If you’re looking for a fun and functional way to use up your yarn stash, I’ve got the perfect project for you: a Zoom Loom Mug Cozy! This delightful creation combines the charm of pin loom weaving with a touch of crochet magic to keep your favorite beverage warm and your hands comfy. Whether you’re sipping tea, coffee, or cocoa, this cozy is a treat for you or a heartfelt gift for someone special.
Materials and Tools
- Zoom Loom by the Schacht Spindle Company (https://schachtspindle.com/)
- Yarn from your stash (small amounts for weaving and crocheting), The lavender yarn was leftover from my Hooks & Needles Subscription box! It’s a fine Merino wool called “Charm“
- Crochet hook (size appropriate for your yarn). I used a size G.
- A button of your choice (mine says “made by marni”!) I purchased it from an Etsy Seller years ago and it was just waiting for this piece I think!
- Scissors and a tapestry needle
How to Make the Zoom Loom Mug Cozy
- Weave Three Squares: Start by weaving three squares using your Zoom Loom. This is a perfect way to experiment with different yarn textures and colors.
- Join the Squares: Using a single crochet stitch, join the three squares together in a row. This forms the base of your mug cozy. Once the row is complete, bring the two ends together to form a circle, and secure them with a few stitches.
- Add Stability Under the Handle: To accommodate the mug handle, leave a gap in your circle. Secure the two sides under the mug handle with a few simple stitches at the bottom to keep the cozy snug.
- Surface Crochet the Border: Add structure and a polished finish by working surface crochet around the border of the three squares. This step not only strengthens the cozy but also gives it a decorative flair. (Pro tip: This technique can be incorporated into so many woven projects for added stability!) I accomplished this by going under two strands of the woven square at a time and slip-stitching them together. This helped me keep the count relatively consistent. There are lots of videos on YouTube but I like this short by @DreamCrochets for a quick peek at the technique.
- Add a Button and Loop Closure: On one corner of the cozy, sew on your button. Opposite the button, create a button loop. Start with a single crochet chain long enough to fit over the mug handle and wrap around the button. For added durability, work a crochet slip stitch back along the chain. This step ensures the loop stays sturdy through daily use.
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Copyright Notice: This pattern is copyrighted and designed by Marni Reecer. It is free to use for personal projects, and I encourage it to inspire your creativity! If this design inspires your own original work (e.g., a woven piece adapted to knit), I kindly ask that you credit me, Marni Reecer, as the source of inspiration. Sharing credit builds our creative community!
For selling finished items made from this pattern, a Commercial Use License is required. Learn more at https://www.patreon.com/c/TheYarnyWay. Reselling or redistributing this pattern in any form is strictly prohibited.
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Customize Your Cozy
Here’s where you can make this project your own:
- Embroider initials, flowers, or designs onto the woven squares.
- Add colorful surface crochet for a pop of brightness.
- Use a sentimental or decorative button to give your cozy a personal touch.
This project is designed to be a free-spirited way to play with your woven squares—there’s no need for an exact pattern. I loved weaving in the ends and letting myself get lost in the meditative process.
Why I Love This Project
- Stashbuster: I can use up precious yarn scraps I’ve been saving.
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a creative outlet.
- Functional: Keeps your drink warm and adds a handmade touch to your daily routine.
Final Thoughts
I’m so pleased with how this turned out, and I’ll be incorporating the surface crochet technique into more projects. If you give this a try, don’t forget to share your creation and tag me on social media @theyarnyway. I’d love to see how you’ve made it your own!
Grab your Zoom Loom, dig through your stash, and let’s get weaving. Your mug deserves a cozy as unique as you are!