Project

Lavender Eye Pillow

Enjoy calm, restful sleep every night with this aromatherapy pillow. It's lavender scent helps to deepen relaxation and alleviate stress.

Photography: Anusha Rajeswaran

Source: Martha Stewart

Introduction

This idea comes from our friend Anusha Rajeswaran of Fish and Bull. Filled with lavender and flax seeds, this aromatherapy pillow can be used to reduce stress during restorative yoga, meditation, or to relax before bed. It can be chilled in the refrigerator or warmed up in the microwave to provide instant relief for headaches, pains, and tired eyes. To clean, wipe the fabric with a damp cloth. Similar to a weighted blanket, pillow is placed over your eyes when you lie on your back.

For more ideas, scroll through our entire collection of bath and spa gifts and sewing crafts.

materials

Organic golden flax seeds

Dried lavender

Soft linen fabric, 5 1/2 by 10 inches

Scissors

Straight pins

Sewing machine and supplies

Measuring tape

Lavender essential oil (optional)

steps

Combine 2 cups flax seeds and 1 tablespoon dried lavender in a bowl.
Add 2 to 3 drops lavender essential oil; set aside.
Measure and cut a piece of fabric that measures 5 1/2 by 10 inches. This will allow you a 1/2-inch seam allowance on all sides. Pin the fabric right sides together along the sides and bottom.
Sew the bottom and sides of the sleeve, leaving the top seam open.
Carefully pour the dry ingredients into the pillow. (Tip: you can use a funnel to make it easier.) Shake all of the ingredients to the bottom.
Pin the top closed and top stitch on a sewing machine.