Traveling can be exhausting, especially when it comes to finding the right neck support during long journeys. A convertible travel pillow that packs flat is a great solution, providing comfort while being compact enough to fit in your carry-on or suitcase. In this blog post, we'll walk you through the steps to create your own DIY convertible travel pillow, ensuring you have a comfortable companion for your next adventure.
Materials Needed
Before you get started, gather the following materials:
- Fabric: Choose a soft, durable fabric such as cotton, fleece, or a blend. You'll need about 1 yard.
- Filling: Consider using memory foam, polyester fiberfill, or microbeads for comfort and support.
- Zipper: A long zipper (12-16 inches) for easy opening and packing.
- Sewing thread: Matching the color of your fabric.
- Scissors: Fabric scissors or rotary cutters for precise cutting.
- Measuring tape: To take accurate measurements.
- Pins or fabric clips: To secure your pieces while sewing.
- Sewing machine: A basic sewing machine will work perfectly for this project.
- Iron: For pressing seams and ensuring a neat finish.
Taking Measurements
To create a versatile travel pillow, you'll want to take some key measurements:
- Pillow Size: Decide on the dimensions of your finished pillow. A good standard size is approximately 18 inches by 12 inches.
- Flat Dimensions: When the pillow is packed flat, it should ideally measure around 18 inches by 6 inches.
Cutting Your Fabric
With your measurements in mind, it's time to cut your fabric:
- Cut two rectangles: Based on your desired pillow size, cut two fabric pieces measuring 18 inches by 12 inches.
- Cut a strip for the pocket: To create the pocket that allows the pillow to convert and pack flat, cut a strip of fabric measuring 18 inches by 6 inches.
Sewing the Pillow
Now that you have all your pieces cut out, it's time to sew your travel pillow together:
Step 1: Prepare the Pocket
- Hem the pocket edges: Take the 18x6 inch strip and fold each long edge in by 1/4 inch and press with an iron. Then, fold the strip in half lengthwise (right sides together) and sew along the open edge, leaving the ends open.
- Turn it right side out: Use a turning tool or a pencil to turn the pocket right side out, then give it a good press with the iron.
Step 2: Attach the Pocket to the Pillow
- Pin the pocket: Position the pocket piece in the center of one of the pillow rectangles, aligning the raw edges. Pin it in place.
- Sew the pocket: Using a straight stitch, sew around the three sides of the pocket, securing it to the pillow rectangle. Leave the top edge open.
Step 3: Assemble the Pillow
- Pin the pillow pieces together: Place the second pillow rectangle on top of the first (the one with the pocket), right sides together. Pin around the edges, leaving a small gap of about 4-5 inches on one side for turning.
- Sew the pillow: Using a straight stitch, sew around the perimeter of the pillow, making sure to reinforce the corners. Be careful not to sew over the pocket opening.
Step 4: Turn and Fill the Pillow
- Turn the pillow right side out: Carefully pull the pillow through the gap you left. Use a turning tool to push out the corners for a neat finish.
- Fill the pillow: Add your chosen filling through the open gap. Be generous but ensure it remains comfortable and not overly stuffed.
- Close the gap: Once filled, fold the raw edges inward and pin them together. Sew the gap shut with a straight stitch, ensuring a clean finish.
Adding the Zipper
The zipper will allow your travel pillow to convert into a flat shape, making it easier to pack. Here's how to add it:
- Prepare the zipper: Open the zipper and pin one side to the edge of the pillow. Make sure the zipper pull is facing inward along the pillow edge.
- Sew the zipper: Using a zipper foot, sew along the edge of the zipper, securing it to the pillow.
- Repeat on the other side: Pin the opposite side of the zipper to the other edge of the pillow and sew it down in the same manner.
Final Touches
Once your zipper is attached, give your pillow a good press with the iron. Ensure that all seams are neat and that the pillow retains its shape.
Converting and Packing
To pack your pillow flat, simply unzip the zipper and fold the pillow in half, tucking it neatly into the pocket you created earlier. This design allows for easy storage and transport, making it an ideal companion for flights, road trips, or camping adventures.
Conclusion
Creating your own convertible travel pillow that packs flat is a fun and practical sewing project. With just a few materials and simple sewing techniques, you can craft a comfortable and stylish pillow that makes traveling much more enjoyable. Now, you're ready to embark on your adventures with your new DIY travel pillow! Happy sewing!