Replies

1. 
   Marionc032 | Mar 03, 2006 03:18pm | #1

   I've made a number of pillows including bolsters and in my opinion, grain isn't as important with non-wearable items as it is with garments because the fabric isn't subjected to stress or gravity the way garments are. I usually let the pattern of the fabric be my guide. If you think it looks best running crosswise or perpendicular to the form then I see no reason why you shouldn't sew it that way. Of course, I'm assuming that you plan to use a stable fabric unless you plan for the bolsters to be purely decorative. If you're going to use a less stable fabric, then I'd probably recommend stabilizing it with a lightweight woven fusible interfacing before you sew it.

   Have fun!
   Marion

2. 
   Teaf5 | Mar 04, 2006 01:52am | #2

   I agree that grain is less important than pattern. I just made two bolster pillows of striped fabric, and I really like the look of the stripes running down the length rather than around them. Since you can't see both ends at the same time, I didn't have to worry about the alignment of the stripes on the circular end pieces, although I lined them up so that they are running up and down when the long pillow seam is on the bottom, where no one sees the closure.

   Taking the advice I had read somewhere, I made matching bias piping and inserted it in the seams at both ends. It took only about 30 minutes longer, and the end result was very professional looking-- the piping covers up any inconsistencies in the seam or pattern and makes the cylindrical shape much more distinctive.

   A lot of online sites and books explain how to make piping; it takes 1.5" wide bias strips, cotton cord, and a zipper foot, but it's very easy. I'd really recommend taking this little extra step!

1. 
   jeanvand | Mar 05, 2006 07:52pm | #3

    

   Thank you, MarioncO32 and Teaf5, for your help!  The material I am using is small checked and has two colors (red and a dark tan).  It is to coordinate with the valance in the room, which is a large plaid of the same colors plus a green.  I edged the valance with green fringe, to match the green material I inserted for a center pleat.  I want to sew a strip of the valance material around the middle of the bolster, on top of the checked material.  The plan is to fringe the edges of that center material.  I like the idea of using binding around the ends.