Sew Your Own Cozy Quillow: A Step-by-Step Guide

Imagine a cozy blanket that transforms into a convenient pillow with a few simple folds. That’s the magic of a quillow! Perfect for travel, camping, dorm rooms, or just snuggling on the couch, a quillow is a versatile and space-saving addition to any home. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step of creating your own quillow, from selecting the perfect fabric to mastering the folding technique.

What is a Quillow?

Before we dive into the how-to, let’s define what exactly a quillow is. A quillow is essentially a blanket that can be folded and stuffed into an attached pocket, turning it into a pillow. The pocket is typically sewn onto one side of the blanket and becomes part of the pillow’s outer casing when folded. This clever design makes it easy to store the blanket and keeps it compact for travel.

Why Make Your Own Quillow?

While you can certainly purchase a quillow, making your own offers several advantages:

• Customization: Choose your favorite fabrics, colors, and patterns to create a quillow that perfectly matches your style and décor.
• Cost-Effective: Making a quillow can often be cheaper than buying one, especially if you already have some fabric on hand.
• Personalized Gift: A handmade quillow makes a thoughtful and unique gift for friends and family.
• Creative Outlet: Sewing a quillow is a fun and rewarding project that allows you to express your creativity.
• Size Matters: You control the dimensions! Need a specific size for a child? No problem. Want an oversized quillow for movie nights? You got it!

Materials You’ll Need

Gathering your materials before you start is key to a smooth sewing experience. Here’s a list of everything you’ll need:

• Fabric for the Blanket: Choose a soft and comfortable fabric like fleece, flannel, cotton, or minky. The amount of fabric will depend on the desired size of your quillow. A good starting point is 1.5 to 2 yards of fabric for each side of the blanket (so 3 to 4 yards total if using different fabrics for each side).
• Fabric for the Pocket: This fabric should coordinate with your blanket fabric. You’ll need enough to create a pocket that’s large enough to hold the folded blanket. About 3/4 to 1 yard should be sufficient. Consider using a slightly heavier fabric for the pocket for added durability.
• Sewing Machine: A reliable sewing machine is essential for this project.
• Thread: Choose a thread color that matches or complements your fabric.
• Scissors or Rotary Cutter and Mat: For accurately cutting your fabric.
• Measuring Tape or Ruler: For measuring and marking fabric.
• Straight Pins: To hold fabric pieces together while sewing.
• Seam Ripper: Just in case you make any mistakes!
• Iron and Ironing Board: For pressing seams and creating a neat finish.
• Optional: Embellishments like buttons, ribbons, or decorative stitching to personalize your quillow.
• Optional: Pillow stuffing if you want to add extra fluff to the pocket once it’s folded into a pillow.

Choosing Your Fabric

The fabric you choose will greatly impact the look and feel of your quillow. Here are some popular options:

• Fleece: Soft, warm, and easy to work with. Fleece is a great choice for beginners. It doesn’t fray easily, so you don’t necessarily need to finish the edges, though hemming will provide a more polished look and add durability.
• Flannel: Another soft and cozy option, perfect for colder months. Flannel does tend to shrink after washing, so pre-wash your fabric before cutting.
• Cotton: Versatile and available in a wide range of prints and colors. Cotton is breathable and easy to care for.
• Minky: Exceptionally soft and plush, minky is a luxurious choice for a quillow. However, it can be a bit trickier to sew with due to its slippery texture. Use plenty of pins and a walking foot if you have one.

When choosing fabric for the pocket, consider using a heavier weight fabric than the blanket fabric for added durability. Denim, canvas, or a thicker cotton blend are good options.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now for the fun part! Follow these detailed instructions to create your own cozy quillow:

Step 1: Determine the Size of Your Quillow

Before you start cutting, decide on the finished size of your blanket. A common size for a throw blanket is 50×60 inches. For a child’s quillow, you might opt for a smaller size like 40×50 inches. The size of your blanket will determine the dimensions of your fabric pieces.

Measure and cut two pieces of fabric to your desired blanket size. For example, if you want a 50×60 inch quillow, cut two pieces of fabric that are 50×60 inches each.

Step 2: Cut the Pocket Fabric

The pocket needs to be large enough to accommodate the folded blanket. A good rule of thumb is to make the pocket the same size as one-quarter of the blanket. If your blanket is 50×60 inches, the pocket should be approximately 25×30 inches (half the width and half the length). Alternatively, for a more precise fit (and a snugglier pillow), you can use the following formula:

Pocket Width = (Blanket Width) / 2

Pocket Length = (Blanket Length) / 2

Add seam allowances (usually 1/2 inch) to all sides of the pocket fabric. For example, if you want a finished pocket size of 25×30 inches, cut your pocket fabric to 26×31 inches.

Step 3: Prepare the Pocket

1. Hem the Opening: On one of the longer sides of the pocket fabric (the future opening of the pillow), fold the edge over by 1/2 inch and press with an iron. Fold it over again by another 1/2 inch and press again. This creates a double-folded hem that will prevent fraying and provide a clean finish. Sew along the folded edge to secure the hem.
2. Optional: Add Fasteners: Now is the time to add any closures to the opening of the pocket. Consider adding buttons and buttonholes, snaps, or Velcro to help keep the pillow form secure. If you are adding buttons, sew the buttonholes on the hemmed edge of the pocket fabric *before* sewing the hem.

Step 4: Assemble the Blanket

1. Place Fabric Right Sides Together: Place the two blanket fabric pieces right sides together, aligning all edges.
2. Pin the Edges: Secure the edges with straight pins, leaving a 6-8 inch opening on one side for turning the blanket right side out. This opening will be closed later. It’s best to place this opening along one of the longer sides for easier turning.
3. Sew Around the Edges: Sew around all four edges of the blanket with a 1/2-inch seam allowance, leaving the designated opening unsewn. Remember to backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam to secure the stitching.
4. Clip the Corners: Clip the corners of the blanket to reduce bulk and create sharper corners when turned right side out. Be careful not to cut through the stitching!
5. Turn Right Side Out: Carefully turn the blanket right side out through the opening you left. Use a point turner or a dull pencil to gently push out the corners and create sharp points.
6. Press the Blanket: Iron the blanket to smooth out any wrinkles and create a crisp edge. Pay special attention to the seams.
7. Close the Opening: Fold the raw edges of the opening inward by 1/2 inch and press with an iron. Pin the opening closed and sew along the edge with a hidden stitch (also known as a ladder stitch) or a machine stitch close to the edge to close the opening securely.

Step 5: Attach the Pocket

1. Position the Pocket: Place the blanket with the right side facing up. Decide which corner you want the pocket to be located in. Generally, you’ll want to place the pocket on the *same side* of the blanket, as the person using it will be more comfortable with the smoother side when using it as a blanket. Position the pocket on the blanket with the hemmed opening facing inward and towards the center of the blanket. Align the raw edges of the pocket with the edges of the blanket, ensuring the pocket is centered.
2. Pin the Pocket to the Blanket: Secure the pocket to the blanket with straight pins, pinning through all layers of fabric.
3. Sew the Pocket to the Blanket: Sew around the three un-hemmed sides of the pocket with a 1/2-inch seam allowance, attaching it securely to the blanket. Reinforce the stitching at the corners for added durability. Backstitch at the beginning and end of your seam.

Step 6: Finishing Touches (Optional)

Now that your quillow is assembled, you can add some finishing touches to personalize it:

• Topstitching: Topstitch around the edges of the blanket and/or the pocket to create a decorative finish and reinforce the seams.
• Decorative Stitching: Use decorative stitches on your sewing machine to add embellishments to the blanket or pocket.
• Embroidery: Embroider a name, initial, or design onto the blanket or pocket for a personalized touch.
• Add Tassels or Pom-Poms: Attach tassels or pom-poms to the corners of the blanket for a fun and playful look.
• Patchwork Pocket: For a unique look, create a pocket from various fabric scraps using patchwork techniques.

How to Fold Your Quillow

Now that you’ve made your quillow, it’s time to learn how to fold it into a pillow:

1. Lay the Blanket Flat: Lay the blanket flat on a surface with the pocket facing up.
2. Fold in Half (Lengthwise): Fold the blanket in half lengthwise, bringing one long edge to meet the other.
3. Fold in Half Again (Lengthwise): Fold the blanket in half again lengthwise. You should now have a long, narrow rectangle.
4. Fold into Thirds (Widthwise): Fold the bottom third of the blanket up towards the middle. Then, fold the top third of the blanket down over the middle, creating a compact, folded rectangle.
5. Stuff into Pocket: Carefully stuff the folded blanket into the pocket. Make sure all the edges are tucked in neatly.
6. Secure the Opening: If you added buttons, snaps, or Velcro to the pocket opening, close them to secure the pillow.

Your quillow is now ready to be used as a pillow! When you want to use it as a blanket, simply unfold it from the pocket.

Tips and Tricks for Success

Here are a few tips and tricks to help you create a perfect quillow:

• Pre-Wash Your Fabric: Pre-washing your fabric before cutting is essential to prevent shrinkage and ensure accurate sizing. This is especially important for cotton and flannel fabrics.
• Use Sharp Scissors or a Rotary Cutter: Sharp cutting tools will help you cut your fabric accurately and prevent fraying.
• Pin Generously: Pinning your fabric pieces together securely will prevent them from shifting while you sew.
• Use the Right Needle: Choose a needle that is appropriate for the type of fabric you are using. A universal needle works well for most fabrics, but you may need a ballpoint needle for knit fabrics like fleece.
• Adjust Your Stitch Length: Adjust your stitch length according to the fabric you are using. A shorter stitch length is generally recommended for thinner fabrics, while a longer stitch length is suitable for thicker fabrics.
• Press as You Go: Pressing your seams as you sew will create a neater and more professional finish.
• Take Your Time: Don’t rush the process. Sewing a quillow is a rewarding project that requires patience and attention to detail.
• Consider a Walking Foot: If you are using a slippery fabric like minky, consider using a walking foot on your sewing machine. A walking foot helps to feed the fabric evenly, preventing it from slipping and puckering.
• Reinforce Seams: Reinforce the seams around the pocket and the opening of the blanket to prevent them from tearing with repeated use.
• Experiment with Different Fabrics and Embellishments: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fabrics, colors, and embellishments to create a unique and personalized quillow.

Care Instructions

To keep your quillow looking its best, follow these care instructions:

• Machine Wash Cold: Wash your quillow in cold water on a gentle cycle.
• Tumble Dry Low: Tumble dry on low heat or hang to dry.
• Avoid Bleach: Do not use bleach, as it can damage the fabric.
• Iron on Low Heat: If necessary, iron on low heat.

Variations and Inspirations

Once you’ve mastered the basic quillow, you can explore different variations and inspirations:

• Hooded Quillow: Add a hood to your quillow for extra warmth and coziness.
• Sleeved Quillow: Add sleeves to your quillow for ultimate snuggliness.
• Character Quillow: Create a quillow in the shape of a favorite animal or character.
• Patchwork Quillow: Use fabric scraps to create a colorful and unique patchwork quillow.
• Themed Quillow: Create a quillow with a specific theme, such as sports, holidays, or nature.
• Travel Pillow/Quillow Combo: Make a smaller quillow specifically designed for travel.

Conclusion

Making your own quillow is a fun and rewarding project that will provide you with a cozy and versatile blanket-pillow combination. With a little bit of fabric, some basic sewing skills, and this comprehensive guide, you can create a personalized quillow that is perfect for travel, camping, or snuggling at home. So gather your materials, unleash your creativity, and start sewing your own cozy quillow today!