There is just something so comforting about a warm pillow, whether it’s to soothe a headache, relax sore muscles, or just to keep warm on a cold night. Flaxseed pillows are perfect because they can do any of those things, AND/OR you can keep them in the freezer to be used as a cold pack. In my house, we use them for a little bit of everything.

Because of their oil content, flaxseed can be heated up over and over again without drying out, so these pillows can be used for years. In our case, years and years and years!

Supplies

You’re going to need 100% cotton fabric for your pillow. I prefer something heavier than, say, quilting fabric. I’ve found some beautiful home decor remnants that are perfect for this, but more recently I’ve been using flannel. Super soft and comfy, comes in many different prints—and won’t melt in the microwave.

You’re also going to need whole flaxseed. How much you need depends on how big your pillow is. Two pounds would make a pretty good-sized pillow. You could make a 5x5” pillow with half a pound, or a 4x8” for about the same.

You could sew your pillows by hand, but it’s quick and easy to do it with a sewing machine. Whatever works best for you!

Supplies:

heavyweight 100% cotton fabric
whole flaxseed
sewing supplies

Step 1: Decide on a Size

The first step is deciding how big you want your pillow to be. Do you want a small one to fit your forehead? A longer one to drape over your shoulders? A square one to keep in the freezer as a cold pack?

Some size suggestions...

forehead pillow -- 4x8"

cold pack -- 4x4" or 5x5"

shoulder pillow -- 6x18" or 5x20"

I've also made odd sizes like 7x17" and 8x18", which are actually great for your back.

Step 2: Cut the Fabric and Pin the Pieces

You can either cut out two pieces of fabric, or you can cut one piece and fold it over. Your fabric might determine what you do. I've made pillows with a pretty mountain-print fabric, and for those I cut two pieces so I had more control over the print. For a plaid print like this one? Not so important, but the print does give you a perfect folding line.

Do be sure to include a seam allowance.

Step 3: Sew the First Three Sides

I left the fourth side open on this pillow, but you could also leave just a small opening instead. It's easier to fill with flaxseed if the side is open, but you could also use a funnel (or even just a paper cone) to fill it through a smaller hole.

Step 4: Fill With Flaxseed

I prefer to fill up the pillows about 2/3, and I think that gives it a good weight but still allows plenty of room for the seeds to move around. You might prefer it closer to 1/2 full--or even more than 2/3 full. Once you've made one, you'll know what you like. I would aim for 2/3 full, though.

Step 5: Sew Up Remaining Side

Sew up the remaining side or hole, either by machine or by hand.

I finish most pillows by hand, but these I like to do by machine just so that I know the stitches are consistent and less likely to leak flaxseed.

Step 6: Enjoy Your New Pillow!

If you plan to use your pillow cold, all you have to do is put it in the freezer.

If you plan to use it warm, start by putting it in the microwave (fold it over if you need to) for 60 seconds. Take it out and shake it a bit to mix up the flaxseed, and then heat it in 30-second increments until you're happy with the temperature. Be careful not to overheat it--especially if you're heating it up for a child. 90 seconds total is probably just right.

Step 7: Care for Your Pillow

Flaxseed pillows are not washable, so try not to get it wet. For this reason, it's a good idea to store it in a plastic bag in the freezer. If you do need to clean it, carefully spot clean it.

If you'd like something a little more washable, you could make a washable cover for it. Consider making the pillow itself out of a plain cotton fabric and then making a cover out of pretty fabric. Just a thought.

Whatever you decide, I hope your pillow brings you lots of comfort and joy.