Puppy Chow Recipe & Crochet Dog for Boss’s Day

September 27, 2013 by ·

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

Filed Under: Animals, Cozy, Cup Cozies, Mason Jar Series, Patterns for FREE, Recipe · Tagged With: , , , ,

I Love Yarn Day Cozy and Mason Jar Yarn Keeper

September 13, 2013 by ·

I Love Yarn Day (October 11) – Heart Cozy and Yarn Keeper Jar

Yes, I have “I love yarn day” on my calendar. A few years ago I would have scoffed at such a “silly” day. Not so any more. This is an important day to celebrate!

I Love Yarn Day Cozies

In support of this momentous day, I’ve created a special mason jar cozy and yarn keeper. Let’s get started with the mason jar then work our way to the cozy.

Mason Jar Yarn Keeper

heart cozyThis mason jar yarn keeper is similar to yarn bowls and yarn keeper bags. The mason jar version has the added benefit of looking adorable on a shelf stuffed with yarn in a kaleidoscope of colors.

Benefits: A mason jar yarn keeper helps keep remnants of yarn clean and tangle free. It can hold a small ball of yarn that has either a center pull or is pulled from the outside. The biggest benefit is that the ball of yarn won’t roll away while you work. The tail is fed through a hole in the lid which helps it unwind smoothly which will help with consistent tension.

We have filled our jars with hand wound balls of yarn. We’ve written a post on how to make a center pull ball of yarn by hand if you’d like to create balls with your remnants.

There are three options for the lid. Supplies and directions for all three are listed below.

3 styles of lids

SUPPLIES:

  • Wide Mouth Mason Jar
  • Wide Mouth Lid

Option 1:

  • Crop-A-Dile Big Bite

Option 2:

  • Crop-A-Dile Big Bite or Hole Punch
  • Plastic Packaging
  • Marker
  • Scissors

Option 3:

  • Cardstock
  • Hole Punch
  • Pencil
  • Scissors

mason jar yarn keeper with clear lid

INSTRUCTIONS:

Option 1:

This is the quickest method. It works great for papercrafters who already own the Crop-A-Dile, a special hole punch and grommet setter that can reach 6”.

  1. Set the Crop-A-Dile to the 3/16 setting and punch a hole in the lid (either in the center or where desired).

punch hole in lid

Option 2:

This is a fun option if you want a transparent lid. You can us use the fancy Crop-A-Dile tool or a single hole punch.

  1. Trace the wide mouth lid on a piece of plastic packaging with a marker.
  2. Cut out the shape with scissors. For a better fit, cut off (cut on the inside of) the traced circle.
  3. Use Crop-A-Dile or hole punch to punch a hole.

Option 3:

This is a cute option for coordinating the lid with elements inside the jar. This also uses common elements you’ll find around the house.

  1. Trace the wide mouth lid on a piece of cardstock with a pencil.
  2. Cut out the shape with scissors. For a better fit, cut off (cut on the inside of) the traced circle.
  3. Use a hole punch to punch a hole.

Feed the yarn through the hole, place lid on jar and screw the lid to lock it in place.

yarn keeper and lidI Love Yarn Day Cozy

I couldn’t resist creating a heart shaped yarn ball for I Love Yarn Day. This quick cozy will help you flaunt your love of yarn.

Though we’ve used Vanna’s Choice for this project, this is an awesome stash buster. If you love yarn, then no doubt you’ve got a stash!

Skill Level: Easy

Stitches Used: Chain, Slip Stitch, Single Crochet, Double Crochet, Treble (Triple) Crochet

Techniques Used: Crochet in Rows, Crochet in the Round, Crochet in Both Loops, Crochet in Back Loops Only, Embroidery

COZY SUPPLIES:

  • Vanna’s Choice: Worsted Weight (4)
    RADIANT LIME, TERRACOTTA
    (Mug: Colonial Blue, Mustard)
    (Cup: Chocolate, Pink)
  • Crochet Hook: H/8/5.00 mm
  • Yarn Needle for Sewing

3 heart cozies

COZY INSTRUCTIONS:

Radiant Lime

Hook: H

Ch 5

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook. Sc across. (4)

Row 2-28: Working in the back loops only, sc across. (4)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

Sew ends of cozy together with whip st across.

embroider heartHEART INSTRUCTIONS

Terracotta (shown here in Silver Blue)

Hook: H

Leaving a long tail: Ch 5

Rnd 1: In the 5th ch from hook work: 3 trc, 4 dc, 1 trc, 4 dc, 3 trc, ch 3, sl st into the same stitch. Pull tail tightly to close the hole. Finish off leaving a long tail for to drape across cozy. (17)

With tail from beginning ch, sew yarn ball looking stripes (sewn in groups of four or as desired). Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

Sew heart to cozy covering up the whip st join. Weave in ends.

With tail left over from Rnd 1, create a curl in the yarn and sew to cozy as desired.

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this heart 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.

The ebook includes 3 new designs – Dracula, Vampire and Blue Jeans.

Available in the StoreRead more about the set:

Blog: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Store: Coffee Cup Cozy Collection

Filed Under: Cozy, Cup Cozies, Mason Jar Series, Patterns for FREE · Tagged With: , , ,

Talk Like a Pirate Day Cozy & Lemonade

August 30, 2013 by ·

Strawberry Lemonade Recipe and Crochet Pirate Cozy for Talk Like a Pirate Day – September 19

talk like a pirate day

Ahoy, mateys. For Talk Like a Pirate Day (September 19), we’ve got a fun crochet pirate mason jar cozy and Strawberry Lemonade Recipe. If ye don’t want to get scurvy on this voyage…you’ll need lots of Vitamin C!

Let’s make some grog before we get to the crochetin’.

jar of strawberry lemonadeStrawberry Lemonade Recipe

Aye, a pirate’s diet is sorely lacking in fresh fruits and veggies when long out to sea. We’ll keep scurvy at bay with this recipe of fresh squeezed lemonade.

Strawberry Lemonade Ingredients:

  • 4 cups water
  • 2 cups fresh strawberries
  • 1 cup agave nectar
  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice (4 to 5 lemons)

Strawberry Lemonade Directions:

  1. Mix 1 cup water with ¾ cup agave nectar in a 2 qt pitcher.
  2. Hull strawberries (cut off top and fiber from core).
  3. strawberry lemonade ingredientsJuice lemons (best if they are room temperature) and strain to remove seeds.
  4. Blend 3 cups water, ¼ cup agave nectar and strawberries until smooth.
  5. Pour strawberry mixture into pitcher. Stir.
  6. Add more of any ingredient as needed to desired taste.
  7. Keep refrigerated. Serve over crushed ice.

Bottoms up!

Crochet Pirate Cozy

crochet pirate

Avast ye scallywags, it’s time to grab yer crochet hooks before we make ye walk the plank!

We’ll be drinkin’ this lemon booty from mason jars and crocheting with Vanna’s Choice Yarn. Though this be a great stash busting project, Vanna’s rich and vibrant colors are a treasure to be sure.

Skill Level: Easy

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

Technique Used: Crochet in rows, crochet in the round, increase

Pirate Cozy Supplies:

  • Vanna’s Choice Yarn: worsted weight (4)
    Red Cozy: BEIGE, CRANBERRY, BLACK, CHOCOLATE, WHITE, COLONIAL BLUE
    (Green Cozy: Kelly Green, Beige, Black, Chocolate, White)
    (Blue Cozy: Colonial Blue, Beige, Black, Chocolate, White, Kelly Green)
  • Crochet Hooks:
    H/8/5.00 mm
    F/5/3.75 mm
    C/2/2.75 mm
  • Yarn needle for sewing

crochet piratePirate Cozy Instructions

Beige

Hook: H

Ch 17

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook. Sc across. (16)

Row 2-3: Ch 1, turn. Sc across. (16)

Row 4: Ch 1, turn. Sc dec, 12 sc, sc dec. (14)

Row 5-6: Ch 1, turn. Sc across. (14)

Row 7: Ch 1, turn. Sc dec, 10 sc, sc dec. (12)

Row 8-9: Ch 1, turn. Sc across. (12)

Row 10: Ch 1, turn. Sc dec, 8 sc, sc dec. Finish off and weave in ends. (10)

Attach Cranberry to bottom right corner (the 1st ch from foundation ch).

Row 11: work 9 sc across the sides of Rows 1-9. Work a sc inc into the corner. Turn to Row 10, sc across. Work a sc inc into the corner. Turn to sides of Rows 1-10. Work 9 sc across. (32)

Row 12: Ch 1, turn. Sc across. (32)

Row 13: Ch 1, turn. 5 sl st, 5 sc. Leave remaining sts unworked. (10)

Row 14-32: Ch 1, turn. Sc across. (10)

side of pirate cozy

Row 33: 5 sc, 5 sl st. (10)

Row 34: *Ch 6. Sc in 2nd ch from hook. Sc, 2 hdc, sc* twice. Join with sl st through center of tails to end of Row 33. (10)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

Join Row 33 to 12 with whip st across.

Eye Instructions

Black

Hook: C

Ch 2

Rnd 1: 5 sc in 2nd ch from hook. Join with a sl st. Finish off and weave in ends. (5)

Attach Colonial Blue to any stitch.

Rnd 2: Sc inc around. Join with a sl st. Finish off and weave in ends. (10)

Attach White to any st.

3 cozies

Rnd 3: Working in the back loop only, *sc, sc inc* around. Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing. (15)

Sew a reflective spot on eye if desired.

Patch Instructions

Black

Hook: F

Ch 2

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

Row 2: Ch 1, turn. Sc inc across. (12)

Row 3: Ch 1, turn. *Sc, sc inc* across. Ch 26. Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing. (44)

Mustache Instructions

Chocolate

Hook: F

Ch 18

Row 1: Sl st in 2nd ch from hook. Sc, hdc, 2 dc, hdc, sc inc, sc, sl st, sc, sc inc, hdc, 2 dc, hdc, sc, sl st. Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing. (17)

Assembly Instructions

  1. Pin then sew Eye, Patch and Mustache to cozy. Weave in ends.

Shiver me timbers, we’re done! Let’s grab us some black jacks (mason jars) and drink to yer health.

Talk Like a Pirate:

Just for fun, here are some pirate words and phrases:

Ahoy – Hello
Arrr (Aargh) – An expression
Avast – Stop or Pay attention
Aye – Yes
Black Spot – Death Threat
Blimey – An expression of surprise
Blow the man down down – A command to kill someone
Feed the fishes – Someone will die
Heave Ho – Put some muscle into it
Hornswaggle – To cheat
Landlubber – Person who doesn’t know how to sail
Loaded to the gunwalls – a drunk person
Scalleywag – Mild insult
Scurvy – Vitamin C deficency that causes swollen gums and tooth loss
Shiver me tinbers – An expression of surprise
Son of a buiscuit eater – An insult
Thar she blows! – Sighting of a whale
Walk the plank – Death by walking off the ship and drowning
Yo Ho Ho – An expression of cheer

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this pirate 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 pirates 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

Filed Under: Cozy, Cup Cozies, Mason Jar Series, Patterns for FREE, Recipe · Tagged With: , , ,

Crochet Bear Cozy and Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers

August 16, 2013 by ·

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

Filed Under: Animals, Cozy, Cup Cozies, Great as Gifts, Mason Jar Series, Patterns for FREE · Tagged With: , ,

Kettle Corn Recipe for Movie Night with Crochet Star Wars Chewbacca

July 19, 2013 by ·

Kettle Corn Recipe for Movie Night with Crochet Star Wars Chewbacca Mason Jar Cozy

cup cozies permission pending

Make movie night more festive with our colorful kettle corn recipe and a crochet Star Wars Chewbacca Mason jar cozy!

 

As kids, Chewbacca was my sister’s and my favorite Star Wars character, so it seems only fitting that he be one of the characters we make for our movie night mason jar cozy. This is a fun and easy project that will add a lot of flavor to a night of entertainment.

Let’s start with the Kettle Corn…you can munch on it while you crochet!

kettle corn recipeKettle Corn Recipe

We’ve changed up the traditional kettle corn recipe by using agave nectar instead of sugar (if you don’t have agave nectar, use ¼ cup of white sugar).

By adding a few drops of food coloring, this simple snack food becomes an extra special treat.

So, let’s get poppin’.

Kettle Corn Ingredients:

  • 2 Tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 Tablespoons butter
  • 1/2 cup white popcorn kernels
  • 1/3 cup agave nectar
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 4 drops of food coloring

Kettle Corn Directions:

  1. In a large pot, heat oil and butter on medium-high heat. When it boils, add agave nectar, salt, food coloring and popcorn.
  2. Constantly shake pot over heat. When popping starts to slow down, remove from heat and pour popcorn into a large bowl. CAUTION: the agave nectar/sugar burns easily. You will want to remove the pan from the heat long before there are 2 seconds between pops.
  3. Stir and allow popcorn to cool before serving.

Crochet Star Wars Chewbacca Mason Jar Cozy

If you love to crochet Star Wars characters, than add this guy to the list. It will bring a smile to your face every step of the way. It did for me…I was grinning ear to ear as I was designing this cozy.

This works great as a cup cozy, too! You gotta have something to drink on movie night!

Skill Level: Easy

Stitches Used: Chain, Slip Stitch, Single Crochet

Skills Used: Crochet in Rows, Crochet in the Round, Crochet with two strands at once.

Chewbacca Supplies List:

  • Vanna’s Choice: ESPRESSO, SILVER GREY, TOFFEE
  • Fun Fur: Choclate
  • Yarn Needle for sewing
  • Hook: H/8/5.00 mm
  • Hook: C/2/2.75 mm

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this Star Wars 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.

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

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

Filed Under: Cozy, Cup Cozies, Great as Gifts, Mason Jar Series, Patterns for FREE, Recipe · Tagged With: , , , ,

Apple Dumpling Recipe with 4th of July Crochet American Flag Cozy

June 21, 2013 by ·

Apple Dumpling Recipe with 4th of July Crochet American Flag Cozy

apple dumplings recipe

This super sweet, super easy, Apple Dumpling Recipe is another one of our family favorite desserts (most often requested by my brother)! Dress it up in this crochet American Flag cozy and you’ve got a fun 4th of July dessert and decorating idea (perfect for any American holiday, really)!

Let’s start with the Apple Dumplings. While they bake and cool, you can whip up the mason jar cozies.

Apple Dumpling Recipe / Pie in a Jar

pie in a jarI modified an Apple Dumpling Recipe to be a Pie in a Jar…and IMHO it was the best Apple Dumplings dessert my family has ever had (my parents agree)! My husband loved it so much…he requested I make it again with other fruits like peaches!

Serves 4 (makes 4 extra large desserts).

Pie Ingredients:

  • 4 wide mouth pint size mason jars
  • 2 ready-made pie crusts
  • 3 Granny Smith Apples
  • 4 Tablespoons sugar
  • 4  1/2 teaspoons cinnamon
  • 1/2  teaspoon nutmeg

Syrup:

  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1  1/2 cups water
  • 1/4  teaspoon cinnamon
  • 1/8  teaspoon nutmeg

Topping:

  • 2 teaspoons sugar

apples and cinnamon sugarDirections:

  1. Preheat oven to 375°.
  2. Mix all Syrup ingredients together in a pot and bring to a boil. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Unroll two pie crusts and cut each in half. You now have dough for 4 dumplings.
  4. Peel, core and dice apples (approximately ½” cubes).
  5. Divide apples evenly and place in center of dough.
  6. Mix remaining Pie ingredients (4 T sugar, 4 ½ t cinnamon, ½ t nutmeg) together in a bowl. Sprinkle 1 Tablespoon of mixture on each dumpling over top the apples.
  7. Dab your finger in water and moisten the edges of the dough. Wrap the dough around the apples creating a cocoon around the apples pressing edges together (if dough breaks or tears, don’t worry. A few holes in the dough is fine).
  8. apple dumplings ready for the ovenSpray the bottom of each jar with cooking spray. Place one dumpling in each jar.
  9. Pour ½ cup of Syrup in each jar making sure the syrup reaches the bottom of the jar (use a knife to press the dumpling away from the side of the jar if needed).
  10. Sprinkle ½ teaspoon sugar on top of each dumpling.
  11. Place jars on cookie sheet and bake in oven for 1 hour.
  12. Allow to cool. Serve warm.

Recipe inspired by: http://relish.com/recipes/old-fashioned-apple-dumplings/

Alternatives:

  • If you’d like to add a bit more color to this dessert, try adding a little red food coloring to the syrup.
  • Want it a little more “spicy”? Add some Red Hots candies to the apples.
  • This recipe makes 4 extra large servings. For a smaller dessert, cut each pie crust into either 3 or 4 pieces to create 6 or 8 desserts. Divide all ingredients evenly among each dumpling.

Crochet American Flag Cozy

crochet american flagIt’s the stars and stripes that make this look like a crochet American Flag. While it is possible to crochet an exact replica of the American Flag (50 stars and 13 stripes), we also think it’s fun to get a little artistic and a bit fanciful with this cozy project. Have fun with it.

We used Vanna’s Choice for this project. This is a great way to use up remnants from your stash. We showcase this in two different reds and two different blues to illustrate that most any red and blue will work.

Skill Level: Easy

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

Techniques Used: Crochet in the Round, Crochet in Rows, Crochet in Back Loop, Crochet in Both Loops, Crochet Increase (work two stitches in next st)

SUPPLIES:

  • Vanna’s Choice:Worsted Weight (4)
    Jar Cozy: SCARLET, WHITE, COLONIAL BLUE
    (Mug: CRANBERRY, WHITE, NAVY)
    (Cup: CRANBERRY, WHITE, COLONIAL BLUE)
  • Crochet Hook: H/8/5.00 mm
  • Yarn Needle for sewing

AMERICAN FLAG JAR COZY INSTRUCTIONS

Scarlet

Hook: H

Ch 12

Row 1: Hdc in 3rd ch from hook. Hdc across. (10)

Finish off and weave in ends.

Attach White

Row 2: Ch 2, turn. In back loops only, hdc across. (10)

Row 3: Ch 2, turn. In both loops only, hdc across. (10)

Finish off and weave in ends.

Attach Red

Row 4: Ch 2, turn. In back loops only, hdc across. (10)

Row 5: Ch 2, turn. In both loops only, hdc across. (10)

Finish off and weave in ends.

Row 6-23 Repeat Rows 2-5 until you have 23 Rows. End with White.

Attach Red

Row 24: Ch 2, turn. Hdc in back loops only across. (10)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

Join Row 24 to foundation ch with whip st across.

flag cozy parts

WIDE MOUTH LID COVER INSTRUCTIONS

Colonial Blue

Hook: H

Ch 3

Rnd 1: 8 hdc in 3rd ch from hook. Join with a sl st. (8)

Rnd 2: Ch 1, hdc inc around. (16)

Rnd 3: *hdc, hdc inc* around. (24)

Rnd 4: *2 hdc, hdc inc*around. (32)

Rnd 5: *3 hdc, hdc inc* 7 times. 2 sc, sc inc, sl st. (40)

Rnd 6: Work in back loops only, sc around. (40)

Rnd 7-8: Work in both loops, sc around. (40)

2 Sl st. Finish off, weave in end.

STAR INSTRUCTIONS

White

Hook: H

Ch 2

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

Rnd 2: In back loops only, sl st into next st. (work next group in the same st as sl st you just worked) * work: ch 2, dc, ch 1, sl st into top of dc, ch 2, sl st. 2 sl sts into next sts of Rnd 1* around.

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

Pin then sew Star to top of Lid.

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this flag 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 flags 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

Filed Under: 4th of July, Armed Forces Day, Cozy, Cup Cozies, Great as Gifts, Home, Kitchen, Mason Jar Series, Patterns for FREE, Recipe · Tagged With: , , , ,

Mason Jar soap Dispenser Update

April 24, 2013 by ·

Did you make the mason jar soap dispenser? I did. I have mine by my kitchen sink. I’d like to share with you what I discovered after a few months of use.

mason jar soap dispenser by kitchen sink

First, I have to admit: I love my mason jar soap dispenser. I do most of my hand washing by the kitchen sink, so it’s been a godsend (that word may be a bit dramatic…but I really do love it!). This would also be a cute dispenser for dish soap (just sayin’).

The pump worked great, the soap flowed smoothly (no air bubbles), and it didn’t clog.

But after a few months of use, when the soap was nearly used up, I noticed a brown fleck floating in the soap. That’s kind of strange since I hadn’t opened the dispenser since filling it with soap. I had my suspicions of what it must be.

Rust on LidYep, it’s rust. The scratches I put on the inside of the lid when drilling the hole for the pump had all turned into rust. Not a pretty picture.

But, that’s ok. Now that I know about the problem, I would modify the soap dispenser as follows:

  1. Make a ring from plastic packaging , or
  2. Use a plastic canning jar lid instead of a metal one, or
  3. Replace the metal ring once a quarter

If you are doing option 1, simply use a permanent marker to trace around the metal lid on a piece of plastic packaging. Cut it out and follow the directions outlined in the mason jar soap dispenser post we wrote a few months ago.

This issue with rust and metal is not a new problem (though it’s new to me). A week or so ago I went to an antique mall with a girlfriend. While there, I stopped to use the restroom and saw a mason jar soap dispenser by the sink! The lid appeared to be made of tin. Curiosity got the better of me and I took a peak under the lid to see if it at a rust problem.

The inside of the lid was not copper/red/brown with rust, but it was black and murky leading me to believe that it had a similar unhappy reaction to being used as a soap dispenser.

Bottom line, mason jars are a fun way to make soap dispensers…but a little extra care with the lid will make a difference between one that is used for a short while vs. one that is used long term.

If you missed it, you can see our original post on how to make a mason jar soap dispenser with crochet owl cozy we posted a few months ago. Enjoy!

Filed Under: Mason Jar Series · Tagged With: ,

Administrative Professionals’ Day Gift Idea

April 12, 2013 by ·

Administrative Professionals’ Day Gift Idea

Administrative Professionals Day

We’ve create a fun gift idea for Administrative Professionals’ Day. It’s colorful and cheerful and will look adorable on your Admin’s desk. (Of course, this is a cute gift idea for other special days like Mother’s Day or birthdays. This would also be a fun “just because” gift for a gardening friend…just sayin’).

Flowers were a traditional present back in the day when I was receiving gifts for Secretaries Day. Now that it’s called Administrative Professionals’ Day, I still think flowers make the perfect gift. But this mason jar planter with a crocheted cozy adds a new twist to the gift! Love it!

Administrative Professionals’ Day Gift Idea – Mason Jar Planter

Daisy Mason Jar with ComputerFor those Administrative Professionals who love flowers, you simply can’t go wrong with a mason jar planter! We’ve used daisies in our jar…which could be transplanted right from the jar into the garden. Annuals or herbs would be nice alternatives.

SUPPLIES:

  • 1 mason jar
  • 1 plant or herb
  • A few rocks or glass beads
  • Potting soil
  • Charcoal (optional)

A note about container gardening:

Charcoal is often used in container gardening to cut down on bacteria. It is also an additive that helps plants thrive. Please note that charcoal used in gardening is not the same as charcoal used for grilling. Visit your local gardening center for charcoal to use in container gardening. Charcoal is only needed for those plants that will be staying in the jar long term.

Container Gardening

DIRECTIONS:

  1. Place 1” of rocks or glass beads in bottom of jar.
  2. Place ½” of charcoal on top of rocks (optional).
  3. Fill jar with dirt and flower.
  4. Water the plant just enough that water reaches the bottom of the jar but does not pool.

Administrative Professionals’ Day Gift Idea – Daisy Mason Jar cozy

Mason Jar PlanterThe potted plant is a beautiful Administrative Professionals’ Day gift item all by itself. We think a colorful daisy cozy will add more pizzazz to the gift…and this cozy doubles as a cup cozy!

This project is a great way to use up your yarn stash. We’ve used Vanna’s Choice. She has lots of bright and beautiful color options.

Skill Level: Easy

Techniques Used: Crochet in Rows and Rounds.

Stitches Used: Chain, Single Crochet, Half Double Crochet

SUPPLIES:

  • Vanna’s Choice Yarn: RASPBERRY, RADIANT YELLOW, WHITE
    (Yellow Flower: CHOCOLATE, MUSTARD, FERN)
    (Pink Flower: AQUA, RASPBERRY, ESPRESSO)
  • Crochet Hook: C,F,H
  • Yarn Needle

COZY INSTRUCTIONS

Crochet Mason Jar CozyRadiant Yellow

Hook: F

Ch 3

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

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

Finish off and weave in ends.

Attach White to any st.

Use Hook: C

Rnd 3: Ch 14. Sl st in same st from Rnd 2 (14th ch from hook). Sl st. (corner petal made) *Ch 9, sl st into same st from Rnd 2 (9th ch from hook). Sl st.* Twice. (2 petals made). Ch 14. Sl st in same st from Rnd 2 (14th ch from hook). Sl st. (corner petal made) *Ch 10, sl st into same st from Rnd 2 (10th ch from hook). Sl st.* Twice. (2 petals made). Repeat from beginning to make a total of 12 petals. Sl st into base of 1st petal made. Finish off and weave in ends. (164)

Note: The ch-9 petals are the top and bottom of the flower.

Attach Raspberry around corner petal (Ch-14 space). Attach it to the corner that has two ch-9 petals to the left.

Use Hook: F

Rnd 4: Work sc, ch 1, sc around corner petal. Ch 2. *2 sc around next petal, ch 2.* Twice. Repeat from beginning 3 more times to work around flower. Join with a sl st. (52)

Rnd 5: Work sc, ch 1, sc in ch-1 corner space. Skip a st. *3 sc around ch-2 space, skip 2 sts* 3 times. Repeat from beginning to work around the flower.
Join with a sl st. (48)

Use Hook: H

Row 6: Sl st into ch-1 space. Ch 2 (count as 1st st), turn. 10 hdc, hdc dec (into sc and ch-1 space). (12)

Row 7-23: Ch 2 (count as first st), hdc across. (12)

Finish off and weave in ends.

Join ends with whip st across.

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this daisy 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 daisies 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

Filed Under: Administrative Professionals' Day, Cozy, Cup Cozies, Flowers, Great as Gifts, Mason Jar Series, Patterns for FREE · Tagged With: , , , , ,

Happy Easter – Bunnies, Bunnies and More Bunnies

March 31, 2013 by ·

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!

Filed Under: Animals, Cozy, Cup Cozies, Easter, Great as Gifts, Mason Jar Series · Tagged With: , , , ,

Russian Tea Recipe and Crochet Radioactive Cozy

March 15, 2013 by ·

Russian Tea Recipe and Crochet Radioactive Cozy

There are many Russian Tea Recipes, but this is my all time favorite. My mother calls it Spiced Tea, but at craft shows it is referred to as Russian Tea. And because I have a sweet tooth, I like this really sweet blend.

Russian Tea Recipe

We’re packaging this tea in a mason jar which is perfect for gift giving. Since it’s loaded with sugar, the crocheted cozy with the radioactive symbol on it is definitely fitting! This cozy would be perfect for any “toxic” drink (tea, coffee, hot chocolate) or food (bean or split pea soup).

Let’s start with the Russian Tea. Then you can enjoy a cup while you crochet the radioactive cozy!

Russian Tea Recipe

This Russian Tea Recipe has been in the family for years. So I’m not sure who to credit for this particular combination (if you know, please leave me a comment below). You can adjust the sweetness of your tea by adding more or less to your cup of hot water.

Russian Tea Ingredients MixedThis spiced tea is a cross between hot apple cider and orange juice. Yum!

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup Instant sweetened lemon tea
  • 1 cup Tang
  • ½ to 1 ½ teaspoon cinnamon
  • ¼ teaspoon cloves

Directions:

  1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl.
  2. Store in mason jar.

Serving:

  1. Add 3 teaspoons to 1 cup boiling water (adjust quantity to desired sweetness).

Crochet Mason Jar Cozy with Radioactive Symbol

If you like your beverage a little stronger than most, the radioactive symbol is the perfect image for your cup cozy! It’s also a cute way to adorn a gift for April Fools Day (April 1)…just sayin’.

Crocheted Radioactive Cup CozyThis is a quirky and delightful way to use up your yarn stash. We’ve used Vanna’s Choice. Use Mustard or Radiant Yellow for a traditional cozy or try a Radiant Lime to represent the radioactive material inside your cup or mason jar!

Skill Level: Intermediate

Stitches Used: Chain, slip stitch, single crochet, no foundation chain double crochet

Techniques Used: Crochet in the Round

Supplies:

  • Vanna’ Choice Yarn: MUSTARD, BLACK
  • Mason Jar

Jar Cozy Instructions

Mustard

Hook: H

Ch 34, join with a sl st.

Rnd 1-9: Sc around. (34)

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

Radioactive Symbol Instructions

Center Circle Instructions

Black

Hook: C

Ch 3

Rnd 1: 7 hdc in 3rd ch from hook. Join with a sl st. (7)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

Outer Semi-circle Instructions (make 3)

Black

Hook: C

Ch 4

Row 1: Ncfdc in 4th ch from hook, 3 ncfdc, Ch 3. Sl st in base of dc. (5)

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

Assembly Instructions

Pin then sew Radioactive symbol to cozy. Weave in ends.

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this radioactive 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.

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

Filed Under: April Fools Day, Cozy, Cup Cozies, Kitchen, Mason Jar Series, Patterns for FREE, Recipe, Yarnitect · Tagged With: , , , ,
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