When I go out to teach classes at the garden, offices, or in homes, I bring a “mobile studio” including mats and props.  But, something was missing, a little TLC.  A gentle eye pillow is the perfect tool to block out light, help students relax and find a comforting savasana at the end of practice.  So, I’ve created a stock of them to take with me.

The nice thing about this design is the cover can easily be removed for washing.  The project is simple and requires a minimal investment.  About $5 and a little bit of time produced 8 soft and comfy eye covers.

Supplies (makes 8)

• 1/2 yard of flannel or cotton fabric for cover
• 1/2 yard of flannel or cotton fabric for insert
• thread
• 2 lb. bag of rice or lentils
• essential oil (optional)

Fabric Pieces

• Cover – 4″ x  17″ rectangle
• Insert – 3.75″ x 16″ rectangle

Directions

• Cover:
  • If the fabric frays easily, zig zag the edge to secure.
  • Fold and pin the short ends of the fabric about 3/8″.  Top stitch to secure.
  • Place the fabric wrong-side down and fold ends toward center, overlapping the ends.  Pin the open edges and topstitch.
  • Trim corners and turn fabric right-side out.

• Insert
  • Fold the rectangle in half with the right sides together.
  • Pin and sew along the sides, leaving the top open.
  • Trim corners and turn fabric right-side out.
  • Using a paper cone or funnel, fill the insert with about 2/3 cup rice.
  • (Optional) Add a few drops of essential oil.
  • Tuck in the ends, pin and topstitch to close.
  • Place the insert inside the cover.

Take a break, recline, place an new pillow over your eyes and take a few minutes to relax.  You deserve it.  Enjoy!