I absolutely love sewing! It’s a hobby that allows me to express my creativity while also making practical and useful items. One of my favorite projects to work on are microwave bowl holders. These handy items not only protect your hands from the heat of hot bowls, but they also add a touch of style to your kitchen. Plus, they make great gifts for friends and family!
Gathering Supplies
Before starting a sewing project, it’s important to gather all the necessary supplies. For microwave bowl holders, you’ll need the following:
Fabric
Choose a fabric that is microwave safe, such as 100% cotton. Avoid fabrics with metallic and synthetic content, as they can be a fire hazard in the microwave.
Batting
Thermal batting is ideal for microwave bowl holders, as it helps to insulate the heat. Look for batting that is specifically labeled as microwave-safe.
Thread
Use a high-quality thread that matches your fabric. You want to ensure that your stitches are strong and durable.
Sewing Machine
A sewing machine will make this project much easier and faster, but you can also sew by hand if you prefer.
Scissors
A good pair of fabric scissors is essential for cutting your fabric and batting.
Pins
Pins will help hold your fabric in place while sewing.
Iron
An iron will be needed to press your fabric and create crisp edges.
Cutting and Preparing the Fabric
Once you have all your supplies gathered, it’s time to start cutting and preparing your fabric. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Measure and Cut
Start by measuring and cutting two squares of fabric, each measuring 10 inches by 10 inches. These will be the main pieces of your microwave bowl holder.
Next, cut two squares of thermal batting, each measuring 10 inches by 10 inches. These will provide the insulation for your bowl holder.
You may also want to cut a strip of fabric, approximately 2 inches wide and 20 inches long, to use as a handle for your bowl holder.
Step 2: Ironing
Take one of the fabric squares and place it right-side down on your ironing board. Position one of the thermal batting squares on top of it.
Set your iron to a medium heat setting and press the batting to the fabric, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Repeat this process with the second fabric square and thermal batting.
Step 3: Adding the Handle (optional)
If you’ve chosen to add a handle to your microwave bowl holder, fold the fabric strip in half lengthwise, with the wrong sides facing each other.
Press along the fold with your iron to create a crease.
Open up the strip and fold each long edge towards the center crease. Press again with the iron.
With the edges folded in, fold the strip in half again along the original crease. Press one final time to create your handle.
Assembling the Microwave Bowl Holder
Now that your fabric and batting are prepared, it’s time to assemble your microwave bowl holder. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Place the Fabric
Take one of the fabric and batting squares and place it right-side up on your work surface.
Position the second fabric and batting square on top of it, right-side down. The right sides of the fabric should be facing each other, with the batting in between.
If you’re using a handle, position the ends of the handle between the two fabric squares, about 1 inch from the corner.
Step 2: Pinning and Sewing
Pin the edges of the fabric squares together, leaving a small opening on one side for turning.
Using a ¼ inch seam allowance, sew around the edges of the fabric squares, securing all layers together. Remember to leave the opening for turning.
Backstitch at the beginning and end of your seams to reinforce the stitches.
Step 3: Turning and Finishing
Carefully trim the excess fabric at the corners to reduce bulk. Be careful not to cut through your stitches.
Turn the bowl holder right-side out through the opening you left earlier.
Use a point turner or a chopstick to gently push out the corners and create crisp edges.
Press the bowl holder with an iron, paying special attention to the edges to ensure they are smooth and flat.
Finally, stitch closed the opening using a ladder stitch or slipstitch.
Enjoy Your Microwave Bowl Holders!
Congratulations! You’ve just completed your very own microwave bowl holders. Now you can enjoy your favorite hot soups, stews, and microwaveable meals without worrying about burning your hands. These bowl holders also make fantastic gifts for family and friends. Customize them with different fabrics to match individual styles and kitchen decor. So, grab your supplies, power up your sewing machine, and get ready to create these practical and stylish additions to your kitchen!
