How To Sew a Cathedral Window Pillowcase

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This quilted pillowcase is the perfect project for anyone looking to try quilting without committing to a full-size quilt. The cathedral window design adds a unique and dimensional touch, and the best part? No curved piecing required! In this tutorial, I’ll guide you step-by-step to create a stunning pillowcase that’s as functional as it is beautiful.

The cathedral window design is a classic quilting technique that creates a stunning dimensional effect. This project is perfect for adding a touch of elegance to any room.

What you will need:

• 100% cotton fabric, quilting cotton works best.
• Flannelette (you could use cotton here if you prefer, this is your background and backing fabric)
• Rotary cutter and cutting mat
• 20" Pillow insert
• Sewing machine + basic sewing supplies

Step 1: Preparing your Fabric

➡ Cut out 108 4" squares of your background fabric (flannelette)

➡ Cut out 13 4.25" squares of your main fabric

➡ Cut out 4 4.75" squares of your main fabric- cut diagonal to make triangles

➡ Cut out 1 5" square of your main fabric- cut diagonally twice to make 4 triangles

➡ Cut out 2 15.5" x 21.5" of your background fabric (for the backing)

➡ Iron 72 of the background squares in half to make triangles

Step 2: Assembling the Squares

➡ Place two of the (background) triangles onto the right side of one of the squares so that the folds are lined up together and perfectly align with the square, pin in place

Step 3: Sewing and Creating the Cathedral Window Effect!

➡ Sew an 1/8" perimeter around the square (with the triangles aligned on top)

➡ Repeat this until all your squares and triangles have been used

➡ Lay out the (sewn) squares, you should have six rows each with six squares. Sew the squares in each row together with the diagonal lines rotating and press each seam open

row 1: /\/\/\

row 2: \/\/\/

and repeat, this pattern can also be seen in the pictures

➡ Sew the rows together such that they align as shown above and in the pictures

➡ Place your main fabric squares in each of the diamond-looking gaps from your rotating diagonal lines, place the main fabric triangles on the sides and in the corners, refer to the photo for guidance on placement. (pin in place)

➡ Choose a square to start with, and pull the (background) fabric over the raw edge of the main fabric. Sew on the edge of the curve. Continue this with each square and triangle piece.

Step 4: Finishing the Pillowcase

➡ Along the long side (21.5" side) of the large piece of background fabric, fold in 1/2" and press, then another 1/2" in and sew along the edge. Repeat this for the other large piece.

➡ Lay the pillow top facing up and with right sides together, place the large pieces of fabric on top aligning with the edges and overlapping the folds. Sew around the pillow (1/2" seam allowance)

➡ Trim the corners, turn it inside out and insert the pillow form!

Recommended read: How to sew a fabric tray

Recommended read: How to sew a pencil case

What colors or patterns would you use for your cathedral window pillowcase?

Leave a comment below and let me know if you made a cathedral window pillowcase from this tutorial! And don't forget to subscribe to stay up to date with all of Lizzsews new articles. See you next time!