This site contains affiliate links. I may earn a small commission, at no cost to you.
There’s something so comforting about cradling a warm bowl of soup or oatmeal, until, of course, your fingers realize the bowl is scorching hot. That’s where a bowl cozy comes in.
A bowl cozy is a padded, microwave-safe fabric holder that wraps around your bowl, protecting your hands while still looking adorable. It’s the kind of small sewing project that’s not only practical but also makes a fantastic gift.
This reversible version means you can flip it inside out for a fresh look whenever you like. Plus, you can choose fun fabric prints to match your kitchen, your mood, or the season.
Here’s how you can make one, no advanced sewing skills required.
Materials You’ll Need
½ yard cotton fabric (¼ yard for each print if making reversible)
Cotton batting (fusible fleece works well)
Thread
Sewing machine
Scissors
Measuring tape
Pins
Tailor chalk
Pressing iron
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cut Your Fabric and Batting
1. Cut two 10” × 10” squares of cotton fabric (one for the inside, one for the outside).
2. Cut two 10” × 10” squares of cotton batting.
3. You can resize for different bowls — 8”, 9”, or even 12” for larger serving bowls.
4. Choose coordinating fabrics so both sides look great.
Step 2: Layer and Quilt
1. Place the batting on the wrong side of each fabric square.
2. Fuse the batting to the fabric using a pressing iron (follow manufacturer’s instructions).
3. Quilt as desired — the classic method is sewing two diagonal lines from corner to corner to form an “X.”
4. Repeat with the second fabric and batting square.
5. Optional: Add extra quilting lines or decorative stitches for style and extra durability.
Step 3: Mark the Darts
1. Fold one quilted square in half.
2. From the folded corner, measure 1” in from the fold and 2” up from the corner.
3. Draw a small triangle connecting these points.
4. Repeat on all four corners of the square.
5. Do the same for the other quilted piece.
Step 4: Sew the Darts
1. Stitch along each marked triangle (dart), backstitching at both ends.
2. Trim the seam allowance slightly if it feels bulky.
3. When opened flat, your fabric should now have a shallow bowl shape.
Step 5: Assemble the Cozy
1. Place both quilted “bowls” right sides together.
2. Pin around the edges to hold in place.
3. Sew all the way around with a ¼” seam allowance, leaving a 3” gap for turning.
Step 6: Turn and Finish
1. Turn the cozy right side out through the gap.
2. Push out the corners and edges neatly.
3. Press flat with an iron.
4. Topstitch around the entire edge — this will close the gap and give your cozy a clean, finished look.
Your reversible bowl cozy is now ready to use. Slip it under a hot soup bowl or even a cold ice cream bowl (yes, they’re great for cold too) and enjoy hands-free comfort.
Extra Tips & Ideas
Fabric choice: Use only 100% cotton fabric, batting, and thread for microwave safety.
Gift sets: Pair a cozy with a matching mug rug for a thoughtful handmade present.
Seasonal fun: Make a set for holidays — pumpkins for fall, snowflakes for winter, florals for spring.
You may also like:
