For 2013 we are hoping to be able to concentrate on an issue which is very close to our hearts and which holds particular symbolism in that it is a Women's Institute who are concentrating on helping women, when they probably need it the most.
We are hoping to make as many mastectomy cushions as we possibly can so that we can donate them to the Breast Care Unit at James Cook University Hospital.
What follows is the pattern that we are using in order to make these cushions and we would collectively like to send a HUGE thank you to Marion at Breast Cancer DIY - not only for designing and sharing with us this wonderful pattern and idea, but also for allowing us to use it on our website to try to help others. Thank you Marion! :oD
If you would like to view the pattern and instructions in their original surroundings them please head on over to Breast Cancer DIY. If you would like to help us to make these cushions then please do not hesitate to contact us and we (and the ladies at James Cook Hospital) would be MOST grateful for any time or materials that you would be able to provide. :o)
Here are Marion's instructions:
"Mastectomy Pillows
A very special way of giving to others...
Directions for Mastectomy Pillows
Don't stress over these pillows - it is not brain surgery they can be a tad larger or smaller - these are sizes that have worked for me. Adjust size of pillow cover to undersize or oversize pillows.
Pillow:
Use soft white/beige cotton materials
All seams are 1/4"
Cut a piece 16" by 11" ( or 2 --- 8" x 11")
Fold material to make a 8" x 11" piece or put 2 pieces together
Sew the edges (1/4" seam) - leaving one short side for stuffing.
Turn inside out and use steam iron to make edges flat
Stuffing:
I use batting used for quilts --
cut a piece 14" x 10"
Fold to form 7" x 10" piece and insert in prepared pillow casing
Use Fiberfill type stuffing – in between the layers of quilt batting
(This allows for it being fluffy without lumps)
Do not overfill -- pillow should not be more than about 2 1/2" in height when you finish stuffing. Shift stuffing so there are no lumps.
Turn the edges inward where you stuffed pillow - so no frayed edges are present -- sew the two ends together using 1/4" seam
Pillow cover
Use "happy fabric of 100% cotton"
finished size: 8" x 11" approximately
Cut : 14" x 16" or 2 - 14" x 8 1/2"
(If you can use selvage for the 14" side you save having to do an extra fold
If you cannot use selvage - you can either turn the end over, or use pinking shears)
Sew the 16" side -2" to make the open end of the pillowcase.
(if you need to do a double fold so no frayed edges are open - do it before you sew it)
Fold material in half and sew to make the pillow cover.
The love you sew into your pillow will help beyond measure!
You can also add a saying or sentiment to the pillow cover. Ours says:
"A gift to you from
Breast Cancer DIY
www.breastcancerdiy.com
Do It Yourself, But Not Alone!"
HOW TO USE PILLOW:
The pillow is to be used after surgery. You put it under the affected arm, so when your arm is at your side, it does not put pressure on the stitches, or create pressure on the breast area that has stitches. This small pillow can be used in either direction, whichever is most comfortable. Many people use it the long way, finding it more comfortable when walking around; and the short way when sitting. This way it doesn't bunch up, or create pressure. It can be used whichever way feels best, there is not right or wrong way, just what feels good for you."
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