make: tea bag cozy

There are so many delicious kinds of tea out there, and I enjoy so many of them. Typically, I'm a fruity/spicy kinda gal, so it surprised me that it took me so long to try Good Earth Original (caffeine free). Once I tasted it, I was hooked. It has layers of flavor, which I love. In fact, I was out the other day and there was coffee and hot water, and I found myself wishing that I had a tea bag with. What? Wanting tea over coffee? Yes, this tea is that good.

So I thought, I should have a tea bag with me. At all times. You never know when this might come up again, and I need to be prepared. Today, we are preparing ourselves. I've seen lots of tea bag wallets and such, but this will be simple. And it will have a face.

Here's what you need:
Felt (I used wool)
Embroidery floss (I used pearl cotton, plus some six-strand)
Scissors and a needle
Your favorite tea bag

Cut out a handle and a front and back teacup shape. The teacup should be a little larger than your tea bag, but not so large that it looks utterly ridiculous. I have a template you can use, which is for a somewhat standard size teabag.

Add some stitched details to the cup. A face, some lines, maybe even a flower or two. You get to be creative with this part.

Layer the handle between the front and back, and make sure there's enough overlap so that the handle can be secured.

Stitch around the sides and bottom of the teacup. You'll stitch the handle in this process.

Snuggle a teabag inside the cup. Because of the curve, it won't fit all the way to the bottom. If you want the tea hidden, you can make the cup pattern taller, but I like it poking up.

This would make a really sweet and simple gift for someone, as a way to cheer them up or wish them well. It would even mail easily! As for me, I'll be keeping this in my bag for when I need a tea over a coffee...