Weighted Tea Bags

by sunshiine

5.7K3324

Intro: Weighted Tea Bags

As snow covers the ground, many of us are embracing the winter season.  Snuggled in blankets we relax as we sip tea and read a book. Snow  was a welcomed relief this year, especially after such a hot summer.  I did not even mind weathering the storm to buy some delicious tea.  I thought weighted tea bags would be appropriate for my contest entry. This project was quick, and easy to make and would be something to consider for Christmas gifts.

STEP 1: Supplies

What you will need:
  • Scraps of muslin, sheer, lace, or Netting cut into 5 X 5 squares
  • Embroidery thread
  • Sewing needle
  • Scissors
  • Ruler
  • Marking pen
  • Loose tea leaves
  • Glue 
  • Buttons
  • Glass jewels 
  • Tea spoon
Please note:  I liked the glass jewels but buttons glued together will be sufficient weight.  

STEP 2: Pattern

Cutting out the pattern:
  • You will need to cut a square piece of fabric 5X5 for each weighted tea bag.

STEP 3: Sewing the Seams

Seams:
  • Fold the square in half with right sides together.
  • Thread the needle and sew along the bottom and the side as shown.
  • Tie it off.
  • Clip the threads.

STEP 4: Top Hem

Hemming the top:
  • Fold the top edge down (about the 1 1/2 inches and:
  • Turn it under the same amount again. 
  • You will sew it in the next step.
  • The pictures show one sewn and one not sewn.  

STEP 5: Draw String

Method: This is the draw string.
  • Carefully turn the bag right side out without disturbing the hem.
  • Begin sewing at the seam ( through all the layers,  leaving the bag open as you sew,)  across the top just below the top edge.
  • Stitch all the way around until you meet up with the beginning stitch.  Don't trim the threads or back stitch.
  • ​ Mine are a little too long so I would cut them about 9 inches.
  • Trim off what you don't want. 
  • Tie each end in a knot. 

STEP 6: Weights

Method:
  • Spread the draw strings out as shown.
  • Dab some glue on the center of the glass jewels.
  • Stick the string in the glue.
  • Center the button over the string and press.

STEP 7: Fill the Bag

Filling the tea bag:
  • Fill the desired amount of tea into the bag.
  • Add 1 or 2  glass jewels. 
  • Close the bag.
Please note: I used 1 glass jewel but later added another one to balance it out better.

STEP 8: Sunshiine's Final Thoughts

I have been wanting to make these weights for sometime.  I do not like removing the string from my tea that has fallen into the cup and how the tea bag rises to the top of the water.  These are easy to clean by shaking out the leaves, rinse the bag under running water and let them air dry.  It reminds me of the old days.  I am using  these decorated cans to store them in and for gift packaging.  I thought they were very stylish.  If I were to win the Shopbot challenge I would make my own wooden buttons and many things that would require precision cutting.  I can't draw but I sure could use a pattern to cut my own stuff.  

Thank you for stopping by and do have a safe and happy December.
Sunshiine

25 Comments

Mauigerbil 12 years ago

This is something I would get for christmas. *sips peppermint tea* I love intresting tea flavors.

sunshiine 12 years ago

Thanks for sharing and please do have a splendorous day!
Sunshiine

sunshiine 12 years ago

Thanks so much! Have a beautiful day!
Sunshiine

sunshiine 12 years ago

Thanks so much for your support! I always have fun on Instructables making stuff. The best part is I can share my creations world wide! Thanks again and do have a very Merry Christmas!
Sunshiine

susanrm 12 years ago

Cool idea. I usually leave my teabag in, and I tear off the tag and string to let it soak. The idea of refillable bags is nice. If I didn't have a wonderful teapot and a mug that strains tea, I might go to the trouble...

One thing to consider is that for food-related items, you may want to pre-wash the fabric and double or triple rinse it. Then sew it up, and then after sewing, wash again before filling with tea. We don't know where that fabric has been, right?

sunshiine 12 years ago

I almost added the part about washing the fabric but figured people would do that. Thanks for sharing your comment! Hope your weekend is going well.
Sunshiine

canucksgirl 12 years ago

This is such a cool idea sunshiine! Everyone in my family has a cup of tea before bed, and most of us skip the loose kind (because there's no place to put it).

This could be a great DIY gift to make the family. Thanks a bunch.

sunshiine 12 years ago

Thanks for commenting! I enjoyed another cup today! I had plans on making something amazing but could not find what I needed in my tiny town. I will have to share when I go to Texas or take a day trip somewhere. Sweet dreams! Sunshiine

sunshiine 12 years ago

Thanks for leaving a comment! Have a relaxing evening.
Sunshiine

ChrysN 12 years ago

Cool idea, and the weights are so pretty!

sunshiine 12 years ago

Thanks ChrysN! I am real pleased with the way they turned out. They remind me of wine charms. Stay warm! Sunshiine

sunshiine 12 years ago

Thank! Oh I like your picture!
Sunshiine

Penolopy Bulnick 12 years ago

That is very cute! I like the different buttons and gems you used as weights :)
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