Finding the right body pillow when you\u2019re pregnant, have back pain, or are a side sleeper is an arduous task. Why not try making one instead? This step-by-step guide on how to make a body pillow will save you more time and money! Keep reading to know more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A body pillow is a narrow yet long pillow you can hug with your arm and leg. It\u2019s a side sleeper\u2019s best friend because it makes sleeping more manageable and comfortable. The body pillow also helps with proper alignment and relieves pressure points. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Many embrace the body pillow with their hands and legs on top. But you can use it in other ways. Instead of cradling the pillow, others rest their hands on it for comfort. Or support your back with the body pillow while propping yourself up in bed.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Pregnant women also use a body pillow because their weight is concentrated on their midsection. It helps them sleep better and promotes circulation to the fetus.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Body pillows come in many shapes and sizes. Below are the most common kinds:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Have the following things ready for your body pillow project:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Your fabric of choice should be high-quality and machine-washable. Choose a design, color, and pattern that fits the style of your bedroom. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The measurements I provided are optional. You can choose the size of your body pillow. Just make sure to add a one-inch allowance for the seams. You will fold half an inch on each side and iron them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Wash and press the fabrics you bought. Afterward, get your muslin and cut the hems. It should be 63 inches long and 40 inches wide. Clip the width so that it reaches this size. Tear the muslin in a straight line.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fold the muslin in half lengthwise, with the ironed side facing you. Turn it on the wrong side to make the stitches invisible. Then, sew the ends using the half-inch folded seams. Finish the hem using a zig-zag stitch.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Leave the ironed side open for the filling later. If you do not have a sewing machine, use a backstitch with your hands.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Clip the corners of the sewn muslin and turn it right side out. If the pillow is too big, try rolling up the edges for more convenient stuffing.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Take out the fiberfill and stuff your pillow with it. Distribute the material evenly and tightly to make your body pillow firmer. Or keep it light for a softer pillow. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Unroll the fabric as you add more filling. If you don’t have polyester fiberfill, try shredded foam, cotton, down, or scrap fabric. You may also use the feathers from old pillow stuffing or down comforters. However, these materials may not have a desirable texture like polyester.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Turn down a half-inch seam and close it with a whip stitch or a hidden hem. You can also use a hand stitch instead of your sewing machine.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Fold the whole thing in half for the pillowcase fabric and lay the finished edge on a straight and level line. Line it up with the help of a cutting mat. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Position the ruler’s edge across the fabric while the rule marks are aligned on the mat. Then, cut a line through the fabric\u2019s thickness. Cut two pieces, one measuring 22 inches by 72 inches and 22 inches by 65 inches. \u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
On the 65-inch side of the fabric, fold a 2-inch hem. Ironing is optional, then sew in place. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Lay one fabric on the other right side, with the raw edges even at one end. Fold back the 72-inch fabric to align with the hemmed side of the other piece. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Afterward, pin it in place and stitch across the other end. Do the same on the other side through all thicknesses. Finish sewing the edges using a zig-zag stitch. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Once sewed, turn the pillowcase right side out. Place the pillow inside the case and encase the end with the flap.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When choosing the fill material for your body pillow, consider your preferred firmness, budget, and warmth. Down is the premium choice for maximum comfort. But you can also try memory foam, latex, or DIY stuffings. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Down refers to the soft feathers under geese\u2019s and ducks\u2019 wings. You can find it in their belly region and notice how soft and warm they are.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Manufacturers deem this material as the softest fill material. However, it is hyper-allergenic. The natural material is unprocessed, so dust is common even if you wash it. The dust on down material can cause a runny nose, coughing, sore throat, and watery eyes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Polyester is a down alternative, except it\u2019s hypoallergenic and more affordable. It\u2019s common in most pillows and is made of synthetic materials.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Latex comes from rubber trees\u2019 sap and is minimally processed to contain fewer chemicals than synthetic fills. They also feel cool while you\u2019re sleeping.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Making a body pillow is a cost-effective way to relieve pressure points and resolve side-sleeping problems.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When making your own body pillow, consider your height, sleeping needs, preferred materials, and design. This will provide the support and relaxation you need for a good night\u2019s sleep! Want more great tutorials? Check out this project we did to reupholster a wingback chair<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n Has this article helped you how to make a body pillow? Let me know what you think in the comments below! <\/p>\n\n\n\n