How to Make a Long Neck Pillow
Pillow shopping can be frustrating, even more so when you're looking for a specialty pillow like a long neck pillow. The choices you have may be slim when searching the bedding aisle at your local department store. If you want a long neck pillow that fits your needs, the best option is to make it yourself. Making a long neck pillow to support your neck can relieve chronic neck pain and help you get a better night's sleep. Crafting your own pillow allows you to choose the fabric and filler that are right for you.
Instructions
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1
Cut your microfiber fabric. A long neck pillow is the same length as a standard pillow, 26 inches; however, its width is meant to fit just under the neck. Cut the fabric to 18 inches by 26 inches for the finished pillow's dimensions of 8.5 by 25.5 inches after seam allowance. Using microfiber fabric makes the pillow softer and reduces noise. Standard store-bought pillows are made from a cotton blend.
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2
Fold the material in half so that it measures 9 by 26 inches and pin down three sides. Leave 4 inches of one of the ends free for filling.
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3
Sew a straight stitch along each side one-quarter inch from the materials edge. Sew a zigzag stitch closer to the edge to strengthen the seams if your using a heavy filler material.
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4
Stick your hand inside the pillow and grasp the fabric at a corner. Pull your hand out while holding the fabric to turn the pillow right side out.
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5
Fill the pillow with the filler material of your choice. Fill a long neck pillow with polyester batting or pellets, or choose a therapeutic filling like mullet or flaxseed. Safety pin the open edge of the pillow and test it out. Testing during filling ensures you won't overfill or underfill the pillow.
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6
Close the open edge. Fold the excess fabric inside the pillow and sew a running stitch along the edge to close it.
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Tips & Warnings
Create a pillowcase for your new pillow using the same sewing techniques but leaving one end completely open.
A pillow filled with flaxseed can be heated in the microwave or cooled in the freezer to ease neck pain.
Smash dried lavender buds and mix them with the filler material for a scented pillow.
If you like the feel of a beanbag, purchase polystyrene beads to fill your pillow.
Some fillers may contain natural fibers such as horsehair, wool or down, which can aggravate allergies.
References
- Photo Credit Comstock Images/Comstock/Getty Images
