How to Turn a Quilt Block Into a Pillow

So you’ve finished your favorite quilt block and it, since you didn’t have a quilt planned out, you aren’t quite sure what to do with it. Why not transform it into a throw pillow? This tutorial from Shiny Happy World shows you how. And even though I absolutely love the cute monster in the author’s pillow, this method works for any quilt block in almost any size.

One thing that I find quite helpful in this tutorial are the tips along the way. It is not difficult to make the pillow, but you want to be careful to preserve the block. An added perk of this tutorial is that there is a link to a tutorial for making a zippered back. I’ll be taking a look at that for sure.

Over the years I have gotten orphan quilt blocks and I have made test ones. Many of them are sitting in a drawer just waiting to be used. Here’s a great option.

Click here to get the tutorial: How to Turn a Quilt Block into a Pillow

[photo from Shiny Happy World]

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When someone in the house starts sniffling, you just know it’s going to make the rounds. That’s when I reach for this homemade herbal vapor rub—our family’s go-to chest balm for easing congestion, coughs, and that heavy-headed sick feeling.

Made with gentle yet powerful essential oils, this balm works just like the classic Vicks rub (but without the synthetic stuff). It’s safe, effective, and smells like a eucalyptus grove with a hint of grandma’s medicine chest—in the best possible way!

Whether you’re treating a toddler’s sniffles or trying to head off a man cold, this DIY vapor rub will be your winter wellness MVP.

Why You’ll Love This Natural Decongestant Balm

No petroleum or nasties – A clean, green homemade Vicks alternative
Gentle enough for kids – With optional adjustments for littlies
Nourishing balm texture – Melts into skin without being greasy
Essential oils – Provide cooling, clearing, and comforting support
Customizable – Make it stronger for adults or extra-gentle for babies

Ingredients

Base:

1/4 cup coconut oil (or olive oil for a softer balm)
2 tbsp shea butter or mango butter
2 tbsp beeswax pellets

Essential Oil Blend (for adults):

10 drops eucalyptus essential oil
8 drops peppermint essential oil
6 drops rosemary essential oil
4 drops tea tree essential oil
4 drops lavender essential oil

Optional for kids under 5:
Replace eucalyptus and peppermint with fir needle and cedarwood atlas, and halve the total essential oil amount.

How to Make Your Own Vapor Rub

Melt the base:
In a double boiler (or a bowl over simmering water), gently melt the coconut oil, shea butter, and beeswax together. Stir until smooth and liquid.
Cool slightly:
Remove from heat and let cool just a few minutes—enough that it’s no longer scalding hot but still liquid.
Add essential oils:
Stir in your essential oil blend. Don’t add them too early or the heat will evaporate their goodness.
Pour into tins or jars:
Carefully pour into a small glass jar or metal balm tin. Let cool completely before putting the lid on.
Label & store:
Store in a cool place away from sunlight. Balm will keep for up to 6 months.

How to Use Your Herbal Chest Rub

For chest and back: Rub a small amount onto chest, upper back, and soles of the feet during cold or flu season.
For steam relief: Add a pea-sized amount to a bowl of steaming water, cover your head with a towel, and inhale.
For headaches: Dab a touch on temples and neck (use caution and avoid eyes).

Mum Tips

Patch test first if you’re unsure about sensitivities.
Keep a tiny jar in your handbag during winter for on-the-go sniffles.
For a nighttime version, add a few drops of Roman chamomile or lavender for extra sleep support.