Part 2: DIY pillow mattress

Whew I managed to get one last photo of the finished result before my camera informed me it was exhausted and promptly shut itself off, how rude. Anywho I was able finish the tutorial while the kiddos were napping, go me! So on with the show...

As discussed your supplies needed are as follows 4 standard pillows, king size flat sheet though a queen would do, matching thread. I wanted to personalize this for my son so I picked up some fishy fabric to applique his name along with the fusible web.

I booted up my word so I could get a transfer of Jaces name. Reminder for newbies: You must do the name in reverse in order for it to be read correctly when finished.




I like to leave my paper on the the fabric as I cut out easier to move around with the scissors. I also cut out two fishes to go along with his name.I like this heat-bond well enought just needs a little more heat time but it does remove from the fabric with little effort. I normally get by the yard. I almost forget to put this on once I got started.

isn't it so cute?

So I laid the pillows out so I could figure out measurements. The pillows measure 20 x 26, so I cut the length of the doubled in half sheet to 83. That gave me room for the pillows themselves and 1/2 inch seams topp/bottom. To save myself time I tried to use the manufactured seams on one side less work quicker result. I made a 3 inch pocket on one side secured with pins using my handy straight guide and ironed it.

So after to fix your hems nice and pretty, sew the top/bottom edges. Now you'll just have a large pocket with a small one on the edge. Turn it all around so your rough seams are now inside. Now you  measure starting at one end measure 20.5 a total of 3 times. These will be the pockets your pillows will sit. Working with large portions of fabric can be a pain, I recommend having a large work around preferably with hardwood floor easier to cut on.

Before you sew pillow pocket finish any appliques is desired

I lucked out and had a wonderfully burnt orange thread to sew this all it blended well.

Tada, I was so happy with this I tried it out. Almost fell asleep too. I have a feeling some other little ones in my family may be getting these as well. I can't wait to give this to my son he will love it and the fishy's. When the day comes I will be sure to tell everyone about it. I hope everyone has a stellar weekend and happy creating!

*Finished measurements are 82.5 length and 53 wide. Seams are 1/2 rolled and ironed.