Fabric

• The first step in creating a duvet is finding your fabric. Look for washable fabrics that are mid to heavy weight. Because duvets require wide widths of fabric that are hard to find in fabric stores---a queen/full sized comforter is generally 87-by-87 inches, a king is 100-by-90 inches, while a twin is 64-by-87 inches---consider using flat sheets for your fabric choices. Flat sheets are slightly larger than the same sized comforter resulting in a seamless top for your duvet. Alternatively you can sew two or three panels of fabric together for the topside of the duvet and use a sheet for the bottom. You might also consider using a sturdier, lower thread count for the underside of the duvet and a more decorative and delicate sheet for the top. Note: Be sure to wash your sheets or fabric before sewing to avoid shrinkage!
  
  

Pinning

• Lay your fabric out, wrong sides together, on a large flat surface; a stripped bed makes an ideal surface as you can check your measurements as you go. Pin every few inches along all four sides and in several places in the center. Safety pin are a great, less painful alternative to traditional straight pins and do an excellent job of holding the fabric in place as you sew. Be sure you are not pinning the fabric to the mattress underneath! You might consider stitching a button or piece of ribbon at each corner of the duvet as well. An additional length or loop of ribbon can be sewn on the corners of the comforter insert so the insert can be securely and easily attached to the duvet, lessening the chance of it shifting during use.
  
  

Sewing

• Sew along the sides and one end of the duvet and 5 to 6 inches in from each side on the other end (this make a square corner and helps to keep the comforter straight once inside) Remove the pins and turn right side out. The opening, which is generally put at the bottom of the bed, needs some form of closure. Buttons are the traditional method but sew-in snaps, ribbons and Velcro can also be used.