Eyes tired? Need a pick-me-up? No time for a weekend at the spa? This relaxing eye pillow, filled with flax seed and lavender, might do the trick. The gentle weight of the flax seed refreshes, the scent of lavender soothes, and the pillow itself blocks out the light to rejuvenate your eyes. Plus it can be chilled in a bag in the freezer or warmed in the microwave (check every 15 seconds).

Flax seed lavender eye pillows make great homemade gifts and can be as simple or fancy as you desire. Piece fabrics together or embroider the top of the pillow. Use simple cotton or fine silk - both feel great on our tender eyes. Shape can vary, too. Select a "kidney bean" shape like our example, or a rectangle.

Making an Eye Pillow

fabric - enough for two rectangles, each 9 inches by 5 inches
coordinating thread
1 cup organic whole flax seed
1/3 cup lavender flowers

1. Cut fabric pieces to desired size and shape. Use our template for the "kidney bean" shape. If you are adding any extra details, do so now.

2. Pin pillow pieces together, right sides touching.

3. Stitch, using a 1/2 inch seam allowance, leaving a 2 inch opening for turning and filling.

4. Trim seam allowances and clip curves.

5. Turn pillow right side out and press.

6. Combine flax seed and lavender in a small bowl. Spoon into pillow through opening.

7. Slip-stitch opening closed.