DIY Abstract Painted Pillows

DIY abstract painted pillows are a simple way to add color and a handmade accent to a room. With denim, fabric paint, and a small piece of firm plastic, you can create loose lines or blocks of color to suit your home. Make a coordinated pair, or try different patterns on each pillow for a more varied look.

Supplies for DIY Abstract Painted Pillows

For each set of two pillows, gather the following materials:

• 1 yard of white denim for the pillow fronts
• 1 yard of black or colored denim for the backs
• Fabric paint; matte paint is one option, while other finishes can be used for a more colorful design
• A used gift card or another small, firm piece of plastic
• Pillow forms in your preferred size; the examples use 20″ x 20″ and 24″ x 24″ forms
• A sewing machine, if you plan to sew the covers yourself

If you prefer not to sew, use plain, ready-made pillow covers instead. Before cutting fabric, check that your pieces are large enough for the pillow forms and the seam allowance you plan to use.

How to Paint an Abstract Pillow Cover

The scraping method makes expressive marks without requiring precise brushwork. Test the paint and tool on a fabric scrap first to see how the color spreads and how much paint you need.

1. Lay out the fabric. Place the denim on a protected, flat work surface with the side you want to paint facing up.
2. Add fabric paint. Squeeze paint directly onto the fabric. Start with a small amount; you can always add more as you work.
3. Scrape the paint. Hold the edge of the gift card against the fabric and pull it through the paint. This creates broad, irregular strokes with a different look from brush marks.
4. Build the pattern. Add more lines across the fabric, changing their direction and length. Cross a few strokes to create a layered abstract design.
5. Let the paint dry. Allow the fabric to dry completely before sewing or assembling the cover. Follow the paint manufacturer’s directions for drying and any additional setting steps.

Make a Color-Block Design

For a brighter variation, use the same scraping technique but arrange the paint in blocks of color rather than long lines. Work with one color at a time and leave space between sections if you want the denim to remain visible. Check that the paint is dry before handling or stitching the painted pieces.

Assemble and Finish the Pillows

Once the paint has dried, sew the painted front to the denim back to make a cover, then insert the pillow form. If sewing is not part of your project, decorate a plain ready-made cover instead. For a neat finish, keep the painted area clear of the edges where you will sew, and consult your sewing pattern or machine instructions for construction details.

Conclusion

DIY abstract painted pillows can be customized with loose painted lines or colorful blocks, making it easy to coordinate an accent with your room. Use a test scrap, let the paint dry fully, and follow the product label before assembling or cleaning the covers. These simple steps help you create DIY abstract painted pillows with a personal look and a practical finish.

— Elsie