Traveling, reading or watching television are activities that can strain the neck muscles, stiffen them or cause pain. Even reading on an airplane or in a car can be uncomfortable without using a pillow, or using one with the standard shape. By learning how to make a neck pillow, you can avoid many of these pains. You can also make a scented pillow to let you slip gently into sleep, or to revitalize yourself.
Steps
Step 1. Draw a horseshoe shape on a sheet of tracing paper
The shape should be at least around 6 inches wide to allow room for seaming, and fit snugly around your neck, leaving about 3cm of extra space.
Step 2. Fold your fabric in half by matching the "good" side of the fabric on the inside (what will then be the outer side)
Most fabrics will be fine for the purpose, but softer fabrics will be more comfortable for the neck. Flannel and soft knitted fabrics are fine; you can also recycle an old shirt for an economical and "ecological" option. Cotton and denim (jeans) are other suitable fabrics, but remember to wash them to remove any glue before using them to make your pillow.
Step 3. Overlay the shape drawn on the tissue paper onto the fabric
Hold it all in place with pins. Cut the shape.
Step 4. Remove the tissue paper shape, but leave the pins in place to hold the fabric in place
Sew around the pillow, leaving one of the short sides open.
Step 5. Trim the edges leaving about half an inch around the seams
Turn the fabric over, letting the "good" side come out.
Step 6. Mix raw rice with herbs to create the filling for the pillow
- For a pillow with a relaxing and sleep-inducing effect, add a cup of dried lavender and chamomile flowers to the rice.
- For a stimulating mix that activates the mind, add a quarter cup of cinnamon chips and cloves to the rice. You can also use a cup of dried mint leaves.
Step 7. Pour the mix of rice and herbs into the pillow, stopping about 5 centimeters from the edge
Step 8. Fold the edges of the opening you left into the pillow
Close the opening by sewing it by hand.
Advice
- To get a more solid and stable pillow, you can also choose to fill the pillow with Polyfil padding or with foam rubber cut in the shape of a horseshoe. These pads are particularly comfortable for sleeping on the go.
- If you want to use the pillow to relieve joint and muscle pain, place it in the microwave (2 minutes per side). Be careful when applying the pillow to your skin: if it feels too hot, insert a cloth or towel between the pillow and your neck.
