Awhile back, I saw a cute item in a needlework shop – a small pillow that had a frame on top in which a piece of needlework could be inserted and then changed out if desired. I thought it was something I could duplicate and I worked out the details for a 5×5 inch pillow that would accept a 4 inch piece of needlework (see picture above).
I plan to make some of these pillows as Christmas gift card or check holders, using a favorite photo and tucking the gift card or check in back of it. I’ll attach a tag: Look behind the picture for a surprise.
Here is how I made the pillow:
Cut:
- 1 piece of 5-½ x 5-½ inch muslin for the top of the pillow
- 1 piece of 5-½ x 5-½ inch fabric for the back of the pillow
- 4 pieces of 3 x 5-½ inch fabric for the frame
- You will also need a small amount of stuffing
Press the four pieces of frame fabric (3×5-½ inches) in half lengthwise.
Place the muslin on the table and arrange two of the frame pieces on top of the muslin, matching raw edges with folds toward center.
Place the remaining two frame pieces top and bottom on the muslin, matching raw edges with folds toward center. Pin and stitch 1/8 inch from the raw edges to secure the frame.
Place the right side of the backing on top of the frame, matching raw edges. On the bottom edge, place a pin 2-½ inches from each side and leave the center portion open for stuffing. Stitch ¼ inch seams, beginning and ending at pins. Remove pins, trim four corners and turn piece so that frame portion is on the front of the pillow.
Stuff the pillow and hand-stitch the opening gap.
For insert, choose a needlework piece with a 3-½ x 3-½ inch design and leave a ¼ inch border around the edge to form a 4 x 4 inch block. Zigzag stitch around the raw edges of the piece. Insert into pillow frame.
You could also fussy-cut a pretty design from fabric 4 x 4 inches ….
…or print a 3-½ x 3-½ photo on fabric (such as June Tailor’s Sew-In Colorfast Fabric Sheets) and leave a ¼ inch border around the edge to form a 4 x 4 inch square.
This would make a cute gift with just one insert or, even better, stacking three inserts in the frame with a tag for the recipient to check under the first fabric for a surprise or two.
This pillow is very easy to make and uses up a little bit more of that scrap fabric that is in everyone’s sewing room.
LILLIAN'S CUPBOARD 
Cute idea and great for gift giving money or gift certificates.
How fun! Saving instructions for later.
Oh, that’s cool! I love this idea. Could I be on your Christmas list. LOL
They are adorable! 😀
That is so cute, and you are so smart.
Clever–and you create very clear tutorials.
You just gave me a great idea on how I can use up a little smocked square of fabric, Lillian!! I kept thinking I’d make a pocket out of it, but a pillow would be much cuter & be seen so much more. Thanks for the inspiration
Lillian, you make it look so easy. and fun! Thank you for sharing. 🙂