DIY Headrest Cover: A Simple Sewing Tutorial

Updated at: 28/05/2025

Are you tired of looking at that faded or stained headrest in your car? Does the fabric feel rough against your neck? Then it's time for a refresh! This simple DIY project will show you how to easily create a custom headrest cover to revitalize your car's interior and add a touch of personal style. Whether you're a seasoned sewer or a complete beginner, this tutorial will guide you through the process using readily available materials and straightforward techniques. You’ll be surprised how much a small change can make a big impact on your comfort and the overall look of your vehicle.

Making your own headrest cover is a fantastic way to save money compared to buying a replacement, and allows for complete creative control. You can choose any fabric that suits your taste and complements your car’s interior. Forget generic, boring headrests; unleash your creativity and craft a headrest cover that perfectly reflects your style. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions below.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Fabric
  • Towel
  • Paper
  • Tailor's pencil or normal pencil
  • Scissors
  • Sewing machine
  • Pins
  • Iron
Safety Guidelines
  • Always unplug the car's power supply before removing the headrest to prevent electrical shock.
  • Carefully check the headrest's attachment mechanism before removing it to avoid damage or injury. Refer to your car's manual if unsure.
  • Ensure the fabric you choose is breathable and fire-retardant for safety.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Headrest and Template

    • Remove the headrest.
    • Create a paper template by tracing around the headrest holes.
    Create a paper template by tracing around the headrest holes.Create a paper template by tracing around the headrest holes.
    Prepare the Headrest and Template

  2. Cut and Position Fabric

    • Place the template onto a larger piece of fabric and trace the shape.
    • Position the traced fabric onto the right side of a towel, centering the traced shape about 10-15cm from the edge.
    Position the traced fabric onto the right side of a towel, centering the traced shape about 10-15cm from the edge.Position the traced fabric onto the right side of a towel, centering the traced shape about 10-15cm from the edge.
    Cut and Position Fabric

  3. Stitch and Secure the Fabric

    • Pin the fabric to the towel and stitch around the traced line.
    Pin the fabric to the towel and stitch around the traced line.
    Stitch and Secure the Fabric

  4. Cut and Finish the Seam

    • Cut out the stitched fabric, leaving a seam allowance.
    • Clip the curves of the fabric to reduce bulk.
    • Fold the seam allowance inward and stitch it down, securing the raw edges.
    Fold the seam allowance inward and stitch it down, securing the raw edges.Fold the seam allowance inward and stitch it down, securing the raw edges.Fold the seam allowance inward and stitch it down, securing the raw edges.
    Cut and Finish the Seam

  5. Turn, Iron, and Finish Edges

    • Turn the towel right-side out and iron it.
    • Fold and pin the edges for a neat finish.
    • Top stitch around the folded edges.
    Top stitch around the folded edges.Top stitch around the folded edges.Top stitch around the folded edges.
    Turn, Iron, and Finish Edges

  6. Attach to Headrest

    • Attach the finished cover to the headrest.
    Attach the finished cover to the headrest.
    Attach to Headrest

Read more: Sew a Lined Expandable Storage Bag: Easy Tutorial

Tips

  • Use a fabric significantly larger than your template to ensure enough material for sewing and turning.
  • Ensure the headrest hole is centered on your towel and fabric.
  • Clip curves frequently to allow for a smooth, clean finish.
  • Ironing creates a professional, crisp look.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect Measurements

Reason: Taking inaccurate measurements of your headrest leads to a cover that's too small or too large.
Solution: Carefully measure your headrest's width, height, and depth before cutting your fabric.

2. Ignoring Seam Allowance

Reason: Forgetting to add seam allowance results in a cover that's too small and doesn't fit properly.
Solution: Add at least ½ inch seam allowance to all edges of your fabric pieces before sewing.

FAQs

What materials do I need to make a DIY headrest cover?
You'll need fabric (consider the size of your headrest), thread to match, scissors, a sewing machine (or needle and thread for hand-sewing), measuring tape, pins, and optionally, a zipper or buttons for closure.
How do I measure my headrest to get the right fabric size?
Measure the height and width of your headrest, adding extra fabric for seams (around 1-2 inches on each side). It's best to remove the headrest from your car for accurate measurements.
What if I don't have a sewing machine?
You can absolutely make a headrest cover by hand! It will just take longer. Use a sturdy needle and thread and consider using a simple running stitch or backstitch for durability.