The Finger Chain Can Cozy is a fun easy craft for kids (and adults!) to make, featuring yarn, recycled containers, and something every generation needs more of – organization!
Disclaimer: Materials provided by Red Heart Yarns and Beacon Adhesives; this post includes affiliate links.
What is Finger Chaining?
Finger chaining is a very easy and portable craft you can do with yarn – and I demonstrated it in a recent Moogly live, seen here!
How to Finger Chain Photo Tutorial
Prefer still photos? Here’s how to finger chain. Here I’m using 3 strands of Red Heart Super Saver Ombre… and my fingers! That’s all you need to finger chain.
Step 1:
Start with a loop on your finger – you can use a slip knot, or just loosely tie a double knot. Hold the cut ends in the palm of that same hand.
Step 2:
Wind (or “yarn over”) the end of the yarn connected to the skein over your finger, closer to the end of your finger. The direction doesn’t matter, but try to be consistent.
Step 3:
Pull the first loop up and over the second loop, and off the end of your finger.
Step 4:
Adjust the chain under your finger, and start again! Repeat from Step 2 to grow your chain!
Finger Chain Can Cozy Instructions
Now let’s turn that new skill into something useful! You can make all sort of yarn crafts with finger chains – garlands, wall hangings, murals, letter art, gift ribbons, curtains, and more.
For this craft, we’re going to create the Finger Chain Can Cozy – perfect for pens, art supplies, or whatever you need storage for. I love the way it actually looks knit, and can be everything from silly to elegant!
For this can, we’ve customized it with a set of camping-themed buttons, but you can add whatever special touches you like. This is a wonderful kids craft to make for Father’s Day with yarn and supplies you probably already have on hand. Customize the buttons for dad’s interests! Add a sparkly bit of carry-along thread for something upscale for mom!
But of course, this treatment isn’t just for cans. You can use this technique on any container for a custom storage system. How pretty would a set of wrapped boxes be to keep you organized in the bedroom closet or on top of the dresser? So many ideas!
Materials
Red Heart Super Saver – any color or weight desired
Shown: Red Heart Super Saver Ombre in Scuba (less than 1 skein needed)
Clean Recycled Can (or any other sturdy container)
Beacon 3-in-1 Advanced Craft Glue
Buttons and Decorations (optional)
Pretty paper
Instructions
Finger Chain Can Cozy Video Tutorial – COMING SOON!
Step 1: Prepare the Can and Paper
Make sure the can is clean and dry. Add a round of washi tape to the top cut edge of the can or container if desired. Then, cut the paper to fit inside the can (again, if desired). Set can and paper aside.
Step 2: Finger Chaining Time
If you are using one skein of yarn, separate it into 3 sections. With Super Saver Ombre, I separated the skein at the color changes by sliding each section out from the center.
Holding 3 strands of yarn together, make a finger chain long enough to cover the sides of your container. This will vary based on the can or container size you have chosen. When you believe you have a long enough chain, do not cut the yarn, but secure the last loop with a stitch marker or safety pin so it won’t come undone.
Step 3: Glue the Finger Chain to the Can or Container
Using the glue and starting at the bottom of the can or container, glue the chain to the can. Tuck the ends of the yarn under the next round as you glue.
Work your way up the can, gluing as you go. If you find you come up short, you can add more finger chains.
When you have just enough, cut the yarn and pull the end of the yarn through the last finger chain.
Then glue this end down, tucking the cut yarn ends underneath the chain.
Step 4: Decorate Your Can Cozy
If desired, use the glue to add buttons or decorations. If there are plastic loops on the backs of the buttons, cut them off before you glue.
Step 5: Finish It Up
Insert the paper lining in your can or container, and secure with more washi tape if desired.
So that’s how to make the Finger Chain Can Cozy yarn craft! I love it because it’s fun and easy for kids, great for them to make as gifts, and it’s a fantastic way to upcycle all those cans and boxes to get your whole family organized!
If this pattern does inspire you to make your own Finger Chain Can Cozy or Container, and you post a photo on social media, be sure to tag me @mooglyblog or #mooglyblog so I can check it out too! I love seeing what you make!
Looking for more fun yarny crafts you can make with your kids? Check out these freebies on Moogly!
THE FINE PRINT:
Follow Moogly on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram, and Tumblr! Thank you to Red Heart Yarns Beacon Adhesives for providing the materials shown in this post. Written pattern copyright Tamara Kelly 2019, all rights reserved. Please do not reprint or repost this pattern, but please do link to this page to share this pattern with others.
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