Instructions for an Easy Sew Heatpack

Here's an easy sew heatpack project you'll enjoy making.

The first time I tried a microwavable heatpack was several years ago at one of those fancy kiosk shopping stands found in the Riverwalk Mall in New Orleans. I was amazed at how something so simple could feel so good. You can make a heatpack at home.

NOTE: Safety first! Please do not heat your homemade heatpack more than 2 minutes at a time and allow it to cool before reheating. There is always a risk of fire if overheated. This applies to any you buy ready made as well.

What you'll need:

Fabric that feels good to the touch and is durable. Fleece, soft corduroy, silk, medium and heavyweight cottons are all good choices. The amount needed will be determined by the shape and size of your desired heatpack.

Filler. You can use flax seeds, oat seeds, wheat or dry corn that has been semi-pulverized in a blender. I read that linseed will go rancid after repeated heating so you might want to avoid that one. You can also buy commercially prepared filler.

Instructions:

Cut two fabric pieces to the desired shape and size.

With the right sides of your fabric facing each other, pin, then sew around the edges and don't sew over the pins... you might break a perfectly good needle if you hit one. Be sure to leave an opening on either one end or on one side of your project.

Turn the fabric by pulling the inside through the opening.

Fill with your choice of filler. Do not overfill, especially if you are making a neck wrap or a shape that needs some flexibility. A good measure would be to only fill it 3/4ths full.

Finish by sewing the opening shut.

That's it! You're done. What did I tell you? An easy sew heatpack and YOU made it.

You are now ready to warm it up!

For an aromatherapy effect: Add lavender sprigs, rosemary or a couple of drops of an essential oil to the filler before putting inside your heatpack. However, essential oils can be potent when heated so use sparingly.