DIY heat packs
DIY heat packs are super-cute and easy to make. They're great for keeping your hands toasty, warming up your bed, or applying to achy joints and stomachs. What's more, these ones by Leanne Garrity are mini, so they'll fit snuggly in your pocket all Winter long! Our DIY heat pack tutorial only uses a few materials and is the perfect stash-buster project.
Collect up the scraps of your favourite fabrics and save them for this handy five-minute project.
If you're new to sewing, don't worry. We have a guide to sewing for beginners as well as several of the best sewing kits for beginners. You can hand-sew your DIY heat packs, but we have used a sewing machine.
If you need a little help using your machine read our how to use a sewing machine tutorial. We also have a best sewing machines for beginners round up if you're looking to purchase your first machine.
You will need:
- 4 x 12cm (4.72") squares of fabric
- 200g rice
- A handful of lavender (or other dried, scented flowers)
- Needle
- Thread
DIY heat packs
Step 1
Place two fabric squares together (right sides facing) and stitch around the perimeter, 1cm (0.39") from the edge. Leave a 3cm (1.18") gap to turn. Run a zigzag stitch around the seam allowance to secure raw edges.
Step 2
Clip the corners and turn right side out. Fashion a funnel out of paper and insert the nozzle into the opening. Fill the pack with rice and some dried lavender until it’s almost full.
Step 3
Sew the opening shut with small, neat stitches. Make a second heat pack.
Now all that’s left to do is use. Warm your DIY heat packs in the microwave. Gradually build the temperature in 30-second blocks, so you don’t overheat them. Viola! You’re nice and toasty. Sew up a whole bunch of DIY heat packs and give them to friends, family, or even charity.
Keep cosy the handmade way
DIY hand warmers are a quick, satisfying project that’s perfect for chilly days and thoughtful gifting. Once you’ve made a pair, you’ll want to keep a few tucked into pockets, bags, and gloves all winter long.
More fun and simple sewing projects
For more fun sewing projects, make sure you head to our sewing patterns for beginners.
