How to Make a Memory Pillow

Are you seeking a way to preserve special memories or honor a loved one? A memory pillow is the perfect project to do just that. It’s also a great way to upcycle old clothing or fabrics and create a unique and personalized keepsake.

How to make a memory pillow is a heartwarming way to preserve cherished memories of a loved one. Whether it’s made from a favorite old shirt, a piece of fabric from a special occasion, or any other sentimental material, a memory pillow provides a tangible connection to precious moments. This project not only allows you to recycle fabrics with emotional value, but it also offers a creative outlet to express your affection and keep those memories alive.

This guide will walk you through the steps needed to transform your treasured fabrics into a beautiful and comforting memory pillow.

What are the Benefits of Making a Memory Pillow?

Memory pillows offer numerous benefits, including:

1. Personalized and Meaningful Keepsake: A memory pillow is a unique and personal way to honor a loved one or preserve special memories. It can be made from sentimental fabrics, such as old clothing or fabric scraps from significant events.
2. Upcycling and Sustainability: By using old fabrics, you give them a new life and reduce waste. Memory pillows are a great way to upcycle and contribute to sustainability efforts.
3. Therapeutic and Comforting: The process of making a memory pillow can be therapeutic and provide comfort in times of grief or nostalgia. The finished product also serves as a source of comfort and connection to special memories.
4. Customizable: Memory pillows can be made in various sizes and shapes, allowing you to customize it according to your preferences and the fabric type.
5. Cost-effective: Making a memory pillow is an affordable way to create a meaningful keepsake, especially compared to purchasing pre-made memory items.

These are just some of the many benefits of making a memory pillow. Now, let’s get into the steps involved in creating one.

Materials You Will Need:

To make a memory pillow, you will need:

• Fabric: This can be an old clothing item or any other fabric with sentimental value. Make sure it is clean and in good condition.
• Scissors: To cut the fabric into the desired shape.
• Sewing Machine or Needle and Thread: A sewing machine will make the process quicker, but hand sewing is also an option.
• Stuffing Material: This can be polyester fiberfill, cotton batting, or even old t-shirts or clothing scraps.
• Optional Materials: Embroidery floss, buttons, ribbons, or any other decorative elements you want to add to your memory pillow.

Once you have gathered all your materials, it’s time to start making your memory pillow.

10 Easy Steps on How to Make a Memory Pillow

Step 1. Choose Your Fabric and Prepare It

The first step in creating a memory pillow is to select the fabric you want to use. This fabric should hold sentimental value, such as an old shirt, dress, or any other piece of cloth that has special meaning to you. Once you have chosen your fabric, ensure it is clean and free from any stains or tears. Wash and iron the fabric if necessary to ensure it is in the best condition for your project. Proper preparation of the fabric will make the cutting and sewing process much smoother and help you achieve a polished final product.

Step 2. Measure and Cut the Fabric

Once your fabric is prepared, the next step is to measure and cut it into the size and shape you want for your memory pillow. Decide on the dimensions of the pillow; a standard size is around 18 by 18 inches, but you can customize it according to your preferences.

Lay the fabric flat and use a measuring tape to mark the desired dimensions. Then, use fabric scissors to cut out two identical pieces for the front and back of the pillow. You may consider using a fabric ruler and a rotary cutter for a more precise cut. Ensure that both pieces are even to avoid any issues during the sewing process.

Step 3. Pin the Fabric Pieces Together

After cutting your fabric, the next step is to pin the two pieces together. Place the fabric pieces with the right (outer) sides facing each other, ensuring that the edges align perfectly. Use straight pins to secure the pieces together, positioning them around the edges every few inches. This will help keep the fabric pieces in place while you sew and ensure that your seams are straight and even. Pinning properly is key to achieving a neat and professional finish on your memory pillow.

Step 4. Sew Around the Edges

Now that your fabric pieces are pinned together, it’s time to sew around the edges. Using a sewing machine or needle and thread, stitch along the edges, leaving a seam allowance of about 1/2 inch. Make sure to leave a small opening of around 3 to 4 inches on one side, which will be used to turn the pillow right-side out and insert the stuffing.

Sew slowly and carefully to ensure that your seams are straight and even. Once you have sewn around the edges, reinforce the corners by stitching diagonally across each one. This will help the corners maintain their shape when the pillow is turned right-side out. Once the sewing is complete, trim any excess thread and fabric from the seam allowance to reduce bulk.

Step 5. Turn the Pillow Right-Side Out

With the sewing complete, the next step is to turn the pillow right-side out through the small opening you left in the seam. Carefully pull the fabric through the opening, ensuring that all corners are fully turned out. To achieve crisp and defined corners, you can use a blunt tool, such as a knitting needle or the eraser end of a pencil, to gently push the fabric out from the inside.

Take your time with this step to ensure that the pillow’s shape is perfect and that the seams are smooth and even. Once the pillow is turned right-side out, you are ready to move on to the next step: stuffing.

Step 6. Stuff the Pillow

Now that your pillow is turned right-side out, it’s time to fill it with stuffing material. Use polyester fiberfill, cotton batting, or even old t-shirts or clothing scraps to stuff the pillow. Start by gently inserting the stuffing through the opening, ensuring that you distribute it evenly throughout the pillow. Use your hands to push the stuffing into the corners and edges, ensuring the pillow retains its shape and achieves the desired level of firmness.

Avoid overstuffing, as this can make it difficult to sew the opening closed and may affect the overall appearance of the pillow. Once you are satisfied with the amount of stuffing, you can proceed to the next step.

Step 7. Close the Opening

With the pillow now stuffed to your satisfaction, the next step is to close the opening you used for the stuffing. To do this, you will need a needle and thread. Fold the raw edges of the opening inward to match the seam allowance, and pin them together to keep them in place. Carefully sew the opening closed using a ladder stitch (also known as an invisible stitch).

This stitch will hide the thread and create a seamless finish. Make sure your stitches are small and tight to ensure durability. Once the opening is securely closed, knot the thread and trim any excess. Your memory pillow is now complete and ready to be enjoyed!

Step 8. Add any Decorative Elements

Now that your memory pillow is fully assembled, you can add any decorative elements to personalize it further. Use embroidery floss to stitch a meaningful word, date, or name onto the pillow. You can also sew on buttons, ribbons, or other embellishments to enhance the appearance and add a personal touch. If you prefer a more minimalist look, you might skip this step. Take your time and use your creativity to make the pillow unique and special. Once you are satisfied with the decorations, make sure to knot and trim any excess threads.

Step 9. Inspect and Final Touches

Before using your memory pillow, take a moment to inspect it thoroughly. Check all seams and stitches to ensure that everything is secure and there are no loose threads. If you find any imperfections or areas that need improvement, fix them now. You might also want to gently press the pillow with an iron to remove any wrinkles and make it look its best. Pay attention to the overall appearance and make any final adjustments needed.

Step 10. Enjoy Your Memory Pillow

Your memory pillow is now complete and ready to be enjoyed. Place it in a special spot in your home where you can see it often and be reminded of the cherished memories it represents. Whether it’s on your sofa, bed, or a favorite chair, your memory pillow will serve as a comforting and beautiful keepsake. Share the story behind the pillow with friends and family, and take pride in the time and effort you put into creating such a meaningful item.

By following these steps, you can create a beautiful and personalized memory pillow that will bring joy and comfort for years to come.

5 Additional Tips and Tricks

1. Choose the Right Fabric: Opt for a soft, durable fabric that evokes fond memories. Consider using fabric from a loved one’s clothing, such as a favorite shirt, dress, or blanket. This adds a personal touch and makes the pillow even more special.
2. Use High-Quality Stuffing: For a comfortable and long-lasting pillow, use high-quality stuffing materials like memory foam or hypoallergenic polyester. This ensures the pillow remains fluffy and retains its shape over time.
3. Add Personal Embellishments: Customize your memory pillow with personal embellishments like embroidery, appliqués, or photos transferred onto fabric. These details can make the pillow more meaningful and unique.
4. Incorporate Scent: To further enhance memory, consider adding a sachet of your loved one’s favorite scent inside the pillow. This can evoke strong memory responses and provide comfort.
5. Sew with Care: Ensure all seams are securely stitched to avoid any wear and tear. Double-stitching or using a serger can provide extra durability, especially if the pillow will be used frequently.

With these additional tips and tricks, you can create an extraordinary and meaningful memory pillow that will bring comfort and joy for years to come.

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Using Fragile Fabric: Avoid using fabric that is too delicate or worn out. It may not withstand regular use and could deteriorate quickly. Opt for more durable materials that will hold up over time.
2. Overstuffing the Pillow: While more stuffing would make the pillow softer, overstuffing can actually make it uncomfortable and cause seams to split. Use an appropriate amount of stuffing to maintain comfort and durability.
3. Neglecting to Pre-Wash Fabric: Skipping pre-washing can lead to shrinkage or color bleeding after the pillow is completed. Always pre-wash the fabric to ensure it remains the same size and color.
4. Ignoring Allergies: Using scented sachets or certain stuffing materials without considering allergies can cause discomfort for the person using the pillow. Choose hypoallergenic materials and be mindful of any potential allergens.
5. Rushing the Sewing Process: Taking shortcuts or rushing through the stitching can result in poorly constructed seams that may come apart with use. Take your time to sew carefully and securely for a lasting pillow.

By avoiding these common pitfalls, you can ensure that your memory pillow is beautiful, meaningful but also durable, and comfortable.

5 Different Style Options

1. Patchwork Pillow: Use different fabric swatches to create a patchwork style pillow, perfect for showcasing multiple memories or incorporating favorite patterns.
2. Quilted Memory Pillow: Combine the comfort of a quilt with the sentimental value of a memory pillow by creating a quilted design using fabric from loved ones.
3. Photo Collage Pillow: Transfer photos onto fabric and use them to create a collage on the front of your memory pillow. This is a great option for preserving old family photos or creating a tribute to a loved one.
4. Memory Bear Pillow: Instead of a traditional square pillow, create a stuffed animal-like bear using fabric from cherished clothing items. This can be comforting to hug and hold and visually appealing.
5. Monogrammed Memory Pillow: Add a personal touch by monogramming the pillow with initials or a special message. This can be done through embroidery, appliqués, or vinyl lettering for a unique and personalized memory pillow.

With these different style options, you can create a memory pillow that holds sentimental value and reflects your personal style and preferences. Experiment with different techniques and designs to find the perfect fit for your memory pillow project. 

How Can You Combine Multiple Memories Into One Pillow?

If you have multiple memories or fabric pieces that you would like to incorporate into one pillow, there are several ways to do so. Here are a few ideas:

• Quilted Design: Use different fabric swatches and quilt them together to create a patchwork-style design. This allows for multiple memories to be displayed on the front of the pillow.
• Photo Collage: Transfer photos onto fabric and use them to create a collage on the front of the pillow. This is a great way to combine multiple memories into one visually appealing design.
• Mixed Fabric Patchwork: Combine different fabrics from multiple pieces of clothing or items to create a unique patchwork design for your memory pillow. This can be done by cutting different fabric pieces into squares or other shapes and piecing them together.
• Layered Design: Use a larger piece of fabric as the base for your pillow and layer smaller pieces on top to add depth and dimension. This is a great option for incorporating smaller fabric pieces or scraps.

No matter which method you choose, combining multiple memories into one pillow allows you to create a special and meaningful piece that holds multiple sentimental values.

What Should You Put Inside a Memory Pillow?

The stuffing material used for your memory pillow can greatly impact its comfort and longevity. Here are some popular options for what to put inside a memory pillow:

• Polyester Fiberfill: This is a common stuffing material known for its affordability and ability to maintain its shape.
• Memory Foam: For extra support and comfort, memory foam can be used as stuffing for a memory pillow. This is a great option for those who experience neck or back pain.
• Feathers/Down: Feathers or down can be used as stuffing for a softer and more luxurious feel. However, this option may not be suitable for those with allergies.
• Memory Foam Shredded Cushion: Similar to traditional memory foam, this type is shredded into small pieces to allow for more flexibility and comfort.

Ultimately, the best stuffing material will depend on personal preference and the desired feel of the pillow. It’s important to consider factors such as allergies, durability, and level of support when choosing a stuffing material for your memory pillow. 

Conclusion

How to make a memory pillow  is a heartfelt way to preserve cherished memories, providing both comfort and a tangible connection to loved ones or special moments.

By carefully selecting durable fabrics, pre-washing materials, and choosing hypoallergenic and appropriate stuffing options, you can ensure that your memory pillow is both beautiful and lasting. Avoid rushing the sewing process to guarantee well-constructed seams, and consider various design options such as patchwork, photo collages, or monograms to personalize your pillow. Whether you combine multiple memories into one pillow through quilted designs or layered fabrics, the resulting creation will be a unique and meaningful tribute that celebrates the essence of what makes those memories special.

By following these guidelines, your memory pillow will serve as a nostalgic keepsake and a functional piece that can be treasured for years to come.