
Lavender eye pillows are a fantastic tool for relaxation and can aid in reducing headaches, relieving eye strain, and promoting better sleep. To make a lavender eye pillow, you will need fabric, sewing supplies, dry lavender flowers, and flaxseeds or rice. Essentially, you cut two pieces of fabric into rectangles (usually around 4″x 9″), sew them together on three sides, fill the pillow with the lavender and flaxseed mixture, and then sew the open end shut. Let’s delve further into how you can create your very own aromatic eye pillow step by step.
Choosing the Right Materials
Fabric Selection
Choosing the right fabric is important for both comfort and durability. Soft, natural fibers like cotton or silk are ideal for resting on the delicate skin of your eyes. Pick a fabric that feels soothing to you and is breathable. You’ll be cutting two pieces of this fabric, so ensure you have enough—typically about a quarter of a yard will suffice.
Lavender and Flaxseed Filling
Lavender is known for its calming properties, making it the perfect herb for an eye pillow. Dry lavender flowers can be purchased online or at a local health food store. Flaxseeds, on the other hand, have the perfect weight to provide gentle pressure on the eyes, and they retain temperature well if you choose to warm up or cool down your pillow. Alternatively, rice is a suitable filling if you can’t find flaxseeds.
Creating the Eye Pillow
Cutting the Fabric
Measure and cut two equal-size rectangles from your fabric, usually around 4 inches by 9 inches, which is the standard for eye pillows. This size lays comfortably across the eyes and forehead without being too heavy or large.
Sewing the Fabric
Place the two fabric pieces together with the sides you want on the outside facing each other. This is called “right sides together.” Sew along three of the edges, leaving one short edge open. Use a simple straight stitch on a sewing machine, or hand-sew with a needle and thread if you prefer—just make sure your stitches are close together to prevent the filling from escaping.
Turning It Right Side Out
Once you have sewn the three sides, turn the fabric right-side out so the seams are now on the inside. You should now have a small fabric pouch open at one end.
Mixing the Filling
In a bowl, mix together dried lavender flowers with flaxseeds or rice. The ratio of flaxseeds to lavender can vary according to preference, but a good starting point is about 3/4 cup of flaxseeds to a 1/4 cup of lavender.
Filling the Pillow
Using a funnel or a spoon, carefully fill the fabric pouch with your lavender and flaxseed mixture. Do not overfill the pillow; it should be full enough to lay across the eyes comfortably but still be able to mold to the shape of your face.
Sewing It Closed
Once the pillow is filled to your preference, carefully fold in the open edges of the fabric and pin them together to hold it closed. Sew along the edge either with a sewing machine or by hand, securing the filling inside. Be sure to stitch it well to prevent any lavender or seeds from escaping during use.
Customizing Your Eye Pillow
Adding Essential Oils
For an extra relaxational element, you can add a few drops of lavender essential oil to the filling before sewing the pillow closed. This will amplify the soothing scent and can be refreshed over time as needed.
Personalizing with Decorative Touches
Consider adding embellishments like embroidery, lace, or fabric paint to personalize your eye pillow. Just ensure that any additions do not interfere with the comfort or the primary purpose of the pillow.
Making a Removable Cover
For hygiene and to extend the life of your eye pillow, you can make a removable washable cover. Create it the same way as the inner pillow but slightly larger to accommodate the pillow inside and add a closure such as velcro or a zipper.
Using Your Lavender Eye Pillow
Heating and Cooling
Your eye pillow can be used at room temperature, chilled in the freezer for a cooling effect, or warmed in the microwave for a few seconds for a gentle warmth. Always test the temperature before placing it on your eyes to avoid burns or discomfort.
Care and Maintenance
If you made a removable cover, wash it regularly to keep your eye pillow clean. Refresh the scent occasionally with a few drops of essential oil, and replace the filling every year or so, as the lavender may lose its potency over time.
Finishing Thoughts
Creating a lavender eye pillow is not only a fun and simple project but also leads to a product that can significantly enhance your relaxation and sleep routine. With customizable options, you can create a personalized sensory experience that can help to alleviate stress, tension, and promote a deeper sense of calm. Whether for personal use or as a thoughtful handmade gift, a lavender eye pillow is a small luxury that can have a big impact on wellbeing. With your new homemade eye pillow, you’re well on your way to enjoying the natural benefits of lavender and the soothing comfort it can bring into your life.