DIY Book Pillow

UPDATED JUNE 22, 2026

If you're wondering what to do with old scrub tops, here is one idea! Make a book pillow from an old top! And if you need another idea, make a DIY crossbody bag from an old top-- HOW TO LINK HERE!
For this blog post, I'm going to show you how to make a book pillow from an old scrub top.
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Pillows are one of my favorite upcycle projects, because homemade pillows are pretty quick and easy to make. For this DIY book pillow project, I loved upcycling an old scrub top, because I didn't have to add the pockets to the pillow! I chose a top that had two pockets, which was perfect because one is used for a book and one can be used for glasses or pens/pencils/highlighters. Here's how I made the pillow:

Step One:

Use an old scrub top with a pattern/color you like. Choose one that has pockets on the front that are right for your project. If you don't have any old scrubs, you can often find them at thrift stores or online. Use code CREATIVESAVER on Poshmark to get $10 off your first order, making them very affordable! When buying used, look for stains (ew) and make sure to CLEAN THOROUGHLY!

Cut the shirt based on what size you want your pillow. Think ahead about how you will make your actual pillow before you cut. See step three for the pillow I used. Cut two squares or rectangles, cutting on the shirt's seam. You will cut the shirt's seam in order to have straight sides. 

(Note: I already cut the other side of this shirt to make my upcycled crossbody bag.)

Step Two:

Turn fabric backwards and match two pieces in size. Use pins to mark where you will sew. Make sure you do not sew the bottom hem, which will be your opening for the pillow. Sew the top and sides. You will not have to worry about the bottom edge, because it's already hemmed on the shirt. If you want to change the shape based on the pocket's position, you will need to create a new hem.

Step Three:

Now you add a pillow! I made my pillow using by cutting an old tee shirt and stuffing it. I just tied the edges, but you can also sew it.  You can also use a pillow you already have if you cut the shirt to match the pillow as stated in step one.

Step Four:

Decide what kind of closure you want for the pillowcase, if any. If you used the bottom hem of the shirt, you can just close by adding a piece of Velcro-brand sticky back hook and loop fastener. I bought mine for a good price on Amazon, and I use it for a variety of projects!

Step Five:

Add your book, some glasses, a highlighter, whatever! You could also use it to hold a notebook and pens! I love this pillow, because you can take the pillow out of the case and wash the pillow case by itself just like you'd wash the scrub top!

Step Six:

Create more items from the scrub top!! You can make a scrunchie following the directions HERE.

You can make a crossbody or tote bag following directions HERE.

I have also made doll clothes with the leftover fabric! There's so much you can make with old scrubs!

And bonus: they make great easy homemade birthday gifts that kids can make! 

Who doesn't love a homemade present?

Follow The Creative Saver on Pinterest  for more book-related content and upcycled projects!

THANKS FOR READING!!