(A tech-edited version of this pattern, in a new layout, was uploaded July 3, 2015.)

I think those charms that you put on the stem of a wineglass so you can tell yours from someone else’s are really neat. Of course, I don’t use them, because I don’t drink wine. I generally drink pop. The problem of being able to tell drinks apart still exists, though. Imagine, you have six women over for a night of knitting, and they all drink the same diet cola. Or, in the excitement at your Superbowl party, no one can tell whose beer is whose. Whatever shall you do?

Knit up a bunch of can cozies in different colors and patterns, that’s what

This is a very simple pattern for something you probably never thought you’d need, but once you have one, you’ll wonder how you did without. It is knit in the round with inexpensive worsted weight cotton, is highly customizable, and knits up quickly. These would make a great hostess gift, or offering for your local PTA craft sale!

Materials:

• Lily Sugar ‘N Cream (100% cotton, 120 yds/109m per 71g ball); 1 ball #19173 Spring Meadows (discontinued), #00026 Light Blue, #00004 Ecru, #01742 Hot Blue, #00003 Cream, or other worsted kitchen cotton yarn
• Alternate yarn: Coats and Clark Crème de la Crème (100% cotton; 126 yds/115 m per 71g ball); 1 ball #0750 Fuschia
• US 7/4.5mm needles, (double-pointed, two circulars, or one long circular for Magic Loop), or size needed to get gauge
• US 5/3.75mm needles (double-pointed, two circulars, or one long circular for Magic Loop), or 2 sizes smaller than needles used to obtain gauge
• Size F5 crochet hook (optional)
• Tapestry needle or crochet hook for weaving in ends