How to Make a Lavender Eye Pillow

There’s nothing quite like the calming scent of lavender to help you unwind after a long day. A homemade lavender eye pillow is a simple and soothing DIY project that you can make with just a few ingredients. Whether you use them for rest, meditation, or relief from headaches, they make great gifts—or a relaxing treat for yourself!

What Is a Lavender Eye Pillow?

A lavender eye pillow is a small fabric pouch filled with dried lavender, rice (or flaxseed), and a few drops of essential oil. The gentle weight and soothing scent help promote relaxation, reduce tension, and encourage deeper sleep. You can place it over your eyes while lying down or keep it in your pillowcase for a calming bedtime experience.

Best Ingredients and Materials to Use

Here’s what you’ll need to make your own lavender eye pillow:

• 1 cup dried lavender flowers – Calming, aromatic, and soothing for the senses
• 1 cup rice – Adds weight and holds the scent
• 8 drops lavender essential oil – Boosts the natural fragrance
• ¼ yard of fabric – Soft cotton or flannel works great
• Fabric scissors – For clean, even cuts

Note: You can also use flaxseed instead of rice. I’ve tried both and they each work beautifully!

Tools You’ll Need

• Sewing machine or needle and thread
• A measuring tape or ruler
• Funnel (optional, but makes filling easier)
• Mixing bowl
• Pins or clips (optional for keeping fabric in place)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Download our printable instruction card.

1. Cut Your Fabric:
Cut two pieces of fabric to 4.5 inches by 10.5 inches each. This is the ideal size for resting over your eyes comfortably.

2. Layer and Sew:
Place the two fabric pieces together with the right sides facing out (so your design is visible on both sides). Sew around the edges with a ¼-inch seam allowance, leaving one short end open.

3. Mix the Filling:
In a bowl, combine 1 cup lavender, 1 cup rice, and about 8 drops of lavender essential oil. Stir to evenly distribute the scent.

4. Fill the Pillow:
Using a funnel or spoon, pour the mixture into the pillow through the open end until it’s mostly full but not overstuffed.

5. Close the Pillow:
Sew the open end closed with a straight stitch. Now your pillow is ready to use!

Tips for Customizing Your Eye Pillow

• Make it Hot or Cold: Chill your pillow in the freezer or warm it slightly in the microwave for added comfort.
• Try Other Fabrics: Soft flannel, muslin, or old t-shirts can all work great—use what you have!
• Bulk Batches: I made 4 pillows using 3 cups of lavender, 3 cups of rice, and 24 drops of essential oil.
• Gift Idea: Wrap it with a ribbon or tuck it in a spa-themed gift basket for birthdays, Mother’s Day, or holidays.

How Long Will It Last?

Your lavender eye pillow should last 6–12 months, depending on how often you use it. If the scent starts to fade, simply add a couple more drops of essential oil to refresh it.

Making these little pillows from scrap fabric (I used leftovers from Hobby Lobby!) was one of the most relaxing projects I’ve done lately. They’re simple, soothing, and a beautiful way to bring a little calm into your everyday routine.