How to Make a Boppy Pillow

Are you expecting a little bundle of joy? Congratulations! Soon you’ll be busy with all the preparations for the arrival of your baby.

Making a boppy pillow at home is a rewarding and practical DIY project, especially for those who enjoy sewing. A boppy pillow is a versatile accessory commonly used for nursing, baby support, or tummy time, making it an essential item for parents.

With just a few materials and some basic sewing skills, you can create a custom pillow that suits your needs and preferences. Additionally, making your boppy pillow allows you to save money and have a personal touch in your baby’s nursery.

This guide on how to make a boppy pillow will walk you through the steps to craft your very own boppy pillow, ensuring comfort and functionality for both you and your baby.

What Will You Need?

• Boppy Pillow
• Cover for Boppy Pillow
• Optional: Additional covers for easy washing

Once you have your Boppy pillow, make sure to get a cover for it.

10 Easy Steps on How to Make a Boppy Pillow

Step 1. Choose Your Fabric 

Selecting the right fabric is crucial for making a comfortable and durable boppy pillow. Opt for a soft, breathable fabric like cotton or jersey knit, which feels gentle against a baby’s sensitive skin. If you prefer a bit of stretch, a polyester blend or minky fabric can also be great choices. Consider patterns or colors that match your nursery décor or personal style.

If you plan to use the boppy pillow frequently or during messy activities, it’s a good idea to choose a fabric that is machine washable and stain-resistant for easy maintenance. Additionally, you may want to purchase extra fabric in case you decide to make additional covers for convenience. Before cutting your fabric, wash and dry it to prevent any shrinkage after assembly.

Step 2. Create a Pattern 

To create a pattern for your boppy pillow cover, you will first need to trace the shape of your existing boppy pillow onto a large piece of paper or pattern-making material. Lay the pillow flat and use a pencil or fabric chalk to outline its shape, ensuring accuracy in capturing the full curve and dimensions. Once traced, add a 1/2-inch seam allowance around the entire outline to account for sewing.

If your Boppy pillow has a specific opening or closure (like a zipper or Velcro), mark these details on your pattern. Carefully cut out your pattern along the outer edges of the seam allowance. This pattern will serve as your template for cutting the fabric pieces, ensuring the cover fits snugly over your pillow.

Step 3. Cut the Fabric 

Using the pattern you created, lay it flat on your chosen fabric. Ensure the fabric is folded in half with the right sides facing inward so that you cut two identical pieces at once. Pin the pattern securely to the fabric to prevent it from moving during cutting.

Carefully cut around the edges of the pattern, following the outer seam allowance line. Take your time to maintain smooth and even cuts, as this will ensure the final cover has a polished appearance. Once you’ve cut out the two fabric pieces, double-check that they align properly before proceeding to the next step.

Step 4. Pin the Fabric Pieces Together 

Lay the two fabric pieces on a flat surface with their right sides facing each other. Align the edges carefully to ensure they match up perfectly. Use straight pins to secure the fabric pieces together along the edges, placing the pins perpendicular to the seam allowance.

Space the pins evenly, about 2-3 inches apart, to hold the fabric firmly in place and prevent shifting during sewing. Take extra care with corners or curves, adjusting the fabric as needed to maintain alignment. Once pinned, your fabric is ready for the next step in the sewing process.

Step 5. Sew the Fabric 

Set your sewing machine to the desired stitch type and length, ensuring it matches your project’s requirements. Begin sewing along the pinned edge, starting with a backstitch to secure the thread in place. Remove each pin as you approach it to avoid damaging your needle. Keep the fabric steady and guide it gently without pulling, allowing the machine to do the work.

For curves, sew slowly and adjust the fabric’s positioning to maintain the proper seam allowance. Once you’ve completed the seam, finish with another backstitch to secure the end. Trim any loose threads and press the seam with an iron for a crisp, professional finish.

Step 6. Turn the Fabric Inside Out

Carefully flip the sewn fabric so that the right side is facing out. Use your fingers or a blunt tool, such as the eraser end of a pencil or a chopstick, to gently push out the corners for a clean and defined shape. Be cautious not to tear the fabric or put too much pressure on the seams. Once the fabric is fully turned, smooth it out with your hands to ensure everything is in place and properly aligned. This step prepares the fabric for any finishing touches or further assembly.

Step 7. Stuff the Pillow 

To stuff the pillow, begin by selecting your preferred filling material, such as polyester fiberfill, shredded memory foam, or even natural materials like feathers. Gradually insert small amounts of the filling into the pillow through the open side, ensuring even distribution for a uniform shape.

Use your hands to push the filling into the corners and edges, ensuring the pillow is fully and evenly stuffed. Be sure not to overstuff, as this could strain the seams or affect the comfort of the pillow. Adjust and reshape the filling as needed until you achieve the desired look and feel.

Step 8. Close the Opening 

Using a needle and thread, close the opening with a slip stitch or ladder stitch for a seamless finish. Begin by threading the needle and tying a knot at the end. Pinch the edges of the fabric together, ensuring they align evenly. Insert the needle into the fabric just below the edge, sewing small, tight stitches to securely close the gap.

Continue along the entire opening, pulling the thread gently to avoid puckering. Once finished, tie a secure knot to seal the thread and trim any excess. Smooth out the pillow to ensure the filling is evenly distributed, and your pillow is ready to use!

Step 9. Add a Cover

Choose a pillow cover that complements your decor and fits the pillow snugly. Slide the pillow into the cover, ensuring the edges align properly and the filling is evenly distributed. If the cover has a zipper or buttons, secure them to keep the pillow in place. A pillow cover not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also protects the pillow from dust and stains, making it easier to maintain. Your finished pillow is now ready to comfort and beautify your space!

Step 10. Enjoy Your Homemade Boppy Pillow 

Congratulations! Your homemade Boppy pillow is now complete and ready to use. Whether it’s for supporting a baby during feeding, tummy time, or just for added comfort, your pillow is not only practical but also uniquely crafted by you.

Take a moment to enjoy the satisfaction of your hard work and the personal touch you’ve added to this versatile creation. Remember, care for it with love to make it last for years to come!

By following these simple steps and with a little bit of creativity, you can make your Boppy pillow in no time.

5 Things You Should Avoid

1. Using Incorrect Measurements 

  Ensure you have accurate measurements before cutting your fabric. Incorrect sizing can lead to a poorly fitting pillow cover or an uncomfortable pillow that doesn’t provide proper support.

2. Choosing the Wrong Fabric 

  Avoid using fabrics that are too rough, non-breathable, or difficult to clean. Opt for soft, durable, and machine-washable materials to ensure both comfort and practicality.

3. Overstuffing or Understuffing the Pillow 

  Be mindful of how much filling you use. Overstuffing can make the pillow too rigid, while understuffing can make it lose its shape and provide inadequate support.

4. Skipping Reinforced Stitching 

  Don’t neglect to use reinforced stitching, especially along the curves of the pillow. Weak stitches can result in the pillow coming apart after minimal use.

5. Ignoring Safety Precautions 

  Avoid using embellishments like buttons, zippers, or beads that could be a choking hazard for babies. Always prioritize safety when designing your pillow.

By avoiding these mistakes, you can create a high-quality and safe pillow that will provide comfort and support for both babies and adults.

Conclusion

How to make a boppy pillow requires careful planning, quality materials, and attention to detail to ensure the final product is both functional and safe.

By choosing the right fabric, cutting accurate patterns, and using secure stitching, you can create a durable and comfortable pillow. Remember to avoid common mistakes like skipping reinforced stitching or neglecting safety precautions, as these can compromise the quality or usability of the pillow.

With patience and care, you can craft a boppy pillow tailored to your needs or as a thoughtful handmade gift.