How to Make a No Sew Eye Pillow in 20 Minutes or Less

There’s a few things that I must have whenever I go to bed at night. One, my favorite pillow, my SleepPhones, and most importantly, my lavender eye pillow. If I don’t have those three things, it’s not going to be a good night. For anyone.

Hey, I’m a sleep diva, okay?

I even take all three with me on trips, and anyone who travels with me knows to keep an eye out for the eye pillow. I have even made my husband turn around and drive 50 miles because I forgot it at the hotel. Seriously.

So just imagine what manner of heck broke loose when my old lavender eye pillow bit the dust. My sewing machine had died in the Hurricane Irma flood and I couldn’t whip up another one.

But not even the lack of a sewing machine was going to keep me from making an eye pillow. If Julia has a will, Julia’s going to find a way. And Julia made a lavender no sew eye pillow in less than 20 minutes. 🙂

Here’s how I did it and how you can make yours , too.

How Do you Make an Eye Pillow Without Sewing?

Thermoweb Heat’n Bond Ultra Hold Iron-On Adhesive-3/8I have to admit, I had to think about this for a bit. Eye pillows usually having flaxseed or rice filling, and the seam has to be strong enough to hold everything in. The last thing I wanted was to wake up with flaxseeds leaking all over my face at 2am.

I looked around the net and found one that was just filled a sock with a tied knot at the end. Umm…gross and no.

But then I saw where some crafters use permanent adhesive tape to make a seam. I’ve never used adhesive tape before, but decided to give it a shot. After all, I was going on day three without an eye pillow and was not a happy sleeper.

The adhesive definitely bonds the fabric together, and it creates a very strong seam. There’s been no blowouts, so it’s standing up to the regular wear and tear of sleeping.

Best Fabric for No Sew Eye Pillows

Personally, when I sew my lavender eye pillows I use only cotton material. I’ve bought satiny eye pillows before, but I just don’t like them as well as the ones I make with cotton.

But if you’re going to make a DIY eye pillow using the no sew method, it’s best to use only cotton or cotton blend fabric. Remember, the adhesive seam tape has to be ironed on, so it’s important to make sure you choose a fabric that’s iron safe.

No Sew Eye Pillow Step by Step Instructions

I’m listing the supplies below, but don’t think you have to have them to make your aromatherapy eye pillow. I usually use flaxseeds to make my eye pillows, but I didn’t have any and my local grocery store was out. So I improvised and used short grain valencia rice, and you know what? I think I like it better. It seems to absorb and retain the essential oils longer.

Also, don’t think you have to be married to using lavender in your pillow. Feel free to use other sleep promoting essential oils. Not sure what essential oils are good for sleep other than lavender? Try bergamot, clary sage, or Roman chamomile essential oils.

Supplies You’ll Need:

1/8 yard fabric (I used a fat quarter)
1 cup valencia short grain rice
1/2 cup dried lavender flowers
Lavender (lavendula augustafola) essential oil
Heat N Bond adhesive seam tape

How to Put your Sleeping Eye Pillow Together:

Cut 2 5×8 inch rectangles from your fabric of choice.

Measure the Heat N Bond to fit along three edges of the right side of the fabric rectangle without overlapping. Press each strip for 5-8 seconds.

Once the strips are completely cool, peel the paper off the adhesive tape. Next place the opposite piece of fabric right side down on top of this piece.

Press each side for 6-8 seconds, or until the two pieces are bonded securely. As soon as the fabric is completely cool, turn right side out.

Mix together 1 cup of rice or flaxseeds, 1/2 cup dried lavender flowers, and 15-20 drops of lavender essential oil.

Using a measuring cup or a funnel, fill your pillow about halfway with the lavender rice mixture.

Fold the open end 1/2 inch inward all the way around. Measure and place adhesive tape on the inside on the bottom layer. Press for 6-8 seconds.

Next, remove the paper strip and line up the opposite side of your pillow. Press for 6-8 seconds, or until it’s completely bonded.

And just like that your no sew eye pillow is finished!

How to Use and Care for your Aromatherapy Eye Pillow

An eye pillow can be used in several different ways. Put it in the fridge to have a cold pillow for tired eyes or even a headache. I can’t say that I’d recommend using it as a hot pack. I have tried putting it in the microwave for 30 seconds and the seams held fine. I’ve used it this way a few times with no problems, just use caution if you decide to use it as a hot pack.

I can’t stand any light when I’m trying to sleep, so I like to lay my pillow over my eyes to block light. But eye pillows can be used for more than just your eyes. Sometimes my neck feels like it needs a little more support than my pillow is giving me, so I’ll slip it under my neck.

A No Sew Eye Pillow? It’s a Good Thing!

I was pleasantly surprised at how easy it was to make a DIY eye pillow that was no sew, and how durable it is. I really can’t tell the difference between the traditional DIY lavender eye pillow that I’ve sewn and this no sew version.

I use lavender in my pillow because it’s one of the many ways I use lavender for sleep, but, remember, you can use any insomnia busting essential oils that you prefer.

If you’re not crafty or you’re looking for a quick and easy sleep gift to give on its own or to slip into a homemade sleep gift basket, this no sew sleeping eye pillow is a must try!