Cozy Up Your Space with a DIY Mini Beanie Garland

There’s something about the mix of cozy vibes and cute crafts that just works, isn’t there? That’s why this DIY mini beanie garland is the perfect decor piece for my upcoming Beanies & Martinis Night—an event that’s all about après ski elegance with a touch of creative fun. These tiny hats are not only adorable, but they’re also super easy to make and totally customizable. Plus, they’ll tie the whole cozy-chic vibe of the night together beautifully. Ready to get crafting? Let’s go!

Materials Needed

• Yarn (any color you like)

• Empty paper towel roll (or toilet paper roll)

• Cotton balls (or polyester stuffing)

• Scissors

• Ruler (optional, for precise measurements)

• Thin String (optional)

• Twine or ribbon (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Paper Towel Roll:

   • Cut the paper towel roll into rings about 1/2 - 1 inch wide. These will be the bases for your mini beanies.

2. Cut the Yarn:

   • Cut multiple strands of yarn into pieces that are approximately 11 inches long. (The exact length doesn’t have to be perfect—you can trim it later.)

     
     

     

     
     

3. Attach Yarn to the Ring:

   • Take a piece of yarn and fold it in half.

   • Place the folded loop through the cardboard ring.

   • Pull the two loose ends of the yarn through the loop and tighten. This is called a lark’s head knot.

   • Repeat this process around the entire cardboard ring until it’s completely covered with yarn. The strands should be tightly packed and evenly distributed.

     
     

     

     
     

4. Gather the Yarn:

   • Once the ring is covered, gently push all the yarn strands through the center of the ring to the other side. This will start to form the “hat.”

     
     

     

     
     

5. Add Stuffing:

   • Gently stuff the inside of the hat with a cotton ball (or polyester stuffing) to give it a rounded shape.

     
     

     

     
     

6. Tie the Top of the Hat:

   • Take a piece of thin string (or another piece of yarn) about 11 inches long and tie it tightly around the gathered yarn about 1 inch above the cardboard ring. Double-knot it to secure the shape of the beanie.

     
     

     

     
     

7. Trim the Pom-Pom:

   • Use scissors to trim the excess yarn above the knot, creating a cute pom-pom at the top of the hat. You can fluff and shape it as needed.

     
     

     

     
     

8. Finishing Touches:

   • Adjust the pom-pom and trim any uneven strands.

   • Optionally, you can add a tiny embellishment, like a rhinestone or a button, to the front of the hat for extra flair.

Turn It into a Garland:

1. Prepare the String:

   • Cut a length of twine, ribbon, or yarn to the desired length for your garland. Make sure it’s long enough to fit all your mini beanies with space in between.

2. Attach the Beanies:

   • Space the beanies evenly along the string. You can attach them in one of two ways:

     • Stringing Method: Thread twine directly through the beanie just below the pom-pom, passing through the space above the cotton ball. This method ensures the beanies hang neatly without tilting, and it’s great if you want to adjust spacing later.

     • Hot Glue Method: Add a dab of hot glue to the inside top edge of each beanie and press it onto the string. Hold it in place for a few seconds until the glue sets.

3. Hang and Enjoy:

   • Once all your beanies are attached, hang your garland wherever you like—above a fireplace, across a doorway, or along a wall. Adjust the spacing if needed.

   
   

Why It’s Perfect for Beanies & Martinis Night

This garland is more than just decor; it’s a mood. It ties into the cozy-chic après ski theme of Beanies & Martinis Night while adding a handmade touch that feels personal and thoughtful. Plus, the garland pairs beautifully with the beanie-decorating activity planned for the night. Guests can sip espresso martinis, customize their own wearable beanies, and admire the mini versions hanging around the room.

Crafting with Kids

My little guy is too young to help make these, but this is also a fantastic project for kids! They’ll love picking out yarn colors and tying the knots. After your girls' night, these mini beanies can even be repurposed as hats for their stuffed animals or action figures. A fun craft and a bonus toy accessory? Yes, please!

Tips for Success

• Color Coordination: Use yarn colors that match your event’s palette. For Beanies & Martinis Night, I’m going with a soft brown to match the Swiss Alps vibe.

• Add Some Sparkle: Sprinkle a little glitter or faux snow on the beanies for extra flair.

• Layered Look: Combine the mini beanie garland with pine garlands or fairy lights for a multidimensional decor moment.

This DIY mini beanie garland is simple, fun, and full of charm. Whether you’re hosting a themed party like me or just looking for a cozy winter craft, these little hats are sure to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Try it out and let me know how yours turns out!