Puppy Chow Recipe & Crochet Dog for Boss’s Day

Puppy Chow Recipe & Crochet Dog Cozy for Boss’s Day (October 16, 2013)

puppy chow recipe

Need a fun gift idea for Boss’s Day. Show the big dog how much you appreciate him (or her) with this puppy chow recipe and a crochet dog cozy. Gobble up the left over chocolate goodness yourself or share this treat with your coworkers and watch them drool in delight.

Let’s start with the puppy chow recipe…that way you can nibble on it while you make the crochet dog cozy!

Puppy Chow Recipe

puppy chow in a jarYou’ll have the boss eating out of your hand (or mason jar) with this puppy chow recipe! He will lap it up and return begging for more. (PS: if you don’t bring a doggie bag to refill his jar, you can always share the recipe with him instead).

INGREDIENTS:

  • 14.25 oz   Chocolate Chex cereal (9 cups)
  • 1 ¼ cup    dark chocolate chips
  • ½ cup + 2 Tablespoons  creamy peanut butter
  • ½ teaspoon  vanilla extract
  • 1 ½ cup  powdered sugar

DIRECTIONS:

  1. mason jar of puppy chowPlace cereal in large pot. Set aside.
  2. Melt chocolate chips in small pot on medium low heat stirring constantly. Remove from heat.
  3. Stir peanut butter and vanilla into chocolate until smooth.
  4. Pour chocolate mixture over cereal. Stir until evenly coated. Allow chocolate to cool for 5 – 10 minutes.
  5. Pour powdered sugar over cereal and stir until evenly coated.
  6. Store in mason jars or tight fitted containers.

Recipe is inspired by:

http://www.chex.com/recipes/RecipeView.aspx?RecipeId=45860

Crochet Dog Cozy

boss's day dog cozyThis crochet dog cozy is great for Boss’s Day or as a special gift for a dog loving friend. They’ll dig it and the treats that come with it.

These hounds are a great stash busting project. We’ve used Vanna’s Choice yarn. This line of yarn has lots of fun brown tones to choose from.

Skill Level: Easy

Stitches Used: Chain, Slip Stitch, Single Crochet, Half Double Crochet, Double Crochet

Techniques Used: Crochet in Rows, Crochet in the Round, Increase, Decrease

SUPPLIES:

  • Mason Jar
  • Vanna’s Choice Yarn: Wosted Weight (4)
    HONEY, CHOCOLATE, BEIGE, BLACK, WHITE
    (Grey: Charcoal Grey, Silver Grey, Black, White)
    (Blue: Aqua, Colonial Blue, White)
  • Crochet Hook: H
  • Yarn Needle for sewing
  • Stuffing

dog cozyCOZY INSTRUCTIONS

  • Honey
  • Hook: H

Ch 34, join with a sl st.

Rnd 1-10: Sc around. (34)

Sl St. Finish off. Weave in end.

SNOUT INSTRUCTIONS

  • Beige
  • Hook: H

Ch 9

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc across. (8)

Row 2: Ch 1, turn. Sc across. (8)

Row 3: Ch 1, turn, sc dec, 4 sc, sc dec. (6)

Row 4: Repeat Row 2. (6)

Row 5: Ch 1, turn. sc dec, 2 sc, sc dec. (4)

Row 6: Repeat Row 2. (4)

Rnd 7: Turn to sides of Rows 1-6. Work sc across (a sc on the end of each row). Turn to foundation chain, sc across. Turn to sides of Rows 1-7. Work sc across (a sc on the end of each row). Join with a sl st. (20))

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

3 cozies flat

NOSE INSTRUCTIONS

  • Black
  • Hook: H

Ch 3

Rnd 1: In the 3rd ch from hook work 2 hdc, dc, 2 hdc, ch 2, sl st to same st as all other sts. (7)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

SPOT INSTRUCTIONS

  • Chocolate
  • Hook: H

Ch 3

Rnd 1: 12 dc in 3rd ch from hook. Join with a sl st. (12)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

EYE INSTRUCTIONS (make 2)

  • White
  • Hook: H

Ch 2

Rnd 1: 5 sc in 2nd ch from hook. Join with a sl st. (5)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

dog earPUPIL INSTRUCTIONS (make 2)

  • Black
  • Hook: H

Ch 2

Rnd 1: Work sc and sl st in 2nd ch from hook. (2)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

EAR INSTRUCTIONS (make 2)

  • Make one Honey and one Chocolate
  • Hook: H

Ch 2

Rnd 1: 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook. (6)

Rnd 2-3: Sc around. (6)

Rnd 4: *sc, sc inc* around. (9)

Rnd 5-10: Sc around. (9)

Rnd 11: Sc dec. Pinch ear closed so there are 4 sts across. Work sc through loops of two sts opposite each other to close the ear. (5)

Finish off leaving a long tail. Whip st from inside to outside of all front loops and cinch closed.

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS

  1. Pin Snout to Rnds 1-5 of the cozy. Stuff lightly and sew. Weave in ends.
  2. Pin then sew Nose to center of Snout.
  3. Embroider a mouth on Snout below the Nose. Weave in ends.
  4. Sew Spot to cozy above Snout with right edge of Spot about centered. Weave in ends.
  5. Sew Pupils to Eyes. Weave in ends.
  6. Sew reflective spot to each Pupil with tails of Eyes If desired.
  7. Pin then sew Eyes just above Snout – one to be sewn on the Spot. Weave in ends.
  8. Sew Ears to the sides at Row 10.

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this dog cozy? There are more seasonal, holiday and just for fun cozies in the store in our Crochet Cup Cozy eBook. We’ve created an entire collection with 28 designs one ebook.

Looking for the cup and mug version? They’re in the ebook.

Each design in the ebook has instructions to fit Mugs, Cups and Mason Jars. Every design has a delicious recipe or fun craft.

All 3 dogs pictured at the beginning of this post are in this ebook! AND the ebook includes 4 new designs – Dracula, Vampire, Mummy and Blue Jeans.

Available in the StoreRead more about the set:

Blog: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Store: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Crochet Bear Cozy and Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers

Crochet Bear Cozy and Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers

crochet bear and chocolate covered grahams

This crochet bear mason jar cozy is not only super cute, but it will keep an eye on the snacks you store like these chocolate covered graham crackers. This bear will keep lookout for any hungry critters in your household that might snatch a treat when you aren’t looking.

This is a beary sweet gift idea. We’ve made a list of fun “beary” greetings below.

Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers Recipe

chocolate grahams

We’ll get to the crochet bear in a minute. First, let’s make this super easy chocolate covered graham cracker recipe.

This is a wonderful last minute dessert idea. Perfect for gatherings where finger foods are on the menu.

Ingredients & Supplies:

  • 8 graham crackers
  • 4 oz. melting chocolate
  • 1 Tablespoon peanut butter
  • 2 oz. white melting chocolate
  • Aluminum foil lined cookie sheet
  • 2 mason jars for storing

Directions:

  1. chocolate covered graham crackersBreak graham crackers into pieces (4 pieces per graham) and lay out on a cookie sheet.
  2. Melt 4 oz. of chocolate in microwave stirring every 30 seconds. Do not over heat. When chocolate is mostly melted and a little lumpy, stir until smooth.
  3. Stir peanut butter into chocolate.
  4. Dip 2/3 of each graham into chocolate/peanut butter mixture. Scrape off excess and lay on aluminum foil to cool and harden.
  5. Melt 2 oz. of white melting chocolate in microwave stirring every 30 seconds. Do not over heat. When chocolate is mostly melted and a little lumpy, stir until smooth.
  6. Drizzle white chocolate over grahams. Allow to cool and harden.
  7. When chocolates are hardened, remove from foil and scrape off excess drizzle.
  8. Store in mason jar.

Crochet Bear Cozy

crochet bearThis crochet bear cozy makes a great gift. Fill a mason jar with snacks and trickets and you’ve got a beary special gift. Here are a few fun greetings for special occasions:

  • I Love You Beary Much
  • You’re Beary Special
  • For a Beary Special Son (or daughter or other relation)
  • Get Well Beary Soon
  • I’m Beary Sorry
  • A Beary Happy Birthday
  • Beary Christmas
  • I Miss You Beary Much

Skill Level: Easy

Stitches Used: chain, slip stitch, single crochet, half double crochet, double crochet

Techniques Used: crochet in rows, crochet in the round, increase, deacrease

Crochet Bear Cozy Supplies:

  • Vanna’s Choice Yarn: worsted weight (4)
    Brown Bear: CHOCOLATE, HONEY, BLACK, BEIGE
    (Golden Bear: HONEY, BEIGE, BLACK)
    (Black Bear: ESPRESSO, CHOCOLATE, BLACK, BEIGE)
  • Hook: H/8/5.00mm
  • Yarn Needle for Sewing
  • Stuffing

Crochet Bear Cozy Instructions

  • Chocolate
  • Hook: H

Ch 34, join with a sl st.

Rnd 1-10: Sc around. (34)

Sl St. Finish off. Weave in end.

crochet bear

Snout Instructions

  • Honey
  • Hook: H

Ch 9

Row 1: Hdc in 3rd ch from hook (count the first two chains as a hdc), 6 hdc. (8)

Row 2: Ch 1, turn, hdc dec, 4 hdc, hdc dec. (6)

Row 3: Ch 1, turn. Hdc dec, 2 hdc, hdc dec. (4)

Rnd 4: Sc all the way around the snout (a sc in each st and on the end of each Row). Join with a sl st. (16)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

Nose Instructions

  • Black
  • Hook: H

Ch 2

Rnd 1: In the 2nd ch from hook work 2 sc, 2 dc, 2 sc, 2 dc. Join with a sl st. (8)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

EYES INSTRUCTIONS (Make 2)

  • Black
  • Hook: H

Ch 2

Rnd 1: 10 sc in 2nd ch from hook. Join with a sl st. (10)

Finish of leaving a long tail for sewing.

3 bearsEAR INSTRUCTIONS (Make 2)

  • Chocolate
  • Hook: H

Ch 2

Rnd 1: 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook. (6)

Rnd 2: Sc inc around. (12)

Rnd 3: *3 sc, sc inc* around. (15)

Rnd 4-5: Sc around. (15)

Rnd 6: *3 sc, sc dec* around. (12)

Rnd 7: *1 sc, sc dec* around. (8)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

Assembly Instructions

  1. Pin Snout to bottom of the cozy. Stuff lightly. Sew. Weave in ends.
  2. Pin then sew Nose to center of Snout. Weave in ends.
  3. Embroider a mouth below Nose. Weave in ends.
  4. Embroider reflective spots on the Eyes with the beige yarn. Weave in ends.
  5. Pin then sew Eyes above the Snout. Weave in ends.
  6. Pin then sew Ears to the sides. Weave in ends.

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this bear cozy? There are more seasonal, holiday and just for fun cozies in the store in our Crochet Cup Cozy eBook. We’ve created an entire collection with 28 designs one ebook.

Looking for the cup and mug version? They’re in the ebook.

Each design in the ebook has instructions to fit Mugs, Cups and Mason Jars. Every design has a delicious recipe or fun craft.

All 3 bears pictured at the beginning of this post are in this ebook! AND the ebook includes 4 new designs – Dracula, Vampire, Mummy and Blue Jeans.

Available in the StoreRead more about the set:

Blog: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Store: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Greek Salad Dressing Recipe and Crochet Ladybug

Greek Salad Dressing Recipe and Crochet Ladybug Jar Cozy

We’ve prepared a simple Greek salad dressing that is stored in a mason jar and wrapped it with a crochet ladybug cozy!

crochet ladybug cozy

This is a fun and delicious treat for summer and a cute way to spruce up salad dressings at your next summer BBQ or potluck.

Let’s start with the recipe because the seasonings need time to blend.

Greek Salad Dressing Recipe

greek salad dressing recipeGreek salad dressing is super easy to make. This recipe does not need to be refrigerated since it’s an oil and vinegar based dressing.

Below you’ll see that we used several different types of vinegar. You can use whatever you have on hand (like a white vinegar or red wine vinegar). Also, this recipe has a ratio of 50% oil to 50% vinegar. If you want to tone down the vinegar flavor, use a little less of it or add a little extra sugar.

Greek Salad Dressing Ingredients:

Step One

  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup white wine vine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons coarse black pepper
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons dijon Mustard
  • 1 small clove fresh garlic
  • 2 teaspoon agave nectar (or 1 t sugar)
  • pinch of crushed red pepper

dressing ingredientsStep Two

3/4 cup virgin olive oil

Step Three

  • 2 teaspoons oregano
  • 2 teaspoons basil

 Directions:

  1. Place all ingredients from Step One into blender. Blend on medium speed until well blended.
  2. With blender still on medium, slowly add oil. This will emulsify the oil and vinegar and keep them from separating.
  3. Stop blender. Add herbs from Step Three. Pulse until just blended.
  4. Store in mason jar. Do not refrigerate. Best if allowed to marinate several hours (or overnight) before using.

Alternative:

Use fat free mayo instead of olive oil to create a creamy Greek salad dressing. Keep refrigerated.

This Greek salad dressing can be used in a number of delicious ways including on a green salad, on a chicken salad, on a pasta salad, as a dipping sauce in a veggie tray or as a marinade. Yum!

This recipe was inspired by: http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Absolutely-Fabulous-GreekHouse-Dressing/Detail.aspx?evt19=1

Crochet Lady Bug Cozy

Making a crochet ladybug cozy is a fun summer project. Ladybugs are a gardeners best friend and therefore make the prefect adornment for a jar of salad dressing.

chicken-salad

We’ve used Vanna’s Choice yarn…and only a remnant is needed. Black and any shade of red or orange will work well for this project.

Crochet Ladybug Supplies:

  • Vanna’s Choice Yarn (Medium Worsted Weight (4))
    CRANBERRY, BLACK
    (Mug: Brick, Black)
    (Cup: Scarlet, Black)
  • Hook: H/8/5.00 mm
  • Hook: F/5/3.75 mm
  • 2 Buttons – 1/4” or 3/8”
  • Needle & Thread
  • Yarn Needle

greek salad dressing recipeLadybug Cozy Instructions:

Cranberry

Hook: H

Ch 35

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook. Sc across. (34)

Row 2-5: Ch 1, turn. Sc across. (34)

Finish off Cranberry and weave in ends. Attach Black.

Row 6: Ch 1, turn. Sl st across. (34)

Finish off Black and weave in ends. Attach Cranberry.

Row 7: Ch 1, turn. Working in the back loop only, sc across. (34)

Row 8-11: Ch 1, turn. Sc across. (34)

Finish off and weave in ends.

Turn to work on the ends of the Rows. Attach Black to the first Row.

Row 12: Work 10 sc evenly across the ends of the Rows 1-11. (10)

Row 13: Ch 1, turn. Hdc dec, 6 hdc, hdc dec. (8)

Row 14: Ch 1, turn. Hdc dec, 4 hdc, hdc dec. (6)

Row 15: Ch 1, turn. Hdc dec, 2 hdc, hdc dec. (4)

Row 16: Ch 1, turn. 2 sc dec. (2)

Finish off and weave in ends.

crochet ladybugs

Spots (make 9)

Black

Hook: F

Ch 2

Rnd 1: Work 4, 6 or 8 sc in second ch from hook and join with a sl st for small, medium, and large spots.

Finish off leaving a tail for sewing.

Assembly Instructions

  1. Sew Spots to Red portion (sew randomly as desired or symmetrically…most ladybugs Spots mirror each other on each Wing).
  2. Sew two small black buttons about 1/2″ from the top and sides of the end of the red section.
  3. Wrap cozy around container, and slip buttons through posts of the half double crochets in the black section.

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this ladybug cozy? There are more seasonal, holiday and just for fun cozies in the store in our Crochet Cup Cozy eBook. We’ve created an entire collection with 28 designs one ebook.

Looking for the cup and mug version? They’re in the ebook.

Each design in the ebook has instructions to fit Mugs, Cups and Mason Jars. Every design has a delicious recipe or fun craft.

All 3 ladybugs pictured at the beginning of this post are in this ebook! AND the ebook includes 4 new designs – Dracula, Vampire, Mummy and Blue Jeans.

Available in the StoreRead more about the set:

Blog: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Store: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Happy Easter – Bunnies, Bunnies and More Bunnies

Our Bunny Cup Cozies Have Proliferated – Just in Time for Easter!

Bunnies are known to multiply rapidly. And our cup cozies are no exception. Our 4 bunny cozies have turned into a multitude of bunnies!

lots of bunny cozies

bunny bracletInstead of using wine charms at our Easter gathering, we created cup cozies! Not only were these a cheerful table decoration, they also helped people identify their drinks!

The cozies are cute as bracelets and sleeve catchers, too!

This crochet bunny is a free pattern as part of our mason jar series. We love it!

Hoppy Easter!

Crochet Bunny and Easter Snacks for Kids

Crochet Bunny and Easter Snacks for Kids

A crochet bunny is the perfect accent for a mason jar full of Easter snacks for kids.

crochet bunny

It’s a strange phenomenon that the Easter bunny lays eggs. But who are we to question such a thing. We’re having fun with it and the kids will too. They’ll have a blast making and eating these chocolate snacks.

Let’s start with the Easter Snacks for kids because the chocolate will need time to cool and harden before it can be placed in the mason jar for storage (assuming you and the kids don’t eat them all first!).

Easter Snacks for Kids

If you’re looking for fun Easter snacks for kids…this is an easy and delicious one! It’s great for kids of any age.

easter snacks for kidsSo, we present to you…Easter eggs in a nest. It looks a bit like a bird’s nest. In fact, both birds and rabbits have their young in a nest. Rabbits build their nests in the dirt. The chocolate makes the eggs look like they are nestled in the dirt…so, we’re calling this snack an Easter Bunny Nest.

Ingredients & Supplies:

  • 1 bag rectangular pretzels (Snyder’s of Hanover Butter Snaps)
  • 1 bag Hershey’s Kisses
  • 1 bag M&M’s – Easter colors
  • 1 cookie sheet

kisses on pretzelsDirections:

  1. Preheat oven to 175°.
  2. Spread pretzels flat on cookie sheet (about 50 of them).
  3. Unwrap and place one kiss centered on each pretzel.
  4. Bake for 7 minutes to soften Kisses.
  5. Immediately press 1 to 3 M&M’s into each Kiss to form nests.
  6. Allow to cool and harden for a couple of hours.

Note: Young children will only be able to place 1 M&M in the nest. Older children can place 2 or more in each nest.

FYI: I Googled “Easter Snack” and found this snack on Jamy Fisher’s website. Thanks, Jamy for sharing!

Crochet Bunny for Easter

For Easter (and bunny lovers everywhere) we have a crochet bunny mason jar cover. This is adorable as a cup cozy, too. We’re showcasing it as a cute (and delicious) gift idea for the holidays. One that the kids can get involved with as well.

crochet bunny in four color combinations

This is a great stash buster. We’ve used Vanna’s Choice. The colors can be as soft and neutral as a real bunny or as bright and colorful as your heart desires.

Skill Level: Easy

Stitches Used: Chain, slip stitch, single crochet, double crochet

Techniques Used: Crochet in Rows & Rounds, Increase

Crochet Bunny Supplies:

  • Vanna’s Choice Yarn (Worsted Weight – 4)
    BEIGE, BLACK, PINK
    (Brown Bunny: Taupe Mist, Rose Mist, Radiant Lime, Black)
    (Purple Bunny: Purple, Dusty Rose, Raspberry)
    (Rainbow Bunny: Scarlet, Radiant Lime, Radiant Yellow, Radiant Orange, Colonial Blue, Aqua, Raspberry, Black)
  • Crochet Hook: H / 8 / 5.00mm
  • Yarn Needle for Sewing
  • 1 Mason Jar

Crochet Bunny Instructions

Beige

Ch 34, join with a sl st.

Rnd 1-9: Sc around. (34)

Join with a sl st. Cut yarn; weave in end.

EAR INSTRUCTIONS (make 2)

Beige

Ch 9

Rnd 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook. 6 sc. Work 3 sc in last st. Turn to other side of foundation ch. 6 sc, sc inc in last st. (18)

Rnd 2: *Sc inc, 8 sc* twice. (20)

Rnd 3: *2 sc inc, 8 sc* twice. (24)

Rnd 4: 2 sc inc, 3 sc, 2 sl st. Leave remaining sts unworked. (9)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

So, we present to you…Easter eggs in a nest. It looks a bit like a bird’s nest. In fact, both birds and rabbits have their young in a nest. Rabbits build their nests in the dirt. The chocolate makes the eggs look like they are nestled in the dirt…so, we’re calling this snack an Easter Bunny Nest.BOW INSTRUCTIONS

Pink

Ch 9

Rnd 1: Dc in 4th ch from hook. Sc, sl st, sc, dc, ch 2, sl st in last st. Turn to other side of foundation ch. Ch 2, dc, sc, sl st, sc, dc, ch 2, sl st into last st. (12)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. Embroider “V” shaped Nose across Rnd 4 with Pink.
  2. Embroider two Eyes across Rnds 6 & 7 with Black.
  3. Sew Ears 2 sts away from each eye on Rnd 9. Fold ear a bit at top if desired.
  4. Sew Bow to top of Ear as desired.

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this bunny cozy? There are more seasonal, holiday and just for fun cozies in the store in our Crochet Cup Cozy eBook. We’ve created an entire collection with 28 designs one ebook.

Looking for the cup and mug version? They’re in the ebook.

Each design in the ebook has instructions to fit Mugs, Cups and Mason Jars. Every design has a delicious recipe or fun craft.

All 3 bunnies pictured at the beginning of this post are in this ebook! AND the ebook includes 4 new designs – Dracula, Vampire, Mummy and Blue Jeans.

Available in the StoreRead more about the set:

Blog: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Store: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Crochet Baby Monkey Hat Pattern Set

Crochet Baby Monkey Hat Pattern Set

Now available electronically!

baby monkey hat set

This adorable baby monkey hat comes with coordinating mitts, booties and diaper cover! This is a big crowd pleaser. Crochet this for your next baby shower and you’ll get lots of oohs and aahs. This baby set is a popular design at craft shows, too!

Each element is cute enough to stand on its own. The hat is adorable. The mitts are cute. But the tail on the diaper cover and the little booties get the most rave reviews. This is a delightful photo prop.

This design was featured in the 2012 Holiday Issue of “Love of Crochet” (without the diaper cover). Now the crochet pattern is available electronically.

Monkey Hat Set pattern also available on Etsy.

Crochet Baby Monkey Hat Set – the Pattern

Monkey Full OutfitThe pattern for this newborn baby monkey hat set also includes directions for preemie hat and diaper cover.

Like all our patterns, this crochet pattern includes: written directions, lots of photos, checkboxes to mark your progress, materials list, etc.

Skill Level: Easy

Crochet Baby Monkey Hat Set – In the Store

This crochet baby monkey hat set pattern is available as a pdf. Pick up your copy of the Monkey Baby Hat pattern in the store.

Monkey Baby Hat Set pattern also available on Etsy.

Available in the Store

 

Lil Monkey blocks, security blanket and baby blanket

More Monkey Fun

This baby monkey hat set coordinates nicely with the toy set we introduced a few months ago.

For even more monkey fun, check out the matching Monkey Blankets and Blocks Set!

Monkey Blanket and Blocks Set pattern also available on Etsy.

Mason Jar Soap Dispenser with Crochet Owl Cozy

Mason Jar Soap Dispenser with Crochet Owl Cozy

mason jar soap dispenserIt’s a hoot making this mason jar soap dispenser with crochet owl cozy! This woodland creature makes washing hands fun. Those great big eyes won’t miss a thing.

Dirty hands can spread germs. So take a few squirts of soap from this wise owl and wash that grime away.

This fun soap dispenser is great for bathrooms or kitchens. Crochet the cozy in colors that coordinate with your home décor.

Let’s start with the mason jar soap dispenser…and get our hands clean before we start on the crochet owl.

Mason Jar Soap Dispenser How-to

mason jar soap dispenser with crochet owl cozyWe’re taking the easy way out…and creating a mason jar soap dispenser from an existing soap dispenser. Its best if you select your yarn colors first…then you can bring them to the store to help select a dispenser pump in a color that will coordinate well.

SUPPLIES:

  • 1 pint size canning jar with lid
  • 16 oz liquid soap
  • 1 soap dispenser (we used Softsoap® brand)

TOOLS:

  • Knife and cutting board
  • ½” drill bit and drill
  • Clamp
  • Scrap wood
  • Paper, pencil and Scissors
  • Hammer and nail
  • Metal file
  • Glue Gun

soap dispenser lidDIRECTIONS:

  1. Trace the flat lid on a piece of paper. Cut out the circle you just traced with scissors. Fold the paper in half twice to find the center of the paper.
  2. Place the paper on top of the lid and clamp to a piece of scrap wood. With hammer and nail, put a small hole in the center of the lid.
  3. Remove the paper and reclamp the lid to the scrap wood. Drill a ½ inch hole into the center of the lid. You may need to move the drill around a bit to make the hole slightly bigger than ½ inch.
  4. If there are any sharp edges around the hole, sand down with a metal file.
  5. Remove the pump from its original dispenser and wash and dry it. Test to see if it fits into the hole in the lid. If not, repeat steps 3 & 4 as needed.
  6. Place lids and pump onto jar to make sure the parts fit. If the pump is too tall, cut the base of the stem off at the same angle using a knife and cutting board. You only want to cut off as much as needed to get the stem to almost touch the base of the mason jar.
  7. You may need to secure the pump to the lid. To do so, insert pump into lid and turn to the bottom side. Use glue gun to adhere pump to lid.
  8. Pour liquid soap into mason jar. Attach lid. Pump the dispenser several times until soap starts to come out of it.
  9. Wash hands…you’re good to go!

Mason Jar Soap Dispenser Owl Cozy

So you’ve finished your mason jar soap dispenser. Now it’s time for the crochet owl cozy!

This is a fun little project that you can whip up in an evening. It’s a great stash buster, too. We used Vanna’s Choice because she’s got so many fun colors that work beautifully for a girl or boys room.

crochet owls

SUPPLIES:

  • Vanna’s Choice Yarn: Worsted Weight (4)
    Chocolate, Terracotta, Mustard, Black, White
    (other combos: Chocolate with Beige; Radiant Lime with Raspberry)
  • Crochet Hook: J / 10 / 6.00 mm
  • Crochet Hook: H / 8 / 5. 00 mm
  • Crochet Hook: F / 5 / 3.75 mm
  • Yarn Needle

COZY INSTRUCTIONS:

Chocolate

Hook: J

Ch 32, join with a sl st.

Rnd 1: Ch 1 (do not count as a st), hdc around. Skip the ch 1; join with a sl st. (32)

Rnd 2-3: Ch 1, hdc around. Skip the joining stitch and the ch 1, join with a sl st. (32)

Finish off. Cut yarn; weave in end.

Attach Terracotta to the back loop of any stitch.

Rnd 4: Work in back loops only. Ch 1, hdc around. Skip the ch 1, join with a sl st. (32)

Rnd 5-6: Work in both loops. Ch 1, hdc around. Skip the join and the ch 1, join with a sl st. (32)

Finish off, weave in end.

WING INSTRUCTIONS (make 2):

crochet wings

Chocolate

Hook: J

Ch 8

Row 1: Dc in 4th ch from hook (count first three ch as the first dc), 4 dc. (6)

Row 2: Turn. 5 dc down the post of the 3rd dc, ch 1, 5 dc up the post of the next dc, skip a dc, sl st in the top of the last st. (1 crocodile stitch made)

Finish of, weave in end.

Attach Terracotta to the last st made.

Row 3: Ch 4, turn. Dc in 4th ch from hook, work 6 dc across the top of Row 2, work a ncfdc in the last st, 2 nfdc. (11)

Row 4: Work 5 dc down the post of the 3rd dc, ch 1, work 5 dc up the post of the next dc, skip a st, sl st in the front loop of the next st, skip a st, 5 dc down the post of the next st, ch 1, work 5 dc up the post of the next st, skip a st, sl st in the last st. (2 crocodile stitches made)

Row 5: Ch 3, turn. Work 10 dc across. (11)

Row 6: Repeat row 4.

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

EYES INSTRUCTIONS (make 2):

Black

Hook: F

Ch 2

owl in bathroom

Rnd 1: 6 sc in 2nd ch from hook. Join with a sl st. (6)

Finish off, weave in end.

Attach Terracotta any stitch.

Rnd 2: Sc inc around. Join with a sl st. (12)

Finish off, weave in ends.

Attach White to any st.

Rnd 3: *Hdc, Hdc inc* around. Join with a sl st. (18)

Finish off leaving a tail for sewing.

BEAK INSTRUCTIONS:

Mustard

Hook: J

Ch 4

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook, 2 sc. (3)

Row 2: Turn, sc the first and second stitches together, sc the second and third stitch together. (2)

Row 3: Turn, sc dec. Finish off. Cut yarn leaving a tail for sewing. (1)

Turn the foundation ch down under the beak.

ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS:

  1. Sew Eyes on Rnds 2-4 so they are touching or as desired. Weave in ends.
  2. Sew Beak centered below and touching the Eyes.
  3. Sew Wings just above the unused front loops. Sew up to the stitch next to the Eyes and 8 other stitches. There should be about 5 or 6 unused loops in the back between the Wings.

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this owl cozy? There are more seasonal, holiday and just for fun cozies in the store in our Crochet Cup Cozy eBook. We’ve created an entire collection with 28 designs one ebook.

Looking for the cup and mug version? They’re in the ebook.

Each design in the ebook has instructions to fit Mugs, Cups and Mason Jars. Every design has a delicious recipe or fun craft.

All 3 owls pictured at the beginning of this post are in this ebook! AND the ebook includes 4 new designs – Dracula, Vampire, Mummy and Blue Jeans.

Available in the StoreRead more about the set:

Blog: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Store: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Crochet Cup Cozy Patterns

Crochet Cup Cozy Patterns – Something for Everyone & Every Season

We decided to make a crochet cup cozy or two. But once we got started, we couldn’t stop! As you can see, we made animals, holidays and seasons, not to mention wild, crazy and elegant. There’s literally something here for everyone and something for most every season!

Cup Cozies

28 crochet cup cozy patterns with recipe or craft included!

Every design we came up has modifications to fit cups, mugs and mason jars….cause you never know when you want the design for tappered cups or mugs with handles.

As we were creating our designs we thought it would be fun to create cute gifts in mason jars. So, every other week for one year, we created a mason jar cozy gift. We’ve consolidated all the cozies, included all three sizes (mugs, cups and jars), added the gift idea (recipe or craft) and created an 80+ page ebook!

Includes 3 NEW patterns, too! We have a vampire, dracula and blue jeans cozy not seen in the Mason Jar Series.

The ebook is now available in the store:

Available in the Store

Skill Level: Easy (with a few intermediate stitches)

Vanna’s Choice yarn – worsted weight (4) – was used for our cup cozies. We love the color options in this line. Most cozies were made using a H or J crochet hook, but we used hooks as small as a C and as large as L.

animalsCrochet Cup Cozy Patterns – Animals

When you make one animal crochet cup cozy…more are sure to follow. That was true for us, anyway. These are fun for Easter, Bosses Day, Summer, Thinking of You and Just Because

Here are the designs and their recipe or craft:

  • OWL – Soap Dispenser
  • BUNNY – Robin Eggs Candy
  • DOG – Puppy Chow
  • BEAR – Chocolate Covered Graham
  • LADY BUG – Greek Salad Dressing

Crochet Cup Cozy Patterns – Holidays

holiday-coziesSome holidays are super fun to crochet into a cozy. We’ll be decorating for several special occasions with these cozies. These are fun for traditional holidays like Christmas, Halloween, Birthday, 4th of July, Memorial Day, St. Patrick’s Day, Valentine’s Day and Thanksgiving.

Here are the designs and their recipe or craft:

  • HEARTS – Chocolate Peppermint Cookies
  • LEPRECHAUN – Sweet / Sour Grapes
  • AMERICAN FLAG – Apple Pie
  • CUPCAKE – Turtle Cake
  • PUMPKIN – Spicy Pumpkin Seeds
  • MUMMY – Mummy Pretzel
  • SANTA – Peppermint Bark
  • TUXEDO – Chocolate Covered Almonds

Crochet Cup Cozy Patterns –Seasons & More Holidays

cup coziesIt’s fun to get into the spirit of the seasons, even sports seasons. With these cozies we’re celebrating Spring, Mother’s Day, Earth Day, Football (Baseball and Basketball) Season, I {heart} Yarn Day, Administrative Professionals Day, Chinese New Year and more!

Here are the designs and their recipe or craft:

  • DAISY – Planter
  • BASKETBALL –Caramel Corn
  • FOOTBALL – Party Mix
  • PLUM BLOSSOM – Fortune Cookie
  • FLOWER – Bath Salts
  • HEART – Yarn Ball Bowl
  • CAUSE RIBBON – Potato Soup

Crochet Cup Cozy Patterns – Wacky and Crazy

facesWe had so much fun creating cozies that we couldn’t resist making some quirky designs as well. Some of these designs are season and just for fun like Halloween, Talk Like a Pirate Day, Father’s Day, Casual Friday’s and Just Because.

Here are the designs and their recipe or craft:

  • SMILE – Sugar Cookies
  • MUSTACHE – Beef Rub
  • JEANS / PANTS – Smores
  • PIRATE – Strawberry Lemonade
  • VAMPIRE – Red Velvet Truffle
  • DRACULA – Goulish Popcorn

Crochet Cup Cozy Patterns –Available in the Store

This crochet cup cozy ebook is now available in the store. All the patterns mentioned above are included plus Fall Leaf (dirt and worms) and Radioactive (spiced tea) cozies not pictured! What a screaming deal!

The mason jar versions of these patterns are highlight free on this blog in our Mason Jar Series (except Dracula, Vampire, Mummy and blue jeans which are only available in the ebook). You can get your copy of the ebook in the store.

Available in the Store

Ebook includes 28 Designs.

  • includes Cup cozy directions
  • includes Mug cozy directions
  • includes Mason Jar cozy directions
  • includes a delicious recipe or fun craft for each design
  • 3 New designs not seen in Mason Jar Series – Dracula, Vampire and blue jeans
  • 80+ pages in ebook with step-by-step instructions

Crochet Monkey Baby Blanket and Toy Set

Crochet Monkey Baby Blanket and Toy Set

Welcome new baby with this fun crochet monkey baby blanket and toy set. This pattern comes with the baby blanket, security blanket and three crochet block designs.

Lil Monkey blocks, security blanket and baby blanket

Perfect for newborns and little tykes, these three Lil Monkey accessories will get lots of use for years to come. Mix and match the colors to coordinate with baby’s nursery.

Crochet Monkey Baby Blanket and Toy Set – The Pattern

The crochet monkey set comes with three accessories: baby blanket, security blanket and toy blocks.

Skill Level: Easy

Baby with all Lil Monkey Set1. CROCHET MONKEY BABY BLANKET

Perfect for baby to sleep on or to be wrapped in to keep warm.

This simple blanket is crocheted in Rows with a simple single crochet ch-1 pattern. It’s dressed up with a crochet monkey face in one corner and mini hands in another.

Measures: 37” x 29”

2. CROCHET MONKEY SECURITY BLANKET

Perfect for giving sweet little kisses to baby. And great as a security blanket for when the little tyke gets a bit older. This Lil Monkey can be carried by the arm, head or blanket. The satin edge makes it fun to rub between baby’s fingers. It’s the perfect bedtime buddy!

The stitch on the security blanket matches the larger baby blanket. The head and arms are crocheted in the round.

Measures: 9” x 9” when open

Baby with Lil Monkey Set

3. CROCHET MONKEY TOY BLOCKS

Babies will love batting these around. And as they get older, they will love stacking them up and knocking them down.

Mix and match the panels to make a wide variety of blocks. Included are stripes, solids, numbers, letters and a crochet monkey face and tail.

Measures: 4” x 4” x 4”

Security Blanket

Crochet Monkey Baby Blanket and Toy Set – Available in the Store

All three of these crochet monkey accessories are available in the Lil Monkey Accessories Set in the store.

Lil Monkey Accessories Set pattern on Etsy.

This set is great for making gifts for baby showers. Make one or all three, the new mom is going to love them all.

This set includes: baby blanket, security blank and toy blocks.

Available in the Store

More Monkey Stuff in Store

baby monkey hat setWant more monkey stuff? Theses blankets and blocks have a matching hat set!

This hat set includes preemie and newborn size hats and diaper cover. It also has newborn booties and mitts.

Learn more about the Lil Monkey Baby Hat Set.

Lil Monkey Baby Hat Set pattern on Etsy.

Not enough? There are is more monkey stuff in the store!

Crochet Monkey, Banana and Palm Tree Pattern

Create your own jungle with this fun crochet monkey, banana, and palm tree pattern.

Perfect for a jungle themed nursery, a Hawaiian luau party, a tropical paradise or a desert oasis. Kids will enjoy feeding the monkey bananas while adults will be impressed with the your large scale crochet project, the palm tree(s).

Crochet monkey, banana and palm tree

Mix and match the parts and pieces and colors to best meet your needs. Whether you’re looking only for a furry monkey, a sweet snack or a tall bit of shade, this pattern has it all.

Skill Level: Intermediate

Crochet Techniques: Crochet in the round, crochet in front and back loop, crochet increase and decrease, loop stitch, crocodile stitch

Crochet Monkey, Banana and Palm Tree Pattern: THE MONKEY

banana in footOur crochet monkey was crocheted with copper Fun Fur which resembles an orangutan (tailless) or Golden Langur (with tail). Mix and match the colors to create your favorite monkey.

Monkeys have many different characteristics. Some have more hair than others. Some have tails. This pattern includes instructions for these optional features.

This crochet pattern includes hands and feet that grip. That’s right. We’ve crocheted pipe-cleaners (fuzzy sticks) into the hands which allows them to grab hold of things…like a banana. Super fun! (Edges of fuzzy sticks can be sharp – do not use in toys for babies or small children).

The monkey has knee and elbow joints, too, making it more fun to play.

Measures: 14″ tall x 4.5″ wide x 4.75″ thick.

Crochet Monkey, Banana and Palm Tree Pattern: THE BANANA

crochet bananaYum. Crochet bananas for your furry little monkey and make playtime deliciously fun. They are easy and quick to make, so why not crochet a bunch?

The edible portion is crocheted in the round, but the peel is crocheted back and forth to simulate the ridges that bananas have.

These fit perfectly into the hands and feet of the crocheted monkey.

Measures: 4″ long x 3.5″ around.

Crochet Monkey, Banana and Palm Tree Pattern: THE PALM TREE

Crochet Palm Tree

Let your monkey swing from the trees with this larger than life crochet project. The palm tree is perfect for decorating the corner of a room or on the patio for a theme’d party.

It’s the details in the crochet that make this palm tree so adorable. The loop stitch grass, crocodile stitch top and fun yarn make this very realistic. And the pieces that help it all take shape (drain pipe, christmas tree stand and floral foam) are easy to find.

Measures: 8.5′ tall x 4′ wide. Can be made shorter or taller as needed.

Crochet Monkey, Banana and Palm Tree Pattern: Now Available

It’s a Jungle crochet pattern is now available!

It’s a Jungle crochet pattern on Etsy.

Create your own oasis. Buy It’s a Jungle today in the store.