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Have you ever used a cooling necktie? If you have I bet two things surprised you. How they helped you keep cool and how much they cost. About $8 each. Ouch!

This article shows you how to make your own, for just a few cents.

Supplies you will need:

1. Cut or tear strips 4 1/2" wide by the fabric width eg. 45".

2. Fold fabric in half, right sides together, on the long edge sew the long seam.

3. Turn over and iron.

4.Mark the centre and stitch along it. Now you have a tube about 2" wide and 42" - 45" long.

5. Drop in 1/8 tsp of crystals on each side of the seam. You can roll up a piece of paper to use as a funnel to make it easier.

IMPORTANT: At first only make a test tie with the brand of polymers you're using to make sure its the correct amount after it's soaked.

6. Mark 4 1/2" from the centre and seam again.

Now you have 2 pockets with crystals.

7. Add another 1/8 tsp of in both sides and seam 4 1/2 inches from the first set of seams again. You will now have 4 pockets. Hopefully!!

8. Fold in raw edges and sew across to finish. If you prefer you can make the ends diagonal.

Care instructions:

• Place in cold water approx 30 min, until crystals become gel.
• Tie around head or neck. Tie will be more effective if placed in the refrigerator before use or soaked in ice cold water.
• Regenerate by soaking 1-3 minutes.
• Do not freeze
• Dehydrate to store
• Hand wash only with a mild soap

© 2004 by Brian Fogarty

This article may be reprinted in newsletters and on websites, with resource box included.

If using this article, please send a brief message to webmaster@keepingmecool.com

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