Rice heating pads are incredibly easy to use: simply heat them in the microwave for a minute or two, and they’ll stay warm for a long time.
The smaller hand warmers fit perfectly in your pockets, while the larger heating pads can be used to ease neck pain, sore joints, or stomach cramps.
These pads are reusable, environmentally friendly, and customizable to your needs. By adding a removable, washable fabric cover, they can last even longer and be kept clean with ease.
Let’s dive into the materials and step-by-step instructions.
Step 1: Materials You’ll Need
Here’s a list of everything required to make your own rice heating pads and hand warmers:
For the Inner Heating Pad:
- Cotton fabric: ¼ yard per heating pad
- Hand warmer fabric: Two pieces, each 3½ x 3½ inches
- White rice (not instant): 3½ to 4 cups per heating pad, 4½ to 5 tablespoons per hand warmer
For the Outer Removable Cover:
- Snuggle flannel fabric:
- Heating pad cover: ⅓ yard (28 inches x 8 inches)
- Hand warmer cover: 8 inches x 4¾ inches
Tools and Equipment:
- Sewing machine
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
Step 2: Cutting the Fabric
The first step is cutting the fabric for both the inner heating pad and the removable cover.
For the Heating Pad:
- Fold the cotton fabric in half to cut through two layers simultaneously.
- Cut two pieces of fabric, each 13 inches long and 7 inches wide. If you want a pad that wraps fully around your neck and shoulders, adjust the length to your preference.
For the Hand Warmers:
- Cut two squares of cotton fabric, each 3½ inches by 3½ inches.
Step 3: Sewing the Inner Heating Pads
Sew the Basic Shape:
- Take the two pieces of fabric for the heating pad or hand warmer and pin them together.
- Sew along three sides, leaving one side open for filling. For durability, reinforce the seams, especially for larger pads.
- Trim any excess fabric, and turn the sewn piece right-side out.
Step 4: Filling and Closing the Pads
Filling the Rice:
- Use a funnel to fill the heating pad with 3½ to 4 cups of rice (or 4½ to 5 tablespoons for hand warmers). Avoid overfilling; the pad should remain flexible for better usability.
- Fold the open edges inward and pin them securely to prevent rice from spilling.
Closing the Pads:
- Sew the open edge shut, ensuring no rice gets under the needle. Take care—sewing over rice can break your needle and pose a safety hazard.
Step 5: Cutting and Preparing the Outer Cover
The outer removable cover acts like a pillowcase and protects the rice heating pad.
- For the large heating pad, cut a piece of flannel fabric 28 inches long by 8 inches wide.
- For the hand warmers, cut a piece of flannel fabric 8 inches long by 4¾ inches wide.
Prepare the Edges:
- Fold the shorter edges of the fabric inward by ½ inch and pin them down.
- Sew a straight seam along the folded edges to create a clean finish.
Step 6: Sewing the Outer Cover
- Lay the fabric right-side up and place the heating pad or hand warmer in the center.
- Fold one side inward, then overlap the other side over it, like wrapping a present. Pin the layers together at the edges and center.
- Carefully remove the inner heating pad, leaving the pinned outer cover intact.
- Sew along the pinned edges to secure the cover’s shape.
- Turn the outer cover right-side out and insert the rice heating pad or hand warmer.
Step 7: Using and Maintaining Your Heating Pads
Your homemade rice heating pads and hand warmers are now ready to use!
Heating Instructions:
- Large heating pads: Microwave for 1½ to 2 minutes. Flip halfway through the heating process if needed.
- Small hand warmers: Heat for 30 seconds to 1 minute.
Caution: Always test the temperature before placing the pad or warmer directly on your skin to avoid burns.
Maintenance Tips:
- Wash the removable cover as needed.
- Avoid exposing the inner rice pads to moisture to prevent spoilage.
A Perfect Gift Idea
These heating pads and hand warmers make excellent gifts for friends and family. Tie a ribbon around the finished product for a polished touch. Whether it’s for warmth, pain relief, or just comfort during a cold winter day, these homemade creations are sure to be appreciated.
So go ahead—try this simple yet impactful DIY project and enjoy the warmth it brings!
Project Via Instructables – Get the PDF Instructions here.
