Making a Memory Pillow, first step to making a quilt

Viva Cinco de Mayo! This article is dedicated to Tito (Augustine) Vega, our compadre and amazing craftsman/artist. Together with Tito, we started Hecho en Aztlan over 45 years ago. From Adobe making to origami, Tito was a master creator. His fine weaving, intricate macrame, and tiny origami pieces are outstanding.

Sadly we lost Tito and so many other dedicated Chicana(o)s this year. Though they are gone, their memories and legacies live on. There are many ways to pay tribute to them. Creating posters, cards, t-shirts, shadowboxes, pillows, etc. are ways to memorialize them. This article is for a memory pillow. It can be made of t-shirts, clothing, or any material. Pillow can be made as a memory of someone, a significant time, or place.

Choose t-shirt or article of clothing (directions are specifically for t-shirt).

Cut front of t-shirt at least 3 inches larger than desired size.

If using t-shirt, add fusible interfacing to provide stability to “stretchy” material. Interfacing can be purchased at local stores selling material.

Cut interfacing to size of t-shirt. Iron on sticky side of interfacing to back of pillow front. Be sure to lay a cloth on top of logo before ironing.

Mark line around design desired finished size plus 1/4 to 1/2 inches for sewing. Cut on lines.

Place top piece on back pillow material. (If using jeans, can use “wrong” side for even color). Mark and cut to match front of pillow.

Pin back and fronts together, “good” sides facing together. Mark stitching lines if desired, leaving an opening on bottom for turning.

Sew around pillow by machine is best but can hand sew. Clip edges.

Turn inside out through opening on bottom. Stuff with poly fill or other material (can use cut up scrap material). Fold under hem of opening and hand stitch closed. Done!

You can make several pieces and stitch together for a quilt. For directions on how, look online or contact me through lacucaracha@emspueblo.org. Celebrate Cinco De Mayo. Hope to see you in the park. Look for EMS booth. Continue sharing your skills, reaching out to others, and supporting those working for justice.

“In Loving Memory of Tito”

Augustine “Tito” Vega, a beloved and dynamic person was also a gifted craftsman and artist. His teatro performances with Teatro de la Lucha were funny, powerful, and delivered a strong message. His beautiful weavings, intricate macrame creations and origami pieces are outstanding. He taught and shared skills with many and left a lasting influence on all that knew him. A dedicated Chicano community activist, he worked for social justice, and advocated for mental health services and rights. We were blessed to have this “gentle giant” in our lives. “Rest In Peace and Power Tito!”