Bordered Cushions

Like a frill, bordered cushions can make the size of a cushion seem larger than it really is.

The types for borders are either single, double or padded. They can be used along with other decoration such as piping or ribbon but are lovely enough not to need extra touches but the end result is entirely upon your taste.

Some other names for bordered cushions are Flanged and Oxford. The simplest type to do is extending the cushion size beyond the filling. This is also known as the false oxford as a proper oxford cushion has two borders.

These can be made using a cushion pad or by putting the filling directly into the cushion without an inner case. This would then mean the whole cushion will have to be washed when it needs to be cleaned. I personally prefer to have an inner case and remove the cover.

Although the actual pad needs to be washing every six months, or however often you prefer, the pad could loose its plumpness if washed too often.

Making a simple Bordered,Flanged or False Oxford cushion (without an inner case)

  • The easiest way of making this design of cushion is by deciding on the finished size of your cushion.

  • Cut out a front and back panel to the size you want. Sew around the edges leaving a gap to insert the filling.

  • Turn right sides out. Decide on the width of your border and mark the sewing line with pins or tailor chalk.

  • Top stitch along this line leaving a gap for the filling.

  • Insert the filling into the middle of the cushion.

  • Finish top stitching along the border sewing line to close the opening.

  • The gap at the border edge then needs to be closed by either slip stitching it closed by hand or top-stitch around the whole edge of the border.

Making a simple bordered cushion cover (with an inner pad).

  • Decide on the size of your cushion including the border width.

  • Cut out a front piece to match the required size.
The back has to be cut into two. This is to allow a zip, velcro or press stud strip to be put in. Where this goes is up to you. The fastening can be placed in the middle of the back piece so you will need to add the seam allowance to the two halves.

It can also be place just beneath the bordered edge. Then the back will have to be cut unevenly. For example if the finished cushion was 14 inches (35.5cms) square then the back would be cut 10 inches (25.5 cms) and 4 inches (10cms) with added seam allowance to include the fastening.
After deciding on where your fastening will be placed, cut out the back in two pieces and sew in your choice of fastening.

  • Sew the front and back sections together right sides facing.

  • Trim seams and corners and turn right sides out.

  • The width of your border should have been determined before the fastening was sewn in place. Mark the sewing line between the border and pad with pins or tailor chalk and sew. This is where any additional decoration can be added either fancy stitching, braid or ribbon.
  • Insert the cushion pad in place.You have now completed the steps to making bordered cushions. These give a look that is just a little bit different. Making the border padded or doubled will give another twist to these cushions.

    • Return from Bordered Cushions to Cushion Design



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