Charm Square Bolster Cushion...

My friend Kathy, who does yoga with me, was having a birthday. I had actually planned this for last year's birthday but didn't get it done ( why isn't that a surprise?) So I decided to get it done for this year.

So to make one here's what I did...

Sew 20 charm squares together ( 4 x 5). This will vary depending on the size of the cushion you want to make, or you can cut them to size later. The insert I used was 51cm X 51cm which would be around 20 inches X 20 inches.


Sew into a tube and hem the ends...

I left a small opening in my seam so I could thread the ribbon through...

Now here's a hint..

I bought a square cushion insert because it was bigger than the bolster insert the shop had. All you have to do is leave it rolled up - But it does help to leave the plastic on at first to help you get the cover on. You can see it is a bit of a tight fit, which is good to make the cushion firm but this helps get the cover on more easily. It still is a bit tricky getting the plastic off but I cut it when I was half way in and pulled it out that way.

Tighten the ribbons at the end and tie up tight.

The end result - one bolster cushion.

In my case the next thing I did was hand it to Kathy as she walked in the door right at the moment of completion, so I couldn't hide it. I suppose you could say it saved me wrapping it.

She took it to yoga the next week and I may have orders - arrgh...


Note : this method really doesn't allow for regular removing and washing as the seams are not ended off inside and I tied the ribbon with knots first. It could be made to do so though with a bit more lining and preparation.