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Winter is here and it’s time to cozy up! There’s nothing better than a steaming mug of cocoa and a sweet treat on a chilly day. Maker Team member Belinda of @brdgirl has designed a cheerful companion for your cocoa break - a felt Winter Mug Rug! It’s an ideal snow day craft or a relaxing weekend make, and paired with a cute mug and treat, it becomes a thoughtful gift.
Handmade with soft Bellwether pure wool felt, this mug rug adds a touch of warmth and whimsy to your table. The project is as simple or detailed as you like - stitch by machine or hand and embellish with sequins for a frosty sparkle. Iridescent wool felt and shimmering accents make it feel like a little piece of winter magic! So, gather your supplies, find a comfy workspace, and let’s create something cozy and beautiful together!
Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Time: 1½ – 3 hours (depending on techniques used)
Additional Supplies:
Winter Mug Rug Template with Guide (click to download)
Iron
Sewing Machine - optional
Directions:
1. Download and print Winter Mug Rug Template above. Trace pattern pieces onto felt and cut out or use the freezer paper method to transfer pattern. (If using freezer paper, apply to backside of metallic felt.) Snowman button and eye templates are included if you prefer felt to sequins.
In addition to shapes on the pattern, cut the following:
- One 8 x 11" rectangle of Tellina felt
- One 7 x 10" rectangle of Cerulean felt
- One 7 x 10" rectangle of Fusible Interfacing
2. Apply interfacing to back of Cerulean rectangle following the manufacturer’s instructions. This adds stability for the appliqué and the finished mug rug.
3. Arrange and attach the shapes on the front of the Cerulean rectangle using the guide in pattern for reference. Stitch in place by machine or by hand with coordinating thread as follows:
A. Stitch Snow in place, securing only the top edge. (Sides and bottom will be sewn later.)
B. Add Snowman and Tree, leaving space for Snowflakes.
C. Attach Hat, Hat Band, Scarf and Snowman Arms.
4. Attach Metallic felt snowflakes with glue. Use a paintbrush for even coverage if needed. Glueing avoids stitching through metallic felt for maximum shine, but you can stitch them, if preferred.
5. Stitch (or glue) Cheeks and Carrot Nose to face. Using three strands of DMC 310, backstitch the Mouth.
6. Attach two Graphite sequins for Eyes and four Graphite sequins for Buttons using sequin glue. Tweezers may be helpful when placing sequins. (Optional felt templates are provided.)
7. Use sequin glue to add Aquamarine sequins across the background for a snowy effect.
8. Trim all four sides of Tellina rectangle with 10mm Scallop Shears.
9. Center appliqué piece on top of Tellina backing and attach - by machine or hand - with a blanket stitch using Sulky Invisible Polyester Thread.
Whether you stitched every detail by hand, zipped through on your machine or used a little glue magic, you’ve created something truly special! This cozy mug rug reflects your creativity and style, so keep experimenting with colors, stitches, and embellishments.
Now it’s time to put your new creation to good use! Brew your favorite warm drink, grab a sweet treat, and enjoy a little winter comfort. Or, wrap it up with a cute mug and some goodies for a heartfelt handmade gift that will brighten someone’s snowy day. Thank you for crafting along with me - your imagination makes winter even more magical. Stay warm, keep stitching, and let’s make this season sparkle! ❄️✨
Thanks to Belinda for designing and writing this tutorial! You can see more of her work on Instagram @brdgirl and on her website. Stay tuned for more tutorial from our Benzie Design Maker Team!
