Category: Rustic & Upcycled Crafts

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DIY No-Sew Cedar Sachets

Learn to make DIY Cedar shachets using sustainable materials to help repel moths and other critters in this quick no-sew tutorial from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Make Your Own Moth Repellent Using Cedar Chips and Cotton Cloth 🦋🌳

Living in an overgrown cedar forest has its perks: beautiful views, a rich natural scent, and an endless supply of cedar wood chips. But after discovering one too many moth holes in my favorite sweaters, I knew it was time to put those cedar chips to good use. Enter: DIY no-sew cedar sachets.

These quick, eco-friendly sachets are a chemical-free way to protect your clothes and keep your home smelling fresh. And the best part? With precut cotton cloth, cotton cord, and cedar chips, they’re so easy to make you’ll have a batch ready in no time. Plus, no sewing required.

Here’s how I made my sachets and how you can make yours, too!

Materials You’ll Need:

Order supplies for your DIY No-Sew Cedar Sachets thru my Amazon Affiliate links below, or find these supplies at your favorite local shops:

Use cotton cloth of your choosing to make no-sew diy cedar sachets. Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels used this cute set with a pastel cactus pattern.

Step 1: Gather Your Supplies

I started with a 5-piece fabric bundle in beautiful patterns and cut each piece into roughly 10×10-inch squares. These precut bundles are perfect for projects like this because they’re affordable, versatile, and save time on measuring.

Living near a cedar forest, I always have cedar chips handy from yard work. But if you don’t, don’t worry. Untreated cedar chips or shavings are widely available online, at garden centers, or even in pet stores (sold as bedding).

Cut your cotton cloth into squares to start making your DIY No-Sew Cedar Sachets with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Step 2: Prep the Cedar Chips

Place your cedar chips in a bowl. If you’d like a stronger scent, add a few drops of cedar essential oil. For a more aromatic blend, mix in dried lavender or rosemary.

For me, the pure cedar scent is enough—it’s nostalgic, reminding me of crisp mornings in the woods. But lavender gives a calming touch that’s perfect for closets or drawers.

Place a small handful of cedar chips on top of your cotton cloth square. Add in lavender, mint, or cedar oil for extra scent if you like. Find the guide from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Step 3: Fill and Tie the Sachets

  1. Lay one of your 8×8-inch fabric squares flat on your art table.
  2. Place a small handful of cedar chips (about 2–3 tablespoons) in the center of the square.
  3. Gather the edges of the fabric to form a pouch.
  4. Use the cotton cable cord to tie the pouch closed tightly, securing it with a double knot.

This method creates rustic yet charming sachets that keep the cedar chips securely inside. Sitting at my art table, cutting fabric, and tying sachets was surprisingly meditative. Making these DIY No-Sew Cedar Sachets were both a creative and practical way to spend the afternoon!

Use cotton cord, twine, or yarn to tie a tight knot then a cute bow to close the cedar chips into your DIY sachets. Read the lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Step 4: Place Your Sachets

Now that your DIY No-Sew Cedar Sachets are ready, it’s time to put them to use:

  • Tuck them into drawers to protect your clothes.
  • Tie them to hangers for extra closet protection.
  • Place them in storage bins or on shelves for long-term freshness.

My office smelled like a cedar forest by the time I was done, and I couldn’t help but feel proud of this simple, practical creation.

DIY No-Sew Cedar Sachets - chemical free Moth Repellent Using Cedar Chips and Cotton Cloth - make them with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Why Cedar Works

Cedar’s strong, natural aroma masks the smell of natural fibers like wool and cotton, making it harder for moths to find their food source. Unlike harsh chemical mothballs, cedar is completely natural, eco-friendly, and safe for your family.

Bonus Benefit: Cedar Repels Mice Too!

Did you know cedar sachets don’t just repel moths? They can also help deter mice! The oils in cedar emit a strong aroma that rodents find unpleasant, making cedar an excellent, chemical-free option for pest prevention.

Place cedar sachets in:

  • Closets
  • Storage bins
  • Attics
  • Basements
  • Along baseboards or near entry points

For extra effectiveness, add a few drops of cedar essential oil to the sachets or use a cedar oil spray for hard-to-reach areas.

Tips for Best Results:

  • Refresh the Scent: Cedar’s aroma will fade over time. Add a few drops of cedar essential oil directly to the chips every few months to revive the scent.
  • Replace Regularly: Swap out the cedar chips every 6–12 months for maximum effectiveness.
  • Use Multiple Sachets: Larger spaces like closets or storage bins may need several sachets to maintain coverage.

Bringing the Forest Indoors

When I first started making cedar sachets, it was a practical way to deal with an overabundance of wood chips. But it’s become more than that—a simple, satisfying project that connects me to the natural beauty of my cedar forest.

Now, my clothes are protected, my closet smells amazing, and I’ve discovered a thoughtful, handmade gift idea for friends and family.

Creating these sachets at my art table turned into a calming, meditative experience, which reminded me of the beauty in combining creativity and practicality.

Place your cedar sachets in with your woolen yarn, sweaters, or suits, to help repel moths. Read the lesson from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Moth Repellent Using Cedar Chips and Cotton Cloth

Ready to start your own DIY sachets? Whether you’re working with cedar from your yard or store-bought supplies, this project is as easy as it is rewarding.

Keep Your Knits Beautiful & Your Spirit Cozy 🧶

Love this natural approach to protecting your handmade treasures? Explore these related articles to enhance your knitting and cozy living journey:

Homestead
Cozy Lifestyle
Garden

How do you protect your precious knits? Share your favorite storage tips in the comments below, or pin this cedar sachet tutorial for your next crafting session! 📌

Love sustainable crafting and cozy living? Sign up for my newsletter to get free guides, seasonal tips, and updates straight to your inbox. 💌

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2025 New Year’s Traditions: Crafting & Cozy Living

2025 New Year's Crafting for Cozy Living. Tips from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Modern Ways to Create Comfort in the New Year 🌿

As we embrace the New Year, the art of cozy living is evolving into something deeply intentional. Like a perfectly stitched pattern, today’s comfort combines sustainability and mindfulness with 2025 New Year’s crafting spaces and traditions that truly nurture both body and soul. 🧶

Make cozy cabin mornings part of your 2025 New Years resolution. Mindful crafting and calm planning make for the most relaxing days. Join Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Creating Your Sustainable Cozy Haven

This year’s home trends focus on merging comfort with consciousness. Transform your space into a sanctuary with these key elements:

  • Natural materials: Opt for wood, cotton, or wool for timeless charm.
  • Sustainable decor: Incorporate vintage finds or upcycled treasures.
  • Handmade touches: Add warmth with DIY crafts or family heirlooms.
  • Smart home features: Use technology for energy efficiency and convenience.

Whether it’s a cozy reading nook or a craft station by the window, design spaces that feel as good as they look.

Modern New Year’s Traditions for 2025

Reimagining how we celebrate the New Year can bring fresh meaning to familiar customs. Try these cozy 2025 New Year’s crafting traditions for a memorable and mindful start to your new year:

  • First Cast-On: Begin a knitting project at midnight to set the tone for the year.
  • Gratitude Blanket: Add a row each day to commemorate moments of gratitude. (Free Gratitude Blanket Pattern Here)
  • New Year’s Crafting Circle: Gather virtually for creative inspiration.
  • Mindful Making Resolutions: Set thoughtful crafting goals for the year ahead.
  • January Comfort Box: Fill it with handmade winter essentials.
Start your New Year crafting off with a cozy, mindfulness project. A grattitude blanket is a great way to encourage yourself to remember the positive and happy moments of life. Start knitting now!

Modernizing Traditional New Year Customs

Blend the old with the new for a meaningful celebration:

  • Digital Declutter: Organize your digital patterns and enjoy a quiet coffee or tea break.
  • Eco-Friendly Resolutions: Jot down your goals in a handmade journal.
  • First Sunrise Crafting: Greet the day with early morning creativity.
  • Memory Project: Start a craft that chronicles your year in stitches.
Celebrate the new year with craft projects and cozy home decor. And, lets make a grattitude blanket together this year. Love, Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Daily Comfort Rituals for 2025

Cozy living isn’t just about spaces—it’s about nurturing daily habits:

  • Morning mindfulness paired with a hot drink in a handmade mug.
  • Afternoon creative sessions that revive your spirit.
  • Evening slow-living moments like journaling or knitting.
  • Dedicated digital-free crafting time to reconnect with analog joys.
2025 New Year's crafting for cozy, mindful living this year! Knit and cozy up your home with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Sustainability takes center stage in 2025’s lifestyle trends:

  • Stash-busting: Use up leftover yarn or materials.
  • Zero-waste crafting: Embrace upcycling and sustainable supplies.
  • Natural fibers: Prioritize wool, cotton, or bamboo over synthetics.
  • Homemade essentials: Create your own candles, blankets, or home accents.
Organize your craft supplies for a relaxing 2025 new years crafting tradition. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Building Connection in the Digital Age

Community remains at the heart of cozy living:

  • Join virtual craft circles for shared creativity.
  • Share patterns and ideas in online forums.
  • Explore teaching opportunities in your craft niche.
  • Get involved in sustainability initiatives within your community.
Share your love of yarn and cozy traditions as part of your 2025 New Years crafting resolution.

Simple Ways to Start Your Cozy Year

  1. Curate an intentional crafting space.
  2. Commit to learning one new skill.
  3. Join a virtual crafting group.
  4. Establish a daily comfort ritual.
  5. Plan seasonal DIY projects.
  6. Organize your stash for sustainable crafting.
Start your 2025 new year with a cozy new crafting corner. Organize what you have and make your home a comfortable place to work on your cozy crafting projects.

Closing Thoughts

Creating a cozy lifestyle in 2025 is about more than trends; it’s about aligning with what feels authentic to you. Whether you’re casting on your first project of the year or savoring quiet moments in your newly designed space, each stitch and each intention creates a more meaningful year ahead.

Find More New Years Inspiration

🏡 Cozy Lifestyle Basics

🧶 Knitting: A Timeless Resolution for the New Year

📃 Organize this Year’s Knitting Projects with a Free Planner Download

🌱 Starting Seedlings on New Years Day

👐 Simple DIY Handmade Crafts

Here’s to a 2025 filled with comfort, creativity, and community! ✨ Join me on Pinterest, Instagram, Facebook, or X . I am @PurlsAndPixels. Let’s be friends and share our crafty projects!

Cozy Lifestyle
Learn to Knit
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How to Wind a Center-Pull Yarn Ball

Learn to wind yarn into center-pull yarn balls in this free knitting guide by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Whether you have unraveled a project or just have some leftover yarn, by now you probably have some scraps that are in need of organization. Winding yarn into neat balls keeps your strings from becoming a hopeless tangled mess. While there are many ways to coil yarn for storage, center-pull yarn balls are the most versatile; they allow you to work directly from either end of the string.

How to wind yarn into center-pull balls by hand - a lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

(In the article below, I have linked to items on Amazon.com, so you can see examples of the equipment I reference. Please know all links to Amazon are affiliate links, and if you make a purchase through them, I will earn a small commission at no cost to you. Now, on to the important information.)

Center-Pull Yarn

Each ball of yarn is made of one long strand with two ends. There are a number of ways to coil the yarn so that it does not tangle. Some yarn is pre-wound into center pull balls or skeins (tube-shaped balls) by the manufacturer. When you see a string coming from the center of the ball or skein, you can probably work directly from either end.

Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Working from the center of a ball is often more convenient. When you work with the end on the outside of the ball, the yarn will likely roll and flop around. Yarn bowls and containers can help keep your yarn from escaping. But center-pull balls can be even more effective at reducing the movement of your ball of yarn. Pulling from outside of the ball forces it to roll. But when you pull from the center, the yarn uncoils without turning the ball.

Many yarn-makers, however, wind their yarn into “hanks” instead of center-pull balls or skeins. To make a hank, the manufacturer makes one large circle of yarn then twists it together for storage and shipping. Hanks are incredibly difficult to work from directly, so to use yarn that comes in a hank, you will need to wind it into a ball.

Winding frogged yarn, scrap yarn, and hanks of yarn into center-pull balls keeps yarn neat, organized, and ready to use.

Machines like “yarn swifts” and “yarn winders” are available to assist you in turning yarn into a usable form. A yarn swift holds the yarn from a hank in place while you wind your ball. Then, you can use a yarn winder to turn that yarn into a “cake” which is much like a center pull ball. Or, instead of investing in fancy machines, you can use just your hands and wind hanks, leftovers, and frogged yarn into center-pull balls.

Video Guide: How to Wind a Center-Pull Yarn Ball

Written Guide: How to Wind a Center-Pull Yarn Ball

Below I’ll show you how to wind a center pull yarn ball step-by-step. I am winding the ball from a larger center-pull skein so that I can knit two items at once from the same yarn. I also wind partially used skeins into new balls for tidier storage.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 1:

Drape the yarn end between your left pointer finger and thumb, laying it across your palm.

Step 1: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 2:

Clasp the end of the yarn with your left ring and pinkie fingers, then, with your right hand, pick up the other end of the yarn just above your left pointer finger. With the strand in your right hand, begin to wrap the yarn over the top of your left pointer finger.

Step 2: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 3:

Bring the yarn down between your pointer and middle fingers, then between your thumb and pointer finger, forming a loop around your left pointer finger.  

Step 3: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 4:

Wrap the yarn around your left thumb in a counterclockwise motion.  

Step 4: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 5:

Wind the yarn up between your left thumb and pointer finger to form a figure-eight (8) shape.

Step 5: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 6:

Continue wrapping the yarn around your pointer finger and thumb in figure eight shapes (as in steps two thru five).

Step 6: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 7:

When you have wrapped the yarn around your fingers in figure eights at least 20 times, you can stop and move to the next step. To make a larger ball of yarn, wrap more figure eights; when the yarn wraps reach your left thumb knuckle, move to step eight.  

Step 7: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 8:

With your right thumb and pointer finger, pinch all the strands at the center of the figure-eight shape (just between your left thumb and pointer finger).

Step 8: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 9:

While continuing to pinch the center of the yarn figure-eight with your right hand, gently remove your left hand from the yarn loops.

Step 9: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 10:

Continue to pinch the center of the figure-eight with your right hand.

Step 10: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 11:

With your left hand, fold the two loops of the figure eight up, toward each other, pinching them together over your right thumb.

Step 11: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 12:

While continuing to pinch the loops with your left hand, gently remove your right thumb. Pick up the yarn strand you have been winding with your right hand.  

Step 12: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 13:

Gently wind the strand in your right hand around the yarn you have pinched in your left hand. Be sure you do not wrap the tail end of the yarn into the ball, or you will lose your center-pull. Also, try not to wind too tightly; this can make yarn lose its stretch.

Step 13: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Wind Yarn into a Ball, Step 14:

Continue winding your yarn around until you have formed a ball in your desired size. Always ensure you do not wrap the center-pull end into the ball. When you are finished wrapping, clip the yarn with scissors (if necessary). Carefully tuck the end that you held with your right hand into the ball to secure it in place.

Step 14: Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Learn to wind a center-pull yarn ball with just your hands in this lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Practice With My Knitting Patterns

Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection from Liz @PurlsAndPixels

If you’ve been following my lessons, you now have enough information to knit all of the washcloths and face scrubbies in my Simple Washcloth Knitting Pattern Collection. Happy knitting!

How to wind yarn into center-pull balls by hand - a lesson with Liz @PurlsAndPixels.

Up Next

Next up, a lesson about gauge. Learn what gauge means in knitting and you to check your gauge to make sure your knits end up the right size.

Go Back to the Learn to Knit Index

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How to Remove Labels from Beechnut Baby Food Jars with No Chemicals

Learn how to remove baby food jar labels and sticky glue without chemicals in this guide from Liz Chandler at PurlsAndPixels.

Beechnut baby food jars are some of my favorite little containers. The rounded pear shape is adorable, sturdy, and surprisingly useful. I saved a collection of them for future projects because they felt too charming to toss into the recycling bin.

How to remove baby food labels from Beechnut jars, tutorial from PurlsAndPixels

The only problem came later. The clear plastic labels peel off easily, but the glue they leave behind is incredibly stubborn. The jars stayed sticky even after a trip through the dishwasher. That sticky residue collected dust, hair, and crumbs, which made the jars look and feel messy. Since I wanted to use them for a craft project, I needed a way to remove the glue without harsh chemicals.

Remove Labels from Beechnut Baby Food Jars

After a bit of experimenting with what I already had in the kitchen, I found a simple solution that works beautifully. It is gentle, effective, and safe to use around kids.

The Best Way to Remove Glue from Beechnut Baby Food Jars

The best way I have found to remove labels from Beechnut baby food jars uses one simple ingredient: vegetable oil. No chemical cleaners, no strong smells, and no special products required.

Here is exactly how I clean the jars.

  • Peel off the plastic label and remove as much of the loose glue as you can with your fingers.
  • Dip an old toothbrush into vegetable oil.
  • Scrub the sticky residue with the oiled toothbrush until the glue begins to loosen.
  • Wipe away the glue and excess oil with a paper towel or soft cloth.
  • Run the jars through the dishwasher to remove the remaining oil and leave the glass sparkling clean.

It still takes a little elbow grease, but the vegetable oil breaks down the adhesive gently. Once the jars come out of the dishwasher, they are smooth, clear, and ready for your next Cozy DIY project.

Get baby food jar label glue off with just a toothbrush and some cooking oil. Get the guide from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

What to Make with Beechnut Baby Food Jars

I originally cleaned these jars because I needed better storage for my jewelry making supplies. A few thin coats of teal spray paint on the lids made them look fresh and coordinated. Filled with beads and stones, the jars now line my shelf and add a little bit of color to the room.

Once they are clean, Beechnut jars are perfect for all sorts of small storage and quick craft projects. Here are a few ideas.

  • Organize small items, such as beads, buttons, or hardware.
  • Create containers for paperclips, tacks, or other desk supplies.
  • Turn them into pin cushion jars.
  • Pour your own mini candles.

If you like collecting ideas before you start, you can also visit my baby food jar crafts board on Pinterest for more inspiration.

Clean jars, fresh lids, and a little creativity can turn recycling into something both useful and beautiful.

Remove the labels, clean the jars, and store little things in upcycled Beechnut baby food jars. Find out how with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Read More: Cozy DIY Projects

If you enjoyed giving these jars a new life, you might like a few more simple Cozy DIY projects that make your home feel calmer and more capable.

🌲 Make No-Sew Cedar Sachets: Freshen drawers, closets, or storage bins with natural cedar, no sewing required.

Browse more Cozy DIY ideas at: Cozy DIY on PurlsAndPixels

More Cozy DIY Projects