This year the holiday budget was a little tight, so I decided to make everyone cookie baskets for Christmas. For our nearby friends and family I picked up some round, decorative plastic boxes. I used cupcake papers and aluminum foil to separate the different types of cookies and arrange them nicely. But, for our loved-ones that live far away? I had to figure out how to ship homemade holiday cookies across the country.
It took a bit of creative packaging, but I was successful at shipping cookie gifts cross-country. Let me show you how I did it so you can ship your on cookie gifts for holidays and care packages.
*If you plan to ship your cookies in the mail, choose cookies that are on the denser and thicker side. Treats that are especially thin or fragile can be tasty, but probably wont make it thru the mail. The cookies pictured held up well in shipping.
For my gift baskets this year, I made gingerbread cookies, snowball cookies, chocolate chip cookies, fudge, and peanut brittle. I’ve pinned all of the recipes for my favorite treats here, so check out and follow my cookie, candy, and crafty eats boards for ideas on home-cooked gifts.
Packaging materials
If you are mailing your cookies, you are going to need a few supplies. You’ll need:
Carefully wrap between 6 and 12 of each type of cookie in cellophane. Next, wrap that bundle of cookies again, this time loosely with in aluminum foil. Gently mold the foil around the cookies to make a block and keep the cookies from sliding around inside the bundle. Place this double-wrapped cookie bundle in a Ziploc bag. Repeat this process with the rest of the cookies that you want to ship. Place them in the shipping box, filling any empty spaces in the box with cellophane or other packing filler to make sure the cookie bundles don’t slide around in the box. I added a gift wrapped pair of handmade mittens to the box, as well. Tape up the box and you’re ready to get a shipping label and mail your cookies.
After packing up all the cookies and treats in the box, I taped it shut and wrote FRAGILE in large capital letters with a big red marker on two sides of the box.
After shipping these cookies over 2000 miles from Virginia to Colorado, I expected to loose a few cookies to breakage along the way. Trucks and airplanes are bouncy, so I thought at least a few would be lost. Lucky for me, all of the cookies this year arrived in good shape. I know using the aluminum foil as a protective cushion for shipping the cookies really helped. But, I think a major part of the success of this gift project was because I was lucky with my postal carrier for USPS. The boxes had been treated very carefully. I hope your postal worker is as kind and careful as ours.
Did you try it? Let me know how your luck was with shipping cookie gifts. What kind of cookies did you send in your gift or care package? Did they get there in good shape? Let me know in the comments below.
More Holiday Craft Ideas
Love DIY Christmas and holiday projects? Find more handmade holiday craft ideas at my Holiday Pattern Roundup Post.
It turns out that Santa doesn’t always remember to put tags on the presents he brings. I needed some gift tags for my presents this year, so I made up this sheet of printable “from Santa” gift tags for Christmas. If you need some gift tags for your little one’s presents, you are welcome to use mine. Below is a link to my Word document file of printable “from Santa” gift tags. Download it, add your child’s name, print, and cut out for a quick and free DIY project.
Type “Name” in the “Find what” field. Type your child’s name in the “Replace with” field.
Click “Replace all.”
Print your From Santa Gift Tags
Print on the best quality setting your printer allows. Try printing on different kinds of paper to mix up the look. If you use basic white printer paper, try cutting out a slightly larger square of colored paper or gift wrap and place it behind the label. These labels look so festive and bright.
These labels are smaller and will print so that you can cut them into 1.25 inch squares. Try using a paper cutter or a square paper punch to help make sure the labels come out perfectly square. Attach the labels to your gifts with a small bit of tape, and you are all done!
More Holiday Craft Ideas
Love DIY Christmas and holiday projects? Find more handmade holiday craft ideas at my Holiday Pattern Roundup Post.
If you like these printable “From Santa” Gift Tags for Christmas, I’d love hear about it. Comment below or share your photos with Liz @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter, Instagram, or Facebook.
It can be tricky to take nice studio-style photographs of dangle earrings. Laying them flat can distort how the earrings look. And hanging them on something can be tricky because props can distract from your pretty jewelry. After playing with a few different ideas, I built a jewelry photography stand to photograph my earrings. It hangs on the wall like a photograph and displays my earrings nicely for studio style pictures.
Learn how to make a jewelry photography stand with simple items you may have around the house or can easily get at you local craft store or online. Then I’ll show you how to photograph your jewelry with your new stand.
Materials
To create this DIY jewelry photography stand, you’ll need:
White paper OR your choice of decorative backdrop paper
Instructions
First, carefully remove the glass from the shadow box. Discard it or reuse the glass for another project.
Next, using your jewelry pliers, screw an eye screw into the side of the shadow box. You’ll want put the screw on the swing side of the shadow box, near where the glass was attached.
Screw a second eye screw into the opposite side of the shadow box.
Tightly tie the fishing line to one eye screw. Then, tie the other end of the fishing line to the second eye screw. Make sure you pulling the string tightly enough to support the weight of your earrings without sagging, but not so tightly as to rip out the first eye screw.
With the pins included in the shadow box, pin your backdrop paper to the inside of the shadow box.
Photographing Earrings on your Jewelry Stand
Now that your jewelry photography stand is complete, all you have left to do is hang your earrings and take a photo.
Ensure that you have hung your photo stand near a window with lots of natural light. Otherwise you’ll need to get a set of studio lights to make sure your photos are not underexposed. Try the flash if you like, but I don’t recommend it. The flash tends to distort very shiny jewelry, especially with close up photos.
Place your earrings on the wire, and space them so they don’t touch each other.
I use a tripod to take my earring photos, to keep it as steady as possible. Plus this makes it easier to photograph multiple pieces of jewelry, without having to re-position the camera every time.
Zoom in on the earrings, taking the frame of the stand out of your photo. Focus the camera on the earrings, and capture your photograph. Experiment with different pieces of paper and different textures behind your jewelry to find your personal style. Most people go with white. I say do what you think looks best.
I remove the string from my images in Photoshop using the healing brush tool set to “content aware.” The program removes the string so it looks as though the earrings are floating in the air. You could also use a decorative string or ribbon from the start of your project, and then you would not need to use Photoshop after taking your pictures.
Now you’re ready to take professional-looking studio-style photographs of your earrings on your DIY jewelry stand. Have fun!
Unsure of which hat or mitten size to choose? Here are my standard sizing measurements. I generally follow the Crafty Yarn Council’s size guidelines when designing my knit and crochet clothing. My knitwear size guide should help you take your measurements and choose the size that will fit best.
Hats
Adult Extra Large size fits adults with larger heads, or measuring 23 to 25 inches around.
Adult size fits most adults and teens, or heads measuring 21 to 24 inches around.
Child size fits children ages 2 – 14 years, or heads measuring 19 to 21 inches around.
Toddler size fits children ages 3 months – 2 years, or heads measuring 16 to 19 inches around.
Baby size fits infants from birth to 3 months, or heads measuring 13 to 16 inches around.
Preemie size fits extra small babies, or heads measuring 10.5 to 13 inches around.
How to Measure for Hat Size
If you are unsure of the size you need, choose the size that most closely matches your measurements. You can easily find your head measurement if you have a soft measuring tape. Wrap the measuring tape around your head just above your eyebrows, as if you were wearing a headband low across your forehead. This will give you your head circumference (the length around your head). Use the length you measure as a guide to select your hat size.
Gloves and Mittens
Adult Extra Large size fits men with larger hands or 9 to 11 inches around hand, without thumb.
Adult Medium/Large size fits men and women with larger hands or 7.5 to 9 inches around hand, without thumb.
Adult Small size fits women with small hands and older children or 6 to 7.5 inches around hand, without thumb.
Child size fits most boys and girls age 4-10 years of age or 5.5 to 6 inches around hand, without thumb.
Toddler size fits most boys and girls age 2 to 4 years of age or 4.5 to 5 inches around hand, without thumb.
Baby size fits most boys and girls age 0 to 2 years of age or 3 to 3.5 inches around hand, without thumb.
How to Measure for Glove Size
As with hats, choose the gloves or mittens that match your measurements most closely. To measure your glove size, wrap your measuring tape around the palm of your hand and measure it at the widest part of your hand that does not include your thumb. You will be measuring across your knuckles. Use this number to select your best fitting pair of gloves or mittens.
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This is a legacy colorwork chart created for knitters who want to incorporate the World of Warcraft Horde symbol into knitted projects. The chart is provided as-is for personal use and can be adapted to hats, accessories, or other colorwork designs.
About the Horde Symbol Knitting Chart
The Horde symbol was charted stitch by stitch so it can be worked directly into stranded colorwork or adapted for duplicate stitch or embroidery. Two small diamond motifs are included alongside the symbol to make the chart more practical for knitting by shortening long floats.
The chart was originally knit into an adult-sized hat using a basic knit hat pattern, with the chart substituted for solid-color rows. Multiple repeats can be used around a hat, or the motif can be centered as a single design depending on your stitch count and project.
Free Knitting Chart: World of Warcraft Horde Symbol
You are welcome to use this chart for personal projects such as hats, mittens, socks, sweaters, or other fan-inspired knits. The chart may also be used as an embroidery reference. Adjust sizing and placement as needed to fit your chosen pattern.
When my little one turned 2, he was completely obsessed with Disney Junior’s Mickey Mouse Club House. So, of course, I decided to throw him a Mickey themed birthday party. The most important part of the party was his mickey cake. Mickey Mouse has a birthday in one of the episodes, and his cake is a yellow and red Mickey head. I tried to mimic this cake, and here is how I did it.
How to Make Mickey’s Birthday Cake
Baking Pans
First things first, you will need three round cake pans to make Mickey’s Birthday Cake. One should be 8 inches and two should be 4 inches. I used two sets of these pans for my cake:
This will be a two layer cake. The 8 inch pan will make Mickey’s face, and the 4 inch pans will be his ears.
Cake Recipe
I used my all time favorite chocolate cake recipe for this cake. It comes from Hershey Kitchens and you can get the full recipe and see other people’s reviews of it here. I love this chocolate cake because it is extremely moist and fluffy. It has the consistency of a box mix cake, but the flavor of homemade. Love it!
If you already have a favorite cake recipe, use it. This Mickey cake is all about the cake’s shape, so as long as your recipe can be baked into round layer cake pans, you can use any flavor or recipe you desire.
You’ll need to make a double batch of cake. So, either double your cake recipe, or make the cake twice. I made the cake twice, since my mixer just won’t hold two batches worth of ingredients. And, since my oven isn’t enormous, I was worried all the cakes wouldn’t fit at the same time.
For the first set of cakes, divide your batter between one 8-inch cake pan and two 4-inch cake pans. Put a little more than half of the cake batter into the 8-inch pan, and divide the rest between the two 4-inch pans. Don’t overfill the pans or you’ll have spillage during baking.
Bake as directed in the cake recipe you are following.
While these three cakes are cooling on wire racks, repeat this process. So, make another batch of cake and divide it among an 8-inch pan and two 4 inch pans. Bake and cool these cakes as well.
Once your cakes are cool, you can stack them and decorate.
Decorating Mickey’s Birthday Cake
Stack the cakes
First, frost one of the 8-inch cakes with a filling or frosting of your choice. I used chocolate frosting, but this is where you can get creative with flavor.
Carefully stack the second 8-inch cake on top of the first.
Place two of the 4 inch cakes so they make Mickey’s ears. Frost them with your filling frosting, then stack the other 4 inch cakes on top. You should now have a two layer cake that looks like mickey.
Frost your cake
You’ll need two batches of vanilla frosting – or two cans if you use store bought like I did. Dye one can of the frosting with a generous amount of yellow food coloring. I used Lemon Yellow from the Wilton icing color set.
Frost the cake yellow, as smoothly as you can. Then pipe red along the top outside of the Mickey shape, then around the bottom of the cake.
All done! Hip Hip Hooray!
Did you try making a Mickey’s birthday cake for your little one? Let me know how it turned out. Comment below or share pictures with #PurlsAndPixels on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, or Twitter.
Do you have a friend who always says, “I wish I knew how to knit”? Well, it’s time to make their yarn dreams come true with a DIY Learn to Knit Gift Set! This thoughtful gift idea is perfect for birthdays, holidays, or just as a “thinking of you” surprise. Expectant and new moms love this too; it’s a cozy and creative baby shower gift that won’t end up in the ‘never used’ pile. Trust me; this kit has everything they need to knit their stress away.
Let’s dive in! Here’s your shopping list (with handy Amazon links) and a sprinkle of crafty advice.
Let’s start simple! My top choice for beginner projects is Lily Sugar ‘n Cream 100% Cotton Yarn. It’s sturdy, easy to work with, and perfect for learning basic stitches while making something useful like a washcloth. Plus, it’s 100% cotton, making it an eco-friendly option for those who prefer natural fibers. Grab one or two balls of washcloth yarn in their favorite colors so they can start off on the right foot.
Once your new knitter masters the basics, they will quickly want to level up to something more suitable for scarves and hats. Be sure to include two balls of a scarf yarn as well. My go-to is Caron Simply Soft Yarn. This yarn is fluffy, squishy, and machine washable: everything a newbie needs for creating their first cozy scarf. Feeling eco-conscious? Opt for Patons Classic Wool Worsted instead (it’s biodegradable, while acrylic yarn isn’t).
No matter what brand you choose, just make sure it’s labeled “worsted weight.” This yarn thickness is beginner-friendly and will allow them to make a variety of projects. Pick one or two colors you know your recipient will love—there’s no need to overcomplicate things!
🪡 Knitting Needles
If your giftee gets confused by all the needle options (spoiler: they will), save the day with these two staples:
Circular needles don’t look like your grandma’s chopsticks: they’re even better. These versatile tools can knit almost anything, and they’re easy on the hands. Your new knitter will need both sizes to get off to a great start. Save the day, by giving them the perfect tools.
✂️ Sharp Scissors or Yarn Cutting Pendant
Yes, everyone has scissors. But sharp sewing scissors are a game-changer. They’re perfect for snipping yarn without fraying or splitting the fibers.
If this kit is for a little one or if you want a safer option, consider adding a yarn cutting pendant instead. It’s stylish, safer, and just plain cool. Check out this pendant that cuts yarn cleanly without the risk of sharp blades—ideal for on-the-go knitting projects!
🪡 Tapestry Needles
These big-eyed needles are what your new knitter will need to weave in yarn ends, essentially tidying up their masterpiece. A pack of six tapestry needles will do the trick. Bonus tip: If you’re making multiple gift sets, split the package up. Sharing is caring (and cost-effective).
Pair it with a Knitting Journal, where they can jot down notes, track projects, and doodle their creative ideas. Together, these knitting books make a killer combo for anyone just starting out.
🖊️ Gift Card with Link to Free Video Tutorials
Include a cute gift card with a link to my Free Learn to Knit Tutorials. You can print the card on pretty paper (bonus points for brown cardstock – it’s got that rustic chic vibe) and write a personal message. With this guide, they’ll be casting on and purling in no time. It’s like giving them a one-way ticket to the wonderful world of knitting.
Click to download the clear background card.
Click to download the teal background card.
🎁 Gift Wrap: Storage Box Edition
Time to wrap it up! Skip the flimsy gift bags and go for a decorative photo storage box or a sturdy tote. Not only do these make for pretty packaging, but they’re also practical for storing yarn, needles, and other knitting treasures. I’ve linked a few of my favorites on Amazon, but you can also find cute options at your local craft store.
Top it all off with a fancy gift bow, and voilà! Your DIY Learn to Knit Gift Set is ready to impress. 🥳
This seed stitch washcloth is designed as a practical, beginner-friendly project that teaches texture without complicated steps. Knit flat using simple repeats, it lets you focus on learning the seed stitch rhythm and maintaining even tension.
This article explains how to knit a seed stitch washcloth with clear, step-by-step instructions suitable for complete beginners. This free seed stitch washcloth knitting pattern uses worsted weight cotton yarn and alternating knit and purl stitches to create a soft, nubby fabric for dishes, face washing, or everyday cleanup.
Knit with 100% cotton yarn, these reusable washcloths are eco-friendly, long-lasting, and way better than anything store-bought. Stack a few in cheerful colors, tie them with twine, and you’ve got a thoughtful handmade gift for baby showers, housewarmings, or just because.
Materials
Yarn
One 95-yard (2-ounce) skein of worsted weight cotton yarn. One washcloth uses about 71.25 yards (1.5 oz.).
Shown in Lily Sugar ‘n Cream 100% Cotton Yarn in “Robins Egg” and “White“.
*Weights estimated with Lily Sugar ’n Cream yarn; other yarn weights may vary.
19 stitches x 26 rows = 4 x 4 inches in stockinette stitch on US No. 7 (4.5 mm) needles. (Learn how to check your gauge here.) Exact gauge is not critical for this project.
This seed stitch washcloth is a beginner-friendly project that introduces texture through simple, repeating stitches. To make the seed stitch washcloth, you’ll only need to know how to:
Seed stitch is made by alternating knit and purl stitches, then switching the order on the next row. The result is a bumpy, textured fabric that looks more complicated than it is. Once you get the rhythm, it becomes a calm, repeating pattern.
As you knit, try to keep your stitches even on the needles. They should be snug, but not tight. The stitches should slide easily so you can insert your needle into each loop without forcing it.
Prefer to knit offline?
This pattern is free to read below, but if you’d rather print it or save it for later, I’ve created a clean, ad-free PDF version for you.
If you use cotton yarn, your finished washcloth will be machine washable. To keep your seed stitch washcloth looking its best, hand wash or machine wash separately on delicate in cold water. You may tumble dry on low heat.
This pattern is for personal use, gifting, and charitable donation of completed items. You may also sell handmade items created using this pattern. Do not copy this pattern and distribute it. If you’d like to share the pattern, refer your friends to my website, purlsandpixels.com so they may obtain a copy.
If you find any errors or have any questions, email purlsandpixels@gmail.com and I will do my best to help.
I’d love to see your finished work! Tag your photos with @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter or Instagram.
Love cozy knitting projects? Follow along on YouTube, Pinterest, and Instagram, or join the newsletter for more free patterns and gentle knitting tips.
Instructions
