estimated reading time: 21 min

Sew a neck roll pillow with the free pattern CHILLIE in 3 sizes

25.02.2026 by Evelyn

Nackenrolle nähen mit kostenlosem Schnittmuster CHILLIE in 3 Größen

What do I need for that?

CHILLIE neck roll

Freebook · PDF
To the sewing pattern →

Materials & Details

Disappearing marker^*

Fabric clips^*

Fabric scissors^*

Sewing scissors^*

Cotton poplin^*

Machine:: Overlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch
Interfacing:: Vlieseline H250

More info

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Thread:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Poplin is a fine, densely woven cotton with a smooth, slightly cool surface. The fabric feels pleasantly soft, yet it is nicely stable and has no stretch.

Typical of poplin: it is fairly lightweight but still drapes neatly, so it looks clean and a little smarter than regular cotton.

Poplin is super easy to sew – it cuts well, hardly shifts and is great for beginners too.

It is perfect for blouses, shirts, dresses, skirts, bags, cushions or summer trousers.

In short: smooth, light and an easy fabric for lots of lovely everyday pieces.

Linen^*

Machine:: Overlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch

More info

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Thread:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Linen is a natural fabric with a slightly firm, textured feel. At first it often feels a bit rough, but it gets softer with every wash and becomes really lovely on the skin.

Typical of linen: it is super airy and breathable – perfect for warm days. The fabric looks rather loose and relaxed, often has a slightly irregular appearance, and that is exactly what gives it its charm.

Linen creases pretty quickly, but that is simply part of it and even looks intentional. It is ideal for airy clothing such as dresses, blouses, trousers or shirts.

In short: natural, cooling and wonderfully easy-going with a casual look.

Muslin fabrics^*

Machine:: Zigzag stitchOverlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch
Interfacing:: Vlieseline H410

More info

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Thread:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Muslin is a very light, loosely woven cotton fabric. It feels super soft and has that typical slightly crinkled, “creased” surface – which is intentional and gives it its charm.

The fabric is very breathable, which makes it perfect for warm days. It drapes loosely and always looks a little casual and easy-going.

Muslin is usually easy to sew because it is not slippery. It can fray a little, though, so finishing the edges neatly is worth it.

It is perfect for baby blankets, scarves, light dresses, blouses or summery clothing.

In short: airy, soft and ideal for relaxed, natural looks.

Jeans fabrics/denim^*

Machine:: Overlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch
Interfacing:: Vlieseline G770

More info

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Thread:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Denim is basically the classic jeans fabric – sturdy, tightly woven and really hard-wearing. Its slightly diagonal texture is typical, often with the blue-dyed look that everyone instantly associates with jeans.

The fabric is rather firm and a bit stiff at first, but softens over time and moulds itself better and better. That is exactly what makes denim so durable and popular.

It needs a bit more power when sewing – a strong needle and a sturdy machine help here. In return, the result can really take a lot.

Denim is perfect for jeans, jackets, bags or anything that has to stand up to everyday life.

In short: strong, timeless and a true everyday hero on the fabric shelf.

Canvas^*

Machine:: Overlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch
Interfacing:: Vlieseline H200

More info

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Thread:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Canvas is a very sturdy, densely woven fabric that feels really stable. It's usually made of cotton or a cotton blend and is made to withstand quite a lot.

The surface is rather firm and sometimes slightly rough, but can be a little smoother depending on the finish. Canvas has hardly any stretch, but keeps its shape nicely.

Sewing it can take some effort because it's thick and stable – but in return you get a very long-lasting result. Fraying is easy to keep under control with the right technique.

Canvas is perfect for bags, backpacks, seat cushions, decor or even sturdy jackets.

In short: strong, long-lasting and ideal for anything that needs to be really stable.

Faux leather^*

Machine:: Backstitch functionStraight stitch
Interfacing:: Vlieseline H200

More info

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Thread:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Faux leather is a synthetic material that looks very similar to real leather but is completely vegan. It usually has a smooth or slightly textured surface and often looks somewhat glossy or matte – depending on the finish.

The fabric is relatively firm but still flexible. It is sturdy, easy care and simply wipes clean, which makes it super practical.

Sewing it takes a little patience, because faux leather does not glide quite as well and needle holes can remain visible. A stronger needle helps a lot here.

Faux leather is perfect for bags, backpacks, pouches, home decor or statement clothing.

In short: easy care, modern and a stylish alternative to real leather.

Corduroy fabrics^*

Machine:: Zigzag stitchOverlock seamBackstitch functionStraight stitch
Interfacing:: Vlieseline H200

More info

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Thread:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Corduroy is a sturdy fabric with a very typical ribbed texture. These fine or wider stripes give it its unmistakable, slightly retro look.

The fabric feels soft and textured at the same time. It is warm, comfortable to wear and really durable.

Depending on the type, corduroy comes fine (needlecord) or coarse with wide ribs – both have their own charm.

Corduroy is usually easy to sew; just keep an eye on the nap direction of the ribs.

It is perfect for trousers, skirts, jackets, dresses or bags.

In short: cosy, sturdy and a true classic with vintage flair.

Nylon & outdoor fabrics^*

Machine:: Backstitch functionStraight stitch
Interfacing:: Style-Vil and Style-Vil fix

More info

Needle:: Universal needle^*
Thread:: All-purpose sewing thread^*

Nylon fabrics and outdoor fabrics are true everyday heroes when it comes to function. They're usually lightweight, very tough and often water-repellent or even waterproof – perfect for the outdoors.

Nylon feels rather smooth and slightly cool, yet it's extremely tear-resistant and hard-wearing. Outdoor fabrics go one step further: they're often specially coated or treated to withstand wind, rain and dirt.

They can be a little slippery when sewing, but with a bit of patience it works well. In return, you get really long-lasting projects in the end.

They're ideal for jackets, rainwear, backpacks, bags or anything that has to perform in wind and weather.

In short: lightweight, weatherproof and made for outdoor adventures.

Links marked with * are affiliate links: If you make a purchase through them, we receive a small commission. The price remains the same for you.

Sewing a neck roll made easy: In this post, I will show you step-by-step how to sew a neck roll with a cover. You will learn what a neck roll actually is and why it's so practical. You will also find out everything you need for it. The instructions are perfect for beginners. And with the free pattern in 3 sizes, you'll have the best foundation for your comfort project.

The most important things at a glance

In this post, I will show you step-by-step how to sew a neck roll
You can download the free pattern with 3 sizes in this post
Bonus: Cute bear pattern as an add-on 🐻
✂️ Sewing level: easy - moderate
⏰ Sewing time: 1 afternoon

Imagine this: You're lying on the sofa, a good book in your hand, a cup of tea steaming next to you – and then this: Your neck hurts because the couch isn't cooperating at all. Or maybe you just want to chill in style, but your pillow ensemble looks like it never left the 80s. Don't worry, we have the solution – and it’s a neck roll!

But wait: Forget everything you think you know about neck rolls. Away with the grandma-look, bring on fresh colors, cool fabrics, and a touch of "I want one too!" Because neck rolls are no longer a relic from great-grandma's days, but the it-piece for your home. Whether as a stylish accessory on the sofa, a cozy support while reading, or a little highlight in the kids' room – a self-sewn neck roll is not only practical but also a real eye-catcher.

And the best part? You can design it exactly to your taste. Minimalist, brightly colored, with patterns, or plain – the main thing is that it suits you and your lifestyle. So grab fabric, needle, and thread (or the sewing machine, we're not in the Middle Ages after all), because today we’re sewing! And don't worry: Even if you've only mended socks so far, these instructions will guide you step-by-step to your perfect wellness partner.

Ready to take your home to the next level?

YouTube Tutorial: Sewing a neck roll

What is a neck roll?

Simply put, a neck roll is a cozy cylindrical neck pillow used to support the head, neck, and shoulders, often filled with foam to bring the cervical spine into a natural, straight position. Unlike traditional pillows (e.g., 80 x 80 cm), neck rolls are smaller and firmer, thus preventing the spine from kinking. You often find them on sofas, in bed, or on the couch. They consist of a base pillow, the filling, and a pillowcase.

But actually, they are so much more. A stylish partner on your couch. Your relaxed companion during your happy reading hour. Or even the insurmountable fortress wall in your child's room. Here, creativity knows no bounds.

Why should I sew a neck roll?

First, because it takes your living room to a new level of style and your neck won't feel like a block of concrete during your next reading marathon, and second, because you can. Sewing a neck roll is a great beginner project with the potential to become an advanced it-piece. When you sew a neck roll, you can adapt it perfectly to your needs. Look, feel, firmness, filling, and fabric – everything is in your hands.

With filling wadding, it's cozy and cuddly; filled with Swiss pine shavings, it becomes a stylish pillow with healthy benefits for your breathing. Furthermore, the project is quick to sew and ideal for using up fabric scraps. The pattern includes a dividing seam to utilize smaller pieces of fabric.

Here you can also experiment individually with further divisions or create a patchwork variant. Baby blankets get a new look and will always be remembered. Old pillows can get a new, fresher look and come with the filling already included.

Additionally, neck rolls also make a great gift. Quickly sewn and perhaps even decorated with a personal touch like embroidery or an appliqué.

What do I need to know as a beginner to sew a neck roll?

You can sew the neck roll from simple woven fabrics. Cotton fabrics are perfect for this project. Have your basic sewing supplies ready. You only need to be able to sew straight for starters.

Because I will show you how to sew a simple neck roll without a zipper. The perfect start for beginners. Don't have any trouble with zippers? Even better. You will also learn how to sew a neck roll with a zipper. And if you want and can do even more, a stylish piping can be added on top. And advanced sewists can transform the neck roll into a cute bear with a Swiss pine filling.

Not sure if you're missing some basics? Then I recommend my online sewing course “The SewSimple Sewing License“. In this 2 1/2-hour course, you will learn everything about materials, machines, and techniques that you need to know to get started.

If you haven't worked with non-stretchy fabrics, i.e., woven fabrics, before, you should take a look at my blog post on the topic sewing cotton fabric. In it, you'll learn everything you need to know for working with woven fabric.

What must my machine be able to do to sew a neck roll?

It is sufficient if your sewing machine can sew a straight stitch. Your sewing machine should, of course, also be able to sew forwards and backwards so you can lock the beginning and end of the seam. Depending on the variant of the neck roll, different sewing machine feet are helpful.

If you want to sew in a zipper, a zipper foot is essential. This is usually included with all sewing machines. For an invisible zipper, I recommend a presser foot for invisible zippers. This has two grooves in the middle, in which the zipper teeth are guided, allowing the needle to sew exactly along the edge. The piping foot makes sewing in piping easier. With a bit of finesse, everything can be managed with the normal zipper foot, however.

Reading tip: Sewing machine feet and their use

A walking foot is also helpful. Many machines already have this intelligent fabric feed system integrated. At Pfaff, it's the IDT system, at Bernina the dual transport, at Brother it's the SFDS (Square Feed Drive System) and the built-in fabric sensor system ICAPS on selected machines. My secret little recommendation is the use of a high-speed sewing machine like the Juki TL-2300 Sumato. It is a small industrial sewing machine for home use. Lots of power and stability.

Reading tip: Field report on the Juki TL-2300 Sumato

You can sew most fabrics for the neck roll with a universal needle, size 80. For leather, however, I recommend a leather needle. This has a chisel point and is designed to cut the leather upon penetration. It should never be used for textiles. You can also sew faux leather with the universal needle because of the textile backing.

Reading tip: Everything about sewing machine needles

Which fabrics are suitable for sewing a neck roll?

Here, everything that you like and is cozy applies. Non-elastic woven fabric is easier to process. Elastic and thin fabrics should be reinforced with interfacing like G700. This gives the neck roll more support.

Fabric type	Properties	Notes/Tips	Source
Cotton poplin	- practical all-round fabric - well-suited for beginners - easy to work with - large selection	- use with a size 70 or 80 universal needle - suitable for all neck rolls - suitable for Swiss pine neck rolls	Order cotton poplin^*
Linen/linen blend	- elegant, sustainable, natural - fabric edges fray easily	- use with a size 70 or 80 universal needle - don't trim too much - suitable for all neck rolls - natural and breathable for Swiss pine neck rolls	Order linen^*
Muslin	- soft touch - frays, warps easily	- use with a size 70 or 80 universal needle - don't trim too much - suitable for Swiss pine neck rolls	Order muslin^*
Denim	- firm, robust - well-suited for firm rolls - not very cuddly	- use with a size 80-100 universal needle	Order denim^*
Canvas	- firm and heavy, robust - for stable neck rolls - not very soft	- process with a size 80 to 100 denim needle - use sharp fabric shears	Order canvas^*
Faux leather	- robust, heavy, wipeable - for stable neck rolls - cold, but elegant	- use with a leather needle - use a non-stick presser foot	Order faux leather^*
Fine corduroy/corduroy	- robust, heavy, soft	- use with a size 80 or 90 universal needle	Order corduroy^*
Awning fabrics, PUL, outdoor fabrics	- wipeable - water-repellent - robust	- 80 universal needle - non-stick presser foot - clips, no pins - suitable for neck rolls for outdoor use	Order coated cotton^*

What filling do I need for a neck roll?

You can use simple filling wadding or craft wadding. Pay attention to the Oeko-Tex Standard and possibly allergy-friendly properties. For a medium-sized neck roll, 300g is easily enough. For comparison: the filling quantity of a conventional sleeping pillow is often 400–600 g for 40x80 cm (soft to firm).

Alternatively, you can also fill the neck roll with Swiss pine shavings or spelt husks. The quantity varies between 300g-500g. These, however, should be replaced after about 2 years, depending on usage.

Tip: Every year around Christmas time, I get a fresh bag of Swiss pine shavings and replace them in the small neck roll. You can often find regional suppliers at Christmas markets.

Filling wadding with Oeko-Tex Standard^*

How much filling material do I need?

Depending on the desired firmness, you will need more or less filling material, so these figures are only guidelines:

small: approx. 180 g
medium: approx. 280 g
large: approx. 529 g

Where can I find the free pattern?

You can download the pattern for the neck roll for free in our freebook section. You will get the pattern in 3 different sizes, including the bear add-on and embroidery file for the bear face.

Small (S): approx. 30 cm x 10 cm (finished size)
Medium (M): approx. 40 cm x 15 cm (finished size)
Large (L): approx. 50 cm x 19 cm (finished size)

Sharing the pattern is prohibited, as is commercial use. If you would like to sell sewn items, you should download a SewSimple license in advance.

Print the pattern at 100% without page scaling. The printer should be set to “Print document and all markups” so that the labels are also transferred to the pattern pieces.

A seam allowance of 1 cm is already included in the pattern.

How do I get the free pattern?

Would you like to sew the neck roll? Great! To gain access to this and over 160 other exclusive freebooks and free patterns, it is best to proceed as follows:

Sign up for the SewSimple newsletter
Click the newsletter registration link in the confirmation email: Yes, I want…
After receiving the SewSimple welcome email, you are officially a sewing mail subscriber
Create a customer account with the same email address*
Log in
Click on the download link or go to the pattern via the freebook section of your customer account.

It may also help to clear your cookies and cache, use a different browser or incognito mode, or try a different device. It often works on a PC or laptop if it doesn't work on your mobile phone.

It is also always a good idea to check if your browser is up to date or if your browser settings are preventing a download. 🙂

Please understand that I cannot send the pattern by email. Unfortunately, I cannot answer requests regarding this. This makes it all the more important that you follow the instructions above for the download correctly.
For questions about your customer account, be sure to take a look at the FAQs!
If the freebook section is not displayed on mobile, it helps to access the page on a PC. You can also swipe left in the mobile view and then you will see the download link. 🙂
If you have been receiving the newsletter before but forgot to confirm your subscription (this can happen for technical reasons), it helps to unsubscribe using the “unsubscribe link” at the bottom of the newsletter, register again, and then confirm your subscription.

Accessories: Sew a neck roll

Woven fabric of your choice
possibly Vlieseline G700 interfacing^*
Iron
1 invisible zipper^*
Fiberfill or similar^*
possibly piping^*
possibly a label^*
Matching sewing machine needle
matching sewing thread^*
pins^*
fabric clips^*
ruler^*
possibly corner and edge shaper^* for shaping
marking pen^*
fabric scissors^*
thread snips^*
Sewing machine

Conclusion

Sewing a neck roll is one of those projects where the effort and feel-good factor have a surprisingly good ratio. A bit of fabric, a few seams – and your neck can enjoy some self-sewn support. Thanks to the free pattern in three sizes, you can get started right away without any calculating, puzzling, or measuring tape drama. Whether it's for yourself, as a gift, or simply for the good feeling of having made something beautiful yourself: go for it – your sofa (and your neck) will thank you. 🧵😄

Happy simple sewing from Eve & Sabine

Links marked with * are affiliate links: If you make a purchase through them, we receive a small commission. The price remains the same for you.

Instruction 1 / 5

Sew an inner cushion for the neck roll

Step

You need cotton fabric and plenty of stuffing.
Step

Transfer all markings to the fabric with a disappearing marker. Also mark the fold line.
03

Step

Cutting:
1x main piece on the fold, undivided
2x end piece (mirror-image pair)
Step

Finish the edges of all pattern pieces with the overlock or a zigzag stitch on your sewing machine to prevent fraying.
Step

Place the main piece flush right sides together along the short side and pin it well.
Step

Use a straight stitch to sew the side together.
Leave a turning gap of approx. 8-10cm open in the middle.
Step

Press the seam allowance open.
Step

Pin one end piece flush, right sides together, to one side of the neck roll.
Use the markings as a guide.
Step

Sew the end piece to the main piece with a straight stitch.
Tip: Place the neck roll under the presser foot so that the end piece is underneath.
Step

Sew the second end piece into the neck roll in the same way.
Step

Turn the inner cushion right side out through the turning gap.
Step

Fill the inner cushion with the stuffing. Decide for yourself how firm you want it.
Step

When you've reached the firmness you want, close the turning gap with a ladder stitch. It's also called an invisible stitch, as it is almost invisible.
Tip: If you'd like to read up on how to sew a ladder stitch in more detail, I recommend my blog post "Sewing a ladder stitch"
Step

The inner cushion (insert) is finished.
That wasn't so hard, was it? Now we can carry on with the cushion covers. 😃

Instruction 2 / 5

Sew a neck roll with a divided cover, zipper and piping

01

Step

Supplies:
Cotton fabrics of your choice
Vlieseline G700
Piping
Invisible zipper
Step

Cut the pattern apart along the dividing seam.
Step

When cutting, add this at each side of the dividing seam: 1cm seam allowance.
04

Step

Cutting:
Small main piece on the fold + interfacing
Large main piece on the fold + interfacing
2x end piece (mirror-image pair) + interfacing
2x handle (mirror-image pair)
1x invisible zipper
Piping
Step

Iron all interfacing pieces onto the corresponding fabric pieces.
Tip: Iron the interfacing onto the fabric before cutting and then cut out. This guarantees an accurate fit.
Step

Finish the edges of all pattern pieces with the overlock or a zigzag stitch on your sewing machine to prevent fraying.
Step

Pin the two fabric pieces for the main piece right sides together along the dividing edge.
Step

Sew both pieces together with a straight stitch.
Step

Press the seam allowance open.
Step

From the right side of the fabric, edgestitch the seam allowance to the main fabric on both sides.
Tip: If you have one, use an edge stitching foot.
Step

Sew in the zipper

The zipper is sewn in in two beginner-friendly steps. If you already have experience with invisible zippers, you can sew it in properly straight away.
Pin the invisible zipper right sides together to the short side of the neck roll. The zipper pull faces the right side of the fabric. The teeth are on the left.
Draw a mark 5 cm from the outer edges on each side.
Step

Sew the zipper to the main fabric within the seam allowance with a straight stitch. Only sew from mark to mark, though. The 5 cm at the ends stay free.
Step

On the opposite side of the zipper, mark the dividing seam with a disappearing marker.
Step

Pin the free side of the zipper flush, right sides together, to the opposite fabric edge of the neck roll. Start at the mark for the dividing seam. This way the zipper sits accurately.
Step

Sew the zipper roughly to the main fabric within the markings with a straight stitch.
Step

Open the zipper.
Step

Sew the zipper precisely to the main fabric on both sides with the invisible zipper foot. The teeth run exactly in the groove of the foot.
If you don't have a suitable presser foot, you can also use the normal zipper foot. Carefully push the teeth outwards and guide the needle past them as closely as possible. This takes a bit of practice.
Only sew from mark to mark.
Step

Turn the neck roll right side out and close the zipper to check. If you're not happy yet, you can adjust the zipper.

Press the edge well.
Step

Turn the main piece wrong side out again and pin the remaining open 5 cm at the outer edges flush, right sides together.
Make sure the zipper pull is inside the main piece.
Tip: Use the pressed edges as a guide. Make sure the zipper stands away from the main fabric.
Step

Sew the pinned outer edges with a straight stitch, making sure to join up with the existing zipper seam.
Step

Check your result on the right side of the fabric.
Step

Secure the zipper ends with a few stitches on the back and cut off the protruding ends.
Step

Turn the main piece and check the result.
Keep working with an open zipper from now on.
Step

Sew on the piping

Pin the piping flush, right sides together, to the curve of the main piece. Make sure the ends cross at the lower seam where the zipper was sewn in.
Note: Sewing the piping to the main piece is easier, as it's a straight line and you don't need to clip into the piping. In addition, the seam will be on top when you sew on the end piece later.
If you're used to a different way of joining the piping ends, feel free to vary it here. Just note that the join should be at the seam.
Reading tip: Sewing piping: this tutorial makes it easy
Step

Sew the piping to the main fabric with a straight stitch and a zipper foot, within the piping seam.
Step

Trim any protruding ends.
Step

Repeat the steps on the opposite side.
Note: Make sure the piping seam is 1cm from the top edge of the fabric. Pin it to fit if necessary.
Step

This is what the main piece should look like now.
Step

Sew the handle

The handle makes the neck roll easier to carry. But you're welcome to leave it out.
Pin the two handle pieces flush, right sides together, along the long edge.
Step

Sew the long sides with a straight stitch.
Step

Turn the handle piece right side out and press it well.
Step

Edgestitch the handle along the long sides.
Step

If you like, you can also sew on a label.
Step

Pin the handle centred on one of the end pieces. It's up to you which side you want the handle on.
Step

Sew it to the end piece on both sides within the seam allowance with a straight stitch.
Step

Cut off the protruding ends.
Step

Turn the main piece of the neck roll wrong side out and make sure the zipper is open.
Step

Pin the end piece flush to the side of the main piece, right sides together. Use the markings as a guide.
Step

Sew the end piece to the main piece with a straight stitch. Sew exactly along the piping seam all the way.
Step

This is how the attached end piece should look now.
Step

Repeat the steps for the second end piece.
Step

Turn the cushion cover right side out and pull it over the base cushion. Done.

Instruction 3 / 5

Sew a neck roll with an envelope closure

Step

Cutting:

Cut the main piece of the neck roll 5 cm larger in size. This applies to all sizes. Since the fabric is on the fold, you will have 10 cm more fabric. If you want to use interfacing, you need to do the same there.
Important: Transfer all markings. Also make an extra mark 1 cm (the seam allowance) below the end of the pattern. That is, at the point where the neck roll will overlap later.
The end pieces stay as before.
Step

Finish the edges of the pattern piece, press the short sides 1.5 cm to the wrong side and pin them in place if needed.
Step

Topstitch the pressed edges with a straight stitch inside the finishing seam.
Step

Place the cushion cover together right side on wrong side so that the overlap markings meet and lie on top of each other. It doesn't matter which side is on top and which is underneath.
Step

The overlap markings meet.
Step

Secure the overlapping fabric layers with a straight stitch within the seam allowance.
I use the pins to stop the fabric layers from flipping open while I work; they don't go through the whole roll.
Step

Now sew in the piping, the handle and the end pieces as described above. Use the markings as a guide.
You can also leave out the piping and the handle.
Step

Turn the cushion cover right side out and pull it over the matching base cushion. Make sure the overlap lies around the filling without creases.
Step

Done.

Instruction 4 / 5

Sew a Swiss pine cushion

Step

The neck roll is also perfect for filling with Swiss stone pine shavings. The essential oils in stone pine shavings and flakes are said to help with sleep problems and snoring.
If you'd like to find out more, I recommend my article: Sewing a stone pine pillow: sweet dreams guaranteed!
Since stone pine shavings are replaced regularly (every 1-2 years), you need to sew a zipper into the base roll as well. You can do this with an invisible zipper as described above. In this case, though, you can also use a regular continuous zipper or a mattress zipper, because the zipper will be hidden by the cushion cover later.
The cutting is done from the pattern, just like for the base roll.
For the fabric, I recommend linen. Ideally natural and Oeko-Tex certified. You can also upcycle old linen bags if they are big enough.
Step

Close the short side of the main piece with a long straight stitch (4 mm).
Step

Press the seam allowance open well.
Step

Turn the main piece right side out.
Step

Place the zipper right side on wrong side, centred under the seam inside the main piece. The teeth point upwards.
Place the zipper pull outside the opening the zipper is meant to have later.
Step

Pin the start in place with a pin. The zipper pull is on the left side of the pin underneath the fabric. Make sure you pin only one layer in place.
Make the zipper opening big enough for you to fill in the stone pine flakes easily. If you start and end the seam 5-7 cm from the side edge, that's perfect.
Step

Using the zipper foot and a straight stitch, sew once around the zipper on the right side of the fabric.
Start at the pin and finish just before it. Do not sew over the zipper at that point yet.
Make sure you don't catch the lower fabric layer. It's a bit tricky, but works quite well with a little finesse. I recommend my video tutorial.
A seam allowance of 0.5 - 1 cm is perfect here.
Step

Open the seam with the seam ripper inside the stitched area.
Slide the zipper pull into the now visible part of the zipper.
Step

Sew over the still open end of the zipper with a straight stitch. The stitched rectangle is now closed and the zipper is sewn in and secured.
Step

Turn the main piece wrong side out again, trim the protruding ends of the zipper and continue with the zipper open as described for the base roll.

Instruction 5 / 5

Sew a teddy bear neck roll (size S)

Step

A neck roll doesn't have to be just for grown-ups. The small neck roll in particular is wonderful for kids to cuddle. Filled with stone pine shavings, it helps even the littlest ones get a restful sleep. To make it even more lovable, you can turn it into a funny neck roll bear. In a soft, cuddly fabric, of course.
I recommend muslin or nicky velour. Corduroy gives the cushion a pretty look, but the stone pine scent takes too long to get through the thick material.
Anything goes, it's down to your own preference.
For the neck roll bear you need the add-on bear pattern and the matching embroidery file for the face. In addition to the neck roll S.
Step

Start with the face. Take a sufficiently large piece of the main fabric and embroider the face onto it.
Alternatively, you can appliqué the bear face or embroider it by hand. You can get really creative here.
For more ideas on how to get the face onto the cushion, have a look at the blog post "Sewing a kids' bag with a free pattern"
Then cut out all the pieces as described above and finish the edges of the main piece and the end pieces.
Tip: Cut the end pattern piece out of tracing paper and place it on the fabric piece with the face. This way you can centre it exactly.
Step

The main piece is made exactly like the cushion without a zipper.
04

Step
In addition you need the add-on bear:
4 paws (2x4 pieces of fabric, mirrored)
1 little tail (1x2 pieces of fabric, mirrored)
2 little ears (2x2 pieces of fabric, mirrored
Tip: Cut out the pattern without seam allowance. Use a disappearing marker to trace the outlines onto the fabric placed right sides together.
Step

Sew along the marking with a straight stitch.
Step

Cut out all pieces close to the seam.
Step

Turn all pieces right side out and fill them lightly with stuffing. Make sure they aren't stuffed too firmly.
Step

Pin them to the end pieces. Ears and two legs on the face. And two little legs and the tail on the opposite end piece. Use the quarter markings as a guide.
Step

Secure all pieces to the end pieces with a straight stitch within the seam allowances.
Step

Pin both end pieces to the main piece.
Attention: Watch the fabric overlap on the right side. It must point downwards. The face and the legs are aligned with it. Mark the quarters of the cushion cover again.
Step

Sew both end pieces to the main piece.
Step

Turn the bear right side out and fill it with the size S base cushion. Done.
Step
Step

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About the author

Eve

Moin, I'm Eve. As a communication designer I love developing simple solutions for complicated challenges — with sewing patterns and instructions just as much as with technical questions.

For SewSimple I develop sewing instructions and patterns, shoot videos, test sewing ideas and support Sabine with many topics around the website.

Sew a neck roll pillow with the free pattern CHILLIE in 3 sizes

YouTube Tutorial: Sewing a neck roll

What is a neck roll?

Why should I sew a neck roll?

What do I need to know as a beginner to sew a neck roll?

What must my machine be able to do to sew a neck roll?

Which fabrics are suitable for sewing a neck roll?

What filling do I need for a neck roll?

How much filling material do I need?

Where can I find the free pattern?

How do I get the free pattern?

Accessories: Sew a neck roll

Conclusion

Sew an inner cushion for the neck roll

Cutting:

Sew a neck roll with a divided cover, zipper and piping

Supplies:

Cutting:

Sew in the zipper

Sew on the piping

Sew the handle

Sew a neck roll with an envelope closure

Cutting:

Sew a Swiss pine cushion

Sew a teddy bear neck roll (size S)

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Eve