Home
Articles
Awaiting Surgery
Chat
Crafts

This can be helpful as a post-surgery item, or may simply be a way to warm the heart of a loved one who has been through a difficult time.

Just what is a cherrystone bag? That's a good question if you live in the United States. Otherwise, you might know what it is! And it's no use to even go about trying to make one of these unless you can find a source for cherrystones, known in the States as "cherry pits." You can get some from The Cherry Pit Store online (so far, that's the only source I've found), or you can collect them and make your own. You can find instructions for that at Mother Earth news. If you purchase them, it's really nice, because you will know the instructions for how to heat and freeze.

After you've found some cherry pits, it's easy to make your own bag. Just cut two pieces of 100% cotton material the same size. Any size is fine, although a handy general size is approximately 6 x 8" or so. Right sides together and using an 1/8" seam allowance and 100% cotton thread, sew around the pieces, leaving a gap to turn and add the stones. Turn to right side. Stuff the pillow lightly (many people have the tendency to overstuff them, but cherrystone bags are typically sparsely filled). Then use a 1/4" seam allowance and sew around the entire outside of the bag.

You can make a cover or "cozy" for your cherrystone bag. I knitted covers for mine, with a zipper. Of course, you must remove the interior bag before heating--never put a zipper in the microwave! Also, please note that it's important to use a natural fiber (cotton) for the thread and fabric, so that they can be put in the microwave.

General instructions for using: The instructions from your cherrystone supplier trump anything here. However, the general guideline is to place a bag in the microwave on low for under two minutes. Anything more may burn the cherrystones. Stay near the microwave and be prepared to remove the bag before then. You may need to use potholders and wrap the cherrystone bag in a towel. For cooling purposes, place the bag in the freezer until it is cool enough to use. Do not use this product before first consulting your doctor.

Do you have ideas for articles you'd like to see on the site? Did you write an article you'd like to submit? Be sure to send them in. Thank you!

This pattern was made by Melissa, October 2006, for Flattops. It cannot be redistributed. Flattops is not responsible for anything occuring as a result of using this pattern or the resulting product. Consult your doctor before using a heating or cooling product like this.