SoupR Bowl Cozy

SoupR Bowl Cozy by Terry Morris

What Is Being Made

The SoupR Bowl Cozy is a functional bowl-shaped hot pad designed to safely hold microwave-safe bowls containing hot food. This knitted accessory provides insulation and a secure grip for transporting meals from the microwave to the table. The cozy features a clever design where you lift the edges up and out on two sides to safely grip and carry your bowl. Beyond its primary function as a microwave hot pad, this versatile project can also be used to keep ice cream bowls cold during summer months, making it a practical year-round kitchen accessory.

Techniques and Construction

This intermediate-level knitting project employs a distinctive two-piece construction method to maximize both safety and functionality. The cozy is created from two identical pieces that are joined together to form a reversible hot pad. This double-layer construction prevents burns and helps the cozy hold temperatures more effectively than a single-layer design would. The pattern utilizes circular needles for the main body and double-pointed needles or two circular needles for finishing the bottom, demonstrating intermediate-level circular knitting skills. Knitters have the option to use a provisional cast-on method with waste yarn if preferred for their preferred joining technique.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch throughout this project is stockinette stitch, which creates a smooth, classic fabric ideal for a functional hot pad. The pattern works to a gauge of 5 stitches equals 1 inch over stockinette stitch, which is essential to achieve the correct finished dimensions.

Materials and Specifications

• Yarn: 200 yards of 100% cotton worsted weight yarn (such as Lily Sugar 'n Cream, requiring more than one ball). Cotton is essential for microwave safety—acrylic and wool are fire hazards and should never be used.
• Needles: US size 5 (3.75 mm) circular needle for the main body, plus double-pointed needles or 2 circular needles for bottom finishing
• Notions: 4 stitch markers, waste yarn (optional, for provisional cast-on method)
• Finished Size: 7 inches in diameter

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for knitters with some experience who are comfortable working with circular needles and managing stitch markers. The two-piece construction and bottom finishing techniques require attention to detail and familiarity with basic circular knitting methods.