How to Sew Hand Warmers

Hand warmers can be made by sewing a set of 2 rice-filled fabric pouches with loops at one corner. They are microwaved on high for 30 seconds and will stay warm for up to 30 minutes, keeping hands warm by looping them over the middle finger.

Things You'll Need

• 2 fabric rectangles, measuring 4-by-7 1/2 inches
• 2 lengths of narrow cord, 4-inches long
• Sewing machine
• Thread
• Pins
• Iron
• Rice

Instructions

Sewing Hand Warmers

1. Take each rectangle of fabric and fold it with right sides together, matching the short sides together. Pin it together in the middle of the square.

2. Sew a straight-stitch seam 1/2 inch from the edge along the 3 open sides, but stop 1 inch before reaching the last folded edge. Make sure you back stitch at the beginning and end of the seam you're sewing.

3. Turn the shape right side out through the 1-inch gap, using a knitting needle to help you turn the corners.

4. Fill the hand warmer with rice until it is about 2/3 full. You can use a funnel if necessary.

5. Fold the raw fabric edges of the 1-inch gap inside. Make a loop by folding the cord in half and placing the 2 ends into the open corner of the hand warmer. Keep all the rice grains out of the way and top-stitch close to the fold. Back stitch a few times over the ends of the cord to keep the loop in place.

Tips & Warnings

• The hand warmers make great gifts for people who spend time outdoors or live in cold climates. The hand warmers can be looped over the middle finger, inside gloves, for extra warmth.

• Do not microwave the hand warmers for too long as the rice can scorch. It is best to test the power of your microwave by heating the hand warmer in short bursts.