A grave pillow, also known as a memorial pillow or cemetery pillow, is a sentimental and decorative item placed at a gravesite to honor and remember a loved one who has passed away. It serves as a meaningful tribute, providing comfort and solace for those who visit the burial site. These pillows are often made with durable materials that can withstand outdoor conditions, ensuring their longevity in various weather conditions.
Creating a grave pillow can be a heartfelt and personal activity, allowing individuals to express their love and remembrance in a tangible way. While there are several approaches to making a grave pillow, the following steps will guide you through a simple and traditional method.
To make a grave pillow, you will need the following materials:
- Fabric: Choose a durable fabric that can withstand weather conditions. You can use outdoor fabric or heavy-duty fabric such as canvas.
- Filling: Opt for a filling material that is weather-resistant and will not easily deteriorate. Polyester fiberfill or foam are good options.
- Thread: Select a strong thread that matches the color of your fabric.
- Sewing machine or needle and thread: You can use a sewing machine for convenience, but it is also possible to sew the pillow by hand.
- Scissors: To cut the fabric and thread.
- Pins: These will help secure the fabric in place during sewing.
Now, here are the steps to make a grave pillow:
- Measure and cut the fabric: Decide on the size you want for your pillow and cut two identical pieces of fabric according to those dimensions. Make sure to leave a seam allowance of about ½ inch (1.3 cm) on each side.
- Pin the fabric together: Place the two fabric pieces together, with their right sides facing each other. Use pins to secure the fabric in place, leaving a small opening on one side for stuffing.
- Sew the fabric: Using a sewing machine or needle and thread, sew around the edges of the fabric, leaving the small opening unstitched. Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of the seams to secure them.
- Turn the pillow right side out: Carefully turn the pillow right side out through the opening you left unstitched. Use a pencil or a blunt object to push out the corners and edges for a crisp look.
- Stuff the pillow: Fill the pillow with the chosen filling material, such as polyester fiberfill or foam. Ensure that the pillow is adequately stuffed to your desired level of firmness.
- Hand stitch the opening: Using a needle and thread, neatly stitch the opening closed. Make sure the stitches are secure and hidden within the seam.
- Final touches: Once the pillow is fully stitched, you can add any additional decorative elements if desired. For example, you can attach a personalized message, embroidery, or decorative ribbons to the pillow.
Summary
Once your grave pillow is complete, you can place it on the grave of your loved one as a heartfelt tribute. Please note that cemetery regulations may vary, so it is important to check with the cemetery authorities to ensure that the placement of a grave pillow is allowed.
