Last Minute Christmas Gift Idea – Heating Pad

Need a last minute Christmas gift idea that is useful and sure to be appreciated? How about a microwaveable heating pad? I whipped these up in about 5 minutes each. You simply need some flannel fabric, scissors, two to three cups of bird seed or rice, a teaspoonful of lavender (optional, but nice.) and a sewing machine.

Cut two rectangles from the flannel. I cut mine on the fold and only had to stitch up three sides. I’m thinking about making shapes, too. Maybe a set of hearts? Rectangles are really easy when you’re pressed for time, though. 6 by 8 inches seems to be a nice size. 

Next, put the two pieces of fabric together with the right sides facing in and stitch up the sides, leaving a 2 inch opening on one side.  My fabric was a bit wrinkled and I pressed it at this point. I should have pressed it before cutting and sewing, but I wasn’t worried about perfection because it was for my personal use. Turn the rectangle right side out and pour in the bird seed or rice and the lavender. Neatly stitch the opening shut and you’re all set.

Of course, you don’t have to stop there. You can do all sorts of creative things, like sewing a little ribbon loop into the top of the pack and attaching a set of instructions to it. (Here are the instructions I include: Place this heating pad in your microwave for one to two minutes and then apply it to your sore shoulder or neck. Tip – put a small cup of water in the microwave along with your heating pad to avoid a nasty scorched smell.) Or you can embroider the recipient’s monogram on the pad.

I’m trying to recreate a scarf with pockets that held microwaveable heating pads in it. The pads were supposed to be removable and replaceable but three of us couldn’t figure out how to do that without taking it completely apart! I want a scarf with pockets that allow the heating pads to be easily removed.

Photos by me