Colorful Heart in Grandma’s Favorite Dishcloth

Ever since I charted the Heart in Grandma’s Favorite Dishcloth knitting pattern, I’ve wanted to knit it in color. I love the stockinette heart in the middle of the garter stitch…but what would a change of color do?

The Front of Grandma’s Favorite Dishie

Colorful Heart in Grandma's Favorite Dishcloth knitting pattern

I’m thrilled with my first ever attempt to knit with a color change.

But I had two challenge:

  1. I had to learn how to pick up a new color without leaving a hole.
  2. Since there is no “back” to this project, that meant I couldn’t carry my color. Yep, there were 5 mini balls of yarn for this project! Way too many for a first timer.

This gave me a new appreciation for any and all knitting projects that use more than one color. And an even greater appreciation for knit groups! I’m definitely going to hit one up next time I start this project!

The Back of Grandma’s Favorite Dishie

back of dishie

So…since I didn’t carry the color…what does the back look like? Here ya go…a sneak peak.

Yeah, not very pretty. But you know what? I’m still gonna use it. Or is this one of those projects only a mother could love…so I should send it to my mom???

If you’ve got some knitting advice, I’m all ears. Leave me a comment below.

Get your free Heart in Grandma’s Favorite Dishcloth knitting pattern.

 

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

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

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

Caramel Corn Recipe for Crochet Baseball Cozy

Caramel Corn Recipe for Crochet Baseball Cozy

Make this delicious and easy caramel corn recipe to be stored in a mason jar with a crochet baseball cozy! Just in time for the next big game…a tasty treat for players and fans alike.

caramel corn recipe and crochet baseball cozy

Peanuts and Cracker Jacks are synonymous with baseball. We’re celebrating American’s favorite pastime with this fun baseball cozy and caramel corn combo.

Let’s dig in and make some caramel corn. It’ll need time to cool…which will give you time to whip up a cozy or two!

Caramel Corn Recipe

jar of caramel cornThis caramel corn is very versatile. Make a rich chocolate drizzled caramel corn (more like moose munch) by following the recipe below. Make an extra thick and rich caramel corn (more like Cracker Jacks) by doubling the sauce and omitting the chocolate. If you love peanut butter, add ½ cup of peanut butter with the corn syrup (step 4).

We asked friends and family to tell us which version of the caramel corn they liked the best (chocolate vs. extra thick and rich caramel). It was a tie! Since there is no clear favorite, you should make the one that you’d prefer.

INGREDIENTS & SUPPLIES:

  • 12 cups popped white popcorn (½ cup unpopped)
  • 1 cup dry roasted peanuts
  • 1 cup light brown sugar
  • ¼ cup light corn syrup
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup butter
  • ¼ teaspoon baking soda
  • ½ teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 (4 oz) dark chocolate bar (Ghirardelli 60% Cacao)
  • 1 (4 oz) white chocolate bar (Ghirardelli White)

caramel corn with chocolate drizzleDIRECTIONS:

  1. Preheat oven to 225°. Lightly grease a 9×13 pan. Set aside.
  2. Lightly grease a large soup pot (stock pot).
  3. Pop popcorn (we used an air popper), remove any unpopped kernels. Pour popcorn then peanuts into soup pot.
  4. Melt brown sugar, corn syrup, butter and salt in sauce pan on medium heat stirring regularly bringing it to a boil. Boil and stir constantly until temperature reaches 250° to 260° (approximately 5 minutes). Caramel will be bubbly and a bit stretchy.
  5. Remove from heat. Combine baking soda and vanilla extract and stir into caramel sauce.
  6. Pour caramel over popcorn. Stir until popcorn is evenly coated with caramel.
  7. Pour popcorn into prepared 9×13 pan. Bake for 45 minutes stirring every 15 minutes.
  8. Line cookie sheet with wax paper. Pour caramel corn onto wax paper. Break into pieces if needed. Cool completely.
  9. Melt dark chocolate over low heat stirring constantly. Drizzle over popcorn.
  10. Melt white chocolate over low heat stirring constantly. Drizzle over popcorn.
  11. Refrigerate for 10 minutes or until chocolate solidifies.
  12. Store and serve in mason jars. Serve within 10 days.

This recipe is a modifed version of: My Amish Friend’s Caramel Corn.

I’ve been told that by adding a bit of molassas to the sauce (step 4) this caramel corn will taste like Cracker Jacks!

Crochet Baseball Cozy

baseball and mustache jar cozy

We created this fun cozy and caramel combo in honor of the baseball team the Oakland A’s…AKA: the Mustache Gang. In 1972, right fielder Reggie Jackson refused to shave off his mustache which prompted the team owner Charles Finley to pay all the players to grow a mustache. And on June 18th, anyone wearing a mustache got into the game free. So…when you head to your next baseball game, wear a ‘stache and bring some caramel corn!

Note: Need a mustache pattern? We have three free mustache patterns on our post: Father’s Day Gift Ideas, Steak Rub Recipe and Mustache Cozy.

The crochet baseball cozy is another great stash buster. We’ve used Vanna’s Choice yarn for this project. She has several colors that are a perfect match for various types of sports balls.

Skill Level: Beginner

Stitches Used: Chain, Slip Stitch, Single Crochet

Techniques Used: Crochet in the Round

crochet baseball cozy

SUPPLIES:

  • Vanna’s Choice: Worsted Weight (4)
    Baseball: WHITE, CRANBERRY
    (Basketball: TERRECOTTA, BLACK)
    (Tennis Ball: LIME, BEIGE)
  • Crochet Hook: H/8/5.00 mm
  • Yarn Needle for sewing

BASEBALL JAR COZY INSTRUCTIONS

White

Hook: H

Ch 34, join with a sl st.

Rnd 1-10: Sc around. (34)

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

With Cranberry, embroider baseball threads.

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this baseball 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 balls 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

Father’s Day Gift Ideas – Steak Rub Recipe and Crochet Mustache!

Father’s Day Gift Ideas – Steak Rub Recipe and Crochet Mustache!

We have two Father’s Day gift ideas for you…a steak rub recipe and a crochet mustache jar cozy. Combine the two and not only will you create a tasty gift for dad, but a stylish one, too!

father's day gift ideas

I’m not spoiling the surprise by sharing this gift idea with you. My dad likes plain old table salt. So, he’s not getting this particular rub. My husband, on the other hand, loves seasonings so much that his friends have nicknamed him “flavor boy”. He’ll be grilling with this rub for sure!

To round out this Father’s Day gift idea, we have created a crochet mustache jar cozy. Mustaches are distinctively masculine and 100% fun!

Let’s start with the Steak Rub Recipe. You may need to order our secret ingredient online if you can’t find it at a grocery store or seasoning shop.

Steak Rub Recipe

steak rub recipeFather’s Day is just one excuse for grilling. This steak rub recipe is another!

You’re going to love the rich bold flavor of our secret ingredient…smoked sea salt. Smoked salt captures both the scent and flavor of campfire cooking. It is my husband’s favorite seasoning, and it’s the #1 ingredient in our steak rub.

Note: we recommend getting a strong smokey salt. Look for words like “extra bold” or “bonfire”.

We’ve kept the quantity of this rub recipe small so you can sample it before committing to a large jar of it.

INGREDIENTS & SUPPLIES:

  • 3 Tablespoons Smoked Sea Salt
  • 2 Tablespoons Coarse Black Pepper
  • 1 Tablespoon Garlic Powder
  • 1 Tablespoon Spiced Ranch Mix (dry packet)
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
  • 1 teaspoon Paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Onion Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Ground Mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cumin

DIRECTIONS:

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

SERVING:

  1. Brush steak with olive oil.
  2. Sprinkle dry rub on steak. (We like lots of flavor so we spinkle approximately 1 Tablespoon on each side of a thick Ribeye)
  3. Allow steak to rest at room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling.
  4. Grill steak to desired temperature.
  5. Enjoy!

Note: This tastes great on Pork Chops, too! Just sprinkle 1/2 teaspoon on each side. This rub is a little spicy.

Caution: Always use a clean spoon when scooping out seasoning for use on steak. You do not want raw meat to come into contact with seasonings that are being stored for later use.

Crochet Mustache Jar Cozy

crochet mustacheNow that the rub is out of the way, let’s get to the crochet mustache jar cozy. This cozy can be used on jars and cups. Super fun!

We’re using Vanna’s Choice (worsted weight: 4) for this project. This is a great stash buster!

These are fun for everyday use…but here are some other “special” days you may want to break out these cozies for public admiration:

  • International Fake Mustache Day – February 3rd
  • National Fake Mustache Day – February 24th
  • Oakland A’s Mustache Day – June 18th
  • Movember: National Grow a Mustache Month– November

Skill Level: Easy

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

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

SUPPLIES LIST:

  • Vanna’s Choice (Worsted Weight: 4) – Approx 21 yards total
    Green Jar Cozy: FERN, ESPRESSO
    (Pink Cozy: BERRYLICIOUS, ESPRESSO)
    (Yellow Cozy: MSUTARD, ESPRESSO)
  • Hook: H / 8 / 5.00 mm
  • Yarn Needle for sewing

Crochet Mustache Cozy Pattern

JAR COZY INSTRUCTIONS

Fern

Hook: H

Ch 34, join with a sl st.

Rnd 1-10: Sc around. (34)

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

MUSTACHE INSTRUCTIONS

Creating mustaches with yarn was so much fun…I made three. Which is your favorite?

NOTE: Additional shaping of the mustaches is accomplished in the pinning and sewing of them to the cozy.

crocheted mustache optionsENGLISH MUSTACHE INSTRUCTIONS (as seen on the pink cozy)

Espresso

Hook: H

Ch 16

Row 1: Sl st in 2nd ch from hook. Sl st, sc, hdc, dc, hdc, sc, sl st, sc, hdc, dc, hdc, sc, 2 sl st. (15)

Pin then sew mustache to top of cozy.

FU MANCHU MUSTACHE INSTRUCTIONS (as seen on green cozy)

Espresso

Hook: H

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.

Pin then sew mustache to top of cozy.

HANDLEBAR MUSTACHE INSTRUCTIONS (as seen on the yellow cozy)

Espresso

Hook: H

Ch 25

Row 1: Sl st in 2nd ch from hook. 5 sl st, sc, 4 hdc, 2 sl st, 4 hdc, sc, 6 sl st. (24)

Pin then sew mustache to top of cozy.

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this mustache 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 mustaches 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

Celebrate Armed Forces Day with Soup in a Jar

Celebrate Armed Forces Day with Soup in a Jar

We’re celebrating armed forces day with soup in a jar.

armed forces day

We are thankful for the men and women who serve our country in the military. We couldn’t resist creating an “MRE” (meals ready to eat) type recipe for this week’s mason jar.

This project is very simple to make. In fact, this cozy may be the easiest one’s we’ve made to date!

Armed Forces Day – Jar Cozy

cozy and ribbonMany organizations use a crossed ribbon to help raise awareness of their cause. The yellow ribbon signifies a wish to see our troops come home. A black ribbon helps us remember prisoners of war and those missing in action.

Though it’s not military related, we are demonstrating how this cozy can be used for most any cause with a change of color. The pink ribbon is used to raise breast cancer awareness.

Cozy Supplies

  • Vanna’s Colors (Bulky – 5): Pine
    Vanna’s Choice (Worsted – 4): Radiant Yellow
    (Black Ribbon: Vanna’s Choice – Scarlet, White, Colonial Blue, Black)
    (Pink Ribbon: Vanna’s Choice – Berrylicious, Pink)
  • Hook: H/8/5.00mm
  • Hook: K/10.5/6.5mm
  • Yarn Needle

cause ribbons

Cozy Instructions

Pine

Hook: K

Ch 28, Join with a sl st

Rnd 1-8: Sc around. (28)

Rnd 9: 2 sl st. Leave remaining sts unworked. Finish off and weave in ends.

Ribbon Instructions

Radiant Yellow

Hook: H

Ch 30

Row 1: Work in the back loop only. Dc in 3rd ch from hook, dc across. Ch 2, sl st into base of last st made. Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

Embroider if desired.

Cross ribbon and sew to cozy. Weave in ends.

“Just Add Water” Soup in a Jar

soup in a jarMost soup in a jar recipes require additional ingredients like meat, oil and dairy when the soup is being prepared. Those extra ingredients aren’t usually available to those who are roughing it. So we came up with the following “just add water” recipe.

As a side note: this recipe would be great for those who are camping or backpacking. And it would be a great snack item or quick meal for the kids, too!

Potato Cheese Soup Recipe

  • 1 ½ cups instant mashed potatoes
  • 1 cup instant coffee creamer (or powdered milk)
  • 1/3 cup cheddar cheese powder (or 1 ½ packets of Kraft Mac and Cheese packets)
  • 1 ½ teaspoons chicken bouillon
  • 1 teaspoons dried onion flakes
  • ½ teaspoon dried parsley
  • ¼ teaspoon garlic
  • ¼ teaspoon pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon Greek Seasoning (or seasoning salt)
  • ¼ cup imitation bacon bits (optional)

ingredients for soup in a jarMix all ingredients together thoroughly. Store in mason jar.

To serve, mix ½ cup soup mix with 1 cup boiling water. (For a thicker soup, use ¾ cup soup mix to 1 cup water).

Note: The imitation bacon bits are an over powering ingredient. Only add them if you know you like them.

“Just add water” Recipe Alternatives

There are other “just add water” foods you can use instead of the Potato Cheese Soup. If you’re looking for a simple alternative – buy pre-mixed foods. Be sure to include cooking instructions if these are a gift item.

  1. Pancake Mix (Aunt Jemima)
  2. Brownie Mix (Krusteaz)
  3. Cornbread Mix (Marie Callender’s)

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this cause ribbon 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 of the cause ribbons pictured above are in this ebook! And there are 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

Russian Tea Recipe and Crochet Radioactive Cozy

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

Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Recipe & Heart Cozy

Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Recipe with Valentine Jar Cozy

The heart shaped chocolate peppermint cookie recipe is so delicious…you may need to make a double batch! Wrap the mason jar with this Valentine cup cozy and you’ve got yourself a sweet minty gift!

chocolate peppermint cookie recipe and jar cozy

We used a Linzer cookie cutter  (you know, the cutter that makes jelly filled cookies). Check the seasonal/holiday aisle at your local craft store. Or, if you’re seeing this after Valentine’s Day, you may need to check the cake decorating aisle.

Fortunately or unfortunately, my hubby doesn’t like peppermint. So, this was a happy heart day to me…and my sister…and my parents…and my neighbors. Everyone else seems to like peppermint.

Let’s start with the cookie recipe. It needs to bake and cool and stuff.

Chocolate Peppermint Cookie Recipe

frosted cookiesThis chocolate peppermint cookie recipe makes crisy and crunchy cookies. They don’t raise too much in the baking which allows them to keep their shape. I found that the cookies with shapes cut out of the center hold their heart shape better than the ones that are solid hearts.

And if you do cut out a heart shape from the middle…you can bake those mini hearts for bite size minty treats!

INGREDIENTS & SUPPLIES:

Peppermint Chocolate Coookie:

  • 1 ¼ cup flour
  • ½ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
  • ½ teaspoon baking soda
  • ¼ teaspoon baking powder
  • ¼ teaspoon salt
  • 6 Tablespoons butter softened
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 egg
  • ¾ teaspoons peppermint extract
  • 1 Wilton Linzer Cookie Cutter

Mint Chocolate for Dipping

  • 12 oz. chocolate – white or chocolate flavor
  • 3/8 teaspoon peppermint extract
  • Wax paper

cookie doughDIRECTIONS:

  1. Wisk together flour, cocoa, baking powder, baking soda and salt. Set aside.
  2. In electric mixer, beat butter, egg, sugar and ¾ teaspoon peppermint extract together.
  3. Add flour mixture and beat until well blended. Dough will be crumbly.
  4. Kneed dough on counter top. Roll out dough to about 1/8” thickness. Cut out cookie shapes. If shapes stick to counter, lift with a spatula. Lay on cookie sheet (separate with wax paper if needed) and refrigerate for 2 hours.
  5. Bake on ungreased cookie sheet at 350° for 10 minutes. Cool on a wire rack.
  6. Melt chocolate in microwave at 30 second increments until it can be stirred smooth. Do not over cook.
  7. Stir in 3/8 teaspoon peppermint extract.
  8. Dip one side of the cookie into chocolate. Lay on wax paper to dry and harden.
  9. Store in mason jars!

Double Heart Cozy for Jar of Chocolate Peppermint Cookies

Crochet your special Valentine a whimsical jar cozy. This fits a Starbucks coffee cup, too, so he (or she) will be able to carry your love with him (or her) on the go!

Valentine Heart CozyThe double heart cozy is quite simple and whips up in a jiffy. It’s designed to fit a pint size mason jar…which is the perfect size for storing chocolate peppermint cookies! Yum.

Stash buster! This is a great project to make with your remnants. We are using Vanna’s Choice. This line has a lot of great complimentary colors from which to choose.

Skill Level: Easy

Stitches Used: chain, single crochet

Techniques Used: increase, crochet in the round

Materials:

  • Vanna’s Choice Medium Worsted (4)
    CRANBERRY, RASPBERRY
  • Crochet Hook: H and F
  • Mason Jar

COZY INSTRUCTIONS:

Cranberry

Hook: H

Ch 34, join with a sl st.

Rnd 1-10: Sc around. (34)

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

PAIRED HEARTS INSTRUCTIONS:

Raspberry

Hook: F

Ch 7

Row 1:Sc in 2nd ch from hook. 4 sc, sc inc. (7)

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

Row 3:Ch 5, turn. Sc in 2nd ch from hook. 3 sc. 3 sl st in Row 2. (7)

Row 4:Turn. Skip sl sts. 3 sc, sl st. (4) (First Heart Made)

Row 5:Ch 8, turn.

Rows 6-9:Repeat Rows 1-4

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing.

Pin then sew hearts to cozy.

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.

All 3 hearts 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

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

Pumpkin Seed Recipe and Pumpkin Jar Cozy

pumpkin seeds recipeFun Pumpkin Seed Recipe and Crochet Pattern for a Decorative Jar

Just in time for fall and Thanksgiving, make a decorative cozy for a jar filled with the spicy goodness of this Cajun Pumpkin Seed Recipe! Grab some seeds and your crochet hook because we’re getting crafty!

Let’s start with the recipe. Pumpkin seeds are known to have great health benefits (good source of zinc). Spicy foods are too (Cayenne Pepper is great as an anti-inflammatory and digestive aid). This is not necessarily a low fat food, but a tasty one for sure.

Let’s get the recipe in the oven so we can crochet while it’s cookin’.

CAJUN PUMPKIN SEED RECIPE

Ingredients:

  • 1      cup pumpkin seeds (medium size pumpkin)
  • 1      Tablespoon butter (melted)
  • 2      dashes Worcestershire sauce
  • ¼     teaspoon salt
  • ¼     teaspoon garlic powder
  • ¼     teaspoon paprika
  • 1/8  teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/8  teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/8  teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1/8  teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/8 teaspoon dried thyme
  • pinch red pepper flakes

 Directions:
In melted butter, add Worcestershire sauce. In a separate bowl mix all the dry ingredients. Pour the dry ingredients into butter mixture and stir until blended. Add pumpkin seeds and stir until evenly coated. Pour seeds onto baking sheet making them as flat as possible.Scoop pumpkin seeds from pumpkin. (An ice cream scoop works great for this). Rinse pumpkins seeds and pat dry with paper towel. Spread on a baking sheet to finish drying while mixing the other ingredients.

cajun seeds

Bake at 300° for 45 to 60 minutes stirring every 15 minutes. Cool completely. Sprinkle with salt. Fill jar or mug.

You will need two cups of seeds (approximately two medium to large size pumpkins) to fill a pint size canning jar. Do not overcrowd the baking pan. For best results, make two pans of seeds when you double this recipe.

Now the Pumpkin Seed Recipe is Done – Let’s Make a Cozy!

cozy and lidThis festive jar cozy is great for decorating your home or office for the season. And it makes for a fun container when serving snacks (like the above pumpkin seeds recipe…just sayin’) at Thanksgiving. If you’re short on time, fill a pint sized jar with candy corn and jazz it up with this fun and quick jar cozy.

This project is a great stash buster, but we’ve used Vanna’s Choice. We love that it’s strong, durable and soft…not to mention that this line has got just the right colors for fall and Thanksgiving! In the picture, we’ve used three different shades of green…and they all look great!

Supplies:

  • 1 pint size canning jar with lid
  • Vanna’s Choice Yarn: Medium Worsted Weight (4)
  • TERRACOTTA – remnant
  • Green of your choice: FERN, OLIVE, or KELLY GREEN – remnant
  • Crochet Hook: J

LID COVER INSTRUCTIONS

Green

Hook: J

Ch 5, join with a sl st to form a ring.

Rnd 1: Working around the ring not in the stitches, 6 sc. (6)

Rnd 2-3: Sc around. (6)

Rnd 4: *2 sc, sc inc* twice. (8)

Rnd 5: Sc around. (8)

Rnd 6: *3 sc, sc inc* twice. (10)

Rnd 7: *4 sc, sc inc* twice. (12)

Row 8: Ch 16, 2 sc in second ch from hook, 2 sc in each ch stitch. (30)

Sl st into the next st on Rnd 7. Finish off, weave in end.

Attach Orange to the same st as the sl st.

Rnd 9: *2 sc, inc* four times. (16)

Rnd 10: Lift up the Vine and connect the Rnd underneath. *Fphdc, 2 sc, sc inc* around. (20)

Rnd 11: *Fphdc, 3 sc, sc inc* around. (24)

Rnd 12: *Fphdc, 4 sc, sc inc* around. (28)

Rnd 13: *Fphdc, 5 sc, sc inc* around. (32)

Rnd 14: Work in back loops only. *Fphdc, 7 sc* around. (32)

Rnd 15-16: Work in both loops. *Fphdc, 7 sc* around. (32)

Sl st in next st. Finish off, weave in end.

JAR COZY INSTRUCTIONS

Orange

Hook: J

Ch 32, join with a sl st.

Rnd 1: Sc around. (32)

Rnd 2-9: *Fphdc, 7 sc* around. (32)

Sl st into the next st. Finish off, weave in end.

More Cozies in Store

coffee cup cozy patterns ebookLove this pumpkin 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 pumpkins 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