What do you guys think about chain reactions? Probably depends, right? Well, earlier this year, I shared my “30 Before 30” list. One of the things on that list was to start being healthier. Well, I’ve been doing that. I’ve been working out and eating cleaner and that has resulted in some body changes. With those changes, I’ve taken a hard look at my closet. I’m coming to the realization that I would rather have ten pieces in my closet that I absolutely love than one hundred pieces that are just ok. So, over the past six months, I have purged and then purged again. Anything that didn’t fit right (or has never fit right) immediately got purged. This project is a by-product of that purge. Take those purged clothes and make some upcycled pillows!
Take these two outfits, for example. The dress on the left is cute but has never been long enough. The waist sat too high and, you can’t really tell from that picture but, the pockets in the back came way higher than they should have. With some weight loss, the top part was just sloppy. So, purge number one. The skirt on the right was just too full. It wasn’t flattering, because it just added emphasis on my belly button region. So, purge number two.
I loved the pattern on both outfits, so why not use them? This project is so simple that I hate to even share steps, but I will. =)
Grab an old throw pillow to use as your insert.
Cut your fabric slightly larger than your insert and turn the fabric so that what you want on the outside are facing each other.
Sew three sides of your pillow; making sure to stay at the same seam allowance.
Turn your pillow form inside out and stuff your pillow.
Tuck your fabric under so that you have a clean line.
Hand-stitch your last opening closed.
Pillows are so easy to make. Next time you are doing a closet purge, just think about what kind of new pillows you could make!
Are you ready to see what the other ladies did this month?
Lovely Etc. shared an Upcycled Keyhole Necklace.
Thrifty and Chic shared a Repurposed Sunburst Mirror.
Life as a Thrifter shared her Upcycled Fan Belt Display.
Linking up to:
C.R.A.F.T., Project Inspired, Restless Arrow, The Makers, Outside the Box, The Winthrop Chronicles, Home Stories A-Z, Hit Me With Your Best Shot, Work It Wednesday, Fry Sauce and Grits, Liz Marie Blog, The Inspiration Gallery, Think and Make, Creativity Unleashed – The Bold Abode, Remodelaholic, Whipperberry, The Creative Collection, Tatertots and Jello, Link It or Lump It, and Frugal Crafty Blog Hop.
Amy W says
October 1, 2014 at 1:25 amSo clever!
Ashley Mayes says
October 2, 2014 at 10:52 amThanks Amy!
Julia@Cuckoo4Design says
October 1, 2014 at 5:59 amLove how they look as pillows. Such a great idea!
Ashley Mayes says
October 2, 2014 at 10:52 amThanks Julia! I’m pretty smitten with them.
Marybeth says
October 1, 2014 at 8:46 amBrilliant! This would be fun with shirts from the thrift store, too.
Ashley Mayes says
October 2, 2014 at 10:52 amYes, it definitely would!
Trisha D. says
October 1, 2014 at 9:09 amPerfect way to upcycle and reuse some of those fabrics you were drawn to in the first place!!
Ashley Mayes says
October 2, 2014 at 10:53 amI know and free as well! =)
Jen says
October 7, 2014 at 11:46 amWhat an awesome idea! I have a skirt sitting in my closet right now that I love— but, when I’m honest, it just doesn’t fit right. What I love about it is the pattern. And now I’m thinking it would be the perfect pop of color in my living room!
Ashley Mayes says
October 7, 2014 at 2:35 pmThat was my whole problem! Grab a pair of scissors and get to work. =)
Sarah J says
October 7, 2014 at 5:51 pmColor me inspired! I have 3 old sweaters with small holes in them but I don’t want to toss because they were comfy. Pillows it is!
Ashley Mayes says
October 7, 2014 at 7:57 pmAwesome! I wanted to use some sweaters, but didn’t have any that would work as a pillow. I bet they will turn out great!
Jonni says
October 9, 2014 at 7:56 pmGreat way to make me start being healthier! Love the idea, thanks.
Ashley Mayes says
October 9, 2014 at 9:57 pmThanks Jonni!
LZ Cathcart says
October 10, 2014 at 3:21 pmAmazing! I can think of about 10 shirts/dresses/pants that I would love to do this to. Thank you for the inspiration 🙂
Ashley Mayes says
October 12, 2014 at 7:38 pmAwesome! Glad you found it useful!
Kyla @HouseOfHipsters says
October 15, 2014 at 9:21 pmOh my goodness! Best idea ever on those pillows! There are so many pieces I hate to part with because I love the pattern but never wear. You. Are. Brilliant! Hope you are having a good week!
Ashley Mayes says
October 17, 2014 at 3:49 pmThanks Kyla! I feel the exact same way. Have a great weekend.
Janice says
October 22, 2014 at 9:14 pmLove this! I have a few shirts.. Even cute button up ones from hubbie that would be perfect! I switch out my pillows way to often!
Janice
http://freshlifeliving.blogspot.ca/
Ashley Mayes says
October 23, 2014 at 6:32 amThanks! Yes, those button up shirts would be great!