From Camp to Couch: Teen-Friendly Book Pocket Pillow!

---

If you’re looking for a fun, beginner-friendly sewing project that’s both practical and creative, look no further than the Book Pocket Pillow – our first project from the Bend the Rules Beginner Machine Sewing series!

Designed with young makers and beginner sewists in mind, this project is part of our Teen Summer Sewing Camp -named Bend the Rules Beginner Machine Sewing- curriculum and is perfect for anyone new to using a sewing machine or looking to develop their skills through a simple, rewarding project.

In this blog post, I’ll walk you through the inspiration, materials, sewing steps, and final touches of the Book Pocket Pillow – plus share a link to the full video tutorial and printable pattern so you can make your own at home.

---

✂️ Why the Book Pocket Pillow?

The Book Pocket Pillow is the perfect introduction to beginner machine sewing. It’s simple in structure but teaches essential sewing skills such as measuring, straight stitching, edge finishing, and layering. Even better, the final product is super useful and makes a great personalized gift or cozy reading companion!

This pillow is also designed to be customizable – switch up your fabric choices, add embroidery or appliqué, or make it seasonal. The built-in pocket is perfect for holding a favorite book, journal, small plush toy, or even bedtime notes – making it especially great for kids and teens.

---

🧵 What You’ll Need:

To complete the Book Pocket Pillow, you’ll need a few basic sewing supplies:

• Sewing machine (any beginner model will do)
• 2 half yard coordinating fabric pieces: one for the pillow body, one for the pocket
• 1 fat quarter sized piece of fusible fleece interfacing (to hold the front pocket shape)
• Matching thread
• Scissors or rotary cutter and cutting mat
• Grid ruler or measuring tape
• Pins or clips
• Iron and ironing board
• Pillow form (18x18in recommended) or fiberfill

Optional: Labels, trim, buttons, or embellishments for a custom touch

---

📐 Pattern & Video Tutorial

I used a free printable pattern available from cozycoastalcrafter.blog to make following along even easier. You can download the pattern directly from Amber’s blog, or follow the measurements in the video if you prefer a guided visual format.

👉 Watch the full tutorial here: BEND THE RULES SEWING PJT1 BOOK POCKET PILLOW
👉 Download the pattern from the blog: Click here to download

The video includes helpful tips for beginners, clear instructions on sewing the pillow front and pocket, and guidance on assembling and finishing your project. Plus, I show off finished Book Pocket Pillows made by the amazing teens in my summer sewing camp — their creativity will definitely inspire you!

---

🧵 Teen Summer Sewing Camp Highlight

This Book Pocket Pillow project was a huge hit with my Teen Summer Sewing Camp students. Most of them were new to machine sewing, and this project gave them a solid foundation in working with fabric, using sewing machines, and thinking creatively about design.

At the end of the video tutorial, you’ll see a showcase of their finished pillows — each one totally unique and packed with personality. I was so impressed with how quickly they picked up new techniques and made the project their own.

If you’re looking for a project to teach sewing to teens or beginners, the Book Pocket Pillow is a great place to start!

---

🪡 Tips for Success

Here are a few beginner-friendly tips to help you succeed with this project:

• Use cotton or quilting-weight fabric for easier handling.
• Press seams as you go to keep everything neat and crisp.
• Backstitch at the beginning and end of seams and where the pockets attach to secure your stitching and make the pocket opening extra strong.
• If you’re teaching someone else, like a child or teen, go slow and talk through each step. Let them choose fabrics to add a personal touch.

---

🎁 Great for Gifting!

The Book Pocket Pillow also makes an excellent handmade gift for book lovers, teachers, kids, and anyone who loves a cozy touch. Try making a few in different themes — holiday fabrics, favorite colors, or even monogrammed versions — and tuck a book or journal inside the pocket for a thoughtful surprise.

---

📣 Share Your Project!

Did you make a Book Pocket Pillow using this tutorial? I’d love to see it! Tag me on Instagram @LaRueDeFleurs or use the hashtag #BookPocketPillow to join our creative community. La Rue de Fleurs/Janice Bailor (@laruedefleurs) • Instagram photos and videos

Don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more sewing tutorials, quilting inspiration, and DIY ideas for beginners and hobbyists alike.

---

Thanks for joining me for Project 1 of Bend the Rules Beginner Machine Sewing! Stay tuned for Project 2 – and don’t forget to check out the full video tutorial here:
🎥 Watch now: BEND THE RULES SEWING PJT1 BOOK POCKET PILLOW

Happy sewing! Janice

P.S. Don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for the latest projects, products and inspiration from the studio!

---

Inspiration and resources are linked where applicable. All written work and photographs are original content and are copyright protected; kindly give due credit by linking back to my website if you use or share.

(©2025, Janice Bailor // laruedefleurs.com)