re snuggly. So what’s not to love? We’re looking back at some of our own favorite pillow projects from the archives; because while store-bought is fine, it doesn’t require a lot of effort or previous experience to create a one-of-a-kind cushy masterpiece. Now, on with the pillow talk!
1. Shibori-dyed pillows: These beautiful blues are going to start off our pillow projects countdown. Shibori-dyeing has been in the spotlight for a few years now, and we’re not sick of it. It’s kind of like tie-dying, but without all the patchouli vibes. Plus if you were to rest your head on one of these pillows, it would kind of be like sleeping on a cloud.
2. Eyeball pillow: What a looker! The best part about this stuffed cushion is definitely the fringe eyelashes.
3. Botanical leaf pillow: The Monstera plant with its Swiss-cheese leaves is a home decor hit. In this tutorial, the pillow itself isn’t square, which makes it a nice way to break up an overly-symmetrical couch.
4. Macrame pillow cover: The 70s are back, baby! And with them they bring macrame. It’s not just for wall-hangings and plant holders, as seen in this most knot-y of pillow projects.
5. Stenciled pillow cover: If you’re looking for a truly unique way to decorate, then stenciling is the method for you. This tutorial breaks down this classic crafting technique.
6. Geometric pillows: Sometimes simple is best in the land of pillows. These minimal grids were achieved using ribbon.
7. Bolster pillow from old towels: This one is clever – while it might be difficult to fill a regular square cushion with old bits of laundry, this bolster is filled with a rolled up towel!
8. Bleached landscape pillow: The lines on this cushion were created using a bleach pen. Nifty!
9. Thrift store clothes pillow: This has maybe happened to you: You’re at Goodwill and you find a shirt with a cute pattern in the fabric, but the size is way too big! Buy it anyway, because you can transform it into a pillow cover with this tutorial.
10. Abstract pattern pillows: These unique iron-on decals take this pillow from “blah” to “bazinga!”
11. Button pillow: This pillow is cute as a button! Sorry, couldn’t resist.
12. Cozy typography pillow: This cozy cushion is calling our name. The lettering was easily created via stenciling, and the fabric is flannel for extra cuddle points.
13. Geometric glitter pillow: Wow! This stunner is definitely the most glam on this pillow projects’ list, and it kind of channeling some Wizard of Oz vibes.
14. Cyanotype pillow: Through this tutorial, you can learn how to use the sun to transfer beautiful cyan photographs onto fabric – perfect for making a pillow cover.
15. Ampersand pillow: And… and… and?? And wouldn’t you like to know.
16. Floral patches pillow: Got an iron? Then you can do this project! While we might normally consider denim jackets as the primary destination for iron-on patches, this tutorial disagrees.
17. Mock French-linen pillows: This pillow with its trim and tufting seems complicated, but thanks to some clever DIY tricks, it’s not!
18. Embroidered pillow: This tutorial just goes to show that with the right combination of fabric and floss, the timeless art of embroidery can make for a pretty and modern pillow.
19. Outdoor pillow: Learn how to make pillows that stand up to the elements!
20. Toile buttoned pillowcase: This pillow is perfect for our vintage-lovers out there. Plus, this tutorial demonstrates how to make matching covered buttons!
21. Envelope pillow case tutorial: And finally, a classic: How to make an envelope pillow cover. After that, you’re all on your own!