Wanna turn fabric leftovers into a 4th of July decor? We’ve got just the thing: a no-sew American flag pillow made with glue and a few bold fabric strips. It’s the kind of quick project that turns scraps into a patriotic accent for your couch or bench. The whole thing comes together in one sitting, so you’ll still have time to enjoy the holiday.
Gather Your Materials
- White canvas pillow cover (18″ x 18″)
- Red ribbon or trim (½-inch width)
- Blue-and-white fabric scrap
- Pillow insert (20″ x 20″)
- Fabric glue or hot glue gun
- Glue sticks (if using hot glue)
- Scissors
- Ruler or measuring tape
Step-by-Step Instructions: American Flag Pillow
Step 1: Cut the blue square for the star field
Cut a rectangle measuring 6 inches wide by 4 inches tall from the blue-and-white fabric scrap. This rectangle will represent the field of stars and sit in the top left corner of the pillow cover.
Step 2: Cut the red stripes
Cut four short strips of red ribbon 8 inches long each. These strips will form the upper portion of the flag design. Then cut three longer strips, each about 13.5 inches. These long strips will form the lower portion of the flag and stretch across the full width of the pillow.
Step 3: Lay out the flag design
Place the blue rectangle in the top left corner of the pillow cover. Then, tuck each short red strip under the right edge of the blue rectangle. Space the four short strips evenly underneath and beside the blue section. These short stripes represent the upper seven lines of the flag. Below the short red stripes, position the three long red strips in a horizontal line. These long strips will complete the lower half of the flag design. Always keep the gaps between each stripe even.
Step 4: Glue down the blue rectangle
Apply glue to the top, bottom, and left edges of the blue rectangle. Leaving the right edge unglued will make space to tuck the short red stripes underneath during the next step.
Step 5: Attach the short red stripes
Slide each short red strip under the unglued edge of the blue rectangle. Once positioned evenly, glue each strip flat onto the pillow cover. Afterward, use a ruler or measuring tape to confirm the spacing between the stripes before the glue sets.
Step 6: Attach the long red stripes
Below the short red stripes, glue the three long red strips one at a time. Each long red strip should stretch across the full width of the pillow cover. Then, align the strips horizontally with even spacing between them. Press down firmly to help the glue adhere.
Step 7: Let the glue dry completely
Lay the glued pillow cover flat on a table or craft surface. When using fabric glue, follow the drying time listed on the label. If using hot glue, wait until all glued areas feel cool and firm before continuing.
Step 8: Insert the pillow form and close the cover
Once the pillow cover is fully dried, insert the pillow form into the cover and zip it shut. Congratulations, your no-sew American flag pillow is finished and is now ready for display.
Custom Touches and Where to Display It
Once the main flag design is glued down and set, you can build on it with a few optional details. These simple add-ons give your pillow more texture and help it stand out.
You can cut extra stars from white felt or cotton and glue them onto the blue square. If you prefer sharper edges, try iron-on vinyl. For a softer finish, try fraying the ribbon ends. Gently pull a few threads loose on each strip to give it a worn-in, handmade texture. This small touch works well if you plan to keep the pillow on a porch bench or entryway chair.
Keep in mind that most standard fabrics and trims aren’t waterproof. It’s best to display the pillow indoors or in a covered area, especially if it might rain. After the holiday, unzip the cover, remove the insert, and store it flat with your seasonal decorations. You’ll be able to reuse it again next year without any trouble.
A Star-Spangled Craft You Can Make Today
This no-sew American flag pillow is easy to assemble and brings patriotic feels to your home. For more beginner-friendly crafts and seasonal projects, head to Sewing.com and browse our latest tutorials.
FAQs: American Flag Pillow
- Do I need a sewing machine for this project?
Nope—just glue and fabric scraps. - What size pillow cover should I use?
An 18″ x 18″ cover works best. - Can I use felt instead of cotton fabric?
Yes, felt works well and doesn’t fray. - What type of glue should I use?
Hot glue or fabric glue works. - How long does it take to make?
About 30–45 minutes from start to finish. - Can kids help with this project?
Yes, with supervision for cutting and hot glue. - Will the pillow hold up outside?
Only in covered areas—it’s not weatherproof. - What can I use for the stars?
Felt, cotton, or iron-on vinyl all work. - Can I wash the pillow cover?
Spot clean only—glue and fabric may not survive a wash. - Where should I display the finished pillow?
On a couch, entryway bench, or covered porch.
