How to Make a Memory Pillow? A Step-by-Step Guide

To make a memory pillow, cut a piece of sentimental fabric and sew it into a pillow shape. Add stuffing and close the opening.

Creating a memory pillow is a heartfelt way to preserve cherished moments. This DIY project involves using fabric from a meaningful item, like a loved one’s shirt or blanket, transforming it into a cozy keepsake. The process is simple and requires basic sewing skills, making it accessible for most people.

Memory pillows can serve as a comforting reminder of special times or people, providing both emotional and aesthetic value. They make thoughtful gifts and can be customized with various sizes and embellishments. By following a few straightforward steps, you can create a personal and touching memento.

Credit: www.sewmuchmoore.com

Materials List

How to make a memory pillow? Creating a memory pillow requires a few essential materials. Gather fabric, a pillow insert, photos, transfer paper, scissors, and a sewing machine. This collection ensures a smooth crafting process.

Creating a memory pillow is a heartfelt way to honor a loved one or commemorate a special moment. Gathering the right materials is the first step in crafting a beautiful, lasting keepsake. Here’s a handy list to ensure you have everything you need.

Fabric

Selecting the right fabric is crucial for your memory pillow:

• Shirt, Dress, or Other Garment: Use a special piece of clothing for sentimental value.
• Cotton or Linen Fabric: These materials are easy to work with and durable.
• Backing Fabric: Choose a complementary fabric for the pillow’s backside.

Sewing Supplies

You’ll need basic sewing supplies to assemble your memory pillow. Here’s a list of essentials:

• Sewing Machine: Speeds up the sewing process.
• Needles: Necessary for both machine and hand sewing.
• Thread: Choose a color that matches or contrasts with your fabric.
• Pins and Pin Cushion: Keeps fabric in place while sewing.
• Scissors: For cutting fabric and trimming threads.

Pillow Form Or Stuffing

Decide on what will fill your memory pillow:

• Pillow Form: Pre-made pillow inserts provide a uniform shape and firmness.
• Fiberfill Stuffing: Allows for a customizable pillow firmness.

Measuring And Cutting Tools

Accurate measurements and cuts are vital for a polished look:

• Measuring Tape: Ensures precise measurements.
• Ruler or Quilting Square: Helps in making straight cuts.
• Rotary Cutter and Cutting Mat: Ideal for cutting fabric cleanly and accurately.

Optional Embellishments

Add personal touches to your memory pillow with these optional items:

• Buttons: Adds a decorative element.
• Ribbons: Can be used for accents or ties.
• Embroidery Floss: For adding names, dates, or messages.
• Fabric Markers: Write or draw directly on the fabric.

Iron And Ironing Board

An iron and ironing board are essential tools for achieving a professional finish:

• Iron: Presses fabric to remove wrinkles and set seams.
• Ironing Board: Provides a flat, padded surface for ironing.

With these materials on hand, you’re ready to create a cherished memory pillow that will be treasured for years to come.

1. Choose Your Fabric

How to make a memory pillow? Selecting the right fabric is essential for crafting a memory pillow. Opt for a fabric that holds sentimental value, such as a loved one’s old shirt or a favorite blanket.

Creating a memory pillow is a meaningful way to preserve cherished moments. One of the first steps is choosing the right fabric. This decision can significantly impact the look and feel of your pillow. Let’s dive into the details to help you make the best choice.

Consider The Fabric’s Sentimental Value

Choosing fabric with sentimental value adds a personal touch to your memory pillow.

• Old Clothes: Repurpose a loved one’s shirt, dress, or baby clothes.
• Special Occasion Fabric: Use material from a wedding dress, graduation gown, or other significant garments.
• Inherited Fabric: Utilize fabric passed down through generations, like a grandmother’s quilt.

Assess Fabric Durability

Durability ensures your memory pillow lasts a long time and withstands wear.

When picking your fabric, consider its strength and longevity. Think about how often the pillow will be used and how it will be handled. Fabric-like denim or canvas is robust and can endure frequent use. For a more delicate touch, choose cotton or linen, but keep in mind they might require extra care.

Think About Fabric Texture

The texture of the fabric plays a crucial role in the comfort and aesthetics of your pillow.

• Soft and Cozy: Fabrics like fleece or flannel offer warmth and comfort.
• Smooth and Sleek: Silk or satin adds a touch of elegance and luxury.
• Natural and Breathable: Cotton or linen provides a cool and breathable surface.

Coordinate With Room Decor

Ensure the fabric complements the room where the pillow will be placed.

Matching the fabric to your room’s color scheme and style can enhance the overall aesthetic. If your room has a rustic vibe, consider using burlap or plaid fabric. For a modern look, opt for bold colors and geometric patterns. Coordinating your pillow with existing decor ties the room together beautifully.

Factor In Ease Of Maintenance

Some fabrics are easier to clean and maintain than others. This is an essential factor to consider.

• Machine-Washable: Choose fabrics that can be easily washed in a machine, like cotton or polyester.
• Stain-Resistant: Opt for materials that resist stains, such as treated fabrics or darker colors.
• Hand-Wash Only: Delicate fabrics like silk or lace may need gentle hand washing.

Selecting the right fabric is a crucial step in creating a memory pillow. It influences the pillow’s durability, comfort, and sentimental value. By considering these aspects, you can craft a beautiful and lasting memory pillow.

2. Prepare The Fabric

How to make a memory pillow? Cut the chosen fabric into two equal pieces, ensuring they match the pillow size. Iron the fabric to remove any wrinkles.

Creating a memory pillow is a heartfelt project. It requires precision and care, especially when preparing the fabric. This section will guide you through selecting, washing, and cutting your fabric to ensure your memory pillow turns out perfect.

Select The Right Fabric

Choosing the right fabric is crucial. Here’s what to consider:

• Fabric Type: Use cotton or a cotton blend for durability and comfort.
• Personal Connection: Pick fabric with sentimental value, like an old shirt or a favorite dress.
• Pattern: Opt for patterns or colors that evoke memories.

Wash And Iron The Fabric

Before cutting, washing, and ironing the fabric is necessary. This step ensures the fabric is clean and wrinkle-free:

• Wash: Use a gentle cycle with mild detergent to clean the fabric.
• Dry: Air dry or tumble dry on low heat.
• Iron: Smooth out any wrinkles for accurate cutting.

Measure And Cut The Fabric

Precise measurements are key to a well-made pillow. Use these steps for cutting:

• Measure: Determine the pillow size and add a 1/2 inch seam allowance on all sides.
• Mark: Use fabric chalk or a pencil to outline your measurements.
• Cut: Follow the marked lines carefully with sharp fabric scissors.

Prepare The Edges

Finishing the fabric edges prevents fraying. Here’s how to secure the edges:

• Zigzag Stitch: Use a zigzag stitch on a sewing machine to finish the edges.
• Pinking Shears: Cut the edges with pinking shears for a quick, no-sew option.
• Fabric Sealant: Apply a fabric sealant if you prefer a non-sewing method.

Gather Additional Materials

Before you proceed, gather all necessary materials:

• Thread: Match the thread color to your fabric.
• Needles: Use a sewing needle for hand stitching or a machine needle for machine sewing.
• Pins: Secure the fabric pieces together with pins before sewing.

By following these steps, your fabric will be perfectly prepared for creating a beautiful memory pillow.

3. Measure And Cut

Measure and cut fabric to match the size of the memory pillow insert. Ensure precise dimensions for a snug fit. Use sharp scissors to achieve clean edges on the fabric pieces.

Creating a memory pillow is a heartfelt way to preserve cherished moments. The process can be both rewarding and straightforward. Let’s dive into the essential steps for measuring and cutting your fabric to ensure your memory pillow turns out perfect.

Gather Your Tools

Before starting with the measurements, it’s crucial to have all your tools ready. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Measuring tape: For accurate dimensions.
• Fabric scissors: To ensure clean cuts.
• Ruler or straight edge: For straight lines.
• Fabric marker or chalk: To mark your cuts.

Measure Your Fabric

Accurate measurements ensure your pillow cover fits perfectly. Here’s how to measure:

• Determine pillow size: Decide on the dimensions of your pillow.
• Add seam allowance: Include an extra inch on all sides for seams.
• Mark your fabric: Use your fabric marker to outline the measurements.

Cutting The Fabric

Once measurements are marked, cutting comes next. Here’s how to do it right:

• Lay fabric flat: Ensure it’s smooth and wrinkle-free.
• Follow marked lines: Cut along the lines you’ve drawn.
• Keep scissors steady: Use fabric scissors for clean edges.

Double Check Measurements

Before sewing, verify your measurements. This avoids mistakes and ensures a perfect fit. Here’s a quick checklist:

• Match measurements: Compare both pieces for consistency.
• Check seam allowances: Ensure they are included.
• Confirm straight lines: Use the ruler again if needed.

How to make a memory pillow? Measuring and cutting are crucial steps in making a memory pillow. With precise measurements and careful cutting, you’ll set a strong foundation for a beautiful and lasting keepsake.

4. Pin The Fabric

Secure the fabric pieces together by pinning them along the edges. This ensures a stable hold for precise stitching.

Creating a memory pillow is a beautiful way to cherish special moments. One crucial step in this process is pinning the fabric correctly. This ensures that your pillow turns out perfectly aligned and professionally finished.

How to make a memory pillow: Gather Your Materials

To begin, make sure you have all necessary items at hand:

• Fabric: Choose a fabric that holds sentimental value or suits your decor.
• Pins: Use sharp, rust-free pins for best results.
• Fabric scissors: Essential for cutting fabric accurately.

Having everything ready will streamline the pinning process.

Lay Out The Fabric

Place your fabric on a flat surface. Make sure it’s smooth and wrinkle-free. This step is vital to avoid any distortions in your final product.

Align The Edges

Properly aligning the fabric edges ensures a neat finish. Follow these steps for precise alignment:

• Match the corners: Ensure all corners align perfectly.
• Smooth out wrinkles: Use your hands to remove any creases.
• Check for symmetry: Make sure both sides are equal.

Aligning the fabric correctly makes pinning easier and more accurate.

How to make a memory pillow: Pin In Place

Now it’s time to pin the fabric securely. Follow these tips for effective pinning:

• Start from the center: Pin from the center outward to avoid bubbles.
• Space pins evenly: Place pins every 2-3 inches for stability.
• Avoid pinning too close: Keep pins at least 1 inch from the edge to prevent fabric damage.

Pinning correctly ensures that your fabric stays in place while sewing.

Check Your Work

Before moving to the next step, double-check your pinning. This final check can save you from mistakes later:

• Ensure even spacing: Make sure pins are evenly spaced.
• Check alignment: Verify that the fabric edges are still aligned.
• Confirm stability: Ensure the fabric is secure and won’t shift.

A quick check can prevent issues when you start sewing.

5. Sew The Pillow

Sew the pillow by stitching the fabric pieces together, ensuring the edges align perfectly. Use a sewing machine for a neat finish.

Creating a memory pillow is a heartfelt way to preserve special moments. Once you’ve selected your fabric and gathered your materials, it’s time to bring your memory pillow to life by sewing it.

Prepare The Fabric Pieces

Before you start sewing, ensure your fabric pieces are ready. This step is crucial for smooth sewing.

• Cut the fabric: Ensure both front and back pieces are the same size.
• Mark the sewing lines: Use a fabric marker to outline where you’ll sew.
• Pin the fabric: Secure the pieces together with pins to prevent shifting.

How to make a memory pillow: Begin Sewing The Edges

Now that your fabric is prepared, you can start sewing the edges. This step requires attention to detail.

Begin by aligning your fabric pieces. Ensure they are right sides together. Sew along the marked lines, leaving a small opening for stuffing. Use a sewing machine or hand stitch, depending on your preference. Backstitch at the start and end to secure the seams.

Turn The Pillow Right Side Out

After sewing the edges, the next step is to turn the pillow right side out. This step is simple but essential.

Carefully pull the fabric through the opening. Push out the corners using a blunt tool to achieve crisp edges. Ensure the pillow is fully turned and inspect the seams for any gaps.

How to make a memory pillow: Stuff The Pillow

Stuffing your memory pillow is where it starts to take shape. This step adds comfort and volume.

• Choose the stuffing: Opt for polyester fiberfill or memory foam.
• Insert the stuffing: Fill the pillow evenly, reaching all corners.
• Adjust the filling: Add or remove stuffing to achieve the desired firmness.

Close The Opening

How to make a memory pillow? The final step is closing the opening. This ensures your pillow is complete and ready for use.

Use a needle and thread for this task. Tuck in the raw edges and sew the opening closed with a slip stitch. Make sure the stitches are tight and secure to prevent the stuffing from coming out.

Following these steps will help you create a beautiful and cherished memory pillow. Enjoy the process and the final product!

6. Trim And Turn

Carefully trim any excess fabric from the seams to ensure clean edges. Turn the pillow right-side out, revealing the finished look.

Creating a memory pillow is a heartfelt way to keep loved ones close. The next step in this DIY journey is “Trim and Turn,” which involves some crucial steps to ensure your pillow takes shape beautifully.

Trim The Seams

Trimming the seams is essential for a smooth finish. Follow these steps to make it perfect:

• Cut the corners: This helps the fabric to turn nicely.
• Trim excess fabric: Leave about 1/4 inch of seam allowance to avoid bulkiness.
• Clip curves: Make small cuts along curved seams for a seamless look.

Turn The Pillow Right Side Out

After trimming, it’s time to turn the pillow right side out. Here’s how you can do it:

• Carefully push the fabric: Start from one corner and push the fabric through the opening.
• Use a tool: A chopstick or a pencil can help push out the corners.
• Smooth the seams: Gently run your fingers along the seams to ensure they are well-defined.

Press The Seams

Pressing the seams is a vital step to give your pillow a professional look. Here’s a brief guide:

• Set the iron: Use a medium heat setting.
• Press gently: Avoid stretching the fabric.
• Focus on the seams: Ensure each seam lies flat and smooth.

By following these steps, your memory pillow will start to take shape beautifully, making it a cherished keepsake.

7. Insert Pillow Or Stuffing

Gently insert the pillow or stuffing into the fabric cover. Ensure an even distribution for a smooth finish. Adjust as needed to maintain the desired shape.

Creating a memory pillow is a beautiful way to cherish precious moments. One of the key steps in this creative process is inserting the pillow or stuffing. This part ensures your memory pillow is as comfortable as it is meaningful.

Choosing The Right Pillow Insert

How to make a memory pillow? The first step is selecting a pillow insert. This decision impacts the pillow’s comfort and durability.

• Size of the Insert: Match the insert size with your pillow cover for a snug fit.
• Material: Choose between foam, feather, or polyester based on your comfort preference.
• Firmness: Select the firmness level that suits your needs – soft, medium, or firm.

Preparing The Pillow Cover

Before stuffing, make sure your pillow cover is ready.

Check the seams for any loose threads. Ensure the cover is clean and free of wrinkles. This guarantees a smooth, professional finish.

Inserting The Pillow

Now, it’s time to insert the pillow into the cover. This step requires some patience and care.

• Opening the Cover: Unzip or unbutton the cover fully.
• Folding the Insert: Fold the pillow insert in half to make it easier to slide into the cover.
• Adjusting the Corners: Once inside, adjust the corners of the insert to fit snugly into the corners of the cover.

Fluffing And Adjusting

Finally, fluff the pillow to distribute the stuffing evenly. This step ensures the pillow looks and feels perfect.

• Fluffing the Pillow: Gently knead the pillow to spread the stuffing.
• Shaping the Pillow: Adjust the pillow’s shape by pressing and molding it with your hands.
• Final Check: Ensure the pillow is evenly filled and the cover looks smooth.

Your memory pillow is now ready to provide comfort and evoke cherished memories.

8. Close The Opening

Sew the final seam to close the pillow’s opening, ensuring a neat and secure finish. Carefully stitch by hand or machine.

Creating a memory pillow is a delightful way to preserve cherished moments. Once you’ve sewn most of the pillow, it’s time to close the opening. This final step ensures your pillow looks polished and professional.

Prepare The Edge

First, prepare the open edge for stitching.

• Fold the fabric: Turn the raw edges of the fabric inward, about 1/2 inch.
• Pin the folded edge: Use straight pins to hold the folded fabric in place.

Thread The Needle

Next, prepare your needle and thread for hand sewing.

• Choose matching thread: Select a thread color that matches your fabric.
• Thread the needle: Cut a length of thread and thread it through the needle’s eye.
• Knot the end: Tie a small knot at the end of the thread to secure it.

Use A Ladder Stitch

Employ a ladder stitch for a seamless finish.

A ladder stitch is perfect for this task. It creates an invisible seam.

• Start from inside: Insert the needle from inside the folded edge.
• Alternate sides: Stitch through the edges alternately, creating a ladder-like pattern.
• Pull tight: Gently pull the thread to close the seam.

Secure The Stitch

Finally, secure your stitching to ensure durability.

To complete your pillow, you need to secure the thread.

• Knot the thread: Tie a secure knot at the end of your stitching.
• Hide the knot: Push the needle through a bit of fabric and cut the thread close to the surface.

By following these steps, your memory pillow will be perfectly closed and ready to cherish.

9. Finish And Enjoy

How to make a memory pillow? Complete the final stitches on your memory pillow. Fluff and shape it to your liking. Enjoy the comforting keepsake.

Completing your memory pillow project is an exciting moment. With the final touches, you’ll have a beautiful keepsake to cherish.

Inspect Your Work

Before declaring your project done, it’s crucial to inspect it thoroughly.

• Check seams: Ensure they are secure and straight.
• Examine stuffing: Confirm it’s evenly distributed.
• Assess overall shape: Adjust if necessary to achieve a smooth finish.

Add Personal Touches

Personal touches can make your memory pillow truly special.

• Embellishments: Add buttons, ribbons, or lace.
• Monogramming: Consider stitching initials or a meaningful date.
• Decorative stitching: Use contrasting thread for a unique look.

Final Pressing

Pressing your pillow will give it a polished appearance.

Iron carefully: Use a low setting to avoid damage.

Smooth out wrinkles: Pay attention to seams and edges.

Ensure it’s clean: Remove any lint or stray threads.

Display Your Memory Pillow

Now it’s time to display your beautiful creation.

Place it prominently: Choose a special spot in your home.

Share it: Show friends and family your handiwork.

Take photos: Capture the memory for future generations.

Conclusion

Creating a memory pillow is a heartfelt project. It’s a beautiful way to cherish treasured moments. Follow these simple steps to craft your own. Enjoy the process and preserve your memories. Share your creation with loved ones and keep those special moments alive.

Happy crafting!

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