I learned how to make cushion covers in the basic sewing class I took last fall. This link is actually to an even simpler version (slightly less polished); she claims they're 20-minute pillows, and that's about right. One piece of fabric, three straight seams, and you have a pillow. It's like magic. If you know how to use your sewing machine, you can do this. http://www.iheartnaptime.net/how-to-sew-a-pillow/
(Remember, ALWAYS iron first. It's totally worth the extra step.)
I had the fabric already, a pink Thai raw silk, leftover from a sewing project a decade ago. See, I knew I was storing all that fabric for a reason... The cushions I also had already, red velvety-ness (not real velvet!) -- great for Christmas and Valentine's day, less great for spring.
A few seams later, and some turning inside-out, and the red pillow was stuffed into the pink case. I love the way light plays against the texture of raw silk.
Poor Ellie. I made her move a bit so I could stick the second pillow behind her for this photo. She looks so betrayed.
But we're not done yet. I also had this AWESOME spring green pintucked rayon (feels like silk), which I spied last autumn and just had to buy a few yards of, even though I had no idea what I would do with it. I think I still have enough left to make a skirt, although not a very full one. Any other ideas?
I love the mix of textures and colors! Kavya came into the room and said, "Those colors are so beautifully springy!" I know, baby, that was my WHOLE PLAN.
Anand also LOVES the new pillows. They may not survive his adoration for long, but if he destroys them, no worries. I can make more!