Quilted Sham

I found an online a tutorial on how to create a quilted sham, but their sham was for a standard size pillow. I have queen-sized pillows (20″ x 30″) and so I needed to change some things. First of all, this is a SUPER easy project, quick, and only takes 10 fat quarters to make two quilted queen-sized pillow shams.

Supplies

In addition to 2 queen-size bed pillows measuring 20″ x 30″, thread, and standard sewing supplies, you will need:

• 10 fat quarters
• cotton batting measuring 23″ x 33″ (I purchased Quilter’s Dream Deluxe Cotton Batting (46″ x 36″))
• 1 yard cotton muslin cut into two pieces measuring 24″ x 36″

Cutting and Piecing the Fabrics

Choose 6 different fat quarters to be used as the front quilted top. The remaining four fat quarters will be used for the sham backs. Cut each fat quarter into two pieces measuring 5 ½” by 21 ½” (I recommend using a rotary cutter and mat for this step). You will have a lot of fabric left over, so save your scraps!

With right sides facing, pin and sew the six fabric strips together along the 21 ½” length of the fabric using a ¼” seam allowance. Press all seams open as you go. Continue to piece the 6 pieces together and then move to your second pillow sham and sew the 6 pieces together again. Press well on both sides when you are done.

Layering and Quilting

Cut the 1 yard of muslin into two pieces, 24″ x 36″. Cut the batting into two pieces, 23″ x 33″. Lay the muslin down first, center your batting piece on top of the muslin, and finally center the pieced pillow top RIGHT side UP. Now comes the scary part, machine quilting. I pinned my layers together. You could also use basting adhesive. Decide how you want to quilt.

I choose to stitch on either side of the seams and then around the perimeter. Nothing fancy. You could make your quilting fancier if you wanted. Once quilted, remove pins and trim the excess muslin and batting. The pillow top should now measure 21 ½” x 30 ½”.

Sewing the Pillow Together

With the remaining 4 fat quarters, prepare your back pieces. Cut each fat quarter to 18″ x 21 ½”. Fold over one of the sides measure 21 ½” by a ½” and press. Fold over again, press. Create a double seam finish, by sewing along the both edges.

With the quilted top RIGHT side UP, place both back pieces RIGHT side DOWN on top of the pillow top. Pin and sew along the entire perimeter using a ½” seam allowance. I also zigzag stitched within the seam allowance. Trim all four corners.

You’re done. Turn the pillow sham right side out, make sure to push out each corner. Press well and repeat for second pillow. We have over stuffed pillows, so I’m sure any queen-sized pillow will comfortably fit into these awesome shams!

Happy Sewing!