Tips On Preparing Your Own Lavender Neck Wraps

By Krystal Branch


Overworked muscles can build stress and develop a lot of pain leaving you feeling very uncomfortable. There are various ways to relief sore muscles and one effective method is use of lavender neck wraps. These products are common in local and online stores but one can make in their homes too. The ingredients are readily available and this gives you a good reason to try preparing yours any time you are in need. Below are simple steps to help with the process.

Begin by choosing a suitable fabric. Different fabrics exist in the stores but one can recycle old towels, shirts, socks among others. Of importance is to stay off materials that contain any metals as these can catch fire when heating the wrap. A large thick sock would be your best option since it comes in tubular shape and already sewn on the sides.

Take measurements of your neck with a fabric tape measure and add 0.5 inch (1.3 cm) to account for the seams. If you do not want to measure, a length of about 20 inches (51 cm) and a width of 5 inches (13 cm) will also work. Cut your piece of cloth into this size.

Your next step is to fill the cloth. Flax seed, long-grain white rice, oatmeal or barley are good options for your homemade wrap. If you choose rice, do not use instant, as it may cook when heated. To get a good scent, you can mix an essential oil or spice with the filling in a large bowl. Let this sit for one or two days, stirring frequently so the aroma is distributed evenly.

Cut the fabric into the desired measurements. Those using a sock or towel may not need to cut. If you intend to use a double fabric, cut into rectangle the inner and outer materials. Make sure to cut the lining slightly smaller than the outer cover. 0.5 inch smaller will work.

Fold the material lengthwise, with the inside facing out. Secure it in place with a pin across the open length and both ends so the seams will hold together while you sew. Use a needle and thread or a machine to sew the length and one end. Keep your stitches tight so that small grains of rice will not poke through. Sew the other end and leave a one-inch (2.54 cm) opening at the end of the remaining seam.

If sewing an inner and outer bag, leave one end all the way open on the outer bag. You will need to open the outer bag regularly while you heat the inner. Turn the fabric right-side-out through the one-inch opening on the side. Use a funnel to pour the scented grains into the inner sack. Fill only halfway or three-fourths full, as the wrap will conform better to your body. Use a zipper foot on a machine or a needle and thread to close up the remaining seam.

When using the lavender neck wraps, the inner bag is warmed by placing it in a microwave and heat for 90 seconds. One can continue heating in intervals of 30 seconds if the bag does not warm enough. Place the warm bag around the shoulders and leave it there for about 20 minutes. Always clean your wrap regularly and replace the grains depending on how frequently you use it.




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