DIY: Lavender Scented Microwaveable Neck Pillow & Hand Warmers

I have had back pain for years and eventually ended up having surgery on my c-4 through c-6 area of my spine. Anyway not that you are interested in my back problems but I just wanted to throw that in there when I told you I am addicted to my microwaveable neck pillow!! For years I had to put up with pain and it has been wonderful in keeping the pain down to a controllable level! 

Needless to say these things can be quite expensive when purchased at the store and are quite affordable and easy to make if you DIY at home. If you do not have a sewing machine at home you can still make them. Just scroll all the way to the bottom of the post and click the tutorial for using seam tape. I have included the directions to the neck pillow and also hand warmers. These really work great for little pockets in the wintertime for the kiddos and the hubbie even has a pair that he uses while hunting. Although his is camo colored. 😉

SUPPLIES

Fabric (fleece/thicker material works well)

Sewing machine*

Rice

Lavender oil

12oz or 20 oz water bottle with the top cut off

NECK RICE PILLOW DIRECTIONS

Step 1: Cut out a pieces of fabric that is 24”x4” in size

Step 2: Fold the fabric in half so the print is on the inside and you have a 12”x4” rectangle.

Step 3: Using a ¼” seam allowance, sew the fabric along each of the long ends. Sew along the top leaving a 2”-3” opening.

Step 4: Reverse the fabric by pulling it through the opening. The print should now be on the outside.

Step 5: Use the top of the water bottle to act as a funnel and fill the fabric tube with rice and a couple drops of lavender to the rice during filling.

Step 6:  Use the sewing machine to sew the opening shut.

Step 7: Microwave for 20-30 seconds and place on back of neck or shoulders.

HAND WARMER DIRECTIONS

Step 1: Cut out two pieces of fabric that are 5” x 5”

Step 2: Place the two pieces together with the print sides touching.

Step 3: Using a ¼” seam allowance sew the fabric together along the edge. Leave a 2”-3” opening on one side. Reverse the fabric by pulling it through the opening

Step 4: Using the top of the water bottle fill the fabric with rice, add a couple drops of lavender oil to the rice during the filling process.

Step 5: Use the sewing machine to sew the opening shut.

Step 6: Microwave for 20-30 seconds and hold in hands to warm them.

*If you do not have a sewing machine you can use seaming tape. Follow the directions according to the package. You will simply place the tape between the fabric and use a hot iron to secure it. You can see a tutorial using seaming tape here: How to use Seam Tape Tutorial