Travel Buddies

We do a lot of traveling. And almost all of it is in the car these days. So my kids needed something just their size.

Something with a little pocket for keeping their very special bits and things. And a handle for easy retrieving, or for clipping onto their backpack on an airplane trip.

I got the idea for this on MayaMade, although I didn't actually follow her instructions or measurements.

Here are my measurements and method:

(you'll need about a 1/2 yard to complete one pillow)
2 coordinating pieces: 9 1/2" x 14 1/2" for body
2 pieces: 7 1/2" x 6" for pocket
1- 4 1/2" x 12" piece for handle
Polyfil

Use 1/4" seams.

First I made the pocket by sewing the pieces right sides together, leaving a 4" hole on a long side to flip. Clip corners, turn, press, and sew along the side with the hole. This will be the top open side of your  pocket. Now place it on a pillow piece, pin and sew.

Then, fold your handle piece lengthwise, right sides together. Turn the tube right side out, press and edgestitch down both long sides.

Now, for the pillow. Take one piece and pin the handle, right sides together with raw edges matching. Then pin the other pillow piece right sides together. **Be sure your pocket is face the right direction! Sew the two sides together, leaving a 4" hole in the middle of one of the short ends. Clip the corners, turn and stuff with Polyfil. Then slipstitch the hole closed. You're done!

This was definitely one of their favorite mama-made Christmas presents, next to the playhouse, of course.

And my son was rather irritated that I dare to remove his pillow from his bed...