How to Make an Envelope Cushion Cover with a Cross Stitch Panel

There’s something so satisfying about combining cross stitch with sewing, and this envelope cushion cover is a wonderful way to showcase your work. It’s a beginner-friendly project, perfect for adding a personal touch to your home or as a thoughtful handmade gift. The July Leaf cross stitch pattern featured on this cushion is available for free here.

Materials Needed:

• 1 finished cross stitch panel (on Aida or evenweave fabric, trimmed and pressed)
• Cotton fabric for the cushion cover (I used a soft floral print for a summery look)
• Matching thread
• Sewing machine (or you can hand stitch if preferred)
• Pins or clips
• Fabric scissors
• Iron
• Cushion pad (to fit your finished cover size, e.g., 16” x 16”)

Step 1: Prepare Your Fabric

1. Measure and Cut:
   • Cut four panels for the front of the cushion.
   • Cut two pieces for the back, each the same width as the front but half the height plus an extra 3 inches (for overlap). For a 16” square cushion, cut two rectangles measuring 16” x 11” each.
2. Hem the Back Panels:
   • Take the two back pieces and fold one long edge of each over by ½ inch, then fold again to enclose the raw edge.
   • Press and stitch along the folded edge to create a neat hem.

Step 2: Attach the Cross Stitch Panel

1. Position the Cross Stitch Panel:
   • Pin or clip the side panels either side of the cross stitch panel, right sides together.
2. Stitch in Place:
   • Using a straight stitch on your machine or a neat hand stitch, sew close to the edge of the cross stitch panel to secure it.
   • Press and repeat with the top and bottom panels.

Step 3: Assemble the Cushion Cover

1. Lay the Front Panel Right Side Up:
   • Place your stitched front fabric piece on your work surface, right side facing up.
2. Layer the Back Pieces:
   • Place the two back pieces on top, right sides down, so the hemmed edges overlap in the center.
3. Pin and Sew:
   • Pin all around the edges, then sew with a ½ inch seam allowance. Reinforce the edges where the back panels overlap for durability.
4. Trim and Finish:
   • Trim the corners at an angle (without cutting the stitching) to reduce bulk, then turn the cushion cover right side out.
5. Press and Insert the Cushion Pad:
   • Give the cover a final press, then insert the cushion pad through the envelope opening.

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