Neck Coolers

needed:

• 1 yd cotton fabric (at LEAST 42" wide) -- this will make 8 coolers
  please prewash the fabric to remove any sizing
• 1/2 - 1 tsp polymer granules per cooler (see resource at end)
  
• sewing machine or serger
  

helpful:

• rotary cutter and mat (makes for quick cutting)
  

here are some objects that have been reported as useful when filling the pockets with crystals:

---

• Cut or tear strips 4 1/2" wide by the fabric width (selvedge to selvedge). I usually use 45" wide fab, so I just cut them the width of the fabric -- 45" should be the max
  NOTE: If your fabric is too wide (or not wide enough), purchase 1 1/4 yards and cut in the direction of the selvedge (from top to bottom) instead.
  
  
• Fold in half, right sides together, on the long edge
  
  
• Sew/serge the long seam and turn. Iron. As shown above, the seam has been placed in the center back, rather than at the edge. Now you have a tube about 2" wide and 40 - 45" long
  
  
• Mark the center of the long edge and stitch across it. Drop in a scant 1/8 tsp of crystals on each side of the seam (I used Watersorb, make a test tie with the brand you're using to be sure this isn't too much/too little after it's soaked).
  Mark 4 1/2" from the center seam and seam again.
  
  
• Now you have 2 pockets with crystals.
  
  
• Drop in another scant 1/8 tsp of in both sides and seam like before (4 1/2 inches from the first set of seams). You should have a total of 4 pockets.
  NOTE: Some people make 2 pockets that are 9"/10" each, and some make just one 18" pocket. For longer pockets, adjust the quantity of granules accordingly.
  
  
• Serge ends (or fold in raw edges and sew across) to finish ... I personally prefer the ends diagonal. THE SHIPS PROJECT: please tuck in and sew, do not just serge to finish ends.