How to Make Handwarmers From Fabric

On a frigid winter day, cold hands can sting. If the temperature is low enough, you can even feel the burn through gloves. If you plan to spend more than a few minutes outside -- whether you are sledding in the snow, watching a winter parade or your job requires you to be outside for periods of time, consider making fabric hand warmers. These small, rice-filled bags can be heated in the microwave and carried in your hands or pockets to add warmth to your fingers.

Step 1

Cut two pieces of fabric in your desired size and shape. For example, choose a heart or a circle. Make the pieces small enough to fit into your pockets. An average size for each piece of fabric is 4-by-4-inches.

Step 2

Place the right sides of both pieces of fabric together so they are facing each other and sew the two pieces of fabric together with a 1/2-inch seam around the edges. Leave a small opening at the top so that the pouch you formed can eventually be filled with rice.

Step 3

Turn the pouch inside out through the small opening so that the right side of fabric is showing.

Step 4

Place the tip of a funnel into the small opening of the pouch and then pour rice into the funnel so that it fills most of the pouch. Leave a small gap at the top so the rice does not overflow.

Step 5

Place a straight pin through the pouch near the opening to hold the rice down. Then stitch the opening closed.

Step 6

Microwave the hand warmer for approximately 30 seconds. The hand warmer should stay warm for approximately 15 to 20 minutes outside.