2-by-3-foot striped woven throw rugs (use 2 for a large pillow, 1 for an envelope-style pillow)
Carpet needle
Heavy-duty all-purpose thread
2 standard bed pillows for large version, or 12-by-18-inch insert for envelope-style
Sources Signe cotton rugs, $3 each, ikea.com. Heavy-duty Singer hand needles, $2 for 7, and Sew-All thread, in Eggshell, $5.39, by Gutermann, from joann.com. 12-by-18-inch pillow, $8, crateandbarrel.com.
Nautical stripes in faded blues combine with neutrals and naturals for a room that's modern and inviting. We used the same rugs to make two kinds of pillows: a large one (bigger than a bed pillow) and a smaller one with an envelope-style opening.
Stack and pin together 2 throw rugs. Making 1/4-inch stitches, sew 3 sides by hand, leaving 1 short end open. Turn inside out (the fringe on sewn end will remain inside). Insert 2 bed pillows. Stitch end closed.
Lay throw rug flat. Fold one short side in, 12 inches from a fringed end. Making 1/4-inch stitches, sew the sides together by hand, forming a pocket. Insert a pillow. Fold the other fringed end over; stitch down corners to secure flap, but leave an opening for removing the pillow.
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