Sewing a Pale Uluna (Pillow Case) for an 18x18” Throw Pillow

Creating your own pillow cases is a fun, rewarding project that can add a personal touch to your home décor. Follow this step-by-step tutorial to sew a Pale Uluna (pillow case) for an 18x18” throw pillow. This guide will also show you how to make three cases from one piece of fabric for efficiency.

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Fabric Requirements

To create three pillow cases from one piece of fabric, you’ll need a piece measuring 59x40”. All of my canvas fabrics are pre-sized to this dimension, and you can shop for them here. For this tutorial, we’ll use fabric from the Awapuhi Lenalena Collection. If your fabric is smaller, adjust the instructions accordingly. Each rectangular piece should ideally measure 18x40” (18x38” or 18x39” is possible, but with less overlap, the pillow insert may peek through).

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Materials Needed

• Fabric (59x40” for 3 cases, or adjust dimensions as needed)
• Ruler
• Scissors or rotary cutter
• Iron
• Sewing machine
• Pins
• Optional: Template (18x18” cardboard or paper)

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Fabric

• Lay out your fabric on a flat surface.
• Trim the selvage edge (the white or printed edge) on the right side to create an even cut while preserving as much fabric as possible.

2. Cut Your Fabric

• First piece: Measure 18” from the trimmed edge and cut parallel to the selvage. This will create one piece measuring 18x40”.
• Remaining fabric: Trim the selvage and fold the fabric in half (non-selvage edge to non-selvage edge). Measure 18” from the fold and cut straight. Then, cut the piece in half along the fold to create two additional 18x40” pieces.

3. Hem the Short Edges

• Fold the short edges of each rectangle over ¾” to 1” and iron.
• Fold the edge into the crease and iron again to create a clean hem.
• Sew the hem with a regular stitch. A smaller hem provides more overlap in the back.

4. Assemble the Pillow Case

• Use an 18x18” template (cardboard or paper) to guide folding:
  • Lay the rectangle right side up.
  • Fold the edges over the template so they overlap. Fold left over right (or vice versa, but be consistent).
  • Shift the overlap slightly to the left side to avoid it being at the pillow’s bulkiest part.
• Pin the folds in place.

5. Sew the Pillow Case

• Serge or zigzag stitch the unfinished edges on both sides to prevent fraying.
• Remove the pins and turn the pillow case inside out. Use your finger or a pointed object to push out the corners.

6. Finish and Insert Pillow

• Insert your 18x18” pillow into the case. Adjust the edges as needed, and you’re done!

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Tips for Success

• Choose high-quality fabric: Durable fabrics like our 100% cotton canvas will ensure your pillow cases last.
• Experiment with designs: Mix and match prints for a unique look.
• Practice hemming: A neat hem makes all the difference in the finished product.

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Ready to Start?

Shop our premium Hawaiian canvas fabrics here and start sewing your Pale Uluna today. Have questions or want to share your creations? Leave a comment below or tag us on social media!