How to Make a Mug Rug- Cupcake Applique

Cupcake Applique Template can be downloaded via this blog post: craftygemini.c...
*NOTE: When printing the template set your printer settings to "Fit to Page" so it will print in the same size I used in the video.*
In this video I teach you how to make a quick & easy mug rug! A mug rug is like a coaster, only bigger. Think of it as a mini-quilt for your desk or table and a happy place for your mug to rest. These are really in right now and make great gifts. It's also a great project to use up all the fabric scraps you have stashed away!
To create this project I used the following materials:
1 rectangle of white fabric at 6" x 7.5" - Designer Solids in Winter White, Free Spirit Fabrics: bit.ly/IalQpj
1 rectangle of blue plaid fabric 7" x 7.5"- Sugar Hill by Tanya Whelan for Free Spirit fabrics: bit.ly/I6lrHR
1 rectangle of blue plaid from 12.5" x 7.5"- Sugar Hill by Tanya Whelan for Free Spirit fabrics: bit.ly/I6lrHR
assorted fabric scraps for cupcake applique: bit.ly/JjXAVl
- Pellon Wonder Under (Amazon affiliate link): amzn.to/KKAwOU
- Pellon Fusible Fleece (Amazon affiliate link): amzn.to/L0i43d
rotary cutter + mat
clear quilting rulers
coordinating thread
sewing machine
iron + ironing board
pins
Shop tools & notions here in The Crafty Gemini Shop: craftygemini.c...
Post pictures of your finished mug rugs on our Facebook page at: / craftygemini
Thanks for watching!
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The fabrics in this tutorial were provided by Free Spirit/ Westminster Fabrics

[@Carylanne927]

congratulations on your Crafty Class. I've been watching you here for several months, and at that time gone through most of the videos. Love what you are doing. The cupcake is cute,I' will make a onesie of a new granddaughter. This Texan says Hey!!

[@BetsyL-cq6wx]

You make everything look so easy and you take the fear out of trying something new! Thank you Miss Vanessa. I am going to make a MR and MRS set of coffee mugs with Cricut mug press and I am going to make some mug rugs and napkins as well for a wedding gift. Thank you.

[@donnarehrig5808]

tea, a cupcake and a rug. So soothing. thank you girl.

[@carolemiller6854]

This is one of the best tutorials I’ve seen .

[@theREmissionary]

Man, this is an old video, and it just showed up today! I've gotten into making mug rugs in the last few days, and this is quite nice. Thank you for providing the pattern for the cupcake. I think it will make a really nice hot pad too, and maybe even a top for the tea towels I love to make.

[@rosajimenez6481]

OMG Vanessa. Your amazing. I'm new at all this. You inspired me to by a sewing machine just to make clothes for my 7 year old daughter. I cant wait to try this cupcake on a shirt. thank you so much. you always have great ideas.I love the way you explain things.thanks

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Thanks! Thanks for stopping by!

[@apriltula]

omg this is so darn CUTE..Your very simple on your videos but also at same time your informative..I can learn better from your tutorials then long complicating tutorials.. :-)

[@patriciaberne613]

Thanks, Vanessa. This is an adorable mug rug! I appreciate the template and the clear instructions! Well organized and easy to follow directions! Pat

[@Teewentnatural]

I swear u make things look so easy.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Thanks. It's in the video description box. Click on the tab that says "show more" and it will open the entire description box. Its directly underneath the video under the thumbs up/down features.

[@shaznbud]

I've made this for my daughters bedroom but instead of a cupcake I cut out a fabric handbag, it's so cute! I'm gradually making all your projects and they're all fab!

[@wendyhansen3223]

I got some cute Christmas fabric and I think I will make some of these using your applique for my co-workers for Christmas. Thanks for the idea.

[@dianecfromny3912]

Vanessa, Thank you for all your video's!! I've made several mug rugs off this video for my family... altering the size and with different applique's to suit the person. Everyone who's received one has loved them!!! Actually I got order requests this year to make as Christmas gifts for their grandchildren who say would love them :) Thank you!!

[@louisef.decoteau3510]

You're a natural teacher!

[@AliciaH0112]

I love the video. This will be the perfect Christmas gift for my quilt group. Its great for their coffee and also a place for their snack. Thanks and keep the great ideas coming!

[@363sandy]

I'VE WATCHED AND ENJOYED ALL OF YOUR SEWING TUTORIALS, I'M GONNA TRY THE CUP CAKE ON A BAG THAT I'M MAKING FOR A LITTLE GIRL. THANK YOU SO MUCH WILL SEND YOU A PHOTO AS SOON AS I MY SEWING MACHINE ARRIVES.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Not sure on the expiration but at least through next month. Hope you get a chance to sign up. I'm sure you'll enjoy it... and you're right about the endless possibilities! :o)

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Glad you found me! Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss out on my weekly videos. Happy sewing!

[@grandmabear8684]

I have to say out of all the tutorials I have watched and sometimes even more confused. Vanessa you are just like a good school teacher and make it plain and through. I have quite a bit of chemo brain as we call it. I do forget, however you understand how to teach from beginning to advance and that is quite a skill Professor

[@naughtydream1]

Very nice tutorial! Very easy to follow and fabulously articulate! Thanks so much for the time you put into it! I can't wait to try this out. I'm an applique virgin with very little sewing experience, but your tutorial makes it look so easy and fun! Thanks again!

[@beadcellar]

I made one following your tute and did my first applique with the blanket stitch on my sewing machine. Awesome! Vanessa, you're the greatest!

[@valeriesengupta768]

I've watched several of your sewing video tutorials and I must say that I enjoy them very much. You are very professional, give clear instructions, beautiful, and have shared great projects!

[@Rennagayle]

I'm so happy to have discovered your video tutorials. I have a much better handle on sewing with knits now. Plus, you completely took the fear and guesswork out of sewing on appliques in this video. Thank you for sharing your talent! :-)

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Thanks. They make great little gifts and so easy to make. :o) This is a stand alone studio I had built on our property. You can see some of my other "Farm Update & Studio Update" videos for pics and footage on how I finished the inside myself. I'll be posting a video tour when it's all organized inside.

[@Aixza]

So great! I'm making the mug rugs and I'm also going to make some summer place mats with the cupcake design! Oooh, there's an idea, how about a place mat tutorial? I always enjoy watching your videos. TY!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Yea.. I don't know how you could put the cupcake shapes together and not have an odd shaped quilt. You could try to applique them onto a background block of fabric and piece those together.

[@Harphoney]

I love this project, great idea for gifts (and for my table as well lol). Your tutorials are very well done, easy to follow instruction and interesting. Great job!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

I will add your suggestion to my list of videos to do. Thanks.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Thanks, Rosa! I'm glad to help.. good for you for taking the leap. Have fun!

[@angelahicks5663]

I'm very new to sewing..and I just love your tutorials..you are and have been very helpful! I'm making this mug rug tonight for my sister...thanks :) Angela

[@chaleenies]

Love it Im going to make me a mug rug! thank you for such wonderful tutorials!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

I'll add your suggestion to my list of videos to do. Thanks.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

No prob. Have fun!

[@AgaPrygiel]

It all looks so easy! But thank you. You explain things very clearly.

[@janabaron556]

Just made this today it was so much fun and turned out so cute.. I love your directions so very simple

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Thanks! Glad you enjoy my tutorials. :o) As for applique stitches... my best advice is go slow and practice, practice, practice! :o)

[@LadreamerJ]

Love the little cupcake it's so cute!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

I am! But it's not all set up. I'm just filming in a corner while I get everything situated. Once it's done I'll post a video tour. :o)

[@KatesNana100]

You explain your projects so beautifully ! I love that it seems like I'm watching over your shoulder so everything is done as I would do it . Does that make sense ??!!! I don't explain myself as well as you do !!! Anyway,, thank you !

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Glad you enjoy my videos. I film each one in that manner so that it makes the most sense. I don't get why people show you from the front when it's the reverse angle?! Even on professional tv shows. I get that they want to show the talent on camera but sheesh! It's about the project not the host. :P

[@cricket1062]

Love this I made one to go with a tea wallet I made for a co-worker, Love your videos, also watch your video on zippers, very very helpful

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Oh no. I hope when it's finished it will be so cute it'll have been worth it.

[@susanpierce3755]

Love watching your videos! Thanks for the freebie patterns!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Absolutely! Thanks!

[@EmmazinglyMe]

This was a very helpful video. This would make a great gift for fathers day. Love it!!!

[@kathrynrachael]

You are freaking amazing! I wish you were my mama ha ha. You keep me inspired!

[@jema2609]

I'm thinking of making the mugrugs smaller (5"x5") and then using the frosting of the cupcake to make butterfly wings! I'll finish it off with some elongated ovals and the heart to make a complete butterfly.

[@felissajagielski8096]

Great Job!!! My sister-in-law and myself love cupcake accessories. I have been planing on making a new apron and I think I will put this on the pocket. For my sister-in-law, I am going to put this on the outside pocket of the backpack she wants me to make her. This is a great, quick and easy way to personalize and decorate something basic into something sweet!!!!!!!!! Could you please do a tutorial and pattern for a droopy daisy. Im having a hard time stitching around all the loops. Thanks!!!!!

[@shitloadism]

I think I love you ;) You explain in a good way so I can understand. Thats awesome.

[@jacquiphillips2462]

I love this and I’m excited to make it. If it turns out well, I’ll make it for friends and family. Xx 💕💕

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Yay! So glad to hear that! If you have a Facebook account feel free to post pics to my facebook Page: facebook.com/CraftyGemini. We'd love to see your mug rug! I bet she loves it!

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Thanks. I'm glad to hear it!

[@Ativabrand]

Another great craft tutorial. I will be trying this.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Sounds cute! Have fun!

[@carolemiller6854]

Thank you for giving the template. That is so helpful

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Sounds like a plan. Thanks!

[@bettyhepler8934]

TheCraftyGemini b

[@thatinspiredme1073]

Hi Vanessa! Thank you for this tutorial. I'm very new to the sewing scene but I just completed my 1st mug rug. I wanted to practice my free motion quilting and binding and I wanted to do a "real" project (as opposed to practicing on a fabric sandwich) so that's how I made mine. Although it looks like a "kindergarten attempt", I'm as pleased as a punch with the end result!!! Next, I'm going to make you're wristlet for my granddaughter! Keep the videos and ideas coming!!!

[@mybug03]

I am so enjoying your videos. I have taken up sewing , since I got my first grandchild last year. You inspired me to do my first pillowcase dress and it turned out lovely. Lots of mistakes though, since this was my first time sewing. But I have been learning from my mistakes. Your instructions are amazing!! Thank You My question, I would like to do a cupcake with two candles applique. So afraid of the stitches around the applique. Any suggestions?

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Definitely! Awesome idea!

[@judyhoomalamalama]

I will make these for my grandkids along with some cupcakes . Fun

[@OhISew2]

OMG! This is soooo cute! I can't wait to make it Love it!

[@carisaces]

gracias!!! muy bello y super util!!!! disculpa!!! pero cuando regresaras con videos en espanol??? me hacen falta!!! gracias!!! buen trabajo!!!

[@marilyntrent3516]

love this method and nice and easy and quick

[@lizmartinez15]

LOVE! cupcakes are my favorite! thank you!

[@TheGrammy3]

You are an Awesome teacher!!!

[@elle1909]

Wonderful Project! I'll have to try this with my Nieces.

[@lauraj73081]

Thanks for sharing this. I'm starting to work on a new project and this will come in very handy.

[@Marla.22]

This is sooooooooo adorable!!!!!!!!!!!, but I think I will do Binding instead of flipping it inside out

[@JaimseyGirl]

You are awesome...I just made one of these, and LOVE it! You make the coolest things! =) Thanks! =) =) =)

[@101oogie]

Super idea... wouldn't they make wonderful birthday favors??? Perhaps an initial?

[@TheCraftyGemini]

lol. Thanks! Happy sewing!

[@gingersnaps201]

Tks Vanessa, This is simply fantastic.

[@pnk878251]

pocket for an apron is a good idea, but i think i will make a little tote bag for my g~baby and use this as part of the design! cute...thanks!

[@dillydill3895]

planning to use this to make a fabric book. thank you! :)

[@patfrontuto5342]

Going to make this for two friends! Thanks!

[@clozelleharris8495]

You are amazing! Can't wait to try this project. Thanks!

[@HeavenlyMakeUp]

ooh i need to make these for a craft fair soon! Love it!

[@Whitney_Sews]

Super cute! Love the cupcake :)

[@susieqmcf]

Very cute project!

[@idareandevers9211]

I look this mug rug the step are easy to follower I will be doing this mug rug. Thanks🤩

[@MyPinkRainbow]

awh this is so cute and my fav is cuppy cakes , I am in the process of makeing a quilt of cupcakes , it is going slow i must say cuz they are all shaped like cupcakes and i am trying to decide to put them on a square as it would make it so easy but i want to have it in a shape of a cupcake , would you have any suggestions ??

[@ArtalaCarte]

Thank you for sharing these great videos!!! I love them!!! What kind of microphone do you use when you record your videos... the sound is soo good!

[@patricialuna4903]

Muchas gracias, muy bonito

[@jessicashaw5740]

Thank you for explaining this so well!

[@jusranada]

i really do like this....thank you for sharing.

[@joluker7810]

Love it!

[@beadcellar]

Loved it! Where's the link for the cupcake template?

[@d3abyss]

Im going to use the pattern for the baby dresses im going to make x Thanks!

[@4vrceltic]

You are so Awesome to follow!!

[@Happylizzy666]

I love your tutorials they are all very helpful:-)

[@MrsSugaMama1973]

Another great idea !

[@KreizzlerKei]

how about strawberry pattern? :) that'd be sooooo cute

[@mjcork]

great project. will be nice presents

[@amandalabaff8760]

I think I will try this. :) I'll put some embroidery on it instead though. (don't want to go buy heat and bond lol) It is too bad I can't leave a picture comment, or I would post the project here when I finished it.

[@TheCraftyGemini]

Thanks!

[@craftymom7]

I love this! How cute. Thx :)

[@elemeniah]

Awesome tutorial, and thank you so much for the template!!! I will definitely try to make this mug rug, my mom would love it!!! Lori :-)

[@FairiousSolana]

How FREAKIN cute!!!!

[@Ooobacht]

liiike it :) hello from germany, always looking forward to your diys!

[@rinio.s]

its a nice work . thank you