Simple Union Jack throw pillows

Pillows are a satisfying sewing project for a few reasons:

• They’re very quick to make.
• They are super cheap because they take few materials (and can also use scrap).
• You really can’t mess them up.

I often get comments or emails telling me that many people “wish they could sew to make such-and-such.” I’m telling you, pillows are the way to begin.

My most recent pillow obsession has been Union Jack pillows. I actually made them back in December at the same time as my wool blanket pillows. I spy two Union Jacks.

It all started when I had the idea to make a one for a friend originally from the UK for Christmas. Originally, I planned to piece a Union Jack quilt block, inspired by the gorgeous Union Jack quilt at Diary of a Quilter.

But as I was preparing to get my fabrics, I found this link (also on Diary of a Quilter) about the Union Jack Panel available from Riley Blake.

Basically, the hard work of piecing goes away and the Union Jack is already adorable and ready for action. So, I swiped up a panel at Fat Quarter Shop, which includes eight different Union Jacks for under $8. And then I started making Union Jack pillows like crazy. So far, I’ve made four, and I’m sure I’ll be making more soon.

Because everyone needs at least six Union Jack pillows.

To make them:

1. I carefully cut each of the Union Jacks out individually.
2. I used white 2.5″ strips around the edges and solid blue for the back.
3. I ironed fleece interfacing to the backside of the Union Jack and quilted the lines with white thread.
4. I happened to have stuffing in the basement, so I just sewed around the edges (right sides facing), leaving a small hole to turn the pillow and stuff full.
5. Finally, I hand stitched the small opening.

 

I easily made four of these in one evening. These are the two that went to live with a friend.

I particularly loved the navy and light blue. Wouldn’t it be great for a nursery?

 

And here’s the more traditional red and navy one.

It’s hanging out in the living room right now with plans to retire to Henry’s room in the near future. (With the red and aqua version that you can spot in the first picture.)

There’s nothing difficult about making a pillow case for a pillow form, but making pillows with stuffing means that you can make them whatever size you want! It’s quick and simple! And you really don’t have to do any measuring. Which is perfect for a person like me. (I hate measuring.)