Relax With a DIY Microwaveable Neck Warmer

Some people are always hot and some are always cold. I am of the latter persuasion. During this chilly winter season you can find me on the sofa, wearing thermals, fleece-lined sweatpants, a cashmere sweater and a down jacket — sometimes with a blanket across my lap. But I just discovered a game changer for us perpetually freezing people: a microwaveable neck warmer. 

You can create one yourself with a sock and some rice, with no sewing required. Just pop it in the microwave for about two minutes and then wrap it around your neck for instant warmth. It also can provide relief for sore shoulder muscles. And while you’re at it, add a few drops of essential oils for a little aromatherapy. 

If you make this project, we’d love to see it!
Post it on social media with #JJcrafts

What you’ll need:
Tube sock or knee sock
Uncooked rice
Essential oil like lavender
Paper plate

1. Start with a long tube sock. I used one that is 24 inches long. A tube sock works better for this project because its straight, without a heel section; but if you can’t find a tube sock, a knee sock will do just fine. Also, try to use a sock that is mostly cotton. Acrylic socks are basically plastic and don’t microwave well.

2. Depending on the length of your sock, you will need about three to four cups of uncooked rice to fill it. Before putting the rice in the sock, mix into the rice about 10 drops of an essential oil, such as lavender, to give it a relaxing aroma. 

3. Fold a paper plate so it looks like a taco and insert it halfway into the sock. Pour the rice from a measuring cup into the paper plate, which will act as a funnel so you don’t spill rice everywhere. Keep in mind that, although you want the sock to be full, you don’t want it so full that the sock doesn’t bend.

4. Tie a knot at the open end of the sock, and your neck warmer is done. When you want to use it, put it in the microwave and zap it for one-minute intervals until it is warm enough for you. For me, two minutes was enough. Don’t heat it too much, as you don’t want it to burn your skin. You can reuse your neck warmer over and over, adding drops of essential oils to the outside of the sock as you wish. You can also replace the rice with a new batch by untying the knot.

Jonathan Fong is the author of “Flowers That Wow” and “Parties That Wow,” and host of “Style With a Smile” on YouTube. You can see more of his do-it-yourself projects at jonathanfongstyle.com.