Patchwork Pillows

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Issue # 073 - January/February 1982

Do you love quilts . . . but fear that you don't have the patience (or endurance) to complete such a large sewing project? Well then, try your hand at stitching up...

by Christine Bradley Bock

Some chilly evening this winter—after you've put the chores to bed and are casting about for a pastime that'll fulfill your creative urges and turn out a functional itemransack your scrap bag, brush up on your needlework skill, and try piecing together a couple of colorful patchwork pillows.

These cozy cushions don't cost much to make (after all, you'll be using supplies that, for the most part, are probably already lying around the house) . . . are easily assembled in an evening or two (by hand or by sewing machine) .. . and can even provide a source of extra income (should you decide to peddle your creations at flea markets or craft fairs). What's more, after you've mastered the technique, you'll probably have gained enough confidence to make the transition from pillow art to full-fledged quiltmaking.

In the step-by-step directions that follow, I'll outline how to piece two traditional designs—the "Eight-Pointed Star" and "Robbing Peter to Pay Paul"—and then I'll tell you how to transform the geometric blocks into custom-crafted cushions.

GETTING ORGANIZED

To begin with, rustle up a few supplies and tools: an 8" X 11 " sheet of cardboard, scissors, a ruler, a hard-lead pencil, pins, needles, an iron and ironing board (for pressing seams open), some medium-weight woven cotton fabric (either sewing scraps or castoff clothing will work well), thread, half a yard of muslin, and some cotton or polyester filling.

Piping is an option that, when applied to the outer edges of the patchwork, will give your pillow a more finished look. The trim can be purchased, in a variety of shades, at fabric shops . . . or, if your sewing know-how is above par, you can make your own from cotton cording and hand cut bias strips of cloth (consult a good sewing manual for directions).

When you start collecting the fabric for your cushions-to-be, go ahead and "take a walk on the wild side". The use of textiles that are too similar in appearance and pattern can detract from the effect of the patchwork design. You'll likely find that the best combinations are, surprisingly, those that seem at first glance as if they'd never go together!