These fish pillows feel like they’ve jumped right out of a coastal daydream.
The crisp navy stripes echo sailor uniforms and beach umbrellas, while the bold button eyes make them seem curious and alive.
They’re the kind of accents that bring a little ocean magic indoors, turning a plain chair into a spot that feels like a seaside getaway.
Make a few in different sizes, and you’ll have a whole school of pillows swimming across your home.
Materials Needed
- ½ yard navy-and-white striped cotton fabric
- ¼ yard solid navy cotton fabric
- 2 black or navy buttons per pillow
- Polyester stuffing (enough to fill each fish pillow)
- White embroidery thread
- Sewing machine or hand needle
- Scissors, pins, and paper
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Draw a simple fish shape on paper and cut it out as a template. You can use this to cut two identical pieces from striped fabric for each pillow.
Step 2: Cut small triangles from solid navy fabric for the fins. Then stitch around the edges with white embroidery thread for a decorative touch.
Step 3: Pin the fins between the two striped fabric pieces, right sides facing. Then add the button eyes to the fabric before sewing the body closed.
Step 4: Sew around the fish shape, leaving a small opening at the bottom. Turn it right-side out.
Step 5: Stuff with polyester filling until plump, then stitch the opening closed securely.
Tips:
I made mine in two sizes, and placing them together looked like a parent and baby fish swimming side by side.