Duvet covers in unique fabric are expensive, but even a novice can make a duvet cover. Think of it as a giant bag with an end closure and you'll feel less intimidated. Since the purpose of a cover is to keep the comforter clean, choose soft, washable fabric that will feel good to the skin. A cover made with two sheets is easiest, but fashion fabric can be used as well. Preshrink both fabric and sheets in washer and dryer to avoid disappointing shrinkage later.
If you haven't already bought the comforter, consider buying it one size larger than the bed since it will cover the mattress better with a greater overhang at sides and bottom.
- Measure the comforter to be covered adding 1-1/2 inches to the width and 3-3/4 inches to the length for seam allowance and hems. If you're using sheets, check sheet dimensions to determine what size to buy.
- Two companion or complementary sheets make a more interesting cover than the same sheet on both sides; let your personal preference dictate.
- If you're using fashion fabrics, fabric will have to be pieced to make enough width to cover. You could use a sheet for the underside. Before you can determine how much fabric to buy, you need to know the widths of the fabrics you are considering. Try one fabric for the center and another fabric cut in half lengthwise to form borders on each side. Do not cut final width (duvet dimension plus 1-1/2 inches for seams ) until after the fabrics are pieced.
To determine how much fabric to buy, decide how many fabric widths plus seam allowances it will take to cover the width of the cover plus 1-1/2-inch seams. After measuring the length of the comforter plus 3-1/2 inches for seams and bottom hem, multiply this length times the number of fabric widths needed. This calculation is for one side of the cover. Double if both sides are the same, or use a sheet for the backside. If math calculations confuse you, take your comforter measurements and this article to the fabric store and ask for help in figuring from a knowledgeable clerk.
For a cozy duvet, consider a flannel sheet for the underside of the cover. Because it will be repeatedly washed, French seams (enclosed seams) or serged seams are used to join pieces.
For French or Velcro seams
- Place wrong sides of fabric together. Sew a 1/4 of an inch seam along two long sides and top.
- For sharper corners, hand-walk two machine stitches diagonally at corners.
- To reduce bulk, clip corner seam allowances close to stitching. Turn fabric wrong sides out. Press.
- Enclose raw edges of seam allowances by sewing seam at 3/8 of an inch.
- Turn duvet cover right side out. On open end, press under a one-inch seam allowance to the wrong side of fabric.
- Enclose this edge by pressing under a one-inch seam allowance again. Sew close to folded edge.
- Duvet covers may be closed with large, heavy-duty snaps (size #4) at intervals no larger than nine inches, or make closure using Velcro.
- To close with Velcro, purchase a length of 3/4-inch wide Velcro to match the width of the opening.
- Topstitch Velcro strips to the inside of the hemmed open end of the bag. Anchor all sides of the Velcro with stitching.
Resources 46-inch decorating zippers
Hancock Fabrics
Website:
www.hancockfabrics.com
fabric - Bombay Claret Plaids Forever, dark green chintz (Model #: 607631 - Bombay Claret)
Bombay Claret: Country Coordinates Collection
Waverly
Website:
www.waverly.com
McCall's pattern
Due to seasonal changes and new designs, the exact McCall's brand pattern numbers seen on this show are often no longer available. Visit your local fabric store for similar patterns.
McCall's Pattern Company
Consumer Service
11 Penn Plaza
New York, NY 10001
USA
Toll Free Phone: 800-782-0323
Email:
consumerservice@mccallpattern.com
URL:
www.mccall.com
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