A complete tutorial showing how to make flaxseed pillows, a popular and welcomed gift, plus WHY flax seed is the best filler for homemade warming pillows. Check out more DIY gifts on the handmade gifts page.
Note: in addition to the tutorial below, you can also go here to watch a video tutorial to make these homemade heat pads filled with flax AND download a set of printable tags with directions for using!
My entire extended family loves using these easy-to-make flaxseed pillows for everything from sore necks to foot warmers (on cold nights it’s a treat to slide into bed with warm toes!). They have been one of the most popular handmade gifts I have given, as well as one of the most popular things I sold when I had a craft business. And the fact that they are super easy and inexpensive to make is just a nice bonus!
While you may think that rice or corn would work just as well – and be cheaper – as a filler for DIY warming pads, there are lots of reasons why flax is better. For a heating pad with lasting quality, using whole flaxseeds is really the only way to go.
Why flax instead of other grains?
- Flaxseed provides a gentle, moist heat which promotes healing.
- Flaxseeds are flower seeds, rather than grains, so they contain 30-40% oil which remains inside the seed to be warmed again and again. Other products lose their ability to retain heat as the water cooks out of them over time.
- When heated, flaxseed pillows retain half their heat after an hour. Under covers (think about those toes…) the pillow will still be warm hours later.
- Flax never has that “cooked grain” smell other grain based products have when heated over and over again.
- The weight of flaxseed is gentle and comforting.
- Flaxseed pillows can also be chilled in the freezer to sooth fevers or slight inflammations, though they don’t get cold enough to provide the numbness needed for things like sprains and back injuries.
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How to Make Flaxseed Pillows
Tip: I have been making these rectangular flaxseed pillows for a number of years now, and people are always surprised by how sturdy and professional-looking they are, and my secret is: only use the more heavyweight 100% cotton home decor fabrics. The lighter quilting cottons just don’t hold the heat as well, aren’t as comfortable to use and don’t last as long.
MY LATEST VIDEOSSupplies Needed:
- 100% cotton, heavy-weight fabrics like ticking, florals, home decorating fabrics, and even denim (similar to the the fabrics pictured above). This is a key to making them a step above the run-of-the-mill flea market rice pack.
- Whole flaxseed (brown or gold), about 2 to 2-1/2 lbs for each rectangular warmer. If you can find whole flaxseed in bulk at a local store that will be your best deal. Online these are the best prices I’ve found at around $2 a pound: To make about 10 neck warmers- 25-lbs organic flax seed (even less with Amazon’s Subscribe & Save); OR to make just 2-3: Pack of 4, 24-oz. Whole Brown Flaxseed.
- Sharp Scissors
- Sewing machine
- 100% Cotton Thread
- Large wide-mouth funnel (easier than the regular funnel pictured in tutorial)
- Dried lavender (optional), 1/4 c. for each pillow
- Wide ribbon for packaging
Directions:
1. Make a pattern. This is optional, but If you’re going to be making a lot of these, it’s helpful. Make it out of brown kraft paper in any size you’d like. I find that a 12″ x 20″ pattern for a finished pillow of 5-1/2″ x 20 is a versatile size for draping around your neck, back or warming toes. It is easiest to cut only one piece that I fold before sewing.
However, if I’ve got a piece of fabric that is close to that size I’ll use it, especially if it’s wider and shorter (like the red plaid pillow in the first picture) because that’s a nice size for using as a foot warmer. That size would be more of a square at about 14″ x 15.” Play around with sizes to find the one you like best- just don’t go too big or it will be too heavy and take too much seed to fill.
3. Sew the end and side seams. The sewing on this is super-simple, with a total of three straight lines.
-Fold the fabric with right sides together and start sewing on one of the short ends (folded side farthest from you), keeping the edge of the presser foot at the edge of the fabric, as shown, for the seam allowance.
-When you come to the corner, make sure the needle is in the fabric, lift the presser foot, and turn your fabric. Lower the foot and sew all the way to the other short end, keeping the same seam allowance and ending at the open short end.
It’s helpful to go back and forth a time or two (called “bar-tacking”) with the thread to lock in the seam, since we’ll be turning the pillow right-side out.
4. Clip the corners of the seams you’ve just sewn, as pictured, to reduce bulkiness when it’s turned.
5. Turn the pillow right-side out.
6. Fill with flaxseed and optional scent. Fill to between 1/2 and 2/3 full (depending on the fullness you want), about 2 to 2-1/2 pounds of flaxseed. This allows for movement of the seeds when heating in the microwave and for a comfortable pillow to drape (be careful, though, fill it too full and the pillow becomes like a rock…).
Optional for scent: Add about 1/4 cup dried lavender buds. Lavender is a soothing scent that’s not too overpowering, so I find it works for lots of people. I’ve also used dried chamomile flowers. Alternately, a few drops of lavender essential oil could be rubbed into some of the seeds before adding to the pillow. Just don’t add too much scent, as it can be overpowering when heated.
7. Pin open edge. Fold the open end inward 1/4″ to 1/2″ and pin as pictured.
8. Sew the folded end close to the edge. Use the inside of the presser foot as a guide and lock each end by going back-and-forth with the needle and thread. You don’t want any seeds to fall out!
And that’s it! Pretty simple, huh? For gift-giving, it works great to fold the pillow in half and tie with a wide ribbon. Add a tag with these instructions and why flax is so wonderful:
Warm in microwave 45 seconds to 1 minute, shake, and warm another 20 to 30 seconds until desired temperature. Flax retains half its heat after an hour or more under covers and can be warmed again and again unlike grain products.
Update! Go here to print off a set of tags for your pillows (and watch a video how-to if you’d like).
And with flax seeds, a little fabric and lavender (maybe that you grew yourself?), you’ve got a wonderful, inexpensive gift that people really appreciate.
Have you ever made these for gifts?
Disclosure: this post contains affiliate links and by clicking on them you help support AOC at no extra cost to you – thanks so much! Plus you can trust I’ll only share what I love. (You can always read our entire disclosure page here.)
NOTE: this tutorial was originally published in 2011 and has been updated with larger photos and clearer formatting and information.
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I just realized the flaxseed I’ve been buying to make these are whole roasted flaxseed. Do you think roasted flaxseed would be okay?
Goodness, I didn’t know you could buy roasted flaxseed, Amanda! I have no idea if they will last as long as raw. I guess you’ll find out. 😉 You’ll probably get a better deal on raw seeds, so maybe look for those in the future?
Hello, your insights into flax seed was very informative. Thought I would pass around that our local feed store sells flax seed for animal feed at $.71 a pound. There is a very small amount of stem in it, not even worth picking out.
What a great resource, Sally! I hadn’t even thought to look there. Thank you!
I am going to make a few of these as they will be perfect for my “hard to buy for” family members, that being said, I read your advised material to be heavy duty 100% cotton like decor fabrics. Clearly that must be comfortable or you wouldn’t use it owever I was wondering if you’ve tried or could comment on using flannel? I just love the feel of flannel and thought this would be a nice covering if it was a viable option.
I would appreciate any advice you can provide. I will totally use your posted suggestion especially if flannel is a poor choice.
Also, thank you for sharing as this really is something that everyone could use.
Regards, Merri-Anne
I think you may be able to, but it would have to be a really sturdy flannel and be 100% cotton. You may think about making flannel covers instead as an option.
Do you have a printable version of this I can print?
Do you mean of the instructions? I don’t, Kristie, but that’s a good idea! In the meantime, you can copy and paste into a text file on your computer and then print out.
Hi Jami, Thanks so much for sharing! I’m definitely making a few of these pillows for gifts as well as for my own sore neck. People tend to really appreciate homemade gifts. I really enjoy your blog and podcasts.
Thank you so much, Lisa! And yes, these will make you very popular. 😉
Would the inside sewing of this project lend itself to serging? Thanks!!
Is this project, internal seams, Serger friendly?
Thank you!
You can serge the 3 edges before turning, Karen, if you’d like. The top seam is closed after filling, so that would be a regular seam.
I have a flaxseed allergy. I cannot eat even 2 flaxseeds without problems. Would making an eye pillow using flax have the same negative allergic reactions as are caused from ingesting the seeds?
I don’t know, Barbara, I’ve never thought about that! There’s no contact with the seeds, but maybe some oil we can’t see is on the pillow? You may want to stick with rice for your filler.
Hi Jami, I tried your advice about the flax seeds It work great! Thanks for that advice! And now I’m asking how can this be heated if there are no microwave oven available? Can this be heated on tabletop gas range. Because What I thought was steaming the pillow but I think the seeds might get moisture. Any advise?
Do you microwave or freeze your flaxseed to kill any larva that may be in the batch hou buy?
I’ve never done that, or heard of any bugs that live in flaxseed, Marcie. It’s not like a grain, so I’d be surprised. You can Google it for more information – I’m clueless. 🙂
Could you add lavender epson salt, instead of the dried herb, to the flax for fragrance?
I’ve never tried that so I don’t know.
Any alternatives for Flaxseed for the dream pillows? I’ve heard of uncooked rice but would that be a good filler for dream pillows for example if we use them as giveaways? or if we’re looking to sell them for profit?
People have used all kinds of grains for these pillows, but there are lots of problems with that. Which is why I prefer whole flax seed and recommend only that.
Ahh I see, Thank you.. I just hard a hard time looking for flaxseed in my place and importing them would be a bit costly.
Another question, Flaxseeds are edible right? are they still okay to use as fillers even if they expire? will the seeds still have a good texture for the pillows? — or Is there a Flaxseed variant that are not edible? Also I would like to add a lavander scent to the pillows. if the flaxseed gets soaked into essential oil will it absorb the scent?
Yes, they’re edible – you can use them at any time in their life (I don’t think they expire for this purpose). I usually add dried lavender like I show here, but sometimes have used essential oil. I stir a few drops (10-15) into the seeds before adding them to the pillow form. It holds the scent for awhile.
Oh. okay that clears things up more on my side. oh one more thing are flaxseed safe to microwave? and when you add essential oils do you let it stay soaked for some time before adding it to the pillows?
Yes, that’s how I show how to heat the pillows so it’s all safe. I just add the drops to the seeds and mix them, no soaking required!
Do you wash cotton fabric prior to sewing?
I don’t because these aren’t washable. If you want to make a cover for them (just make another the same shape, just 1/2-inch bigger all around), I’d wash that because it would be specifically for washing.
Hi! Would poplins work for this?
Anything that is 100% cotton and relatively thick work great. The thinner cottons used for quilting aren’t sturdy enough.
Regarding heating without a microwave and no sewing required:
We don’t have a microwave (got rid of it over a year ago) and have found that we don’t miss it. To heat my rice or flax pillows, use immersion! Think very hot water in a crockpot, using glass jars to warm the seeds (cover with lid loosely, so any steam buildup that could form can escape). It will take longer to heat, but this creates a quickly-warmed flax that can then be poured in reusable cloth or sacs that can be folded and pinned. Alternatively, I fill a 4-oz glass spice jar with frozen whole organic flax seeds, put in glass container or ceramic mug, and pour boiling water around it to heat it up. Shake and/or stir occasionally and the flax seeds will be warm. I often create these and put on lid. Of course, glass would not work for a young child, or you can pour into a pillow protector with a zipper and simply fold it around to shape (may need more flax. Of course, exercise care when heating up using hot water and glass, but this method works. The idea here is to heat the flax seeds without exposing them to water or steam (i.e. in glass) and then pouring those warmed seeds into a suitable container (like the zippered pillow protector case) that can be empitied, washed and reused–the seeds themselves can be re-frozen between uses. I know this is not for resale, or the pretty way you wrote about, or even for use with children, but for those wanting an alternative to rice (I got tired of the smell!), with older families, this works great. My husband is currently using the glass spice jar method for his TMJ joint and it works great. I add a few drops of lavender essential oil, or in the summer, use fresh lavender or dried flowers. Thank you!
Great tips, thank you for sharing.
I have a 12″ x 12″ flax seed bag that I got years ago. I only use it in the winter. It still has an aroma but not as strong; chamomile and lavender and some other scents I can’t distinguish. Do I open it to add oils to the seeds or add oils to the flannel material? How many drops if I do add drops
I would open it and add the oils to the seeds, mixing around as much as possible, Karen. You only need a few drops (like 2-3), but it’s up to you. Just be aware that the scent is stronger when heated.
Have you ever used ground flax seed?
No – you wouldn’t want to because the ground seed would release too much moisture.
Would you recommend any other scents, such as peppermint? Would essential oils do the trick for this?
Thanks!
Can you also add other scents? Such as peppermint? Is dried lavender better, or essential oils?
Thank you!
Yes, you can add other scented herbs. I don’t know how long they will last – lavender is just known for lasting awhile. I have tossed a few drops of essential oils onto the flax seed before filling the pillows and it works, but again doesn’t seem to last as long.
Thank you for the info! Sorry for my excessive comments…I’m not very tech savvy, I just thought my comments weren’t going through. Anyway, thank you!
Jessie
No worries – glad to help!
Could you add other scents to these as well? Such as cinnamon or peppermint? If so, how do you suggest doing so?
Thanks!
You can toss a few drops of essential oils with the seeds before filling the pillows, Jessie.
How long would you say dried lavender stays good enough to put in a pillow? I have had a bag for about 6 years now! Wondering if I can use it up or if I should start fresh?
Well, it depends on what you mean by “good.” It’s all about the smell – if it still smells pretty strong of lavender, it’s good to use. If it’s barely noticeable, it won’t last very long in the warmer, but it’s not bad, per se. So, it’s up to you!
Thank you! You mentioned that you can get the seeds locally for $1 lb; would love to know if maybe you are in Portland? I am looking for the seeds to fill ” snakes” to block cold from under front door.. Thank you
I am in Eugene area, but buy the seeds bulk at WinCo, which is also in Portland. 🙂 If you need a lot, find the bulk-foods manager and ask to buy a 25-lb. bag. It’s easier than filling up a lot of those plastic baggies!
I was thinking of making Lavender eye pillows which would be smaller that what you made here. Was originally thinking rice, but now thinking Flax seeds. Would you think 2 drops essential oil would be enough to keep scented. I also was thinking of making it using cotton batting and making different covers in cute fabrics. What are your thoughts?
That will be a lot of scent – I’d probably just do one drop. The thing is it will wear off eventually no matter how much you start with – it will just be a stronger scent in the meantime. 🙂
Your idea of an insert with different covers is perfect, I would just use a heavyweight cotton fabric for the insert and not batting – I’m not sure how the batting would hold up to repeated heatings and the fabric is a sure thing.
I do alot of these from rounded shoulder packs, to 12″ + long neck supports to 4″ – 6″ round spot pads. I find the spot pads are great to put in freezer to put on bumps and bruises and if you do them in kid friendly pattern they will use them when needed. I buy a 50 lb bag of flaxseed from my local feed store ( you might have to drive out into the country) for about 64 cent per pound. Great deal!
What a great idea, Lisa – both the spot pads AND the feed store – I hadn’t thought about that option!
how long the flaxseed last a year or more after using it warm in microwave? I will like to know to do a pillow for my mom. thank you
Our flaxseed warmers last many years with us using them just in the winter months for warmth. If using constantly for pain, maybe just 2 years? I’m not sure, since it’s so variable. Many of the people I’ve given them too have said the fabric wears out first!
My local natural food store sells flax at 2.50/lb in 1 lb units which means the flax seed is always fresh. They’ll let me buy a 25lb bag at a lower price per lb too but I make for gifts using my handwoven fabrics.
Good to know about a natural foods store option. Thanks!
How do you clean these if needed?
You’d only be able to spot-clean areas, Samantha. We don’t usually have a problem with normal use (neck, back warming or toe warming at night) but if being used where they would get dirty, I’d make a separate cover that would tie or velcro on that could be washed.
Hi
Can I use a 100% organic cotton tea towel to make a neck pillow? It says you can wash it at 60 degrees C
Thanks
Yes, that would be perfect!
I had bought a very cute warming buddy -a giraffe-at Aldi last year and LOVED it. BUT, they did include lavender in there, and when reheated over and over in the microwave it really began to smell. So much so that my husband hated it. I just snipped open and found FLAXSEED to my surprise-plus the lavender and I emptied it all out, am washing it now in the washer, and will refill with straight flaxseed. Thanks for this great article!!!
I’m so glad you found it helpful, Diane! That’s too bad about the lavender – I haven’t had anyone tell me that after using it for awhile, but I only use a bit – wonder if that’s the difference?
I like the idea of flaxseed for these “pillows” since they stay warmer longer and offer a better flow and maneuverability for positioning on the body but I found the flaxseed that I purchased was so strongly scented. Is there a certain type of flaxseed to use or I am better off using a less pungent filler?
So weird, Stephanie! I’ve never had a flaxseed smell like anything and I just always buy what I can find at my bulk-foods store. Sorry!
Flax seed has a lot of oil in it. That oil goes rancid after several years and has a very unpleasant odor when it does go bad. Try to get the freshest flax seed, and store it in the freezer when not in use. Heating it should also help it last longer, since the oils are eventually cooked/pasteurized.
I have heard that the people use these as hot or cold packs when filled with rice. Do you feel that it could be kept in the freezer and used as a cold pack if it is filled with flaxseed?
Yes! It works like that as well, Sheila.
Thank you! I want to make a pillow With sage herbs – do I use dried sage or fresh sage herbs? Thank you!!
Always use dried ingredients in the pillows, Brigette, so you don’t introduce any moisture. Sounds like a fun scent!
I looked up “bulk flax seed” online and found several but was wondering if it has to be organic or can it be just regular flax seed? Also, I saw another person post a question about using eucalyptus instead of lavender and wondered what you thought about using that instead. I have a daughter in law that the smell of lavender makes her sick so wanted to use something else and didn’t know what else to use….maybe chamomile?? Any suggestions other than lavender would be greatly appreciated!! Many thanks!
No need for organic, Arlena! Go with the least expensive for this. 🙂 You can leave the lavender out for no scent at all – I do all the time for men who don’t care for it or for women bothered by it. You can certainly experiment with other dried things, though. It’s all up to you!
Many thanks for your response Jami!! May you and your family have a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year!! 🙂
anyone buy flaxseed at amazon?
The best deal I can find on Amazon is Bob’s Red Mill (and only the organic) here: http://amzn.to/1liFqKA
It’s 6 lbs. for 12.88 = 2.14/lb
This is a great idea! I found 100% cotton flannel. Can I use this instead?
I would do a test pillow, Jane, just to make sure it’s heavy enough fabric and that the flannel doesn’t hold moisture. I’m pretty sure it would work, but haven’t tried it, so can 100% recommend it. 🙂
I tried the flannel. It workded ok but had a slightly damp feel to it after I microwaved it. I don’t think I would recommend flannel
I wondered about that, Jane – thank you SO much for taking the time to update us for anyone else who may be thinking flannel!
Thank you. I have left over flannel from converting a fitted sheet into pillow cases and had been considering them for flax seed warmers. I’m sure another use for those scraps will present itself.
I didn’t know that flaxseed is a flower seed AND is superior to rice because of it’s oils and their retention. (Explains why it’s so easy to expect flowers after throwing the seed to feed the song birds in the snow!) Easy, no-nonsense helps. Thanks for sharing your tips and tricks! I will need to try this.
I had know idea flax seed had such great properties. Thank you so much for that information. I have made foot warmers with other grains and mine is beginning to be “not so good”. I believe I will get started making some more of these using the flax seed. I have some great fabrics for them.
I think you will be happy with the flaxseed warms, Sue! 🙂
Love this tutorial and the information… I made one yesterday and it did wonders for my aching pregnant backache! I didn’t use heavy cotton though, as I don’t have any on hand, so the heat escaped quite quickly. I also noticed it made me sweat a lot, so I will have to make a separate cover.
I am thinking of using some type of cotton gauze (now commonly muslin cotton) for the inner bag. Has anyone ever tried using cotton gauze cheesecloth? The weave looks very loose- I’m wondering if that would even hold in the tiny flaxseeds or not? Muslin cotton is a lot more pricey than the cheesecloth up here in the Great White North. Thanks in advance!
I am so happy I found your site!!! I started making some of these for Christmas presents. It was such a BIG help to have your printables and hints. It is nice to be able to tell people why to use flaxseed instead of rice when they ask. I especially like the ribbon you wrapped around them. Makes it look so fancy and pretty. Thank you so much! Have a wonderful Christmas! XOXO
Thank you so much, Carol – I hope everyone enjoyed them as Christmas presents!
Thanks so much for this excellent tutorial! I was hoping to make these for friends this Christmas using wool fabrics that I repurpose from thrift shop finds. I would think wool would hold the heat well. Do you have any experience using wool and do you know how it would hold up in the microwave? (And thanks for sticking with answering questions on this thread for so long!!!)
You know, Terry, I’m not sure that wool would work very well since there is moisture released from the flax when heated and heat+moisture for wool causes felting and a lanolin smell. You can always test and see, but I wouldn’t recommend it just thinking about it. Let us know if I’m wrong, though, and it works! 🙂
Hmmm… As soon as I read your moisture + wool comment I thought “wet dog smell.” NOT what I’m going for!! 😉 I think I’ll stick with some nice cozy flannel for now and experiment with felted wool – on a bag for myself – after Christmas. Thanks for your response!
Ha! You’re right – I hadn’t thought, too, how that would smell like a dog. Good call. 🙂
Hello, for years I have made corn pillows for christmas. I really would like to make these flax seed and lavender pillows especially that I have lavender left from our daughters wedding.
Can you please tell me how I can get it in bulk? Or the best way to buy it cost effective. I wonder if I can get it locally in an Amish Store? Any input, thanks!
I buy it at a local discount-warehouse type grocery store that has a bulk section in bins – it’s about .80/lb. there, Mary Ann. We don’t have Amish stores, but I would try that or any other place you know that sells bulk food.
How much will the flax seed cost you to make this warming pillow?
We can get the flaxseed for .82/lb. at our local store that sells bulk foods in bins. Each pillow takes 2-3 lbs., depending on how full you fill it.
uh oh i bought flannel material at the joanns sale will this catch fire 🙁 ? i had my heart set on making these
Hmmm, I don’t know, Kara. If it’s 100% cotton and not treated with any flame retardant (sometimes they do with flannel for kids), it should be okay I think. It makes sense that 100% cotton is just that and would act the same, so I say go for it. 🙂
I can’t seem to find the link for tags? is it still available? LOL
The tags are available here Nikki (I’ll update this post with them, too!): https://anoregoncottage.com/diy-flaxseed-heat-pads-video-and-free-printable-tags/
Love the idea with flax seeds but can this be made without a sewing machine? I’d love to make it for Xmas presents but no sewing machine. 🙁
Ah, so sorry Dominique, these really have to be made by a machine, since it’s important to secure the fabric with tiny stitches so the seeds don’t fall out. Unless you can hand sew with tiny stitches? Maybe you can borrow a machine?
I live in a small town and our Health Food Store carries Flax Seed (and Lavender) in bulk.
I recently made this and I put 1/4 cup of dried lavender buds. However after heating them about 15 times I have noticed the lavender smell is gone. Has this ever happened to anyone? Did I do something wrong?
Yes, that happens, Connie. I try to add a bit of lavender essential oil to the buds, mixing them well and the smell seems to last longer. But it will still eventually wear out.
What kind of flaxseed do you use? I bought some Golden Roasted flaxseed from Trader Joe and it smells terrible. (my daughter said it smells like rotten peanut butter). Its worse than the smell of the rice that I was trying to replace. Thanks
Plain flaxseeds do not smell, Iris! I’ve never gotten the TJ’s version, so I don’t know about that, but the bulk flaxseeds we get in our local cheap-food store (WinCo here – I think Cub Foods in other areas?) do not have a smell (though I don’t know if they’re roasted or not) and are about .86/lb.
I am so glad I found all these beautiful information. I want to try and make them as well for sometime now but my main concern is whether the flax seeds have an expiration date? and if bugs might appear in the little pillows? I should just buy flax seeds for cooking or with any preservative added?
Thank you for replying 🙂
I’ve never had a problem, Christina, nor anyone I’ve made them for, and I’ve had them for years. No expiration date and just plain old flax seeds. 🙂
🙂 Thank you so much!
Off to make some little flax seed pillows myself that I so much wanted.
Sending you my warmest greetings from sunny – hot Greece
I loved your blog by the way
<3
I bought 2 of these at a craft show at least 15 years ago. I am still using the same flax seeds but have made new casings a couple of times. I didn’t know it was flax seed until I wanted to try to make as a quilt camp project. I googled it to find out what those little brown seeds were. I liked your instructions the best of those I found.
Have you used other scents like eucalyptus?
I made this for a friend and added a “pillowcase” secured with velcro so it could be washed.
I bought brown flax seed at the feed store; 70 cents a pound in bulk bin. Some essential oil at an herb store. Will be making some of these soon!
I have received these as gifts, and used them until they wore out. I especially like the ones with lavender added, since I use them mainly to relieve my migraines. I have found that putting a small container of water ( 1/4 c.or less) in the microwave while heating the wrap seems to give me a more soothing effect, as well as keeping the flax moist for longer effectiveness. Just remember to cut down your heating time for about 30seconds less. It’s also a good idea to use a plastic container for the water, since glass becomes very hot and can burn you if you’re not careful removing it before you remove the wrap.
Thanks so much for the tip, Dawn – that does sound very soothing!
I make these for baby shower gifts. Babies typically fall asleep while we hold them and then wake up when we lay them in their cool beds. So I tell new moms to use these bags to warm up the baby’s crib (not too hot, just enough to take the chill off the cotton sheet), then take the warming pillow out of the crib, place a couple of drops of breast milk on the sheet, and lay your sleeping baby on the sheet. Now the baby’s crib is warm like momma and smells like momma (from the drops of breast milk) and baby will stay asleep! It worked for both of my winter-born babies and all of my friend’s babies too! It is my FAVORITE baby gift to give! Even my friend, who just had baby #5, who never heard of this before and was very frustrated w/ the other 4 waking up as soon as she laid them in their crib is trying this and it’s working!! She says she only wishes she knew this trick 4 babies ago 😉
Wow, what a fabulous use for these, Cindy – I’m going to remember this!
I have had people say their flax seed pillows got wet when they microwaved them. Would the type of fabric used make a difference with this? I did use fleece. Maybe I should remake these, given the comment above.
Fleece is a polyester, so when you heat it, the fibers can melt together. I have no idea what that would do the the flax, but apparently it causes moisture. 🙁 I only use 100% heavier weight cotton and have never had that problem, Eileen, so if you could remake them, that would probably be best!
Thank you for your kind response.
Do you think it would be okay/ safe to monogram the pillows?
You mean before they are filled, Aimee? I’m sure it would – monogramming wouldn’t make any holes big enough for flax to come through, if that’s what you were thinking.
Hi Jami! I love that you used pillow ticking for these warmers, as I’m making Christmas stockings for my brother & his kids out of this same fabric! I’m planning on making both of my brothers flax pillows, but making them in the shape of neck pillows so that they’ll stay on them easier. I bought some fleece at Jo-Ann’s Fabric annual 70% off sale, with this purpose in mind, but I was told that you CAN NOT put fleece in the microwave to heat, as it’s been known to actually catch on fire! I thought that I’d share that with you & your readers as a warning. Now I just need to find a use for this fleece……
I was wondering where you buy your flax seeds from. I want to make these, but don’t know what kind of flax seeds to use or where to get them from. I looked on ebay and there are different kinds & all expensive.
Here’s how I answered this same question from above, Dawn:
I buy them from a store that sells bulk baking items (WinCo where I live). I used to just fill a bag, but then they started carrying 25-lb bags of regular brown flax seeds for less than $20 which is easier, so that’s what I do now.
Hope that helps you!
Where can I buy the cheapest flaxseeds in bulk?
I buy them from a store that sells bulk baking items (WinCo where I live). I used to just fill a bag, but then they started carrying 25-lb bags of regular brown flax seeds for less than $20 which is easier, so that’s what I do now.
I was wondering how many of these warmers does a 25 lb. bag of flax make? That is using the measurements and size of your tutorial. Thanks!
Good question, Maggie! Unfortunately, I’ve never counted (and I think I’ve gone through 3 25-lb bags over the years…). 🙁 If I were to guess – maybe 10-15? Sorry I can’t be more specific!
I am using 7 oz per pillow. After doing the math, 25 lbs yield approximately 57 pillows! My pillows measure 3.5 X 9.5″ finished size.
Thanks, Erin, for sharing that – it should be useful for planning!
Thanks for this info. I thing I’m going to make them for gifts this year.
Hi, I was just wondering if you use whole flax seeds for this? I don’t know what the difference is, but I presume whole ones have some sort of husk, if that’s the right word?
Yes, use the regular flax seeds for this, Holly, not ground flax meal. 🙂
I LOVE this tutorial! I searched all over my area and finally found bulk whole flax seed and made several. In fact I have one right now on my lap cause the house is a little cold 🙂
So glad to hear, Lisa! I’ve got to make a new one for me – the weather’s getting cold and I’ve about worn out the last one. 🙂
So pleased I found your tutorial 🙂 I was a bit worried flax seeds might explode in the microwave as over here you can mainly only find wheat or rice. I’m going to have a try at making foot warmers this weekend! Thanks so much for sharing
Thank you for your free pattern information on the neck wrap. I sell prim bear, bunny and snowmen at my fall craft show, and would like to add these to my Booth. How much did you charge for them at your craft show? Thank you
I charged $12 Debra, and I just saw these for sale at an etsy shop where they’re selling for the same, so I think it’s a good price. Hope they sell for you!
Thank you, that seems like a fair price for a show.
Hi All,
I just made one but I added a second case that can be taken off & washed; closed it with velcro.
Great idea! I’ve done it a couple times, but mostly I’m too lazy. 🙂
Hey there! I was wondering where you get your flax seed for your pillows. I ordered some flax but ended up with what looks like a live, raw, golden seed that I’m afraid would smell rancid over time because of the high oil content. Your flax looks like it has been roasted?? Thanks for your advice! Your pillows are beautiful and I appreciate the step by step photos. Thanks again
Hi Lorien! I actually don’t know if they roast flax seed – the type I buy is raw and is from the bulk bins at a local store. It’s not the golden, though – I just use the regular brown flax. It does have oil, of course, but it never smells rancid and like I wrote will last for years and continue to heat. Hope that helps!
Happy Holidays Jami,
Found your blog while searching about flax seed warmers (I’m sitting with one on my feet right now) was so happy to find you are in Portland and went to Winco to find my seeds – perfect advice. Any ideas about where to find bulk lavender? I’m just making family gifts. This year was my first Portland garden so you’re one of my favorites, so encouraging and love your video tutorials – thanks for sharing all your great ideas.
Hi Darlene! Glad you found the blog, too. 🙂 I’ve bought lavender from Mountain Rose Herbs in the past – it’s organic and an Oregon company – it’s easy to order online. We lived in Ptld for 15 years, but now live in the Eugene area – and I have to say I’m not sorry to be out of the traffic and crowds. 🙂
Hi Jami: I made these 12 of these for all the women on my Christmas list; family, neighbors, my boss and co-workers – they were beautiful and everyone loved them. I ended up using Lavender essence mixed with the flax seed when I put them in. The scent was wonderful but faded over about a month. I refresh mine by putting a few drops on the end when I heat them. I heat two of them every night, put them under the sheets at the foot of the bed before I brush my teeth. When I come to bed, it’s so cozy, like I checked into a spa! Thank you for the inspiration.
Thanks so much for inspiring me to make these for my nurse friends at work! Can you give me an idea of how much flax seed you use per pillow? I’m planning on doing 30 or so and want to have enough (but not wayyy too much) on hand. One more question- is it necessary to sew channels in the pillows so the flax doesn’t shift? Thanks so much Jami- I love the rest of your blog, too! I love “cottage” and the reassurance that it is the mentality that counts no matter where you live! Blessings to you and yours!
Thank you, Ellie. 🙂 No, you don’t want to sew channels because you DO want the flax to shift: when you’re warming it and to mold to your neck (or whatever body part you’re using it for). I probably used 4 to 6 cups of flax seed per pillow (long rectangle) – enough to fill it about 2/3 to 3/4 full. I know your friends will LOVE them!
I’ve been making my bed buddies with pinto beans (which encourages me to whip up a batch of refrieds after ever 3rd or so use!), but I love the idea of flax seed and lavender. And you’re right about the heavier fabric — it does look rich. Love the wide-ribbon gift wrap, too. It’s fun, though, if you have a wonderful friend like I do who taught me the basics of quilting, to whip up some simple squares and piece them together with bands on either side. It’s really easy and people are wowed by the quilting. Thanks for the great ideas!!
Oh, that does sound wonderful – and that you have a great friend like that, too. 😉
I love these! I have always used rice for this, but you have convinced me to try the flax.
I would love it if you would share this at the Smart Solutions linky party. You can link up here:
http://theprudentpantryblog.blogspot.com/2012/07/prudent-projects-and-smart-solutions.html
Have a great day!
Hi! I make these flax seed pillows and my customers love them, but won’t lavender buds lose their scent in time?
Hi, Sage- yes, when I made these to sell, they were one of my most popular items, too! I’ve found that it takes quite a while for the lavender scent to dissipate – as in more than a year. When I sold both scented and unscented, the scented always sold out way before the unscented. People just really like the lavender- and it is supposed to be calming. 😉
This is a great blog – with so much useful information, and practical hints. Thank you so much! My aromatherapy pillows came out great…l.land now I am determined to get my cast iron pans back beautiful condition
Thanks so much for the encouragement! Glad your pillows came out – my whole family loves them. 🙂
I just came across this site as I was searching for a way to make an aromatherapy pillow – then I became immersed in all the other terrific ideas……(and, yes, I did make that pillow which came out fantastic!) – keep these great ideas coming!
Oh, yes, Lee- you will like the flax much better than the wheat! So sorry for your mum- hopefully here feet will be warm longer with the flax too. Best to you and your mum! -Jami
Gosh what a great idea, my mum has a “wheatie bag” but I find the wheat smells not so nice. Mum is very frail and has stage four cancer (but fighting it all the way, was given 3-6 months but its been 2 years and she is still here 🙂 Mum gets very cold feet though and uses her wheatie bag daily.
I have decided to make her a new one with the flax seed as above and add some dried lavendar from her garden, she will love that.
Thank you for sharing.
Anonymous: Good to know about linseed= flaxseed. Thanks for sharing!
Tami: Good for you! I still have half of my last bag of flaxseeds, but it’s nice to have, ’cause once people find out you make them, they’ll be asking for more. 🙂 Plus, I use the seeds in our granola! I want to make some little hand warmers, too!!
Thanks again for this post. I have my 2 nieces and a cousin( age 17, 13 & 9) coming over to spend a few days and make Christmas gifts. Thanks for the tip to find flax seed at Winco, I bought the last 2 #25 lbs they had which may be way to much but I figure once we all get making these I didn’t want to run out since it is over an hour drive to Winco. My Aunt used to make the rice bags which we liked but the smell I could only take so long. Excited to try these! Think we will make some little reusable hand warmers also. Thanks again, Tami
I think these are fantastic! I looked up cabi, and it’s a hot towel warmer. And according to Wikipedia, linseeds and flaxseeds are the same thing. Cheers!
Melissa- Could you be more specific? I don’t know what a cabi is. 😉
has anyone tried putting them in a hot cabi?
Thanks for the tutorial Jami! I’m excited to try making these! Sarah
Becky- Thank you for telling me- that’s so encouraging! 🙂 These really have been so welcomed- I’m going to make small heart-shaped ones for hand warmers this year, too, which I think people will like.
I just want to say that I follow your blog and don’t always comment, but you are an inspiration to me! I’m going to make several of these for gifts this year.
Thanks so much! Yes in the NW, next time I head to the city I will get some! I am helping my cousin’s daughter and my 2 nieces make Christmas gifts and this will be a great project for the older 2. My aunt used to make the rice bags but the smell gets to you after awhile so can’t wait to try these.
I filled mine with rice. It seemed to weigh a ton!
I buy it at a store here called WinCo (are you in the NW?). They sell it bulk and the one by me also sells it in the 25-lb bag which I paid about $18 for 6 months ago.
I don’t think linseed is the same as flaxseed, but I don’t know for sure…
Btw, I’m happy to help if I can! 🙂
When flaxseed is pressed, it IS called linseed oil…
Jami, where do you buy your flax seed? Azure carries it but closer to $2 lb, $1.50 for golden flax seed. Have you used the golden flax before? I read you can buy it at feed stores but it might be called linseed. Thanks for any help you can give me!!
One Thrifty- Great ides- sure wish I were one of your kids teachers if you give gifts like that! 🙂
I was getting ready to make these for teacher gifts, and now I will be adding flax seeds to them instead of rice! Thank you!!
Very interesting information about flax seeds. I had thought about making some herbal pillows but using rice since we had so much on hand. However, after reading your post, I’m going to use flax seeds instead.
Jami, thanks for the great tip on using flax seeds!!
Love these! I’ve made simple hot packs before but never thought of using flax seed. Thanks for sharing the advantages.
My packs stay in my freezer at all times and are used daily or many times a day for boo-boos.
Gina
Love this idea! I have a corn pillow that I’ve used for years but I do hate the smell.
Heather- I’ve not had someone ask about heating without a microwave before! This is what I found at motherearthpillows.com:
“Though we ONLY recommend microwave warming, we have heard that some have used Crock Pots on low setting, but turn and move the pillows about in the pot as the hot sides will scorch the fabric and damage the pillow if left to sit. We have been told that some use a heating pad to wrap up the flax pillow if no other option is available. It has been reported to us that a flax pillow can be warmed in an oven at very low setting and checking frequently. Extreme caution is advised as oven heat may inflame fabric. Make certain you do not over-heat in an oven as this is NOT the recommended method for warming our pillows.”
Vicki- Thank you! I’ll stop by. 🙂
Alyson- I hope it helps. 🙂
Jami
Thank you for the alternative to a microwave. I also don’t have one in my home, as they are really bad for health as they change the makeup of any food or liquid heated in them….. another topic for another time…
I’ll try the crockpot idea, maybe use another pot to put inside between the fabric and the crock pot.
Ohhh…I want to try these! I will be in labor this June and these might help! Thanks for posting!
-Alyson
http://www.peacefulmamma.blogspot.com
Oh, Jami, this is perfect!!! I have bursitis in my right shoulder and the pain just rears it’s ugly head at the most inconvenient times. The hot water bottle helps, but doesn’t drape very well over my shoulder. This is fantastic…and the photo by photo tutorial I LOVE, too!!! This looks very easy to follow. There is no microwave in my home, just an oven. Is it possible to “bake” these in the oven? Thanks for the fantastic project!!! Love and hugs from Oregon, Heather 🙂
You can heat it in the oven if you wrap in foil really well.
Several years ago someone gave me a pair of slippers filled with seed. Never used them as slippers, though they are great for neck and back pain and keep the heat for a long long time. Thanks for the tutorial!
I did not know this about flax seed. Thanks!
http://www.rebeccabany.com