How to Make a Bean Sprout Pillow

A bean sprout pillow can comfort a baby.

A bean sprout pillow is filled with dried bean kernels or husks. This type of pillow provides a different type of support, which some people favor for newborns. The pillow will tend to shape around the baby's body and make her feel more secure. It is important to contain the husks inside a separate pillow enclosure with a cover you can remove and launder. Making the pillow is an easy project once you have the husks on hand.

Things You'll Need

• Moisture-resistant pillow casing fabric
• Tape measure
• Scissors
• Pins
• Sewing machine
• Funnel
• Husks
• Needle and thread

Instructions

1. Place a tightly woven moisture-resistant pillow casing fabric on your work surface. Determine the size of pillow you want to make and add 1/2-inch seam allowances on all sides. Mark the measurements on the fabric and cut out two pieces of the same size.

2. Sew a double seam -- two rows of stitching over one seam -- around three sides of the pillow. This will keep your seam tight. Cut your seam allowance at the corners at a 45-degree angle, 1/4 inch from the corner, to reduce fabric bulk in the corners.

3. Fill the pillow three-quarters full with dried bean sprout husks or kernels. Turn the top fabric edges 1/2 inch to the inside and hand sew across the opening using a crossover stitch. Once the opening is closed, you will be able to lay the pillow on its side and hold the husks away from the opening. Sew a machine seam 1/8 inch from the edge of the hand-sewn opening. Tight seams are important to prevent husks from escaping.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep your pillow away from moisture. If it becomes wet, remove the cover and allow the pillow to dry completely.

References

• Bead Jewelry Making; Make Your Own Bean Sprout Husk Pillow; April 2009