How To Make A Memory Shirt Pillow from Vintage Clothing
In this video, I share my process that I use to create Memory Pillows from button down men's shirts. This process can also be used to create Memory Pillows from other shirts, as well. I hope you enjoy, like and subscribe :-)
This is a coordinating blog post that outlines the transcript in our video How To Make A Memory Shirt Pillow from Old or Vintage Clothing. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the video. You can watch the full length video below. To download any free design patterns available for this video go to the downloads section below.
Video Description Details
In This Video You Will Learn
How to choose the right shirt for a pillow
How to cut apart your shirt for the best results
Get tips on how and where to add embroidery to your pillow before completing it
How to sew the pillow together using Deborah's tried and true method
Materials Needed:
Button Down or T-shirt
Woven, Medium Stabilizer (if using a T-shirt)
Pillow Form to fit Your Chosen Finished Pillow Size
Pins, Thread, Sewing Machine, Ruler & Rotary Cutter
Fabric Cut Measurements (inches)
There are no set measurements for this pillow. However, the one in the video is 14” x 14”
Pattern and Design Downloads
This tutorial doesn’t have any related download materials to go along with it, you are good to go. If additional resources become available we will add them here for you later.
Video Chapters
Deborah's Introduction: 0:04
Examples of Memory Pillows 0:53
Getting Started - Dimensions 1:50
Cutting Down the Shirt: 2:02
Closing up the Neck Hole to Determine Space for Embroidery: 3:30
Embroidery: 4:48
Stitching the shoulders and the Neck Hole Closed: 6:30
Dealing with the Back Pleat: 7:50
Where to Stitch the Shoulders: 10:30
Forming the Final Pillow: 12:10
Stitching the Final Pillow: 15:05
Inserting the Pillow Form: 16:15
Outtro: 17:48
Products in this Video I Find Most Useful
Iron - https://amzn.to/3sF4xJG
Omnigrid 15" Square Ruler - https://amzn.to/48rFmiy
Rotary Cutter - https://amzn.to/3awr4SI
Snips - https://amzn.to/3cGf6rr
Sewing clips - https://amzn.to/486frwY
Rotary Cutting Mat - https://amzn.to/3OQfNRl
Rotary Cutter (18 mm) - https://amzn.to/3FHE2fs
Sewing machine - Juki TL2010-Q - https://amzn.to/3t1LGi9
Sites Related to this Video
My Website: http://deborahfillmer.com/
Scott’s Photography: https://scottfillmer.com/
Company Page: https://piecesofthepast.com/
Company Etsy Shop - https://www.etsy.com/shop/piecesofthepastAL
Company FB Page: https://www.facebook.com/piecesofthepastal
Scrap Quilting FB Group - https://www.facebook.com/groups/308599672989747
Transcript
Preserving Memories: DIY Memory Pillows from Shirts
Welcome back to my channel! Today's video is a heartfelt one, as I'll be demonstrating how to create memory pillows from shirts, whether they're t-shirts or button-down shirts. This project holds a special place in my heart, as it's a beautiful way to preserve cherished memories of loved ones or significant life moments.
I've been crafting these memory pillows for quite some time now, and I'm excited to share my process with you. Perhaps you'll feel inspired to create your own, allowing you to hold onto precious memories in a tangible and comforting way.
These pillows serve as more than just decorative pieces; they're tangible reminders of the people we hold dear or the moments we never want to forget. Instead of stashing away shirts in a closet, creating memory pillows offers a meaningful alternative. Plus, they make wonderful heirlooms to pass down through generations.
In this video, I'll guide you through each step of the process, making it easy for you to follow along and create your own memory pillows. From preparing the shirt fabric to stitching and assembling the pillow, I'll cover it all.
One of the key features of these pillows is the ability to personalize them further. For instance, in this demonstration, I'll show you how to incorporate embroidery to add an extra layer of significance to the pillow. It's a touching way to customize the pillow with names, dates, or meaningful quotes.
After carefully cutting the fabric and preparing it for stitching, I demonstrate how to stitch the pieces together securely. Paying attention to details like collar placement and shoulder alignment ensures a professional finish to your memory pillow.
As we progress through the video, I'll share some tips and tricks I've learned over the years to make the process smoother and more efficient. From removing labels to folding and stitching, every step is important to create a beautiful, long-lasting memory pillow.
Once the pillow is stitched and assembled, I'll demonstrate how to insert the pillow form, button it up, and finish off the seams neatly. The result is a stunning memory pillow that's ready to be cherished for years to come.
I'm truly passionate about this craft, and I hope this video inspires you to give it a try. If you do, I'd love to hear about your experience! Feel free to share your creations in the comments below or ask any questions you may have.
Thank you for joining me on this journey of creativity and memory preservation. Stay tuned for more crafting videos coming soon, including a tutorial on creating a t-shirt quilt. Until next time, happy sewing! I hope you enjoyed this tutorial and feel inspired to continue exploring the world of Fiber Arts. Remember, the only limit is your imagination! Thank you for joining me on this crafting adventure, and until next time, happy crafting!
