A Rice Bag to Keep You Toasty Warm

FREE

Download the pattern here.

Update! I posted instructions to turn this into a Vicks VapoRub scented rice bag here. Use that version to help soothe a cough and clear a stuffy nose. And be sure to download the free monster rice bag cover pattern too! The link is in the same post. :-)

Stitch up this easy rice bag and pop it in the microwave whenever you need a little warmth. Make one for yourself - and lots more for gifts.

Materials you'll need:

• 2 squares of fabric - each 10 1/2" x 10 1/2"
• 2 1/2 cups rice or other filler
• scented mix-ins - optional
• sewing machine
• thread
• basic sewing tools

Skills you'll need (links take you to video tutorials):

• sewing a straight line
• turning a hem
• using an iron

Time you'll need:

• an hour or less

In the cold hemisphere you can use your rice bag to stay toasty warm. Heat it for one minute (or a little more) in the microwave. Use it as a foot warmer when you go to bed at night. Or lay it on your chest when you have a cold. Drape it around your neck if you've spent too long at the sewing machine. :-)

In the warm hemisphere - don't save this project for next winter! In the summertime my daughter likes to keep hers in the freezer to pull out whenever she needs a quick cool-off. Drape the cold bag around your neck on a hot day for instant bliss.

I've set up a designated group on Flickr where people can show off their finished projects - it's called Shiny Happy Sewing School. Please post your work there - I'd love to see what you make!

FREE

Download the pattern here.

Happy stitching!

Best,
Wendi