Whether you’re heading out to watch a winter game, taking a frosty walk, or just want to stay cozy while working at your desk, these hand warmers are a quick and easy project you’ll love. Use our free heart hand warmer pattern and have fun making these reusable heat packs. They make great gifts for friends, family, neighbours, teachers, or anyone who can use a little extra warmth this season. Let’s get started!
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Get our free printable DIY hand warmers template:
The link and picture below will take you to our free, printable heart hand warmer template! The PDF file will open in a new window. Then simply print the template on 8.5 x 11 (letter size) printer paper.
»> Heart Hand Warmers Pattern «<
What fabric is best for making DIY hand warmers?
We recommend using 100% cotton fabric to make your hand warmers. You can also use another natural, breathable, and microwave-safe fabric like flannel, linen, or muslin. Avoid using synthetic fibers, like polyester or nylon, as they can melt or scorch in the microwave.
How long do I need to heat my hand warmers and how long does the heat last?
We recommend heating your hand warmers in the microwave for 20 to 30 seconds. Since microwave temperatures can vary, keep an eye on your hand warmers and perhaps start with 15 seconds before putting them in for longer. In our test the heat from the hand warmers lasted about 20 minutes, but the time will, of course, vary. Hand warmers kept in a pocket will last longer than if they’re out in the open or used on an outdoor walk. If you re-heat your slightly warm hand warmers, put them in the microwave for less time than you did originally, or they may overheat.
What’s the best filling for DIY hand warmers?
We used a combination of rice and flaxseed, but you can also use only one or the other. Flaxseeds retain warmth better than rice, but they’re also more expensive. If you don’t want to buy flaxseed, rice works quite well on its own. There are quite a few other fillings that work well for filling a DIY hand warmer. Try some of the following:
Cherry pits Dried corn (feed corn or cracked corn, not popcorn!!) Lentils or split peas Buckwheat hulls Steel cut oats Barley Dried beans
You can even include dried herbs, like lavender, to add a nice smell to your hand warmers. Or add a couple drops of essential oils to your rice before adding it in.
DIY hand warmers are such a simple yet practical project, and you’ll love having them on hand during chilly weather. These reusable heat packs are easy to make, fully customizable, and they’re a wonderful way to stay cozy. Once you’ve made your first pair, you’ll wonder how you ever got through winter without them!
Here’s even more sewing craft ideas:
Fabric Butterflies
How to Make a Scrunchie
Fabric Headbands
Our book Low-Mess Crafts for Kids is loaded with 72 fun and simple craft ideas for kids! The projects are fun, easy and most importantly low-mess, so the clean up is simple!
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