Every quilter knows that a long day hunched over a sewing machine takes a toll on the neck and back. Enter the quilted microwavable neck warmer - the perfect DIY project to soothe those tired muscles and unwind in style. It's a super quick project that will make such a difference in your sewing practice! Download the printable instructions for an overview of the project, and follow the blog post for more detailed instructions!
What You'll Need:
To get started on your very own neck warmer, you'll need a few key ingredients: some fabric (go wild with patterns or keep it classic), rice and flax seed (for that heat-retaining magic), and a sewing machine (this is the one I use).
Fabric Requirements:
- (1) 16" x 34" scrap of fabric
- Batting scrap
What you need:
Take fabric scrap and baste to batting using adhesive spray. Mark quilting lines with your hera marker. Quilt as desired - I chose a simple 1” straight line design.
Step 1: Measure Twice, Cut Once
Take you quilted fabric, measure (2) 7" x 32" rectangles. Lengthen or shorten to your desired size - remember, you want it to comfortably wrap around your neck, so don't be shy with the measurements. Cut out two identical rectangles - these will be the outer shell of your neck warmer.
Optional: Trim the corners of the rectangles to create curved edges.
Step 2: Sewing Shenanigans
Now it's time to get stitching! Place the two fabric rectangles right sides together, clip edges and sew around the edges, leaving a small opening to fill with rice/flax seeds.
Once you've sewn the rectangles together, trim the curved edges (to lay flat), and turn the neck warmer right side out. Fill just over halfway with a combination of rice and flax seeds. Just rice can be used, but the flax helps to retain the heat longer. Remember, the neck warmer should drape comfortably, so don't overfill it.
Once you've filled it up, sew the opening shut and admire your handiwork.
Step 3: Heat Things Up
Pop your newly minted neck warmer in the microwave for a minute or two (make sure to test the heat on your wrist first - we don't want any burnt necks!). Then, wrap it around your neck, sit back, and feel the stress melt away.
Relax and Enjoy
There you have it - your very own quilted microwavable neck warmer, perfect for unwinding after a day of sewing up a storm. So kick back, relax, and let the warmth seep into your tired muscles. You deserve it, you crafting wizard, you! Complete the cozy experience with a quilty mug and candle!
