If you spend most of your day at a desk, you probably need one!
Every now and then I get a HORRIBLE pain in my back and legs, especially when it's cold out. It often requires a massage or long soak in the tub to relieve the tension but let's face it, it's not always convenient to take a long hot bath. So after a little searching on Pinterest, I found this amazing alternative.
I had completely forgotten I got the idea several months back while being harassed by a kiosk worker selling these things during a mall trip... Not to mention the were selling a similar package for $75! Lucky for me, I am a firm believer in DIY. And the best part is I got to pick my own fabric and scents (because let's face it, who doesn't love customization options).
I was able to make 2 gift sets (one of which was gifted to myself) for about $30 - that's a $120 savings! Each set contains several shapes and sizes for various reasons and with proper storage can last for years. These are perfect for athletes, kids, arthritis, aches/pains, cramps, hot/cold flashes, pretty much anything you can think of.
Here's what I made:
1. Filler
I chose uncooked rice and flaxseed but you can also use oatmeal, dried beans, buckwheat, dried cherry pits or dried corn. If you have to purchase any of this I would suggest getting the cheapest you can find... Remember you're not consuming the filling.
2. Fabric
100% Cotton and/or Flannel without any glitter, sparkles, or metallics, etc. They are a fire hazard. If you want to take a simpler route, you could always use a large tube sock.
3. Scents, Spices and Herbs
This is completely optional!
It's suggested to use essential oils, spices and herbs such as lavender, peppermint, cloves, rosemary, etc, which I found at my local craft store in the soap/candle making area for about $3 for the smallest bottle.
I personally used Celestial Seasonings Herbal Tea I already had at home. Every ingredient in the tea bags was suggested to use for these packs and I didn't have to worry about tracking down all the different spices. Plus, you don't have to worry about mixing and you immediately know if you like the scent or not.
4. Container with lid to Mix Rice, Oil, and Spices
5. Sewing Machine or Needle & Thread
6. Scissors
Now for the fun part!
Easy right!
To Heat:
For the larger packs like the shoulder or back sizes heat for 1 minute at a time until it's as warm as you want.
For smaller packs, like the hand warmers and for children, heat for 15 seconds at a time until it's as warm as you want.
To Freeze:
Leave in freezer for a minimum of 1 hour to freeze. My advice just leave em in there until you need them.
You can also make covers for the pack out of fleece, to keep the pack from touching directly on your skin or if you think it's prone to get dirty. That way you can just pull it off and throw it in the wash.
**DISCLAIMER- Please do not leave microwave unattended as some spices are more prone to burn than others.
If you need to see step-by-step you can watch the video HERE!
I hope this helped you! Happy DIY-ing.
