I often get asked about cushions and how to make them with Saori cloth. Generally any cushion approach will work with Saori Cloth. My favourite is the cushion with a zip in it for easy care. But some people prefer not to muck around with zips and sew an envelope cushion. You’ll need a little more fabric for the envelope one.

Another cushion type is the origami cushion. This is best made from all saori cloth. British weaver, Janet Phillips has this pattern available.

I’ll go over how I put a cushion together and I’ve added a couple of good instructional videos from youtube below.

Firstly you need to cut out the front of the cushion. I’ve used calico on the back. The back and front pieces need to be the same size – if you are using a zipper as a closure. To get the size of the cloth join pieces where you need to. Joining can make it better! or if your fabric is wide enough you can cut it out in one piece.

I usually make the cushion cover smaller than the cushion insert to make a slightly plump shape. I used a size 18 cushion insert, available from Spotlight, which states it is for a 46cm x 46cm cushion. But cut the cushion front 43 x 43 cms. This includes a 1.5cm seam allowance all around and with produce a cushion measuring 41 x 41 cms. (I used a 35cm zip.)

Here is a good instructional video on the envelope cushion. You can make the front with your woven fabric and the backs with a strong calico or similar if you prefer. There is no zip in this option but there are two backs to cut out.

Here is a video on how to make a zippered cover for a cushion and is a good one for beginners.

Cushions are very fun and you can get so much happiness out of using them.