24 Cozy DIYs That Will Make Winter Way Better

Feb 06, 2015

‘Tis the season of frigid weather, icy conditions and snow days. And what better time to work on our #31daysofdiy than all curled up with a blizzard blaring outside? Make some hot chocolate, put on a good movie and pick one of these cozy DIYs to finish before the next #snowmeggedon. Whether you’re in the mood for a few no-sew winter accessories, some all-natural spa treatments or want to make your home extra cozy, we’ve got 24 fun DIY projects to entertain you while the storm carries on.

1. Mittens from a Sweater: We all have a sweater or two that we know we’ll never wear, but for sentimental reasons just can’t bear to part with. Instead of stuffing it in the back of your closet for another winter, give it a new life as a cute pair of mittens. (via Brit + Co)

2. Faux Fur Trapper: We’re all about that fur, the faux stuff of course. Wouldn’t this trapper hat be adorable for the kiddos? (via See Kate Sew)

3. No-Sew Beanie: What’s better than getting snowed in with your bestie? Making custom matching beanies of course. (via Brit + Co)

4. Heart Patches: Even if there aren’t holes in your sweaters, these heart patches are too cute to say no to. (via EmerJa Designs)

5. DIY Tea: From licorice and peppermint to lavender white tea, we’ve got several amazing mixes that’ll keep your hands and heart warm during the next blizzard. (via Brit + Co)

6. Grapefruit Lip Scrub: Winter is notorious for drying out your lips, so whip up some of this tasty sugar scrub to fight off that dry, chapped feeling. (via Julie Ann Art)

7. Bleach Dye Joggers: Getting snowed in means you can wear whatever you want, no judgement. Not that you would get any judging looks when you wear these fancy dyed joggers out on the town. (via Brit + Co)

8. Heart Hand Warmers: These are definitely the cutest way to keep cold hands at bay. Tuck them in your coat pocket to keep warm after your epic snowball fights. (via Hello Natural)

9. Pom Pom Ear Muffs: We’re bringing ear muffs back. A matching pair is also required for your pet, of course. (via Brit + Co)

10. Copper-Dipped Mug: Dress up some plain dollar store mugs with a sleek metallic makeover that’s totally dishwasher safe. (via Design Improvised)

11. Arm Knitting Infinity Scarf: No idea how to knit? That’s ok, all you need to make this chunky scarf is two balls of yarn and two arms. Even the least crafty of us has those things lying around. (via Brit + Co)

12. Mini Zen Garden: Combat cabin fever with a pretty little zen garden. Gather some of your favorite objects, like crystals and succulents, and enjoy some personal meditation time while the storm blows outside. (via The Merrythought)

13. Sequin Top: Dress up an old sweatshirt you’ve forgotten about with some sparkly sequin writing. The hardest part of this DIY is deciding what word to wear. (via Spark and Chemistry)

14. Sugar Body Scrubs: Being snowed in is the perfect time to pamper yourself with some homemade spa goodies. Make these sugar scrubs to give yourself the royal treatment. (via Flair)

15. Teddy Bear Pom Poms: Whether you want to add them to hats, pillows or blankets, you’ll want the fluffiest pom poms possible. Looking like cute teddy bear tails, these super puffs are great for all cozy crafts. (via Fall for DIY)

16. No-Sew Beanie: We adore a solid, no-sew project, and this one is a fab way to salvage a sweater that has become unwearable. Dress it up with a pom pom or bejewel it if you’re feeling extra ambitious. (via The Wonder Forest)

17. Shaggy Yarn Tassel Rug: Floors feeling a bit chilly? Settle down with a good movie and make a fluffy shag rug to keep your toes warm. (via Urban Sleek Blonde)

18. No-Sew Blanket Scarf: You can never have too many scarves, right? With just a bit of fabric you can make this trendy scarf with practically no money and no time. (via The Chic Country Girl)

19. Fur Scarf: If you’re nervous about crocheting because you don’t want to make mistakes, then working with faux fur is ideal. The fluffiness will hide any little imperfections, leaving you with a perfectly fabulous scarf. (via Delia Creates)

20. Woven Circle Mat: You crafty types know that sometimes you just have A LOT of yarn sitting around. If you’re looking for a unique project that doesn’t involve crocheting or knitting, try making a funky, uber colorful floor mat. (via A Beautiful Mess)

21. Bronzing Caffeine Body Butter: Let’s be honest, we could all use a little bronzing action this time of year. Coffee and coconut oil make this lotion a cellulite-fighting superpower. (via Hello Natural)

22. Lace Sweater Insets: If you don’t want to cut up an old sweater to make mittens or beanies, just add some pretty lace insets for an easy makeover. (via Sincerely Kinsey)

23. Chunky Tassel Throw: Winter cold is the perfect stage for some epic snuggling. Dress up a tired throw blanket with some oversized tassels. (via Craft Berry Bush)

24. Peppermint Soy Candle: Peppermint can boost your energy and relieve headaches, and can also help with allergy and cold relief. So, not only will your house smell wonderful, you’ll actually be improving your well-being without even leaving the house. (via Sincerely Kinsey)

What are your favorite snow day DIYs? Talk to us in the comments below!

15 Meatless Monday Recipes That Are Totally Filling

Going meatless on Mondays doesn’t mean you have to settle for the same boring salads or bland pastas. With the right recipes, you can enjoy hearty, flavor-packed meals that are just as satisfying as your favorite meat-based options! Whether you’re craving something cheesy, crispy, or full of bold spices, these meatless Monday recipes will keep you coming back for more.

Scroll on for 15 easy Meatless Monday recipes that’ll keep you full and satisfied!

Brittany Griffin

Big-Batch Pressure-Cooked Vegan Chili

This vegan chili is super hearty since it's loaded up with quinoa and three kinds of beans. Don't fret about the flavor, either – it gets its semi-spicy effect from chilis, chili powder, onion, cayenne, and salt! (via Anna Monette Roberts for Brit + Co)

Sarah Anderson

Carrot Hot Dogs

We bet you've never had hot dogs like this before! Crafted using carrots that are sautéed in maple syrup, coconut aminos, and water then briefly grilled for texture, they turn tender and oh-so flavorful. From there, you can top 'em with just about anything you want! (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Sarah Bond

10-Minute Chickpea Salad

This quick chickpea salad would make a great lunch for your meatless Mondays. It requires zero cooking, yet still fills you up with protein from the chickpeas and zesty Greek yogurt dressing! (via Sarah Bond of Live Eat Learn for Brit + Co)

The Edgy Veg

Tater Totchos

You've heard of nachos, but what about totchos?! These loaded tater tots are both vegan- and vegetarian-friendly, but thankfully, they've still got plenty of cheese – vegan cheese, that is! (via The Edgy Veg)

Feel Good Foodie

Vegetarian Burrito Bowl

This veggie burrito bowl is basically the epitome of 'we have Chipotle at home.' It only takes 40 minutes to make, and you're sure to have plenty of leftovers if you're eating for one! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Vikalinka

Creamy Tomato & Spinach Tortelloni

For a cozy dinner at home, this creamy tortelloni will cure every single one of your cravings. It's veggie-packed, with tons of tomato and spinach to boot. (via Vikalinka)

Completely Delicious

Roasted Brussel Sprout & Gruyere Quiche

You can never go wrong with a simple quiche, especially when you toss in some seasonal veggies. This recipe works great for breakfast and dinner alike! (via Completely Delicious)

Kathryn's Kitchen

Jalapeño Popper Pizza

With the spicy notes of jalapeño poppers, this pizza also supplies lots of cheese for you to indulge in on meatless Mondays. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Munching with Mariyah

Vegan Sheet-Pan Fajitas

These vegan fajitas are perfect for your meatless Monday plans because they’re loaded with bold, smoky flavors, packed with nutritious veggies, and they come together effortlessly on one pan for easy clean-up! (via Munching with Mariyah)

The Real Food Dietitians

Greek Portobello Mushroom Vegetarian Gyros

Rivaling your favorite Greek takeout spot, these veggie-packed gyros still come complete with all the best toppings, including a super fresh tzatziki sauce! (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Averie Cooks

Chickpea & Kale Thai Coconut Curry

Hearty, packed with plant-based protein, and bursting with rich, comforting flavors, this Thai-inspired curry is ideal for chilly nights. Plus, it's made all in a one-pot! (via Averie Cooks)

The Girl on Bloor

Veggie Tofu Scramble

For breakfast, you've gotta give tofu scramble a try. It's just as protein-rich as scrambled eggs, but you can also load it up with veggies like red pepper, red onion, spinach, and mushrooms for added nutrients! (via The Girl on Bloor)

Takes Two Eggs

Gochujang Brussels Sprouts

This vegetarian side dish would work wonderfully with an Asian-inspired meal, whether it's a meatless Monday or not. Spicy, umami, and salty flavors take the forefront to make every bite so heavenly. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Vanilla and Bean

Cheesy Vegetarian Tofu Enchiladas

These baked-to-perfection tofu enchiladas will keep your Tex Mex cravings at bay with tons of spicy, smoky flavors and plenty of plant-based protein. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Cozy Cravings

Zucchini Lemon Risotto

This lemon risotto with zucchini is a dream. It's light yet creamy, plus, it's fairly simple to make if you're in a pinch for lunch or dinner. (via Cozy Cravings)

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8 'Law & Order' Celebrity Cameos You Totally Forgot About

For over three decades and more than 1,000 episodes, Law & Order has been bringing gritty crime drama to viewers everywhere. Each version of the franchise, like the no-nonsense Law & Order, the sharper Law & Order: Criminal Intent, and the intense Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, offers its own unique style and energy.

With that came a range of memorable guest stars, too. From future A-listers early in their careers to established actors in surprising roles, Law & Order has a solid reputation for delivering unexpected celebrity cameos.

Let's look back at some of the most iconic Law & Order celeb appearances that you might've forgotten about over the years.

Scroll to see the Law & Ordercelebrity cameos you definitely forgot about...

Youtube/LawAndOrderNBC

1. William H. Macy

You may best know William H. Macy as drunken patriarch Frank Gallagher on Shameless or as the surprising voice of the narrator in Curious George. These two wildly different roles just go to show how diverse his talent is.

Still, you might not remember how William even made an early appearance on Law & Order in the very first episode of the series, playing Assistant US Attorney John McCormack in the pilot.

While this debut wasn't particularly memorable, he did get a second shot at redemption in Season 2. That time around, he played Jack Powell, the director of a teen shelter suspected of abuse.

Youtube/MsMojo

2. Amanda Seyfried

Everyone knows Amanda Seyfried for her breakout role as ditzy Karen Smith in Mean Girls. More recently, you might've seen her viral rendition of "California" by Joni Mitchell on The Tonight Show going viral across social media platforms.

However, she also appeared in a Law & Order: Special Victims Unit episode and played Tandi McCain, a teen girl who was found beaten and duct-taped under a bench in a new dormitory. This impactful performance couldn't have been a wider divergence from her Mean Girls character.

NBCUniversal

3. Stephen Colbert

Before Stephen Colbert became known for his sharp political commentary (and endless impersonations of Donald Trump), he also started off as an actor just trying to make it in Hollywood. One of his early TV roles came in 2004 when he appeared on Law & Order: Criminal Intent.

Stephen portrayed James Bennett, a counterfeiter whose actions threaten to ruin a Catholic charity. This role was far removed from his typical comedic persona and offered a rare glimpse at Stephen's darker acting abilities.

Youtube/LawAndOrderNBC

4. Bradley Cooper

Prior to becoming the heartthrob we all know and love today, Bradley Cooper was already proving he had the chops to play some seriously twisted characters. During a Law & Order appearance, he portrayed Jason Whitaker, a psychotic lawyer whose dark past catches up with him.

What makes Bradley's guest spot even more interesting is that it was part of a crossover event between Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and the spin-off Law & Order: Trial By Jury. His storyline begins on SVU and continues in the latter.

Youtube/MsMojo

5. John Krasinski

Before John Krasinski became a household name for his role as Jim Halpert on The Office, he showcased his darker side on Law & Order: Criminal Intent. He played Jace Gleesing, a troubled high school basketball player suspected of murdering a private investigator.

Viewers got to see John act as a wildly different character than the lovable and quirky paper salesman he's most known for today.

Youtube/LawAndOrderNBC

6. Robin Williams

Robin Williams is remembered for his iconic roles in both comedy and drama and his performance in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit is no exception.

In the Season 9 episode "Authority," he portrayed Merritt Rook, a sound engineer turned anti-authoritarian criminal mastermind. Merritt is pushed to the edge after the tragic loss of his wife and unborn child, setting him on a path of revenge, and Robin's captivating performance even earned him an Emmy nomination.

Youtube/LawAndOrderNBC

7. Julia Roberts

During the ninth season of Law & Order, Julia Roberts also made a memorable guest appearance. When a millionaire investor died shortly after backing a new sports stadium, the investigation hones in on a construction entrepreneur as the prime suspect.

Julia plays Katrina Ludlow, a professional fundraiser who claims to have uncovered evidence implicating the killer. There's just one catch: she insists on delivering the evidence to Detective Rey Curtis under a set of complicated circumstances.

The star earned an Emmy for this performance, adding another achievement to her impressive resume.

Youtube/LawAndOrderNBC

8. Samuel L. Jackson

Finally, Samuel L. Jackson made an early appearance on Law & Order during its very first season. He played lawyer Louis Taggert in the episode "The Violence of Summer," which aired before his famous role as Ray Arnold in Jurassic Park.

Samuel flexed his acting muscles with some classic scenes in the interrogation room, adding even more intensity to an already dramatic show.

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10 Home Decor Ideas I'm Stealing From This "Cozy" Sun Valley Renovation

Mountain homes naturally have a cozy charm thanks to the landscape and serene surroundings, but with the right design approach, you can elevate the look beyond "log cabin chic" toward a dreamy, sophisticated sanctuary. Designer Sierra Fox of Studio Mountain is known for blending rustic warmth with modern elegance and her latest project is all of the above and more. Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Sun Valley, Idaho, this five-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bathroom retreat is surrounded by sweeping mountain views and stunning natural beauty, both of which influenced Sierra’s design. Now on the market and listed by her sister, Delaney, this home is full of inspiring details. "Delaney and I work together to design each home to have a unique and custom feeling, from the decision about the property location all the way down to fabrics on the furniture," says Sierra. "It can be really fun to get to work with family and it helps us spend more time together than we would otherwise."

Here are 10 home decor ideas I can't get enough of in this cozy renovation.

Aimee Mazzenga

1. Warm, Organic Elements

Inspired by the snowy mountain landscape, Sierra filled the home with warm, organic elements that strike the perfect balance between sophistication and comfort. Linen slipcovered chairs from Jenni Kayne, reclaimed oak dining table from RH, paper lantern lighting, and rich oak flooring create a sense of cozy elegance, while a flood of natural light makes the home feel so inviting.

Aimee Mazzenga

2. Marble For Dramatic Impact

Sierra prioritized timeless materials, clean lines, and a fluid indoor-outdoor connection. The kitchen features Italian Calacatta Viola marble (a popular kitchen trend), adding a bit of drama to the quiet luxury aesthetic.

Aimee Mazzenga

3. Custom Cabinetry

Custom white oak millwork and floors frame the snowy outdoors, making the inside feel warm and beautiful.

Aimee Mazzenga

4. This Dining Nook

I'm obsessed with this breakfast nook with custom banquette, CB2 oak dining table, and a bunch of throw pillows from places like Jenni Kayne and custom from Sierra's Studio Mtn Shop. It's a showstopper and a place to get cozy and gather, day or night.

Aimee Mazzenga

5. Investment Appliances

A 55” Lacanche range and Fisher & Paykel appliances balance high-quality functionality with elevated aesthetics.

Aimee Mazzenga

6. Open Shelving

Open shelving, to me, is the perfect way to add personality to your kitchen. I adore beautiful glassware and pottery, and it's the ideal space to showcase your favorite collections.

Aimee Mazzenga

7. Organization & Symmetry

One of the greatest challenges of the project was maintaining a sense of warmth and intimacy within the home’s expansive, modern layout. Sierra achieved this by layering lighting, incorporating rich material contrasts like oak and marble and being thoughtful about spatial planning.

Sierra's tip for making a space feel cohesive?

"Don't be afraid to start from scratch on a blank canvas, focusing on just a few key feelings you want to evoke from your space (serenity, energy, coziness, etc)," she says. "If you can pare down to the core feelings you want from the space, it helps to make all decisions after that from inspiration images all the way down to your silverware easier to make. When you have a cohesive idea of what you want to feel, it helps define and focus the end result."

Aimee Mazzenga

By using the same cabinetry throughout the home, Sierra creates a sense of cohesion and balance. This design choice enhances the home's flow, making each space feel thoughtfully connected. And this bedroom moment — framing the breathtaking mountain landscape — is simply lovely.

Aimee Mazzenga

Who's ready for the most luxurious bath? The symmetry here with the matching Jenni Kayne sheepskin rugs is making me swoon. I also love the use of actual drapes in the bathroom, perfect for this large window. "Incorporating shapes and texture into a design is the best way to make sure that neutrals stay interesting and elevated," says Sierra.

Aimee Mazzenga

8. Mixed Materials

When you're designing a neutral home, experimenting with unique textures is key to making it not boring. Pairing tactile elements like woven accents, natural stone, and soft textiles can bring warmth and interest to otherwise simple spaces.

"For the bedrooms, we wanted the bedrooms to feel serene and neutral while still cozy and warm," says Sierra. "We drew from our California vernacular in terms of color pallete, but blended with more mountain forward textures like shearling and antique rugs for a refined but rustic feel."

Aimee Mazzenga

A simple marble end table paired with a upholstered reading chair is the perfect balance of hard and soft.

Aimee Mazzenga

9. Tadelakt Finishes

Tadelakt, a traditional Moroccan lime plaster, adds an artistic and organic element to the space. Paired with this stone sink, it's the ultimate in earthy decor.

Aimee Mazzenga

10. Elegant Storage

Everything in the home has a purpose, and the thoughtful storage solutions, like the Annora Bookcase from AllModern, keep the space clean and minimal, allowing the luxe furnishings and breathtaking views to take center stage.

Aimee Mazzenga

Custom cabinetry, built-in consoles, and sleek bookshelves contribute to an organized aesthetic, making the entire home feel curated and intentionally designed. The result is a home that feels luxurious, deeply connected to its natural surroundings, and designed for both comfort and timeless beauty.

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