A simple Christmas in July sewing project

 Are you looking for a simple sewing project that can be made for nearly everyone on your list and can be personalized according to the recipient's taste?  How about a vintage-style pillowcase?  I saw this pattern on Pleasant View Schoolhouse years ago and have made many pillowcases since then.  Here is the link:  How to Make a Vintage-Style Pillowcase.  I'll add that most times, I don't bother to use the rickrack on the pillowcase.  It's not as pretty without, but makes the project even easier if omitted.

Children enjoy having their own special pillowcases that reflect their own individual interests.  Sometimes it can even make them more willing to take a nap!

Sam is happy with his Thomas pillowcase

Made for granddaughters; pair on right is made with vintage fabrics.

 

 

 

 

Two more with a train theme.

For teens or adults, you can make special Christmas pillowcases using Christmas or winter fabric.  (Children would enjoy these too, of course.)

A set with a winter theme.

Snowman pillowcase for a child

If you know their decorating preferences, use a fabric that coordinates to make your  pillowcases. 

This set was made to coordinate with a special quilt.

If you like, you could even embroider a name or saying (like "Sweet Dreams" or "Goodnight") on the border of the pillowcase.  I've thought of doing this, but haven't done so on the pillowcases I've made so far.  I want to make a set for myself, and maybe I will embroider something on those.

One thing I have noticed is that people seem to love getting their own special pillowcases made just for them.  I know that personally I very seldom buy new pillowcases for myself.  I suppose plenty of other people are the same way.

To me, the most difficult part of this project is the cutting of the fabric.  I have simplified matters somewhat for myself by making paper patterns the size of the two pattern pieces (the body of the pillowcase and the trim piece) and  re-using them each time.  But once the fabric pieces are cut, this is a speedy project indeed.

Have fun with this idea!  Start soon, and you could have a dozen of these completed by the end of July!