Have you ever used a thermal rice bag? Basically, it is heating pad made of rice.
I love to use rice bags to warm up my feet in a cold bed and to soothe achy muscles. Just microwave on high for 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to burn and keep away from moisture.
Rice bags can also be used for cold therapy. Just place the rice bag in a plastic bag to keep the moisture away and keep in the freezer over night.
I have made hundreds of these rice bags because I used to sell them in boutiques and on Etsy. Since I am no longer doing that, I will share my trade secrets with you!
For the insert, I usually use the cheapest white rice. A good alternative is brown flax seed. It holds the heat about the same and feels a little smoother in the insert. For a little bit of aromatherapy, I put in about a tablespoon of dried lavender buds.
To make a nice Thermal Rice Bag with Removable Cover, you will need:
1/4 yard flannel or cotton for the cover
1/4 yard cotton or muslin for the insert
2 inches of 3/4 inch wide sew-on velcro
5 cups of white rice
For the Rice Bag Insert, cut two pieces of muslin or cotton that are 6 1/2 x 19 inches.
Place the fabric right sides together, and sew together three of the sides. Leave one of the short sides open.
Turn it right sides out. Split the insert into 3 sections by marking a line every 6 1/4 inches from the bottom.
Fill the bottom section with 1 1/3 cups of white rice. (My daughter really loves to help with this part.)
Close the section by stitching along the drawn line.
Repeat for each section. Close the top by folding the fabric down inside and stitching close to the fold.
For the cover, cut two pieces of flannel or cotton that are 7 1/2 x 22 inches. (or 7 1/2 inches x the width of the fabric)
Place the fabric right sides together, and sew together three of the sides. Leave one of the short sides open.
Fold down the open section 1/4 inch, then fold it down again 1 1/2 inches. Press.
Stitch close to the first fold as shown in the picture.
Stitch on the velcro.
Turn right side out and put the insert in the cover.
Now you are all ready to enjoy some heat or cold therapy! This thermal bag is the perfect size for your back, shoulders, or stomach.
These are great as gifts for friends or family, especially in the cold Winter months.
Have fun quilting!
Hi Carolyn!
I have had some rice bags that I have used for about 8 years and they are still good. As long as they dont get wet, the rice should be good. I like the removable cover so it can be washed separately, or the rice can be replaced if needed.
Thanks for asking!
I have heard the rice will eventually go bad and develop a smell. Do you have any idea about how long it lasts?
Thank you for sharing your pattern, very good instructions, and I love that there are so many photographs. makes it easy especially if you had problems with the language, (not my case but still appreciated).
Hey Sharon! Yes, I have never had a problem with plastic velco in the microwave.
Is it safe to use Velcro in the microwave?