Last Spring, my daughter and I took a Mommy/daughter introduction class to sewing. I have always wanted to sew and after taking this class, I was completely inspired to learn how to sew. I don’t ever envision myself cutting out patterns and sewing complex projects, but it sure is handy to know how to sew to repair ripped material and to make simple projects.
My first (and so far my only) project was to figure out how to sew a Microwavable Beanbag.
My first attempt was at the end of the summer when my daughter and I decided to make Back to School Gifts for the teachers.
A month later, I got another burst of inspiration kick started from Camelot Fabrics. They have such beautiful fabrics to choose from and once you have a selection of fabric, it is easy to get excited about sewing with them. Instead of tackling a new project, I decided to try to “perfect” the one that I had already started to learn. I received some material samples from the Imaginarium Series. The fabric is great quality, easy to work with and has super fun and cute prints (as well as some elegant ones too).
The first time that I sewed with Camelot Fabrics, I decided to make a birthday gift for my friend, Lorena from MommiesFirst. It took me quite a while to decide which beautiful fabric I would use from all of my choices!
How to Sew a Microwavable Beanbag
- fabric
- rice, beans or lentils
- essential oils, if desired
- thread
- sewing machine
- scissors
- measuring cup
- elastic band or string
Step 1:
Measure and cut out your fabric.
The amount of fabric you use depends upon how large of a beanbag you want to make. I recommend measuring the microwave space and think about what the beanbag will be used for (adult or child and part of the body). When cutting out your fabric, allow for an extra inch in total around all sides for seam allowance.
Step 2:
Fold your fabric in half with the good side of the fabric facing in. Trim an angle on the corners.
Step 3:
Sew the two long edges and ONE short side closed, leaving one short side open to fill the beanbag.
Step 4:
Measure out some rice, lentils or beans (uncooked, don’t laugh!) and add a few drops of essential oils of your choice (or leave it unscented if you prefer). Stir the rice (etc.) together WELL with the essential oils.
NOTE: I have found a new family run, Canadian company that I absolutely adore called Penny Lane Organics. They sell various skin care products along with Essential Oils. I love the combination of Lavender and Eucalyptus oils (2 drops of each per 2 cups of rice), but there are many different relaxing combinations that you can try.
Step 5:
Turn your beanbag “right side out” and use a measuring cup to gently pour the rice, beans etc. into your beanbag.
Step 6:
Tie off the end with the rice with an elastic, a clip or a piece of string to ensure that the rice mixture stays at the bottom of the bag.
Step 7:
Sew the final end closed.
You can either hand sew or turn the ends in about 1/4 of an inch and use your sewing machine (this is my preferred method).
To Use:
- Be careful not to over heat your beanbag as rice, beans and lentils will easily burn in the microwave!
- I would start off in intervals of 30 seconds until you reach the desired temperature.
- Your beanbag is NOT washable, so you may decide to sew a decorative covering for it.
- You can also use these beanbags as cold bags. Simply store them in a ziplock bag in the freezer and use for injuries or to cool you down.
Final Product:
This is a simple project even my older daughter could manage to do as a gift for someone. I always wondered what they use for inside and how it doesn’t burn. My husband is very fond of this one he has had for years.
It IS very simple! It can burn if you cook it too long, short increments until you get to know the PERFECT time!
Pingback: DIY Microwavable Bean Bag
Pingback: 23 Thoughtful #DIY Gift Ideas for the Holidays Multi-Testing Mommy
I was just talking to my mother about making this for her neck/shoulders. That’s the cutest pattern that you used!
Thank you so much! These beanbags really help with tight muscles!
Next time i get the Sewing machine out im trying this !
Next time i get the Sewing machine out im trying this !