by Serena Smith

Now that you know how to create the best ruffled pillows, what about the pillow size? Do you use a pillow form or just stuff it with fiberfill? What are the basic rules for creating fun and perfect fitting pillows? Read on to find out...

How big should you make a pillow cover in relation to the pillow form size? Forms and fillers have a lot to do with the way the finished pillow will look. Ready-made pillow forms are available in a variety of shapes and sizes and in all price ranges. Select the best quality form you can afford. The filling varies from luxurious down or feathers to shredded foam rubber or fiberfill. This is by far easier than stuffing your own pillow with fiberfill.

Fiberfil is the most cost-effective choice. The pillow form should be smooth in appearance with filled corners. If the chosen form isn't filled out, open the casing and add some loose fiberfill until the form is full and nicely shaped. Use chopsticks or a knitting needle to push the filling into the corners. Don't use the end of your scissors; it is easy for the scissor point to slip through the fabric creating an undesired hole!

I use a pillow form if at all possible, unless I am creating a pillow less than 14" square or an unusual size. It saves time, is much easier and creates a more uniform and smooth look to the pillow. Plus it is easy to remove the pillow form out of the cover before washing. Avoid washing pillow forms if possible. Washing and drying can separate the filler, create lumps and decrease the fullness in the pillow form.

Regardless of the size noted on the pillow-form label or packaging, always measure the form before cutting the fabric. Measure from seam to seam across the form center. The actual measurement may be a slightly different size than the label indicates. This measurement is also the exact size to cut the fabric. For example, for a square pillow form measuring 16", cut two 16" fabric squares. The stitched pillow cover will be slightly smaller than the pillow form ensuring a snug, firm look. For a slightly looser fit, add ½" seam allowance to all edges.

Another option is to add a layer of fleece or batting to the fabric wrong side, especially if the fabric is lacking in body. Cut the fleece to the same size as the fabric, and treat the unit (fleece and fabric) as one when constructing the pillow. You can also wrap extra batting around the pillow form to give it more fullness. Just remember to take out the batting and form before washing.

Click here to see some examples of good and bad pillows created with pillow forms and fiberfill.