How to Make Body Cooling Neck Wraps

Cut a patterned piece of cotton cloth so it measures 4 inches by 60 inches. With the patterned sides facing in, fold the cloth in half lengthwise and mark the center. Unfold the fabric and measure 7 inch on either side of the center. Mark each measurement and draw a line in between them.

Fold the fabric widthwise with patterned sides facing inward so it measures 2 inches by 60 inches. Using a sewing machine, sew a line parallel to the one you drew 5/8 inch from the edge of the fabric to measure 14 inches. Follow the same process on the other edge. Turn your fabric right side out and iron to flatten it out. Sew the tube closed on one side and add another line of stitches to strengthen the seam. This tube will hold the water absorbing crystals.

Add 2 teaspoons of water-absorbing crystals to the open end of the tube. These crystals can be acquired at a garden supply store and are typically used to rehydrate garden soil. Do not overfill the tube; the crystals will expand greatly when they absorb water. Sew the tube closed on the open side.

Finish the body cooling neck wrap by folding about a 1/4 inch of the raw edges of the fabric inward. Press the seams flat using an iron and sew using a sewing machine. Alternatively, do not fold the edges and use a serger to prevent unraveling.

Hydrate the neck wrap by soaking it hot water for approximately 20 minutes and then place it in the refrigerator. When the neck wrap is cool to the touch, tie it around your neck. Return the wrap to the refrigerator as needed, storing it in a plastic bag between uses.