Olivia Carter
Are you tired of burning your hands when taking out hot dishes from the microwave? Look no further! In this tutorial, we will show you how to sew your own microwave oven mitts to protect your hands from those scorching hot plates and bowls.
These oven mitts are not like your regular store-bought ones. They are specially designed to withstand the high temperatures of a microwave. With a few simple materials and a little bit of sewing know-how, you can create a stylish and functional set of microwave oven mitts that will make your cooking experience much safer and more enjoyable.
Before we get started, make sure you have all the necessary materials. You will need heat-resistant fabric, such as cotton duck or quilted fabric, as well as insulated batting and a heat-resistant thread. Additionally, you will need a sewing machine, scissors, pins, and measuring tape. Once you have gathered all your supplies, let’s start sewing!
Step 1: Measure and Cut
Start by measuring your hand to ensure a proper fit. Wrap the measuring tape around the widest part of your hand and add an extra half-inch for seam allowance. This will be the width of your mitt. For the length, measure from the base of your thumb to your wrist. Add an inch for seam allowance. Once you have your measurements, cut two pieces of fabric and two pieces of batting to these dimensions.
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Prepare your materials
Before you begin sewing your microwave oven mitts, make sure you have all the necessary materials ready. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
- Fabric: Choose a heat-resistant fabric such as cotton or quilted material. You’ll need two pieces measuring 10×10 inches for each mitt.
- Insulated batting: This will provide extra heat protection. Cut two pieces measuring 10×10 inches for each mitt.
- Thread: Select a thread color that complements your fabric.
- Scissors: You’ll need both fabric scissors and regular scissors for cutting the fabric and batting.
- Pins: Use pins to hold the fabric and batting layers together as you sew.
- Marking tool: A fabric marker or chalk can be useful for marking the fabric before sewing.
- Sewing machine: While you can sew by hand, a sewing machine will make the process faster and more efficient.
- Iron: You’ll need an iron for pressing the fabric and creating crisp seams.
- Ironing board or pressing surface: This will provide a flat surface for ironing your fabric.
Once you have gathered all the materials, you’ll be ready to start sewing your microwave oven mitts.
Choose the fabric and batting
When making microwave oven mitts, it’s important to choose the right fabric and batting to ensure proper insulation and protection from heat. Here are some factors to consider when selecting materials:
Type of fabric
Opt for fabrics that are heat-resistant and can withstand high temperatures. Natural fibers such as cotton and linen are great choices as they are breathable and do not melt when exposed to heat. Avoid using synthetic materials like polyester or nylon as they can melt and cause burns.
Batting
Choose a batting that provides good insulation without being too bulky. Insulated batting, such as cotton with a layer of heat-resistant material like polyester, is ideal for microwave oven mitts. It helps to trap the heat inside and protects your hands from being burned.
Consider using double layers of batting for extra protection in case of long exposure to heat.
Additionally, make sure to pre-wash and pre-shrink the fabric and batting before starting the sewing process. This will prevent any unwanted shrinking or distortion after the oven mitts are made.
By carefully selecting the fabric and batting, you can ensure that your microwave oven mitts are not only functional but also safe to use in your kitchen.
Cut out the pattern
Once you have gathered all the necessary materials and chosen your fabric, it’s time to cut out the pattern. Start by printing out the pattern template provided or drawing your own using the measurements provided. You can adjust the size of the pattern to fit your hand if needed.
Place the pattern onto your fabric and secure it in place with pins. Make sure to align the grainline of the fabric with the grainline indicated on the pattern. Trace around the pattern using a fabric marker or a pen with disappearing ink. Be careful not to stretch the fabric as you trace.
Once you have traced the pattern, remove the pins and carefully cut out the fabric along the traced lines. Take your time and cut as accurately as possible to ensure that your oven mitts turn out well. Repeat this process for the second mitt, making sure to mirror the pattern so that you have a left and a right mitt.
After cutting out the fabric, you may also want to cut out a layer of Insul-Bright or other insulating material to line the mitts. This will help protect your hands from the heat of the microwave. Cut the insulation to match the shape and size of the fabric mitts.
Trace and cut out the pattern pieces
Before you can start sewing your microwave oven mitts, you’ll need to trace and cut out the pattern pieces. Here’s how:
- Print out the oven mitt pattern template provided. Make sure your printer is set to 100% scale and that the pattern prints out correctly.
- Take a piece of sturdy paper, such as butcher paper or cardstock, and place it on a flat surface.
- Place the printed pattern template on top of the sturdy paper, making sure it is aligned properly.
- Use a pencil or fabric marker to trace around the outline of the pattern pieces onto the sturdy paper. Be sure to trace all the necessary pieces, including the main mitt piece, the thumb piece, and any additional pieces that may be included in the pattern.
- Once you have traced all the pieces, carefully cut them out along the traced lines. Take your time to ensure that you are cutting accurately.
- Repeat this process for any additional oven mitts you plan to make.
Once you have traced and cut out all the pattern pieces, you are ready to move on to the next step in making your microwave oven mitts.
Sew the layers together
Once you have cut out your fabric pieces and insulated batting, it’s time to sew them together to create the mitts. Here are the steps to follow:
1. Place the fabric and batting layers
Take one of the fabric pieces and place it right-side up on your work surface. Then, place the insulated batting on top of it, aligning the edges. Finally, place the second fabric piece right-side down on top of the batting, aligning the edges once again.
2. Pin the layers together
Use sewing pins to secure the three layers together. Place pins around the edges, making sure all layers are aligned and there are no wrinkles or folds.
3. Sew around the edges
With your sewing machine set to a straight stitch, sew around the edges of the layers, leaving a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Start sewing a few inches away from one corner, backstitch to secure, and continue sewing all the way around, stopping a few inches before reaching the starting point. Backstitch again to secure the stitches.
4. Trim the excess fabric
Trim the excess fabric and batting around the edges, leaving a 1/4 inch seam allowance. Be careful not to cut through your stitches.
5. Turn the mitts inside out
Carefully turn the mitts inside out through the opening you left in the stitching. Gently push out the corners with a blunt object, such as a pencil, to ensure they are fully turned out.
6. Press the mitts
Using an iron set to a low heat, press the mitts to remove any wrinkles and give them a neat finish. Pay special attention to the edges and corners.
Now your microwave oven mitts are ready to use! Follow the same steps to sew any additional pairs you want to make. Enjoy your newly-sewn mitts and confidently handle hot dishes in your kitchen!
Sew the fabric and batting layers together
To create the microwave oven mitts, you will need to sew the fabric and batting layers together.
First, place the fabric pieces right sides together with the batting layer on top. Make sure all the edges are aligned.
Next, pin the layers together along the edges to secure them in place.
Using a sewing machine or a needle and thread, sew the layers together along the pinned edges. You can use a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch, depending on your preference.
Start sewing from one corner and continue sewing along the edges until you reach the opposite corner. Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of the seam to secure it.
Once you have sewn all the edges, trim any excess fabric and batting close to the seam to reduce bulk.
Finally, remove the pins and turn the mitts right side out. Use your fingers or a turning tool to push out the corners and smooth the edges.
Your fabric and batting layers are now securely sewn together, and you can proceed to the next step in making your microwave oven mitts.
Attach the binding
Once you have finished sewing the mitts together and turned them right side out, it’s time to attach the binding. The binding will not only add a decorative touch to your mitts but will also reinforce the edges and help them hold their shape.
To start, cut strips of fabric for your binding. The width of the strips should be about 2 inches, but you can adjust it based on your preference. The length of the strips should be enough to go around the entire perimeter of your mitts.
Next, fold the binding strips in half lengthwise and press them with an iron to create a crease in the middle. This will help you align the binding evenly along the edges of your mitts.
Starting at the bottom edge of one mitt, pin the raw edge of the binding to the raw edge of the mitt, right sides together. Make sure the creased line of the binding is aligned with the raw edge of the mitt.
Continue pinning the binding around the entire perimeter of the mitt, easing any excess fabric or gathering as you go. When you reach the starting point, overlap the ends of the binding and trim off any excess.
Using a sewing machine, sew along the creased line of the binding, removing the pins as you go. Use a straight stitch or a decorative stitch to secure the binding in place.
Once you have sewn all the way around, fold the binding over to the back side of the mitt and press it with an iron. Then, stitch in the fold of the binding on the back side of the mitt to secure it in place. This will create a neat and finished look.
Repeat the same process for the second mitt, and you’re almost done! Your microwave oven mitts are now complete and ready to be used.
Tip: If you want to add extra insulation to your mitts, you can use a layer of heat-resistant batting between the main fabric and the lining fabric before attaching the binding. This will help protect your hands from the heat of the microwave.
FAQ
What materials do I need to sew microwave oven mitts?
To sew microwave oven mitts, you will need the following materials: 100% cotton fabric, cotton batting or insulating material, thread, sewing machine, scissors, and a ruler or measuring tape.
Do I need any special tools or equipment to sew microwave oven mitts?
No, you do not need any special tools or equipment to sew microwave oven mitts. A basic sewing machine, scissors, and a ruler or measuring tape will be sufficient.
How can I ensure that my microwave oven mitts are heat-resistant?
To ensure that your microwave oven mitts are heat-resistant, use 100% cotton fabric and cotton batting or insulating material. Cotton is a natural heat-resistant material and will help protect your hands from hot dishes.
Can I personalize my microwave oven mitts with different patterns or colours?
Yes, you can personalize your microwave oven mitts with different patterns or colours. Choose fabric that reflects your personal style and preferences. You can also add embellishments or embroidery to make them unique.
