Sarah Ely is 20 years old, loves horses, arcade games and rap music, and lives in Cleveland with her mom and dad. She recently learned how to sew. Her mother, Joyce, decided to start her off on a simple project and Sarah chose to make a present for her friend Kristen Kirton. Like Sarah, Kristen was born with Down’s Syndrome. She bravely battled leukemia from the age of three, and in November 2009 Kristen and her family learned that the disease had returned. Sarah seized the opportunity to send her friend a gift of comfort in the hospital: a handmade pillowcase.
Left: Sarah at work on her project. Right: Kristen received her surprise at the hospital in February. She passed away in her home on Tuesday, July 20, peacefully.
Sarah’s gift was just one instance of a larger community effort called The One Million Pillowcase Challenge, organized by American Patchwork & Quilting and supported by quilting shops around the country. The idea is to make and donate pillowcases — tangible gifts of comfort, encouragement or inspiration — to others in need. To date, over 120,000 pillowcases have been donated and the challenge will continue through the year, so Etsy members have the chance to make a big impact. (The Quiltsy team has already sent pillowcases to Haiti.) Women’s shelters, homeless shelters, hospital patients, nursing homes or soldiers can all benefit from your participation.
To get started, search for a quilt shop hosting One Million Pillowcase Challenge events in your area. If there isn’t a shop near you participating, don’t worry — you can watch a step-by-step video and download free patterns. Creativity is certainly encouraged if you wish to use an original design. Once your pillowcases are complete, you can refer to a list of suggested charities or find a local organization that inspires you. American Patchwork & Quilting is tallying the total number of pillowcases donated, so be sure to visit their website to enter the number you contributed. You can upload pictures to their gallery as well, and mention your Etsy profile or shop.
Jill Mead of Quilts and More and Lisa Schumacher of AllPeopleQuilt.com will appear in the Virtual Labs on Monday, July 26 at 1 p.m. ET to discuss the project, answer your questions and demonstrate a simple technique known as the roll-your-own “burrito” method.
And August 23, our regular Etsy Labs’ Craft Night will be devoted to pillowcase making. We’ll be donating our pillowcases to Housing Works, a healing community of people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS. Their mission is to end the dual crises of homelessness and AIDS through relentless advocacy, the provision of lifesaving services, and entrepreneurial businesses to sustain these efforts. Housing Works will be providing the supplies we’ll use to make the pillows — donated textiles from their ten thrift shops. The finished pillowcases will be donated back to Housing Works. It’s craftivism, full circle!
More Craftivism Articles | Craft Night Posts | Pillow Category
161 comments
Sign in to add your ownartofjane says:
Wow.
1 year ago
VeraVague says:
that's great. very heartwarming. thanks for the article guys.
1 year ago
norajane says:
Love this! This is such a wonderful thing!
1 year ago
ParadiseBodyShop says:
This is so very sweet! Now only if I had a sewing machine...
1 year ago
rosebudshome says:
What a wonderful idea, and a great help to the community. Can't wait to learn the roll your own burrito method.
1 year ago
martice says:
I'm not really a sewer :S But I will try to make time after I'm back!
1 year ago
IcingOnTheCupcake says:
This is a touching and wonderful idea! Thank you for sharing and giving us the opportunity to help.
1 year ago
ImagineThatCustDesig says:
Wonderful article!! Sarah is a Beautiful young lady inside and out! I am so sorry for her loss. The One million pillowcase challenge Sounds like a great cause I will be seeing what i can do. Thank You! Tammy
1 year ago
buysomelove says:
Oh wow. Such a heartwarming idea. Thanks for sharing!
1 year ago
imirisi says:
Sarah is a beautiful young lady. And smart as well. What kind of sewing machine is she using? I do want to say sorry for her loss.
1 year ago
polkadotmagpie says:
Wonderful project. Good job Sarah! My son with autism works at a vacuum/ sewing store. 3 days a month they make pillow cases for different charities. He loves being part of it. Keep up the great work Sarah.xo
1 year ago
PACountryCrafts says:
Such a great story!
1 year ago
SimplyRiveting says:
This is very inspiring.
1 year ago
gumbygirl says:
I didn't know pillow cases could be so beautiful! Just like this story!
1 year ago
SimpleJoysPaperie says:
Thank you for sharing this heart-warming story and for giving us the links to follow through with our own donations. Sarah is such an inspiration! :)
1 year ago
aniandrose says:
What a great project!!!
1 year ago
LuRuUniques says:
Inspiring story.
1 year ago
NaiyaArtBoutique says:
Sarah is an adorable kid!! I wish her success over the disease as well as in her crafts!!
1 year ago
Chandeluse says:
How lovely. It takes a kind heart to give to another. I always think that everyone has more talent, more heart than what shows on the outside.
1 year ago
ZinniaSnipSnap says:
What a great opportunity! Thank you!
1 year ago
FromMyAttic says:
All the best!!!, what a wonderfoul idea.
1 year ago
AsLuckWouldHaveIt says:
Pulls my heartstrings! Sarah is a brave girl! This is a really fabulous challenge.
1 year ago
mexiricansister says:
What timing!!! I am hosting a pillowcase craft session at Fancy Tiger (see their Etsy store, and thanks again for hosting us)in Denver for www.projectvalentine.org Our pillowcases will all be delivered on Valentine's Day. I loved Sarah & Kristen's story!
1 year ago
elizabethwrenvintage says:
This is absolutely wonderful. Wow.
1 year ago
SewnNatural says:
thank you for this, it warmed my heart. very very inspiring.
1 year ago
akcArt says:
Sad, beautiful, and inspirational all at the same time! Amazing!
1 year ago
Tumus says:
awww I really like this idea, might give me something to do with all my extra fabric!
1 year ago
KMalinka says:
Very inspiring story!
1 year ago
maggiemaevintage says:
beautiful, touching story...God bless you Sarah!
1 year ago
bellasparty says:
Wonderful idea! Very inspiring!
1 year ago
PaperPicker says:
what a great idea...love the designs at the top of the page.
1 year ago
thelittlemarket says:
What a beautiful & inspirational story!
1 year ago
songsparrow says:
What a beautiful, loving idea. Thank you for posting this!
1 year ago
mietteLove says:
Wow. My grandmother, also named Sarah Ely, passed away, in her home, peacefully on Tuesday as well. I've never before in my life met or heard of anyone else with this name. This story has made me smile like no other I've read here. Thank you for your inspiration!
1 year ago
hankietankie says:
What gorgeous items...Wonderful work!!! XOX
1 year ago
BlessedBeeApothecary says:
amazing, gorgeous items and lovely article.
1 year ago
jbeaudet says:
What a beautiful project!
1 year ago
gertiebea says:
Beautiful, inspiring thanks for posting this. God Bless.
1 year ago
Knot2Shabby says:
What a thoughtful and loving article!
1 year ago
ZenAndCoffee says:
Beautiful and touching story! I love the idea and thought behind it! Thank you so so very much for sharing this with the etsy community!
1 year ago
MaMagasin says:
Who knew pillow cases could be so pretty! My mum works for a similar charity who make and donate quilts.
1 year ago
strawberryluna says:
What a great project and such beautiful ladies too! Our hearts go out to Kristen's family, and we think Sarah is amazing. Great article, thanks Etsy.
1 year ago
bushels says:
Awesome I am so there! I'm so excited to make some of these pillow cases! When I was in the hospital after having a baby a girl came in and gave me a nursing pillow that her volunteer group had made for the new moms. It was the simplest design (long stuffed rectangle), but is made my day! I used it the entire time I nursed and then again on the second baby. The fact that it was handmade made with caring thoughts in mind made it an extra special gift that I will have always! Thanks for putting this out there! :)
1 year ago
LuBluDesigns says:
What a great cause! Sarah has inspired me. Thank you.
1 year ago
TheFaithBoutique says:
That is a really cool idea! I wonder if anywhere in the UK does something like that, cause I'd definetly be interested in helping, anyone know if they do?
1 year ago
greengirlieusa says:
This is a wonderful gesture.
1 year ago
lindaketelhut says:
What a special friend Kristen had in Sarah. This is a wonderful story and creative effort to learn about. Thank you for sharing and best wishes to Kristen's family.
1 year ago
Evajune says:
Wonderful story. Thank you for taking the time to share.
1 year ago
Wishfulness says:
I love this story. It's a really amazing cause!
1 year ago
WoodysFlies says:
This is a wonderful story!! I am a disabled person as well, and have come to etsy to allow me to feel productive and worthwhile. I know there are others out there with the same situation, and it was wonderful to read this story
1 year ago
WhimbrellasAttic says:
Thank you for posting the link to the Quiltsy blog about our pillowcase project. The pillowcases are super easy to make and so appreciated when received!
1 year ago
GardenAngels says:
What fun, how nice, as soon as I get back from the lake!! You got it!
1 year ago
yoshibearstudio says:
This story gives me the warm fuzzies - very inspiring : ) Too, seeing all those pillows makes me want to have a PILLOW FIGHT!!!
1 year ago
poppyswickedgarden says:
What A wonderful story! They can definitely count me in! I'm bookmarking the link right now:)
1 year ago
BettyandRoland says:
What a great project. A big idea that everyone can take part in - fantastic!
1 year ago
LuttrellStudio says:
Gorgeous pillowcases and a fabulous, generous effort! I have so much fabric around.....I will dedicate some time to getting a few sewn up!
1 year ago
lovelygifts says:
Great article and product!
1 year ago
lorenabr says:
very cool ideas:)
1 year ago
SavoyFaire says:
Beautiful pillowcases! We do this with afghans in my area!
1 year ago
FabricFascination says:
Thanks for mentioning that the Quiltsy team has already sent a bunch of pillowcases to Haiti as part of this drive. Lovely article, hope you get lots more donated pillowcases.
1 year ago
carlossantiago says:
Hi there, I got pillows as well. and would love to be part of this! please feel to reach me and ask. here to help. best, carlos
1 year ago
bhangtiez says:
Great story....& amazing people making amazing pillows....
1 year ago
TheInspiredNest says:
I'll be passing this information along, and am motivated to look into making my own pillow. Sarah and her mom have done a beautiful thing. Thank you, and blessings.
1 year ago
Tobeyscrafts says:
Time to uncover the sewing room and start making pillow cases!!!!!!! I am going to have my daughter help make some. Who would think such a smiple item can have that much impact?? Best wishes to everyone :) Good luck sewing
1 year ago
StylesbyHolly says:
This is a wonderful idea and it is inspiring me to learn how to sew so I can donate some myself. Thanks for sharing!
1 year ago
beachglassshop says:
another wonderful project - this story tugs at my heart strings - thank you!
1 year ago
sweetjane says:
I need to do that...there are so many worthy causes! I guess everyone just has to find their niche. Thanks for the great article!
1 year ago
QuietStorytellers says:
This article exemplifies my favorite etsy trait: kindness.
1 year ago
VintageJamie says:
Thank you for the beautiful story and featuring my pillow case. It's so inspiring. I'll do something for the special needs children like my daughter in my local area. She is mentally and physically handicapped having Cri du chat(Crying cat) syndrome. My view of the world has changed since she was born. :) The world with her is beautiful and amazing! Thank you. Sarah and Kristen, they are so lovely!
1 year ago
CamilleMarie says:
I must learn how to make pillowcases!!! Great article!
1 year ago
breadandroses says:
I extend my deepest, heartfelt condolences to Kristen's family, friends and all who knew & cared about her. Sarah, you have a huge heart and know the true meaning of kindness, compassion & selfless service. And a Clevelander, too! For those who find it more meaningful helping animals, every area's no-kill animal shelter is ever in need of plain pillow cases, fleece blankets and simple cat & dog toys to ease the wait until these dear creatures find loving homes. They don't care if your stitching is wonky.
1 year ago
revolt70 says:
Lovely ~~.
1 year ago
jillmccp says:
The younger generation will do just fine! www.jillmccp.etsy.com
1 year ago
designlab443 says:
lovely idea, I will check into this more for sure!
1 year ago
ecozuzu says:
ooh I want to buy all these beautiful pillows! :)
1 year ago
McQphotography says:
This is beautiful work..
1 year ago
gilstrapdesigns says:
These are all some very beautiful pillowcase. Such a wide variety of colors and designs.
1 year ago
gypsystrunk says:
Looking forward to learning more on the virtual lab tomorrow @1:00 pm. Can't wait to donate a few!
1 year ago
PDXfabricdeli says:
Wonderful ....I will join in. Beautiful pillowcases too!
1 year ago
paperpyro says:
great story!
1 year ago
maria99maria says:
Inspiring!
1 year ago
mysweetstitch says:
So inspiring! So wonderful!
1 year ago
muchuanlin says:
These are all some very beautiful pillowcase. Such a wide variety of colors and designs.www.magents-fasts.com
1 year ago
muchuanlin says:
www.magnets-fasts.com.Wonderful ....I will join in. Beautiful pillowcases too!
1 year ago
muchuanlin says:
www.magnets-fasts.com I will join in. Beautiful pillowcases too!
1 year ago
irishandmore says:
There is a group on JoAnn.com "Reaping what you sew" that has put their members up to donating to this project. I am a member of this group, and so far, have done 12. Many others of the group have set this for their annual goal as well. I think it is a super way to "stash bust" for a good cause. They can be as simple or as complex as you want to make them. Check out the ConKerr cancer site, as well: http://www.conkerrcancer.org/
1 year ago
purplerozelisa says:
Very inspiring story! Thank you for sharing this. I have many friends that sew, so I am forwarding this on to them. I'm going to make the time to get some pillowcases made, from recycled materials of course!
1 year ago
CustomDogBandanas says:
Those pillowcases are beautiful as is the story. I definitely want to join! I'll ask my quilt shop next time I'm in! What a great cause. :)
1 year ago
thelittlebirdtoldme says:
Wonderful!
1 year ago
bunnygoods says:
i simply LOVE the idea of putting creative energy into projects that will benefit others, especially those who can use a little comfort and joy! COUNT ME IN!!!
1 year ago
kimmchi says:
Hope I can make it, love housing works and people getting involved for their communities :)
1 year ago
KMRhandwoven says:
this is a wonderful and touching story... how a simple, everyday object can touch others.
1 year ago
kmbutterfly says:
this is so fantastic! I'm blogging it and hoping my friends join in. I know a few people learning to sew and I think a pillowcase is the perfect place to start--and what better reason to get started? http://www.flyingblackbird.wordpress.com
1 year ago
ATasteForVintage says:
Thank you for sharing this wonderful story. Love and blessings to the Kirton family, so sorry for your loss. Best of luck to Sarah in her new endeavors!
1 year ago
elisawalshdesigns says:
A very touching and sad story. Its a shame anyone has to die so young.
1 year ago
CassiopiasCreations says:
What beautiful pillowcases. The talent and time of such a sweet young lady to bring joy to others is fabulous!
1 year ago
zstilo says:
Absolutely beautiful pillow cases! Keep up the good work!
1 year ago
aistheta says:
Thanks for bring this project to light. I love the idea and think I might make a few pillow cases to donate.
1 year ago
PepiRodriguez says:
This is very touching. I'm about to start sewing some pillow cases to donate.
1 year ago
mbedesign says:
I love the wood idea!
1 year ago
Junienone says:
I love this! Off to gather more info... (thanks for the article)
1 year ago
elizabethkelly says:
What a touching story. I never knew pillow cases could be so much fun! I'm looking at the pair on my bed now and thinking how sad they are! I'll treat myself to some new handmade ones. Thanks for a lovely feature.
1 year ago
KnuttinButYarn says:
Awesome organization, and God bless both of these brave young women.
1 year ago
hgoncalves says:
What a wonderful story! It really motovates me to do so much more.
1 year ago
uniqueandnovel says:
Thanks for telling the story behind the pillowcases. I too have been making some. My bookstore... Chicklet Books in Princeton, NJ is going to hold a pillowcase event in the shopping center some time in September. Watch my store's website for further info at www.chickletbooks.com
1 year ago
GatheringSplendor says:
Thank you for such a moving story. stay brave.
1 year ago
small4all says:
Very cool!
1 year ago
aselka says:
Very heartwarming and inspiring story. I would like to make and donate some pillowcases.
1 year ago
dearbitsy says:
Such a great idea with such humble beginnings!! I'm definetly inspired to get my sewing machine warmed up!
1 year ago
GreyDogDesigns says:
Thank you Etsy, for providing us with such a moving story to inspire us to create for the greater good... Now only if I was a seamstress. I'd love to try though. Bravo.
1 year ago
NagihanDesigns says:
This is very inspiring. Thank you ..
1 year ago
ohwowforlips says:
So inspiring and selfless. Nice to hear about.
1 year ago
ohwowforlips says:
So wonderful, inspiring and selfless.
1 year ago
TrueImageJewellery says:
Very inspiring! Thanks for sharing this lovely story, it really warmed my heart.
1 year ago
quiltdoodledesigns says:
A wonderful project!
1 year ago
wingedheartART says:
I didn't think about looking this project up on Etsy...duh. I found out about this via BHG magazine and sent it out to a bunch of sewing/crafty friends. We've been making cases for awhile now. Need to send them in. WOOHOO. Got some cute fabric to make two the other day with owls. Get it? Night owls? hahah Great article, thanks. www.wingedheartart.com
1 year ago
GlassCube says:
Wonderful article! This is just so inspiring. I love the idea of putting creativity to use in bettering someone elses life! Great Great Great idea!
1 year ago
TummyEarthFashions says:
Love, Love, LOVE!!! Thank you Etsy for bringing this to our attention. I do not know that I would have otherwise found out about this Challenge. I *will* be making as many pillowcases as possible! Such a wonderful donation! ~TEF
1 year ago
AndisAccessories says:
Touching story. What a wonderful gift for someone who has to spend time in hospital. Inspiring. :)
1 year ago
AndisAccessories says:
Not sure if this program is up here in Canada, but what a wonderful idea!
1 year ago
deepfried says:
Wow. I started embroidering a pillowcase 5 years ago, in an ICU unit as I watched over my sister. I was never able to finish and give it to her.. she died and it still sits in my sewing basket. Not sure that I can complete one now but I'm sure going to try. This is lovely. XO
1 year ago
papersweetsca says:
@AndisAccessories - there's a list of international stores including a bunch in Canada (I was looking for one in Toronto) http://www.allpeoplequilt.com/millionpillowcases/findashop/international.html I truly love this idea, and can already think of a few designs I'd want to play with; I'd just need to borrow someones sewing machine...
1 year ago
akcopperraven says:
Very inspiring !! Will look into it in my area for sure !!
1 year ago
morgancreations says:
Very wonderful story! I'd love to get involved! I'll see what I can do to work on that!
1 year ago
encantodesign says:
THanks for the article..ISPIRING
1 year ago
HelensCorner says:
I heard about this project through a friend and I was so moved! I'm inspired to start making some pillowcases myself. Thanks!
1 year ago
knofje says:
Oh, that's a lovely project..
1 year ago
galeriaVarte says:
beautiful, beautiful,beautiful,beautiful,congratulations!
1 year ago
GarageGypsy says:
This is such a great idea. Your article really touched my heart, thank you. Its inspiring to see how much of an impact an individual can man make on society and in our world :)
1 year ago
DigItDog says:
Such a Sweet Article! I wish the best to those girls families!!
1 year ago
MadeMary says:
I'm looking forward to contributing -- thanks for publicizing this great idea!
1 year ago
ilovemysoldier03 says:
What a sweet story! If only more people were like that.
1 year ago
yourlifevents says:
Love that this is on Etsy ! We wrote about the "One Million Dollar Pillow Case Challenge on our blog, made pillow cases and told people what quilt shop they could go to in our San Diego area to make and donate one. Great feed back and so easy to do !
1 year ago
kokadots says:
Very touching....awesome!
1 year ago
LoveYouSo says:
so inspiring!
1 year ago
ellaminnowpeadesigns says:
This is really wonderful! Nothing like having your very own pillow case as a comfort item. I know that was always listed on things to bring to the hospital when I gave birth to my children. I will be working on a pillow case for this challenge. I'm inspired! Thank you for writing this article ~Ella Minnow Pea Boutique
1 year ago
AlaCreations says:
wonderfully inspiring
1 year ago
Jodaycraf says:
These are gorgeous. Wish I were handy at sewing. I'll have to check on others I know who sew pillowcases.
1 year ago
EyeShutterToThink says:
So beautiful - I adore the teal pillowcase in the center.
1 year ago
GreatestJoyDesigns says:
Our Quilt Guild did pillowcases this year and what a blessings to see so many others doing the same, Great work all.
1 year ago
susissatchels says:
What a wonderful project for sewers of all skill levels!
1 year ago
vintagekraze says:
what a great idea!! thanks for sharing this article
1 year ago
Cardstashbyvalerie says:
Good Job, Sarah. I will have to dust off my sewing machine and help out as I can. Thanks for sharing this special article.
1 year ago
Laurajason says:
This is so great! I'm definitely going to give it a go!
1 year ago
greenappleworks says:
Very Touching!! What a wonderful article!!
1 year ago
TheEverlastingPosy says:
What a great article to read and such lovely colorful pilowcases to see!
1 year ago
wearbyelsy says:
I'm inspired by your article to dig through my cotton and start making pillowcases!
1 year ago
TwoTinyFeathers says:
Beautiful story. Wonderful idea!
1 year ago
innamorataitaly says:
Sarah is adorable. I love this story.
1 year ago
SWEEETLIFE says:
gives the imagination a jolt
1 year ago
MrsCraftyRVing says:
Wow a lesson we can learn - if everyone did one kind thing a day this world would be so beautiful. And this article just made mine a lot more beautiful... Amen to Sarah she is my hero of the day... And a day is a life time for me!!
1 year ago
BettysBeautyInBeads says:
I'm so touched, what a lovely idea. I'd like to be a part of this...
1 year ago
ViewPatricksArt says:
This was a great read, I wish I could sew...
1 year ago
bysharonmarie says:
what a great idea! i'm going to start spreading the word and making pillow cases right now.
1 year ago
CarefulLittleFeet says:
That is really cool...love to see people sewing and learning how to sew for something like this!!!
1 year ago
ommat says:
What a beautiful project Sarah is part of, I am so sorry for the lost of your Friend, she is in heaven and happy now, I know she loved your gift, I had a little girl that lost the battle of Brain Cancer and she loved the gifts made by different groups. XOXO
1 year ago
ommat says:
What a beautiful project Sarah is part of, I am so sorry for the lost of your Friend, she is in heaven and happy now, I know she loved your gift, I had a little girl that lost the battle of Brain Cancer and she loved the gifts made by different groups. XOXO
1 year ago
doggonepurrtty says:
God Bless You Sarah. You are a true inspiration. Thank you for all you do to add "kindness" in our lives.
1 year ago
EllaNannas says:
I remember when I first learned to sew in the 1960's how sewing a pillow case was special and we even embroidered on them for gifts. Those were white or you could even find the fabric that was bordered especially for the pillow cases. But these cases are magnificent. These are so creative. I think I will start up gift giving again with pillow cases. Will show this to our Hospital guild for their projects too. Thank you so much for this wonderful story.
1 year ago
jhillely says:
thank you again for writing this story. i just did a blog post about it and all the fun things i purchased from etsy creators for a display in our store.
1 year ago
FrivolousNecessity says:
an amazing story. and it keeps on going - they aren't finished yet! off to make a pillowcase!! :)
300 days ago