make a pillow out of a table runner (tutorial)

Changing out pillows is such a good way to update your home or decorate seasonally, plus they are super easy to make and you can get creative with materials (like using a woven rug or a sparkly tank top or a thrifted sweater).

Remember the pretty ombre line Target had two years ago? I bought this table runner on sale and have been saving it – not really sure of what to do with it – until I was decorating for Valentine’s day and it was the perfect combination of colors. So I decided to cut it apart and make a pillow.

Table runners and place mats are great unconventional materials that come in many different colors and patterns and are often inexpensive.

Here’s how to make this pillow:

// SUPPLIES //

table runner or placemat (like this, this or this – you just want to make sure it is double sided so that you’ll have a front and back of the pillow)
pillow insert (I prefer down and choose a size based on table runner/placemat dimensions)
scissors, pins, seam ripper, sewing machine & thread

STEP ONE // Cut the table runner to size, leaving a few inches for seam allowance

Then stuff in your pillow.

If you are using a placemat, you will just need to open up one side seam and slip in your pillow form.

STEP TWO // fold in your cut sides for a clean closure

STEP THREE // match up front and back and pin to hold

STEP FOUR // topstitch with a sewing machine

Since you will see the topstitch thread,  I used a light pink for the top to match the front of the pillow and a coral pink for the bobbin thread which blends in with the back.

Cute, so easy and a fun way to add color!

Happy Valentine’s Day, my friends. Hope it is lovely!