Cutting and Sewing:
If at all possible, use a rotary cutter and cutting mat (36x24 is good) The Chenille fabric is exceptionally slippery and using a scissor is not the best option. The fabric is best cut when lying flat!

The body of the pillowcase which we made from the super soft "Minky" style fabric is cut 21 inches wide and (about) 58 inches long. If you fold the fabric lengthwise along the grain and match selvages, it will be about 29 inches (or 28-1/2 inches and fits on the mat well).  Some fabrics are a bit narrower and that's okay.  Size doesn't matter.  Just use the length that you have to work with.  Minky style goods may be found through http://www.ChenilleMagic.com

The border (woven) fabric is cut 20-1/2 inches by 9 inches (20-1/2 because you're only taking seam allowance on one side).  Again, if you fold the fabric lengthwise along the grain and match selvages, it will work best.  You will get four border pieces out of a yard. Woven goods may be found at any fabric store. We do not advise the use of flannel, and if possible a cotton blend is recommended.

Use 1/4 inch seam allowances throughout- As always, finished goods look most professional when sewn with a serger.  If you don't have access to a serger, your machines probably do have some sort of overcast stretch stitch.  It is my recommendation that you use that option. 

DO NOT IRON THE SOFT FABRIC-only the woven or border fabric can be pressed- the soft fabric is Polyester and will melt if ironed!


Fold the body of the pillowcase lengthwise.  Stitch both sides using 1/4 inch seam allowances.  The beginning of each seam will need to be secured so that it does not pull out with repeated washing.  Stitch header into a circle on the short edge.  Attach the circle to the body. 

We'd also love to have you include our mission statement with your pillowcase:
A Gift from caring hands bringing you encouragement, hope, love and comfort. From (include your group name here if you'd like) and inspired by www.pillowfight4cancer.org

You can either send them to a friend or acquaintance dealing with cancer on our behalf, or present the pillowcase(s) to your local American Cancer Society Branch with a note about our project name (they will make sure to deliver the pillowcase to someone in need). To find out information about your local ACS please follow this link http://www.cancer.org/docroot/COM/COM_0.asp
If you have friends that would like to help, please give them our website address so they can get filled in on what's happening!  www.pillowfight4cancer.org  
CHECK BACK OFTEN AS WE HOPE TO BE SELLING THE PILLOWCASES VIA OUR WEBSITE SOON!

Contact us at info@Pillowfight4Cancer.org