Sweet Dreams

Visions of sugar plums will soon dance in many a head this holiday, so why not help summon that sweet sleep with the gift of a homemade lavender pillow? As everyone will be feeling the economic squeeze this season, not only will this be easier on your wallet, it might also help the recipient to relax! 

Here’s what you’ll need (in addition to your sewing machine):

Dried Lavender (the 1 lb. bag shown in this link is more than enough!)

Uncooked Rice (any kind) or Flax Seed (adds texture and weight)

Fabric (silk or silk taffeta works nicely; you can use the same pattern for both sides, or two different ones; local sources: Les Fabriques, Fabrics Unlimited, The Second Yard, Calico Corners)

Instructions:

Cut out two pieces of fabric to the same size (mine was 3 x 9) and sew right sides together one quarter inch from the edge, leaving a 2-3 inch opening on one side. Clip the excess fabric in the corners diagonally to allow for a more crisp edge. Flip the fabric right side out and press. Make a small cone out of paper to funnel in the equal parts lavender and rice (or flax). Sew the opening shut by hand and voila.

 The finished product:

 

Note: You could make a smaller square pillow for a lingerie drawer sachet!

[source: flickr]