door draft stoppers: sewn or crocheted? what kind of filling?

[icxcnika]

Hi mamas,
I want to make some door draft stoppers for our house this winter, and am wondering whether it would be best to have fabric (sewn) ones or crocheted ones. I am open to either option, but it seems to me that one would have to use a really fine gauge on a crochet project to keep the stuffing from coming out, or have some kind of fabric liner anyway (in which case, why not just sew one?). What has worked for you??

Also, I'm wondering about filling them. I know I an use rice or beans, sand or pebbles, plastic pellets and quilt batting, and so forth. Has anyone had a problem with rice or beans attracting pests or causing any other difficulties? Or have you had a problem with plastic pellets not being weighty enough?

And, hmm, after writing all that I kind of wonder...do draft stoppers REALLY make that much difference in keeping your house warmer and utility bills lower? What has been your experience?

Thank you so much!

[rere]

I sewed up a bunch and filled them with rice.They worked great and I've had no problems with pests.If it makes a difference or not,I think really depends on your draft.I first made them for a house that had old windows and the draft was horrible and it really helped warm up the room but if you don't really have a draft problem I don't see how they would really make a difference.I also put one infront of the kitchen door and no longer had cold feet while I was in there.Totally worth it too me.

[LaughingHyena]

My mum has made several filled with cut up scraps of fabric, generally old t shirts, socks etc. Providing you stuff them hard enough the seem heavy enough to stay in place.

We have a couple and they do cut down on the drafts, they just get in the way when I want to open the door.

[Arduinna]

My daughter uses one to cut down on noise and light. I prefer them stuffed with non food items so they are washable and light weight.

[icxcnika]

Thank you for all the ideas, everyone!

[SweetPotato]

We make these out of old neckties-- stuffed with whatever you like, and sew on felt eyes and a tongue so they look like snakes