This tutorial will teach you how to make Jockey Silks pillows, a perfect way to add a bit of Kentucky Derby decor to your home! Included in the directions are options for sew and no-sew pillows. To make this project as easy as possible, we’ve even created a free jockey silks applique pattern for you.
It’s been a while since I’ve shared a Derby-inspired craft project with all of you! If you don’t know, I live in Louisville, Kentucky, famous for the most exciting two minutes in sports, the Kentucky Derby!
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Even though I didn’t grow up here, I moved here 27 years ago and have enjoyed embracing everything, Derby! For many years we hosted family-friendly Derby parties in our home on Derby Day. These are still some of my favorite memories when my children were smaller. I’ve never been to the Derby, but we’ve got to Thurby and the Kentucky Oaks many times.
Recently, I had a string of tight deadlines all in a row. I was feeling a bit burnt out and decided that I needed a fun and quick project as a creative reset. I made these pillows in an afternoon. They would be great for a crafternoon with your best girlfriends!
Two Construction Options
Option 1: Sew
There are two construction options when making these pillows. The first is a method that requires a sewing machine.
Option 2: No Sew
The second is a NO SEW method. You buy a premade pillow cover and literally glue the fabric to the pillow. It’s so easy!
Supplies Required
There are no special tools required; you should have most of them at home already. I did use a lightbox, and I recommend this one if you don’t have one. If you don’t have a lightbox, you can also use your phone flashlight under a large clear plastic box.
- 18″ Canvas Pillow Cover
- Scraps of fabric in coordinating prints, with one piece at least 8 ½″ x 11″ in size.
- For the Sew project – Heat N Bond Lite Fusible Paper Backed Web
- For the No-Sew Project – Heat N Bond Ultra Hold
- 18″ Pillow Insert
- Lightbox – I love my Brightpad
What Fabric Should I Use?
Since jockey silks are brightly colored with bold geometric shapes, I recommend looking for fabric prints in simple geometric shapes, such as polka dots, stripes, gingham, checkerboard & harlequin prints. My fabric is from my Derby Day and Summer Picnic collections and from my scrap box!
How to Get the Applique Pattern
Fill out this form, and we will email you a copy of the Jockey Silks Applique pattern. It comes in two sizes, so you can also make a smaller pillow if you prefer. You can also use it to create a set of Derby placemats.
Instructions
Derby Jockey Silks Applique Pillow Pattern
supplies
- 2-3 Scraps Fabric in coordinating colors One of the scraps should be at least 8 ½" x 11"
- 1 package Heat N Bond Lite for the sew version
- 1 package Heat N Bond Ultra Hold for the no-sew version
- 1 18" square Pillow Cover
- 1 18" Pillow Insert
- 1 Applique Pattern Get it by filling out the form on this blog post.
Instructions
Instructions for both the Sew and No-Sew Versions
- Print out the Jockey Silks applique pattern and tape the two pieces together along the center line.
- There are three main "groups" on the applique pattern, the shirt, the collar, and the sleeves. Trace each group on to the paper side of the Heat N Bond. Use the "lite" for the sew version and the "ultra hold" for the no-sew version. I recommend tracing each group onto a different fabric print. Cut out the pieces loosely around the line you drew.
- Iron the cutout pieces onto the wrong side of your fabric.
- TIP: Use your lightbox to get the exact fabric placement you want in your final project. This is especially important if you are working with large fabric prints.
- Cut out the pieces, this time precisely.
For the New Sew Version
- Peel the paper backing off of the pieces you cut out and place them on the purchased pillow cover.
- Secure in place using your iron. Ensure that you didn't miss a spot and that the corners of the pieces are secure. This is the last step for the no-sew version.
For the Sew Version
- Using your seam ripper, unpick two of the seams in the purchased pillow form. This will allow you to get to the applique pieces as you sew.
- Peel the paper backing off of the pieces you cut out and place them on the purchased pillow cover.
- Secure in place using your iron. Ensure that you don't miss a spot and that the corners of the pieces are secure.
- On your sewing machine, stitch around the entire applique shape using a straight stitch. Be sure to put your needle down and pivot at the corners.
- After you've completed the applique stitching, sew the seams in the pillow back together.
- Enjoy your new pillow!
SewingKevin says
Great post on sewing patterns! As a fellow sewing enthusiast, I appreciate the effort you put into sharing your knowledge with the community.