The button-tucked or tufted pillow is a classic design. A middle button accent, front and back, is what creates the wonderful plump and puffy look.

Isn't this great paisley fabric? The colors and swirl of the paisleys create a kaleidoscope effect around the button. Buttons can be an expensive item, so you can use a cool, expensive button on the front and a plain button on the back. I like to use the same buttons front and back because then I don't worry about which way the pillow lands when I toss it on my sofa.

Sewing Tools You Need

• Sewing Machine (we recommend the Janome Jem Platinum 760)

Fabric and Other Supplies

• 16"x 16" Pillow form
• ½ yd of fabric
• All-purpose thread in colors to match fabric
• 2 buttons
• Matching thread
• Regular hand sewing needle
• Upholstery thread
• Long hand sewing needle
• Scissors
• Iron

Getting Started

At Your Machine

1. Stitch the two 16" squares, right sides together, leaving an 8" opening for turning. Use a 1/2" seam allowance all around. This leaves you with a finished size of 15"x15". When you insert the 16"x16" pillow form it will better fill out the covering and the finished pillow will look fuller.
2. Insert pillow form and slip-stitch the 8" opening closed by hand.
3. Mark placement of buttons on both the front and back. This should be in the exact center on both sides.
4. Using a long hand sewing needle and upholstery thread, stitch on buttons through all thicknesses. Do one button and then the other; don't try to stitch both at once.

Other machines suitable for this project include the Baby Lock Decorator's Choice and the Bernina activa 230.

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