Fellowship of the Things

Fabric Choices
I recommend you use a lighter weight fabric that has a very closed weave. If you can hold the fabric up to the light and not see much light through it, it is probably good. The weave is less critical if you are using rice or plastic pellets as your filler material. Heavier weight fabric can be more cumbersome to stitch and fold over. 

This is a great use for all the little scraps of fabric that are too small for anything else. 

Filler Choices
There are lots of materials available. 

• decorative heavy grit sand / fine rock (can be found at a dollar store)

• rice, dried beans, barley, or wheat (not good for wet or humid environments)

• plastic pellets for beanie toys (can be pricey)

Ultimately,  you want something that will have some nice heft to the finished weight. If your filler is too light, the pattern weight won't be as effective in holding the patterns in place.

Cut your fabric into rectangles approximately 2" x 4".
Note: You can make your pattern weights bigger, but the dimensions should create a square when folded in half (3" x 6" / 4" x 8", etc)

Don't worry about the bias or weave direction of your fabric.

Fold in half with the good side of the fabric on the inside and pin on two sides.
Note: I don't bother ironing the pieces, it doesn't seem to add much value compared to the time it takes. A few pins is all that's needed to hold things in place for sewing.

I use a sewing machine for this step, with back stitching at each end to ensure that the stitching doesn't come loose once it has been turned right side out.

Trim any excess fabric from the outside of the stitching that may hinder turning right side out.
Trim the top edge so it is even all the way around. 

Turn the little pocket right side out, and push the corners out square.

Pour your filler into the pocket (use the funnel if necessary) to about half to two thirds full. Do not overfill. Underfilling is easier to adjust for later. 

Fold the top edge over inside the pocket, and then pinch shut at a 90 degree angle from the previous stitching. This will create a triangular shape. You can use a pin to hold it even, or just pinch with your fingers. 

Stitch the top closed about halfway. 

Add more filler if needed.

Finish stitching across the top and secure your thread end before trimming off.

I package these in groups of three for gifting as largesse.
Best part: mix and match fabric scraps for a colourful collection of weights!

Don't forget to label!