How to Make a Duvet Cover? Sewing Guide

Last Updated on November 6, 2023

Hello everybody! I’m going to guide you through the process of making a duvet cover. Don’t worry if it seems daunting; it’s essentially like making a larger pillow cover.

Not only will you end up with a high-quality duvet cover tailored to your preferences, but you’ll also save money compared to buying one from a store.

How to Make a Duvet Cover

Highlights:

  • Making your own duvet cover allows you to save money and create a higher quality product tailored to your preferences.
  • Learn to add a zipper for easy closure, ensuring your duvet stays securely inside the cover.
  • Choose your favorite fabric and customize the duvet cover to match your bedroom decor, adding a personal touch to your bedding.
  • Craft a durable duvet cover with neatly finished edges, ensuring both functionality and style for your bedroom.

I prefer duvet covers with zippers, so I will show you how to add a zipper for easy closure.

Is sewing a duvet cover easy?

Yes, sewing a duvet cover is remarkably easy, making it an ideal project for beginners. The process involves straight seams and concealing all raw edges, making it straightforward and beginner-friendly.

How to make a duvet cover?

How to make a duvet cover

Sew the panels, attach the zipper, add ties to secure the duvet, and enjoy your personalized, high-quality bedding.

By following the outlined steps, you can easily make your own duvet cover using your preferred fabric and customize it to fit your bed perfectly.

Materials you’ll Need

  1. Fabric: Choose a high-quality fabric for the top of your duvet cover. Quilting cotton, linen, or other fashion fabrics works well. For a double bed size, you’ll need fabric measuring 76 inches wide, twice the length of your duvet (86 inches), plus some extra for shrinkage.
  2. Back Panel: You can use a flat sheet for the back panel. Make sure it matches the size of your top fabric.
  3. Duvet Zipper: A 60-inch long zipper or two shorter zippers totaling 60 inches in length.
  4. Ties: About one yard of cord or thin ribbon for tying the corners of the duvet.
  5. Sewing Machine: A standard sewing machine with a zipper foot and a serger (optional).

Step-by-Step Guide

Planning

How to Make a Duvet Cover Planning
How to Make a Duvet Cover Planning

Firstly, determine the dimensions of your duvet cover based on your bed size. For a standard double bed, the duvet size is 76 inches wide and 86 inches long. Calculate the fabric requirements based on these dimensions. If you have a directional print, make sure to align it correctly.

Cutting the Top Fabric

Cutting the Top Fabric
Cutting the Top Fabric
  • Start by tearing a straight edge across the full width of the fabric.
  • Measure and mark the length (87 inches) and cut the fabric.
  • Tear the second piece into two side panels (17 inches wide each).
  • Sew the panels together, keeping the selvages together.
  • Press the seams open or towards the center panel for a neat finish.

Cutting the Sheet

Cutting the Sheet
Cutting the Sheet
  • Cut off the four-inch hem and snip a couple of inches beyond it.
  • Measure and cut the width (77 inches) of the sheet.
  • Cut a finger width away from the edge of the hem for the bottom of the duvet.
  • Attach the zipper to the cut hem edge using a zipper foot.
  • Overlap the remaining sheet fabric with the zipper tape, ensuring a secure closure.

Sewing the Top

Sewing the Top
Sewing the Top
  • Sew the panels together along the selvage edges.
  • Press the seam open or towards the center panel for a professional look.

Sewing the Zipper

  • Attach the zipper to the cut edge of the sheet, ensuring it’s well-aligned.
  • Sew along the edge of the zipper tape, maintaining equal tension on top and bottom fabrics.
  • Overlap the sheet fabric with the zipper tape and sew close to the edge for a clean finish.

Putting Front and Back Together

  • Place the top and bottom fabric on the right sides together.
  • Pin around the edges, ensuring even spacing between pins.
  • Sew around all four sides, securing the layers together.
  • Serge or zigzag the edges for a clean finish.

Adding Ties

Adding Ties
Adding Ties
  • Sew a short string at each corner inside the duvet cover.
  • Backstitch to secure the ties, ensuring they won’t come off easily.

Turning and Pressing

Turning and Pressing
Turning and Pressing
  • Turn it right side out.
  • Press the edges with a steamy iron, ensuring a crisp finish.
  • Your duvet cover is now ready to use!

FAQ – People Also Ask

How much fabric do I need to make a duvet cover?

The amount of fabric you need for a duvet cover depends on the size of your duvet. For a standard double bed duvet cover (76 inches wide and 86 inches long), you’ll need fabric that is twice the length (86 inches) plus enough for shrinkage and seam allowances. In this case, you would need approximately 5 meters of fabric for the top of this.

Can I use a different fabric for the duvet cover, or is quilting cotton necessary?

You can use different fabrics based on your preference. Quilting cotton is a popular choice due to its durability and ease of sewing, but you can experiment with linen, cotton blends, or even flannel for a cozier feel.

 I don’t have a serger. Can I still make a duvet cover?

Yes! If you don’t have a serger, you can finish the edges by using a zigzag stitch on your sewing machine. This will prevent fraying and give your duvet cover a clean look.

What if my duvet is a different size? How can I adjust the measurements?

If your duvet is a different size, you can adjust the measurements accordingly. Simply measure your duvet’s width and length and add seam allowances. Then follow the same steps to cut and sew your fabric panels.

Last Words

Congratulations, you’ve successfully made your own duvet cover! Not only is it a practical addition to your bedding, but it also reflects your personal style and craftsmanship. Enjoy the comfort and style of your custom-made duvet cover.

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