Learn how you can sew a reading pillow with this Reading Pillow Pattern. I’m actually sharing this Reading Pillow Pattern in 3 sizes!
Isn’t this exciting? I think so!
Video Tutorial – Sew a Reading Pillow
If you learn best my watching, be sure to visit my YouTube channel to watch the detailed sewing tutorial on How to Sew a Reading Pillow. While you’re there, be sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel (THANK YOU!). Just click on the below image to go straight to the video tutorial!
What is a Reading Pillow?
You may be asking yourself, “What is a reading pillow?” Well, a reading pillow is a pillow that has a pocket on the front of it that is big enough to hold book. It also has a handle (although the handle is optional) that makes it super easy to tote around.
I made reading pillows for our grandkids this past year for Christmas and they loved them!
Each pillow had a theme and color (because colors are important to little kids). We also purchased a reading book to go along with the theme of the pillows. For example, one of the reading pillows featured unicorns. So, we bought a story book about unicorns and a unicorn coloring book and put them in the pocket of the pillow.
Some people even include a small colorful flashlight with the reading pillow. I mean, what kid doesn’t like to read under the covers with their flashlight at night?
FAQs
Besides learning what exactly a reading pillow is, you might also have some other questions. I’ve been sharing some of my reading pillow makes on Facebook and Instagram and have gotten quite a few questions.
So, let’s take a look at those questions. If you have more questions, just leave them in the comments below!
How Big is the Reading Pillow?
I have made reading pillows that fit 20″, 18″, and 16″ pillow forms. You can literally make your pillow any size. Just keep the user in mind and make sure the pocket is big enough to hold a book.
What do You Put in the Pocket of the Reading Pillow?
The pocket is design to hold a reading book. Thus, the name “reading pillow”. You actually don’t have to put anything in the pocket. But it is made large enough and sturdy enough to hold a couple of books, coloring books, or even a e-tablet.
Like I said, the original reading pillow that I saw a couple of years ago included a book and a flashlight. Combine the two for a fun little gift!
Do You Have to Embroider the Pocket?
No, you absolutely do not have to embroider the pocket. It’s just a fun and creative way to add a personalized decorative touch to the reading pillow.
In fact, for our older grandson, I didn’t put anything on the pocket – just filled the pocket with some of his favorite comic books and a box of candy.
How Do You Put the Name on the Pillow Pocket?
I have used both applique and machine embroidery to put names on the pocket of the pillows.
Applique
For the applique, I actually used my Cricut Maker to create and cut out my letters. I don’t YET have a tutorial prepared to show you how to do this, but there’s a great tutorial on Jennifer Maker.
You could also use an app like Word or even Canva to type your names, like CORA. Then print out the letters, cut them out like a stencil, and trace them onto your fabric and then cut out the letters.
Just be sure to apply fusible web to the back of the fabric BEFORE you cut out the letters. And, if you reverse your letters before printing, you can trace them onto the bonded side of the fabric.
Machine Embroidery
If you have an embroidery machine, there is so much you can do as far as decorative elements on the reading pillow pocket. You can embroider names, characters, quotes, and more.
Most of the designs I have used on my pillows are from either Embroidery Library or Designs by JuJu.
Do I Have to Quilt the Pillow Pocket?
No, you do not have to quilt the pillow pocket. However, I do think it is a touch that just takes your pillow to the next level. And it adds stability to the pocket.
But, I have made them without quilting. The quilting technique is easy to do and takes just an extra 5 minutes or so. I like to use my Quilting Guide Bar because it saves so much time and helps me to sew super straight lines. If you don’t have a guide bar, you can use a ruler and fabric marking pen to mark your stitch lines.
Or skip the quilting! The choice really is yours. (Although, I encourage you to give it a try!)
How is the Back of the Pillow Finished?
I use an “envelope” closure for the back of the pillow. So, it’s totally zipper-free and very beginner friendly. What is an envelope closure?
An envelope closure is sometimes called an “overlap closure” and is commonly used in pillow shams. But, it’s where the fabrics in the back overlap. In fact, my pillow cover patterns have a generous overlap because I hate it when the pillow cover gaps in the back and you can actually see part of the insert. That won’t be an issue with my pillow cover patterns.
How to Sew a Reading Pillow
Alright, let’s take a look at How to Sew a Reading Pillow. The pillow can be made in any size. I’m going to provide you cutting instructions for making the pillow in 16″, 18″ and 20″ sizes.
Like I said, the pillow cover is an envelope style pillow cover with a pocket and handle. Let’s take a look first at the materials and tools/equipment that you’ll want to have on hand before you begin this sewing project.
And PLEASE read through ALL instructions before beginning.
Materials Needed
Your fabric requirements will vary depending on how you decide to make your pillow. For my pillow cover, I used the same fabric for the front, back, and handles. I used a different fabric for the pocket pieces. It will also vary depending on whether you make a 16″, 18″, or 20″ pillow cover.
Below is the materials requirement for a 16″ pillow cover:
- 5/8 yard fabric for pillow cover and handle
- 1/2 yard fabric for pillow pocket
- fusible fleece
- 16” pillow form
- matching thread
- serger thread (if using a serger)
Tools Needed
- fabric scissors
- cutting mat
- rotary cutter
- acrylic ruler
- pins or clips
- fabric marking pen
- iron
- ironing board
- something round (plate, lid, bowl, etc.)
- sewing machine
- walking foot (optional)
- quilting guide bar (optional)
- serger (optional)
How to Sew a Reading Pillow with Pocket and Handle
Learn how to make a Reading Pillow. You can select to make a 16", 18", or 20" reading pillow cover. Add a book or two and a little flashlight and you have the perfect gift that encourages children to read!
Materials
- (1) 16"Hx16"W for pillow front
- (1) 12"Hx16"W for upper pillow back
- (1) 9"Hx16"W for lower pillow back
- (2) 10"Hx16"W for pocket
- (1) 4"Hx9"W for handle
- (1) 16"Hx16"W fusible fleece for front
- (1) 10"Hx16"W fusible fleece for pocket
- (1) 12"Hx16"W fusible interfacing for upper pillow
- (1) 9"Hx16"W fusible interfacing for lower pillow
- (2) 1"Hx9"W fusible fleece for handle
- 16” pillow form
- matching thread
- serger thread (if using a serger)
Tools
- fabric scissors
- cutting mat
- rotary cutter
- acrylic ruler
- pins or clips
- fabric marking pen
- iron
- ironing board
- something round (plate, lid, bowl, etc.)
- sewing machine
- walking foot
- quilting guide bar
- serger (optional)
Instructions
- Cut fabric and fusible fleece according to above Materials information. Cut measurements for 18" and 20" pillows are listed below in the Notes section.
- Fuse fleece following manufacturer's instructions to the wrong side of one of the pocket pieces (the front piece) and the pillow front. I also like to use either fusible fleece on interfacing on the pillow back pieces - just to give the pillow cover a little more structure and durability. Fabric requirements for the back are not included above.
- Prepare handle by folding the handle in half lengthwise and press. Unfold. Fold the long raw edges towards the fold and press. Unfold.
Fuse the fusible fleece (1"x9") to the wrong side along both long
edges. Refold the long strip so that the fleece is on the inside and the strip now measures 1”x9”.
Topstitch close to both long edges of the handle using a 3.5 or 4.0mm stitch length. - Next, we will quilt pocket front. This step is optional, but I think it adds a more professional finish and it also adds stability to the pocket. You should already have the fleece fused to the wrong side of the pocket front fabric.
Use a ruler and fabric marking pen to draw a diagonal line from the top left corner down to the bottom right corner. Use the ruler to make 1" spaced lines across the pillow front.
Now make a mark from the top right corner to the bottom left corner. Continue marking 1" spaced lines across the pillow front.
TIP: You can save time by only making two marks on the pillow pocket front and then using a Quilting Guide Bar to space your stitching. Watch the video to see how! - Apply applique or embroidery design. If you are going to applique a name or stitch an embroidery design on the pocket front, do so at this time. Use the fused pocket piece and layer cut-away stabilizer on the bottom of the fusible fleece side of the panel.
- Hem pillow cover back pieces. Press under 1/2" on the bottom of the top pillow cover back piece. Then fold the raw edge towards the fold. Press. Topstitch close to the folded edge. Repeat with the top edge of the bottom pillow cover back piece.
- Stitch pocket pieces together. Once you have embroidered or appliqued your design, lay the pocket front right side up on your work surface and place the back of the pocket right side down on top. Line up the top and side edges and pin or clip in place.
Stitch the pieces together along the top edge using a ½”
seam allowance. Turn the pieces right side out and press the seam flat.
Topstitch 1/4” from the top edge. - Round the corners. I like to round the corners of the pillow cover. I think it gives a nice finished appearance to the pillow. I just use a round bowl, lid, or plate and a fabric marking pen.
Lay the pillow front right side up. Then place the pocket
right side up on top. Line up the sides and bottom edges.
Lay the pillow back top piece right side down on top of the pillow front, lining up the top and side edges. Lay the pillow back bottom piece right side down on top of the other pieces, lining up the bottom and side edges. Pin or clip in place.
Use a plate, bowl, round lid or other round object and place
it in one of the corners. Use a fabric marking pen to draw the rounded corner onto the fabric, tracing around the edge of the round object.
Repeat with the other three corners. - Baste the pocket and handle to the pillow cover front fabric. Unpin or unclip the fabric pieces. Lay the pillow cover front fabric right side up. Lay the pocket piece right side up on top of the pillow front piece. Line up the bottom corners and edges. Pin or clip in place.
Locate and mark the center of the top edge of the pillow front. Measure over 2" to the left and right of center and mark the fabric at these 2" marks. Line up the handle edge with one of the 2" marks (inside long edge of handle fabric should be lined up with the 2" mark), making sure the raw edges are even with the pillow front fabric raw edge. Pin or clip in place. Repeat with the other end of the handle piece.
Baste the pocket to the pillow using a 3.5 - 4.0mm stitch length. Stitch along the right edge of the pocket, pivoting across the bottom, then pivot again and stitch up the left side.
Stitch the handle to the pillow front fabric using a 2.4mm stitch length. - Stitch the pillow cover pieces together. I like to use a serger for this step, but if you don't have a serger, you can also use your sewing machine.
Lay the pillow front piece (with the pocket and handle attached) face up on your work surface. Lay the pillow cover back TOP piece face down and line up the top and side raw edges. Lay the pillow pillow cover back BOTTOM piece face down and line up the bottom and side raw edges. Pin or clip all around the perimeter of the pillow cover.
Stitch using a 1/2" seam allowance around the entire perimeter of the pillow cover. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end to secure your stitches. Trim the seam to about 1/4" and then zigzag stitch around the perimeter of the pillow cover using a wide zigzag stitch. - Turn the pillow cover right side out. Use your fingers to push out the corners and smooth the seams. Press the pillow cover nice and flat, paying attention to the seams.
Then insert your pillow form. Add a book or two and maybe even a flashlight to the pocket and your Reading Pillow is ready to be gifted!
Notes
Fabric Requirements for 16" Pillow Cover
Assuming you are making your fabric cover as described in this tutorial, you will need:
- 5/8 yard for pillow front, back and handle
- 1/2 yard for pocket
Fabric Requirements for 18" Pillow Cover
- 5/8 yard for pillow front, back and handle
- 1/2 yard for pocket
Fabric Requirements for 20" Pillow Cover
- 7/8 yard for pillow front, back and handle
- 3/4 yard for pocket
Material Cuts for 18" Pillow
(1) 18"Hx18"W for pillow front
(1) 13"Hx18"W for upper pillow back
(1) 10"Hx18"W for lower pillow back
(2) 11"Hx18"W for pocket
(1) 4"Hx9"W for handle
(1) 18"Hx18"W fusible fleece for front
(1) 11"Hx18"W fusible fleece for pocket
(1) 13"Hx18"W fusible interfacing for upper pillow
back, optional
(1) 10"Hx18"W fusible interfacing for lower pillow
back, optional
(2) 1"Hx9"W fusible fleece for handle
18” pillow form
Material Cuts for 20" Pillow
(1) 20"Hx20"W for pillow front
(1) 14"Hx20"W for upper pillow back
(1) 11"Hx20"W for lower pillow back
(2) 12"Hx20"W for pocket
(1) 4"Hx9"W for handle
(1) 20"Hx20"W fusible fleece for front
(1) 12"Hx20"W fusible fleece for pocket
(1) 14"Hx20"W fusible interfacing for upper pillow
back, optional
(1) 11"Hx20"W fusible interfacing for lower pillow
back, optional
(2) 1"Hx9"W fusible fleece for handle
20” pillow form
Recommended Products
As an Amazon Associate and member of other affiliate programs, I earn from qualifying purchases.
More Sewing Ideas
I do hope you enjoyed this Reading Pillow tutorial. You’ll find not only sewing patterns, but lots of sewing tips, tutorials, and sewing tool ideas right here on Hooked on Sewing!
- Sew a Pillowcase with Contrast Cuff
- Sew a Small Lined Zipper Pouch
- Beginner Friendly Sewing Machines
- All About Zippers
And be sure to save this Reading Pillow tutorial to your favorite Pinterest board to save it for later or to share with family and friends!
A list of amount of fabric to buy would be helpful as well as pictures of each step would be helpful. Thanks.
Hi, Gloria. I have listed the recommended fabric requirements above for a 16″ pillow cover. The amount of fabric needed will vary depending on how you decide to make your pillow cover. For example, I used the same fabric for the pillow front, back pieces and handle. I used a solid fabric for the pocket pieces. So, assuming you make your pillow cover the same way, the above fabric requirements would apply.
If you are making an 18″ pillow cover, you might still be able to get by with the same amount of fabric. It just depends on if the fabric is directional or not. For a 20″ pillow cover you will need 5/8 yard for the pillow cover front, back, and handle. And you’ll also need 1/2 yard of fabric.
I hope this helps!!
Pam Baker
Hooked on Sewing
I love this!!
I’m glad you like it!! Let me know if you make one!
Pam Baker
Hooked on Sewing
All of your reading pillows came out beautiful! Love your tutorial!🙂 I’ve featured your post on Crafts on Display here: https://craftsondisplay.com/sewing/how-to-sew-a-reading-pillow-48029/
i love your tutorials. i am making the reading pillows and love the design and quote with the smores. i have found the fox but can’t find the quote. my nieces love smores and would love to put that one theirs. can you let me know on the quote. thanks.
Thank you! I created the text for the s’more pillow. I used purchased fonts from Designs by JuJu and Embrilliance software. Hope this helps!
Pam Baker
Hooked on Sewing
Thank you. I did find that information after I posted. I should have read it better. But thank you for responding.
Thanks for the tutorial; looking to make this as a Christmas gift.
Question: did you hem the overlapping edges of the top and bottom back pieces before attaching? Is that measurement included in the cut-size of the fabric pieces?
Hi, Anne. Yes, I hemmed the top and bottom back pieces before sewing the front to the back. I just folded each long edge under 1/4”, then folded another 1/4” and stitched. And, yes the hems are included in the fabric cuts.
I stitched this out today, it made a really cute pillow for my neighbor’s grandson. I printed the instructions and worked from those. I would highly recommend that you add instructions for finishing the edges of the back envelope flaps. As the instructions read now, the back flaps are attached with raw edges. (This pattern is supposed to be beginner-friendly, and while experienced sewists will know to finish the edges, some beginners may not.) Also, I didn’t find the envelope closure to be generous enough to stay closed with a pillow inside, so I added a Kam snap to keep it secured. A buttonhole and button would have been cute, too.
I hope you will take my suggestions as constructive; that’s the spirit in which they are offered. 🙂
Hi, Lynn! Thank you for taking the time to provide feedback. It truly is very much appreciated.
I am pleased to inform you that I updated the instructions yesterday to include hemming the two back pillow cover pieces. This was definitely an oversight/mistake of omission on my part.
I also have plans to include instructions for adding a zipper closure to the back and adding a tie closure. I also like the button idea!
Thanks again for sharing your feedback!
Pam Baker
Hooked on Sewing
Can you please share the name/maker of the fabric for the camping S’more pillow? Also….the fishing lure fabric? I want to make these. I have searched for both themes and both of these fabrics are beyond perfect! I’d truly be thankful.
TIA…..Cheryl
The fabrics were purchased from JOANN Fabric & Crafts. The camping themed fabric was still available in my local JOANN’s the last time I visited. I’m not sure about the fishing lure fabric.
Hope this helps!