A mattress pad adds an extra touch of comfort and protects your mattress from wear and tear. Instead of buying one, why not make your own? Here’s a simple guide.
What You’ll Need:
- Fabric: Choose a soft, breathable fabric like cotton, flannel, or quilted fabric. You’ll need enough for the top, bottom, and sides of your pad based on your mattress size.
- Batting: This provides the padding. Choose a thickness based on your desired level of plushness.
- Thread: A matching thread for your fabric.
- Elastic (optional): To create a fitted mattress pad.
- Sewing machine
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Marker or chalk
Instructions:
- Measure your mattress: Carefully measure the length, width, and depth of your mattress. This will determine how much fabric you need.
- Cut your fabric:
- Cut two pieces of fabric to the length and width of your mattress, adding an extra inch on all sides for seam allowance.
- For the sides, cut strips of fabric to the depth of your mattress plus 2 inches (for seam allowance). The length of these strips should equal the perimeter of your mattress.
- Layer your pad:
- Place one piece of fabric right-side down.
- Add the batting on top.
- Place the second piece of fabric on top, right-side up.
- Pin all the layers in place.
- Quilt the layers (optional): To prevent shifting, sew lines or patterns across the layers, securing them together.
- Sew the sides:
- Pin the side strips around the edges of your pad, right sides facing in.
- Sew the sides to the top and bottom layers, leaving a 1/2-inch seam allowance.
- Add elastic (for a fitted style):
- If you want a fitted pad, create a casing along the edges (leave a small gap).
- Thread the elastic through, adjusting the fit as needed.
- Close the gap in the casing.
- Finish the edges:
- Turn the pad right-side out.
- Trim excess fabric and fold the edges over.
- Sew around the entire perimeter of the pad, securing the edges.
Tips:
- Pre-wash your fabric: This prevents shrinking after you make your pad.
- Choose durable fabric: Your pad will get a lot of use, so opt for a sturdy material.
- Secure the corners: If you’re not using elastic, stitch down the corners to help the pad stay in place.
Congratulations! You’ve made your very own custom mattress pad.
