Heart Pillows for Cancer Patients

Earn 1 verified service hour for each completed heart pillow.

Heart pillows provide comfort to people recovering from surgery, especially procedures involving the chest or underarm. They help cushion sensitive areas from seat belts, reduce pressure, and serve as a thoughtful reminder that someone cares.

Volunteers are welcome to make sewn or crocheted heart-shaped pillows for patients undergoing cancer treatment and recovery.

Important Requirements

We do NOT accept no-sew pillows.
We do NOT accept patterns designed for babies or children.
Please use new, unused materials for the safety of our recipients.
Do not use super glue on any part of the pillow.
Pillows must be securely sewn (or crocheted) so that stuffing cannot come out.
Please do not overstuff the pillow; it should be soft enough to comfortably fit between the arm and chest.
We recommend a finished size of approximately 9 × 9 inches.
Sewn pillows should be made using 100% cotton fabric.

You're welcome to use the tutorials below or search online for other heart pillow patterns that meet these guidelines.

Service Hour Verification

If you are completing this project for service hours, we strongly recommend emailing photos before submitting your pillows to help ensure they meet our quality guidelines.

Please send photos to volunteer@kitstoheart.org before mailing your project.

Recommended Materials

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Two pieces of pre-washed 100% cotton fabric per pillow
Poly-fil stuffing
Fabric scissors
Pen or fabric marker
White paper to create a template

Fabric Guidelines

Please choose fabrics that are appropriate for adult cancer patients of all ages and genders.

We especially appreciate:

Unisex colors and designs
Animal prints (such as dogs or cats)
Masculine or male-friendly patterns, which are often in short supply

Please avoid:

Holiday-themed fabrics
Religious imagery or messages
Baby or children's prints
Scented detergents, fabric softeners, or dryer sheets when pre-washing fabric

How to Submit