Introduction: The Tea-Time Metamorphosis

By emilyma2009
About: I am a high school student from The Lawrenceville School, I'm a maker who loves blending art and technology to create fun, meaningful projects. Whether it's a gift for family, a surprise for friends, or someth…

The Problem: The dreaded "tea bag plunge." You pour the water, and—splash—the tag follows the bag into the abyss. Retrieving it is a messy, finger-scalding affair. The Solution: A "Butterfly Sitter." This charming accessory perches elegantly on your cup's rim. It acts as an artistic anchor, holding your tea bag string securely in place, ensuring that the only thing steeping in your cup is the tea—not the label.

Supplies

Materials & Tools

The Body: Cardstock (for the prototype), or thin plastic sheets/stainless steel (for the final version).

The Canvas: White paint or primer (if using upcycled materials).

The Detail: Pencils for sketching, plus markers or acrylics for vibrant wing patterns.

The Tools: Sharp scissors or a craft knife (X-Acto knife).

The Bling: Sequins, glitter, or tiny rhinestones for that extra sparkle.

Step 1: The Blueprint (Sketching)

On your cardstock or plastic sheet, draw the silhouette of a butterfly.

  1. Pro-Tip: Fold your paper in half before drawing one wing to ensure perfect symmetry when you cut it out!

This is where the magic happens. You need to make two strategic slits:

  1. The Perch Slit: Cut a small notch at the bottom of the butterfly's body. This allows the butterfly to "sit" firmly on the rim of your glass or mug.
  2. The Anchor Slit: Cut a narrow "V" or a tiny slit near the butterfly’s head or antenna area. This is where the tea bag string will slide in and catch the paper tag.



Step 2: The Fitting Room (Trial Run)

Before you get lost in the colors, test the mechanics. Place the butterfly on your favorite tall mug. Slide a tea bag tag into the top slit. If it sits steady and holds the weight of the bag, you’re ready to decorate!

Step 3: Metamorphosis (Decorating)

Now, bring your butterfly to life:

  1. Classic Paper: Paint the wings with watercolors or markers. Add your sequins and decorative "bling."
  2. Transparent Plastic: If using colored plastic, try a stencil or filigree (hollow-out) style to let the light shine through. It will look like stained glass against your steaming tea.

Brew your tea, slide the string into the butterfly’s "antenna," and watch it guard your tea bag with grace. No more fishing for soggy labels!