A memory pillow for your son or daughter is fun and easy to make.
A memory pillow becomes a treasured heirloom when your son or daughter leaves home. This project is suitable for both novice and experienced sewers.
For a memory pillow, combine scraps of material from favorite clothes and other fabrics with happy memories along with meaningful photos.
Planning Your Pillow Top
For best results, plan your pillow top carefully. First, determine the size and shape of the completed project. The easiest approach is to start with a standard pillow form. Some stores will also cut foam to your specifications. When using loose polyester filling, the pillow can be made to any size you wish.
Once you determine the completed size, you’re ready to start designing your pillow top. Assemble the photos and fabrics you’ve chosen. Then, create a layout. Determine what size you want each block to be as well as its location. For visual interest, vary the size and content of the blocks. Be sure and add seam allowances on all sides of each piece.
For best results, use a combination of pieced, appliquéd, and plain blocks. Embroidery-either hand or machine—also works well. For example, embroider the dates of important events in your son’s or daughter’s life.
Printing Photo Blocks
Include as many photos as you like. These can be sized to suit the project. Typically, these are of beloved family pets and loved ones.
Use your computer printer to print the selected photos on sheets of special inkjet fabric sheets. These are available in craft and fabric stores. Follow the instructions on the sheet’s package so that you print on the fabric rather than on the paper backing.
Allow the printed photos to dry for perhaps 20 minutes or so. Now, it’s time to remove the paper backing from the photo sheets. The simplest way to do this is to moisten the paper by placing a wet towel on the paper side of the sheet. You can also set the sheet in a shallow pan of water for several minutes until it is saturated. Then, the paper should slip right off.
Completing the Pillow Top
Once the photos are dry and ready to use, assemble all of the finished blocks. If any of the fabrics are sheer, consider adding a medium weight interfacing to the back of that particular block for extra strength. Sew the blocks together according to your layout.
Once the pillow top is completed, trim the edges so they’re even. Now, cut the backing. Since this pillow will experience frequent use by your son/daughter select a durable, preshrunk fabric, such as corduroy.
Add trim, lace, or piping if desired. When sewing the top and back together, leave an opening on one side so you can turn the pillow cover. Now, add the stuffing or pillow form. The final step is to close the opening with Velcro, buttons, snaps, or whatever fastener you choose.
