Does anyone know how to make pleated{?} pillows?

Question

I remember My great Aunt making pillows that started as a long rectangle of fabric, a graph of dots was drawn down the center and the dots are sewn together using a specifc pattern. This forms a complicated pleated pillow top. Anyone know what this is called and where I can get instructions?

Answer 1

Bucilla made them under the name Wonder-Puff Pillow Tops. They made the fabric in rayon faille and taffeta and I think another company made the velvet ones.

You just stitched where there were pre-stamped dots and voila! Like magic, gathers and puffs formed, making a very complicated-looking pillow top, that you then edged and backed. Sometimes thety had complete kist and you just had to make or but a pillow form (or you stuffed it).

My grandmother made these of silk faille and velvet (she was a seamstress).

They made the shapes in heart, round, square, fan and oblong and you bought them pre-stamped.

I do not believe they sell pre-stamped fabrics anymore---a shame---but I bet you could probably find a tutorial or guide to making a few of the less complicated ones if you search sewing and crafts sites for pillows under:

ruched

rosette

pleated

pin tucked

basket weave

Good luck!

I know they have a kit at ebay right now but it's for one pillow in pink and it's not the pattern I want. If you get it will you let me know?

Answer 2

I think that you means this sort of thing?

http://www.pureopulence.co.uk/basket_weave/basket_weave.html

Best bet is probably a public library's soft furnishings section.
This book here may contain the instructions.
http://www.houseofpatchwork.co.uk/shop/product_info.php?manufacturers_id=3&products_id=457

Answer 3

google "smocking" and see if that is the effect you are talking about

Answer 4

I know where to buy them