It only takes two steps to master how to make a roll pillow. Do not be discouraged in making other pillow shapes different from your traditional rectangular ones because even roll pillows are comfortable to do. More so, remember that this same shape makes this pillow type highly versatile.
With bolster pillows, roll pillows, or whatever you call them; you can have so many uses with this quick DIY project. You can place them in various areas while lying down or sitting to alleviate body pain and relieve pressure. The rolled shape also makes it easy to have these pillows anywhere in the body to correct your posture by keeping the spine neutral.
How Do You Make A Roll Pillow
Step #1. Designing
The ends
You shouldn’t be intimidated to make your own roll pillow because it is straightforward, but designing is necessary because of the unique shape. This means preparing the pillow ends and the body beforehand. For the pillow ends, measure the diameter across the end of your pillow and add an inch for seam allowance. Cut two fabric circles and mark an edge of them as your guide for the piping.
The body
The pillow’s body will then have the dimensions of the roll’s length with an inch of allowance for the seam. For a typical roll pillow measuring 9 by 14 inches, you will need 10-inch circles for the ends, and the liner for the body will be 15 by 29 and ¼ inches. You can adjust these measurements according to your intended pillow size.
If you’re still confused with the pillow body’s dimensions, 15 inches is from the pillow length plus an inch of allowance. The 29 and ¼ inches is from the pillow’s diameter that is 9 multiplied to 3.14 before adding an inch of allowance. Note that the 3.14 and an inch of allowance are absolute values.
Step #2. Sewing
Attach piping on the ends and an optional zipper on the body
Once you have the pieces, you can start constructing your roll pillow. Start with attaching the piping on the pillow end before sewing the body, and you can sew their piping in the seam allowance at the right side of the fabric on each circle. For the body, you’ll simply match the edges of the rectangular pieces and sew at the seams, leaving an opening, or you can add a zipper.
Pillow construction
Finally, attach the roll pillow’s ends starting at one side. You’ll have an easier time if you fold the circle in quarters and then pin it into place at one end before sewing. Once done, press the seams and turn the liner right side out.
Stuffing
Fill the roll pillow as much as you need until you achieve the ideal structure. Some even add a pillow form inside to improve the pillow’s shape. Then, you can sew the opening securely or zip the case close.
How To Use A Roll Pillow
The cylindrical shape of roll pillows makes them useful for various sleeping positions. For starters, hugging a roll pillow will help align your spine while sleeping. The act of cuddling will also encourage feel-good hormones for better quality sleep.
Much like body pillows, one can use a roll pillow to relieve pressure and tension on different body regions. You can place it under the neck or under the back to ease body pain. And finally, elevating your legs or feet with a body pillow can help enhance blood circulation.
Overall, the shape of a roll pillow offers comfort and support because of the elevation it provides.
How To Sleep Correctly
To further help you in achieving the ideal sleeping position, here are some tips for various positions. You can use a roll pillow for these instances accordingly.
On your back
Experts recommend sleeping on your back as an ideal position, immensely if you don’t suffer from sleep apnea conditions. This position allows your body to have a well-aligned spine, but you still need a pillow to support your head, so it’s naturally aligned with a shoulder. This is where you can place a roll pillow at the back of your neck.
On your side
Some sleepers require sleeping on their side to achieve comfort, such as pregnant women or those with acid reflux. However, since this is unnatural to your spine, you need to lie on a thick pillow for your head to remain even between your shoulders. You can also place the roll pillow between your legs as additional support.
On your stomach
The final and least recommended sleeping position is on your stomach. While it might feel comfortable, this position deviates your head furthest from the body. What you’ll need is a flat pillow to avoid putting stress on your back.
Conclusion
One of the most versatile pillows is the roll pillow. You can even learn how to make a roll pillow at home and get something more customized for your needs. Start by designing the pieces, which are the circular ends and the tube body.
You can then add the piping on both ends and sew the body using the seam allowances. Start sewing one end first, and you can turn the liner right side out. Finally, stuff the roll pillow to your ideal form, sew the opening shut, or use a zipper.