How to Make Easy Anthro-Inspired Pretzel Ornaments

One of the best things about the holidays is looking for the perfect Christmas tree and decorating it with the whole family. But let’s be honest: Not everyone has a living room large enough for a huge Douglass Fir tree a la the White House. So if you’re looking for decor inspiration for your small dorm, condo or cubicle, then you should give mini pines a try. And what a better way to decorate your tiny tree than handmade Anthropologie-inspired pretzel ornaments?

Materials and Tools:

— air-dry clay

— parchment paper

— white spray paint

— X-ACTO knife or box cutter

— gold Sharpie

— glue gun and glue sticks

— tiny gold ribbon

Instructions:

1. Protect your surface by covering it with a piece of parchment paper. Then warm the clay between your hands until it’s soft and malleable.

2. Roll the clay between your palms to create a long thin cylinder shape.

3. Hold each end of the clay and create a U shape.

4. Cross over the ends, then pull both ends towards you. You should see your pretzel starting to take shape.

5. Cut off the excess clay from the ends and let your pretzel dry.

6. Wait until it’s completely dry, then spray paint both sides.

7. Leave the paint to dry for 15 minutes, then add some gold dots with your Sharpie.

8. Glue the tiny ribbon onto the back of the pretzel and leave to fully dry.

First of all, be sure to protect your workspace with a piece of parchment paper. Then, warm the clay with your hands. When it’s soft and malleable, roll it to create a cylinder. Once you have a long thin piece of clay, it’s time to create the pretzel shape. Hold the clay at the two ends, make a U shape, then cross over the ends and pull them toward you.

At this point, trim the ends and let the clay dry according to the specified time on the packaging. Then add the final touches: Spray paint the ornament white, add some gold dots and glue a tiny ribbon onto the back of the pretzel. Once it’s dry, you’re ready to hang your teeny tiny ornament.

How cute is this mini pine? Follow us on Pinterest for more Holiday decor inspo!

Any Hunger Games fan will agree that one of the best parts about Catching Fire is that it offers a whole new look at Haymitch Abernathy's character. The mentor (played by Woody Harrelson in the film franchise) won the 2nd Quarter Quell, and the brief mention of his Games totally captured fans' attention, leading to fan art, fanfiction, and even some viral short films. Well, we're finally getting the full story thanks to a brand new Haymitch Hunger Games book, just in time for spring 2025!

Here's everything we know about Sunrise On The Reaping, coming March 2025.

Who's narrating the audiobook?

Cam McLeod/Paramount

It was confirmed on February 3 that Yellowstone actor Jefferson White will narrate the Sunrise on the Reaping audiobook.

“It's an honor to be a small part of a world I’ve loved for so long — Suzanne Collins is a genius and it's equal parts exhilarating and terrifying to be back in Panem," he told People.

See The Official 'Sunrise On The Reaping' Cover

Amazon

The Sunrise on the Reaping cover was unveiled the morning of October 16 and it's just as beautiful as we hoped! It continues the tradition from the other books of a bold background color with gold and white accents, and I'll admit I was surprised when I first saw the snake and the mockingjay. The snake is obviously a nod to President Snow, and we know that both Lucy Gray Baird and Katniss Everdeen are two songbirds the President was never able to shake. Will Haymitch Abernathy become one as well?

In the original books, Haymitch starts out as an angry man with no friends or family who always has a drink in his hand, but by the end of Mockingjay, he's a wise, caring father figure for Katniss — and I'm betting Sunrise on the Reaping will show us plenty of those character traits as he has to make his way through the Hunger Games.

One detail on the cover that concerns me is the fact the snake and the songbird are connected, and that a sun sits between them. David Levithan, Scholastic's vice president, publisher, and editorial director told TODAY that just like the other covers, this one features "one of the central themes of the series: how conflicting forces can be connected by their common nature, the songbird and the snake springing from the same source."

When is Sunrise on the Reaping coming out?

Lionsgate

Sunrise on the Reaping will hit stores on March 18, 2025.

What is the Sunrise on the Reaping going to be about?

Scholastic/Instagram

The new Hunger Games book is called Sunrise on the Reaping. According to the official announcement, the story will take place 24 years before The Hunger Games, starting on the morning of the 50th Games' reaping. While fans had hoped the story would chronicle Haymitch's victory, it wasn't confirmed until October 16. Read the full synopsis below:

"As the day dawns on the 50th annual Hunger Games, fear grips the districts of Panem. This year, in honor of the Quarter Quell, twice as many tributes will be taken from their homes. Back in District 12, Haymitch Abernathy is trying not to think too hard about his chances. All he cares about is making it through the day and being with the girl he loves. When Haymitch’s name is called, he can feel all his dreams break. He’s torn from his family and his love, shuttled to the Capitol with the three other District 12 tributes: a young friend who’s nearly a sister to him, a compulsive oddsmaker, and the most stuck-up girl in town. As the Games begin, Haymitch understands he’s been set up to fail. But there’s something in him that wants to fight ... and have that fight reverberate far beyond the deadly arena."

Can you preorder Sunrise on the Reaping?

Murray Close/Lionsgate

Yes, you can pre-order the book now!

What happened in Haymitch's Hunger Games?

Lionsgate

As a Quarter Quell, the 50th Hunger Games had a twist. Just like the 75th Hunger Games pulled the tributes from the existing victors, the 50th required double the tributes, meaning Haymitch (who was 16 years old at the time) was one of 48 tributes, not 24.

The arena was a breathtaking landscape with a forest, snow-capped mountains, and beautiful flowers. But Haymitch quickly realized the beauty was a trap, and that everything in the arena was poisonous. He was able to outsmart the rest of the competitors, but after he used the forcefield against the other remaining tribute to secure his victory (a move that offended the Capitol), President Snow retaliated by killing his family and his girlfriend.

Is Sunrise on the Reaping about Haymitch?

Murray Close/Lionsgate

Yes, Sunrise on the Reaping is about Haymitch Abernathy and his win during the 50th Hunger Games.

Check out The 27 Most-Anticipated New Books Debuting In 2024 for more titles coming soon!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

Dogs are already known for their unwavering loyalty and companionship, but some breeds take their love for their owners to the next level. Whether you have kids at home who'd do best with a friendly furry friend or you're a young adult looking for a doting pet to curl up on the couch with, here are the top 10 most affectionate dog breeds.

Scroll to find the most affectionate dog breeds you can get!

1. Shih Tzu

Miguel Constantin Montes

Originally bred for royalty, the Shih Tzu has never forgotten its noble roots. These tiny pups, known for their fluffy coats and regal demeanor, adore being the center of attention. Plus, they won't just wait around for you to show them some love. Instead, they'll expect it!

Shih Tzus are extremely loyal to their owners and will always be by your side, eager for some love and interaction. This breed also has a big personality and could be called a "people-pleaser" since they'll happily shower you with cuddles and licks for as long as you'll let them.

2. Labrador Retriever

Mario Nöth

Labrador Retrievers held the title of the most registered breed by the American Kennel Club (AKC) for an impressive 31 years, and for a good reason. These dogs are intelligent, eager to please, and highly affectionate.

That's why labs are among the most common service dogs. They thrive when given enough exercise, training, and positive reinforcement. Not to mention, they are very even-tempered and adore being cuddled.

3. Pug

Ivan Babydov

Next up are Pugs, the ultimate "velcro dogs." They love to stay close to their owners and don't really have any boundaries when it comes to personal space. So, if you choose to adopt this breed, you'll have a best friend by your side all the time.

What makes Pugs extra special, though, is their social nature. They love everyone, not just their family members, and they have pretty goofy personalities. Their playful antics, coupled with their compact size, make them perfect lap dogs.

4. Poodle

Skyler Ewing

Poodles originated in Germany in the 1600s, and no matter the size you adopt, they're known for having big hearts and an affectionate nature. This breed is highly intelligent, full of energy, and does best with plenty of attention, making them both fun-loving and eager to be a part of the action.

Yes, it's true that the standard Poodle may not be as much of a cuddle bug as the miniature or toy varieties, but they'll still enjoy their own affectionate moments with you.

Additionally, unlike some dogs that love hustle and bustle, Poodles are sensitive to chaos and prefer calm, peaceful environments. So, if you want an active dog that enjoys playtime but knows when to recharge, this breed might be your ideal match.

5. Great Dane

Carlos O

Great Danes are known as gentle giants because, while they may be huge, they're also incredibly loving and surprisingly elegant. These dogs adore being close to their owners and are big on showing affection by leaning into you. So, don't be surprised if you feel a little "push" when they want attention.

If you have a large enough living space and are ready for a laid-back companion that happens to be on the larger side, a Great Dane could be just what you're searching for.

6. Bernese Mountain Dog

Impact Dog Crates

Another loving canine on the bigger side is the Bernese Mountain Dog. Don't let their size intimidate you, either. With the right training and early socialization, they make wonderful family pets that are loyal and affectionate.

This breed was originally used as strong farm dogs, and after a long day of work, they're more than happy to relax and cuddle up to their owners. They're even known for giving "Burner bumps" or head-butting you when they want attention. So, make sure you're ready to shower these canines with the care they crave.

7. Dachshund

Carlos Santiago

With their big ears and comically long bodies, Dachshunds are hard to resist. These dogs, which come in miniature and standard sizes, were originally bred to hunt badgers, so their personalities are tough, motivated, and persistent.

Even so, Dachshunds also love to cuddle up on the couch with their relatives, making them stellar family pets. Just don't forget to buy a ramp or some dog stairs to protect their long backs from jumping up to lick you!

8. Collie

Elina Volkova

One of the most famous Collies ever was Lassie, the lovable canine who graced TV screens across the country from 1954 to 1973. And if Lassie's gentle nature and quick thinking simply seemed too good to be true, think again. In real life, Collies are just as lovable and sweet. They have a calm and friendly temperament that actually makes them one of the most affectionate large dogs. On top of that, they're active and adore being outdoors, so they're wonderful for families who enjoy spending time in nature and going on adventures.

9. Jack Russell Terrier

Viktoriia Kondratiuk

Much like the Pug, Jack Russell Terriers are also known as "velcro dogs" who are super smart and loving. They relish being with their owners all the time, sticking close by their feet. Moreover, their high energy and confidence mean they'll keep you busy and pick up new tricks quickly. Jack Russell Terriers are a favorite family breed since they are always happy, ready to play, and unwaveringly loyal.

10. Bichon Frise

Matt Briney

Last but certainly not least is the Bichon Frise. These little dogs are full of energy and enjoy playing more than anything, so they're ideal for owners seeking an active pup. However, once playtime is over, they're equally happy to curl up for cuddles. This breed also appreciates a lot of attention and will try to claim your lap whenever you sit down. So, Bichon Frises are best for people who spend a lot of time at home and are looking for a playful yet sensitive companion.

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Babe wake up, Knives Out 3 is officially on its way! It's been almost two years since we saw Benoit Blanc solve his second case in Netflix's Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery. The film (which stars Janelle Monae, Madelyn Cline, and Kathryn Hahn) followed a case of secret identities, intrigue, and also received an Oscar nomination for Best Adapted Screenplay, NBD. On May 24, 2024 Netflix confirmed that Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery is coming, and on June 10, they confirmed filming began outside London!

Here's everything you need to know about Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, including a first look at the characters.

Your first official look at Josh O'Connor in 'Knives Out 3'

John Wilson/Netflix

All I've been able to think about since the first set pictures leaked (see below) is "move over Fleabag Hot Priest!" Our first official look at Josh O'Connor (whose character name we still don't know) and Daniel Craig's Benoit Blanc features the duo inside a cathedral with a seriously gloomy atmosphere. I'm willing to bet this is the middle of Benoit's investigation — and I'm hoping Josh is there every step of the way. Who knows; maybe that black jacket will be the new Chris Evans white sweater.

www.tiktok.com

TikTok · joshurro🥨

Our first look at Josh O'Connor on the set of Knives Out 3 totally confirmed my personal hope and theory the movie would be set around a graveyard, and it's also the second time Josh has played a priest. He starred in 2020's Emma as Mr. Elton!

Your first look at Benoit Blanc in 'Knives Out 3'

Netflix

Benoit Blanc is debuting a brand new look in the new Knives Out movie. The black and white filter goes perfectly with the Wake Up Dead Man title, and is also reminding me a bit of Frankenstein.

What is the movie Wake Up Dead Man about?

Lionsgate

Daniel Craig narrates the official Instagram announcement, saying, "In the beginning, the knives came out. Then, behold, the glass was shattered. But my most dangerous case yet is about to be revealed." The title Wake Up Dead Man definitely sounds scary, so I wouldn't be surprised if the story took place around a graveyard.

I'm expecting it to be extra spooky after actor Josh Brolin (who you'll recognize from Dune and as the voice of Thanos) told New York City Comic Con that the story "scared" him.

"I read it and I was just like, 'God, this is so well written. We just don't read things like this anymore,'" he said during the panel (via People). "It turned out that it was a cast, a lot of people who I had worked with, a lot of people who I loved and hadn't met yet, like Andrew Scott and Josh O'Connor, and people like that...Then doing it turned out, I mean, still one of my favorite jobs that I've ever had."

"I can't say what I played," he continued. "It scared me, which I wanted to be scared."

Is there going to be a Knives Out 3?

Image via Netflix

Yes, we're getting a Knives Out 3! Netflix bought the rights to at least two more Knives Out movies following the success of the first film in the fall of 2019. And on May 24, the official Instagram account confirmed the third movie, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery, will be hitting our screens soon. The movie will feature Benoit Blanc's "most dangerous case yet."

When is Knives Out 3 coming out?

Netflix

Knives Out 3 is coming in 2025. While we don't have a specific release date yet, the title and graphics for Wake Up Dead Man is definitely giving spooky Halloween vibes. Hopefully we can add it to our list of our Favorite Halloween Movies!

Will Wake Up Dead Man be on Netflix?

Yes, Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery will be available to stream on Netflix.

Who's in the cast of Knives Out 3?

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for The Met Museum/Vogue

Our first Knives Out 3 cast members are here! In addition to Daniel Craig, we'll see Challengers' Josh O’Connor and Priscilla's Cailee Spaeny. Glenn Close, Josh Brolin, Mila Kunis, Jeremy Renner, Kerry Washington, Andrew Scott, Daryl McCormack, and Thomas Haden Church are also in the cast of Wake Up Dead Man.

Considering the franchise has Madelyn Cline, Chris Evans, Janelle Monae, and Ana de Armas, I knew Netflix wouldn't disappoint!

Is Knives Out 1 connected to Knives Out 2?

Lionsgate

Knives Out 2 is a standalone sequel to the first Knives Out movie. So Daniel Craig's Benoit Blanc helps with each case, even if the rest of the characters don't know each other. I'm expecting Knives Out 3 to follow that same format.

What do you want to see in Knives Out 3? Let us know in the comments!

This post has been updated.

Unfortunately, our favorite grocer is not exempt from recalls regarding food safety – the FDA just announced that “lots” of canned tuna products sold at Trader Joe’s (and a handful of other popular retailers) were recalled due to a “manufacturing defect” that could cause fatal side effects.

Publix, H-E-B, Kroger, Safeway, and Walmart shoppers will also want to stay updated on the recall.

Scroll on for more information on the latest recall of canned tuna across the U.S.

Towfiqu Barbhuiya / PEXELS

Tri-Union Seafoods issued the recallon February 7, 2025, citing a “manufacturing defect” in their ‘easy open’ cans that causes leaks and the potential contamination of clostridium botulinum – a “potentially fatal” form of food poisoning. 🫣

Tuğba Öztürk / PEXELS

“Consumers are warned not to use the product even if it does not look or smell spoiled,” the announcement reads. “Consumers feeling unwell should seek immediate medical attention. No illnesses associated with the recalled products have been reported and the recall is being conducted to ensure consumer safety.”

Trader Joe's

The company manufactures canned tuna products under Chicken of the Sea, Genova, Van Camp’s, H-E-B, and Trader Joe’s brand names.

H‑E‑B

Find the affected canned tuna products included in this latest recall and where they were sold below:

  • H-E-B label: Texas
  • Trader Joe’s label: Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Washington D.C., and Wisconsin
  • Genova 7 oz.: Costco in Florida and Georgia
  • Genova 5 oz.: Harris Teeter, Publix, H-E-B, Kroger, Safeway, Walmart, and independent retailers in Alabama, Arkansas, Arizona, California, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Texas
  • Van Camp’s label: Walmart and independent retailers in Pennsylvania, Florida, and New Jersey

Towfiqu Barbhuiya / PEXELS

Tri-Union Seafoods says shoppers can identify any recalled products using "specific can codes” and ‘Best if Used By’ dates listed on the bottom of the cans. You can easily locate the codes, ‘Best if Used By’ dates, and UPC codes here.

Tri-Union Seafoods also stated that “no other product packaging” was affected by the current recall.

Stanley 1913

It feels like there’s a product or grocery recall just about every week these days. Just a few months ago, Stanley recalled millions of cups because they had a potential burn hazard.

Trader Joe's

Trader Joe’s is no stranger to bizarre recalls, either. In 2023, they surfaced recalls in light of reports of metals, bugs, and rocks being found in their products. Because TJ’s supply chain is naturally more complicated (they source their products from tons of suppliers, domestic and international), the proper oversight for food safety can be muddied.

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If you know me, you know how much I love Taylor Swift. Something about hearing music written by someone while they experience the same life stages feels so personal, and there's a good chance that almost every emotion I feel can be summed up by a Taylor Swift song. In short: I just love her.

Taylor frequently drops merchandise when a holiday rolls around and for Valentine's Dayin 2022, she released a collection inspired by her 2019 album Lover. I fell in love with a pair of fuzzy dice inspired by her hit song "Cruel Summer," and apparently so did everyone else because the next time I visited the website, they were sold out! So, I decided to make a simplified version of them with my sewing machine for a fun V-Day activity and to add some extra pink to my space. Check out our online sewing class to brush up on your skills and keep reading for a low stakes tutorial on how to make your own!

Here's how to make your own Taylor Swift "Cruel Summer"-inspired dice for Valentine's Day.

Supplies For Your Own "Cruel Summer" Taylor Swift Fuzzy Dice:

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

  • Sewing machine
  • Pink fleece fabric
  • Pink thread
  • Pink felt
  • Scissors
  • Blue rope/cord (I took mine off a loofah)
  • Needle + pins
  • A copy of Lover to listen to while you sew ;)
  • Poly-Fil Stuffing (not pictured)
  • Ruler (optional)
  • Glue gun + glue gun sticks (optional, use it to touch up your seams if you need)

Instructions:

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Start by marking your fleece with the measurements for your squares. Since the size of the dice on Taylor's official website was listed as 3.5", I marked them just above 3.5" so I could leave room for a hem. You'll need 12 squares total.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Next, cut out your squares. I used the first square as a template for the others, then went back in and cleaned up the edges where necessary.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

The first image I made was a sun, and I started by drawing a circle on my felt. I used the rim of my thread spool to make sure I had a perfect circle but you can also free hand if you want the circle to be a different size.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Pin your felt to the center of a fleece square.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Sew the circle to the fleece using a regular straight stitch.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Next, move your sewing machine from a straight stitch to a zigzag stitch and decrease your stitch length to a lower number like 0 or 1. This will allow your art to have more of a filled-in border, instead of a messier, chevron finish.

Go back over the rim of your circle with the zigzag stitch to give it that embroidered look. I did this with the fabric right side up, then I did it again with the fabric flipped upside down just to be extra thorough.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

After your circle is complete, it's time for the sun rays! Use the same zigzag stitch and 0 stitch length to move from the circle outward. This is where you'll want to add another element: stitch width.

To give the sun rays their triangular shape, adjust your stitch width as you move out from the heart of the sun. While the stitch length ensures your sewing won't have empty spaces, the width will let you move from a wider sunbeam base to a thinner point. I just decreased the width every few stitches as I went along.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Your finished sun will look something like this! I went back in with a needle to clean up loose threads by hand. I waited to trim them until I had threaded them to the back so that the front image had a more polished look.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Repeat the above steps for your devil and angel hearts. There are only a few differences between these and the sun; you'll cut the felt into hearts instead of circles, and to fill in the horns and the wings, I used a straight stitch to give it a colored-in look, reserving the zigzag stitching for the borders.

I know the original dice had "Cruel Summer" lyrics stitched onto these squares, but I ended up leaving them off. It makes the design more minimal and easier to work with.

One thing to note about this step: beware of bunched fabric! Filling in the angel wings brought the edges of the squares in a bit, but I wasn't too upset about it. I think flaws give a craft some personality!

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

The "Lover" stitching got a little more complicated than the images. I first traced the word with my pen so that I would have some guide as to what the word should look like. Move the stitch width back down to one of the lower settings.

Then instead of just moving the fabric in a circle like I did for the sun, I moved it all around to follow the word I had written in marker. Repeat this a few times until you're satisfied with the thickness. I definitely tried this step a couple different times so don't worry if you don't get it on the first go!

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

For my final embroidered square, I did a simple "TS," which of course stands for "Taylor Swift."

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Before you can sew your squares together, line the edges up and pin them. I used my ruler to mark how far I wanted my hem to go (I did 1/4" at every edge) for a sewing guideline.

I pinned the squares one at a time, checking at each step that they were pinned the right way (especially after I sewed two together incorrectly and had to pick out the stitches. Oops.)

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Arrange the images in a similar way to the official dice, or change it up however you'd like! I chose to arrange the squares so that there was a blank in between the images.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Pin and sew your remaining three squares around the middle square so that you end up with a cross.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

I continued pinning and sewing the edges to one another until I had an inside-out cube. Here's a tutorial to help you better understand which edges should be sewn together.

I did one square at a time, making sure to focus on the corners and going back in to tighten them up once I was done. You only want one gap, which is where you'll flip the cube inside out and then stuff it.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Once you have a cube, flip the fabric inside out. I used my pen to make sure all the corners and edges were good to go.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Next, stuff your cube with whatever filling you prefer. I didn't stuff it super full because I didn't want it to have a rounded look when I was done.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Ta-da! A little wonky but very cute :)

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

When you have both dice, cut a small hole in the top for your cord. Knot the ends and stuff them into the holes, then use your needle and thread to attach the cord and the fleece together.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

Voilà!

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

They're soft, fuzzy, and pink. What could be better than that?!

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

If you don't want to hang these in your car, they also make excellent Valentine's (or Galentine's) decor.

Chloe Williams/Brit + Co

If you need me, I'll be blasting "Cruel Summer" for the rest of the month.

Loving these Taylor Swift fuzzy dice? Follow us on Pinterest and TikTok for more entertainment inspo, and don't forget to check out The Latest On Taylor Swift And Travis Kelce's Relationship!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.