DIY: Air Fresheners

These sweet little air fresheners couldn’t be easier to make!

From Country Living:

One of these DIY Christmas tree-shaped air fresheners will keep a car, closet, or office smelling fresh. Added bonus—they are made with essential oils, so no nasty chemicals involved.

To make: Trace the shape of a wooden Christmas tree ornament on a scrap of fabric twice. Cut out and glue to the front and back of the ornament. Once dry, soak the fabric with an essential oil of your choice (we used cedar). Thread twine through the ornament loop for hanging.

Depending on which ornaments you can find at the dollar store, you can match your essential oil to the shape. For example, a gingerbread man ornament? Use ginger. Buy a candy cane? Use peppermint essential oil. And another nice oil for trees would be pine!

SOURCE: COUNTRYLIVING.COM

The Perfect Table

FROM: DIYJOY.COM:

This Thanksgiving, go all out and be extra by folding your table napkins into turkeys before placing them on top of the plates. Your family and guests will love this for sure, they might even ask you how you did it. It’s super easy and quick to make and you can fold as many table napkins as you like. If you want to learn how then simply proceed to read the instructions down below and watch the video tutorial as well so that you can see how it is exactly done. I am so glad that I saw this video tutorial by Chinet on YouTube and I will surely try this at my Thanksgiving party.

Materials:

Table napkins

Directions:

Step 1

Unfold the table napkin, then lay it on your work surface, and fold the top corners down until the edges are nicely matching in the middle. Fold over both sides to meet in the middle, then fold both sides once more until nicely matching in the middle, and fold it down in half. Fold the tip up, then lift the half up so it resembles a turkey’s head, and set it aside.

Step 2

Grab another table napkin, then leave it folded lengthwise, and start folding it crosswise into an accordion. Leave about 3 inches at the end of the table napkin unfolded, then turn it over, and fold it over in half. Tuck the unfolded portion into the center accordion, then open it up, and it should resemble a fan. Place this on top of the turkey napkin and behind the head.

Now if all of that sounds a little complicated, there’s a video that might be easier to follow!

SOURCE:DIYJOY.COM

DIY: Magical Broomstick

I would never have a Roomba at my disposal, but if you do, this idea from HGTV is AWESOME!

From Jennie Andrews (HGTV):

Every witch and wizard home needs a magic broom on Halloween, and this one is super easy and quick to DIY, no charms or potions necessary. Thanks to some hidden support under the bristles, this self-propelled Halloween decoration stands up by itself and can even do a little cleaning on its own (with the help of a robotic vacuum).

Tools and Materials:

8″ floral foam cone

serrated knife

dowel rod or foraged stick (3′-4′ long)

grass table skirt

drill

removable adhesive strips

robotic vacuum

medium flowerpot

1. Build the Handle

Use a serrated knife to cut about two inches off of the smallest end of a foam cone. Use a large drill bit to make a hole all the way through the center of the cone. To reach the center, you may need to start the hole from both ends and meet in the middle. Use the drill to hollow out the hole slightly smaller than the size of your broom handle. Starting from the bottom, feed the handle through the hole until the bottom edges are even. If you drilled the hole slightly smaller, the stick should fit tightly in the cone.

2. Attach Bristles

We found a grass table skirt at a craft store that made perfect (and easy) broom bristles. You could also use raffia or a costume hula skirt. Lay the skirt or grasses down on a table with the ends pointing AWAY from the cone. Just above the cone, tightly wrap the bristles around the handle. Bundle the bristles together with a piece of rope or twine (most hula skirts or table skirts have a built-in string so you can use that as well).

3. Flip the Bristles

Stand the handle up with the cone down. Let the grass flip over the cone. Once it has been neatened, bundle the top of the grass and wrap it tightly with twine, knotting the ends together.

4. Elevate the Broom

To create the appearance that the broom is standing or moving by itself, you will place the bottom of the cone onto the vacuum or onto a stand to help elevate it (we used an upside-down flowerpot). Apply a removable adhesive strip to the top of the vacuum or the pot. Then simply stick the bottom of the cone to the strip. Trim the bottom of the bristles until they are just barely grazing the ground.

5. Get Swept Away

Voila! With just a little hocus pocus, you’ve created holiday magic. Have your broom take a spin around the room at a Halloween party, or place it on the front porch to mystify the neighbors. Either way, you’re sure to give off some major witchy vibes with this project.

SOURCE: HGTV.COM

National Witch Hazel Day

Witch hazel is a deciduous shrub native to North America, belonging to the Hamamelidaceae family. The plant is often recognized for its distinctive yellow flowers that bloom in the fall. The leaves, bark, and twigs are harvested and distilled to create witch hazel extract, commonly referred to as witch hazel water or Hamamelis water. This extract is rich in tannins, polyphenols, and other beneficial compounds that contribute to its medicinal properties. Witch hazel has been used for centuries by Native Americans for its healing properties, particularly for skin ailments. Today, it is widely recognized for its effectiveness in treating various skin conditions due to its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

1. Natural Astringent for Oily Skin

If you struggle with excess oil, witch hazel might become your new best friend. Its natural astringent properties help remove excess sebum from the skin’s surface without the harshness of alcohol-based products. Many people with oily or combination skin find that a quick swipe of witch hazel helps control shine throughout the day while minimizing the appearance of pores.

Unlike many commercial astringents, witch hazel balances oil production without completely stripping the skin, helping maintain your skin’s natural moisture barrier. This makes it ideal for daily use, especially in your morning routine before applying makeup or as a refreshing midday treatment. For best results, you can apply witch hazel after cleansing with a gentle, non-drying face wash. Allow it to fully dry before applying any moisturizer or makeup.

2. Soothes Inflammatory Skin Conditions

The anti-inflammatory compounds in witch hazel make it particularly effective for calming irritated skin. If you’re dealing with eczema, psoriasis, or general redness, witch hazel can provide meaningful relief. The tannins in witch hazel help reduce inflammation, soothe itching, and accelerate healing.

For best results, apply diluted witch hazel to affected areas with a soft cotton pad, allowing it to air dry before applying any moisturizer. Many people report a noticeable reduction in redness and irritation within just a few applications. Research has shown that the gallic acid and tannins in witch hazel possess significant anti-inflammatory properties. This can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory compounds in the skin. For those with rosacea, witch hazel can help reduce the intensity of flare-ups when used consistently.

3. Reduces Acne and Breakouts

Struggling with breakouts? Witch hazel’s antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it effective against acne. It helps clear away the bacteria that contribute to pimples while reducing the redness and swelling.

For a simple acne-fighting toner, apply witch hazel after cleansing and before moisturizing. Its ability to remove excess oil and impurities from pores can help prevent future breakouts while addressing current ones. Many users find it particularly helpful for treating inflammatory acne like papules and pustules.

Plus, the proanthocyanidins and tannins in witch hazel exhibit antimicrobial activity against P. acnes, the bacteria associated with acne development. Witch hazel helps regulate sebum production, addressing one of the root causes of acne.

When combined with other natural acne-fighting ingredients like tea tree oil or salicylic acid, witch hazel can be part of a comprehensive approach to clearer skin.

For stubborn cystic acne, witch hazel can be applied as a spot treatment several times throughout the day. While it won’t completely eliminate deep cystic breakouts on its own, it can reduce their severity and healing time.

4. Alleviates Sunburn

When summer fun leaves you with painful sunburn, witch hazel offers natural relief. Its cooling, anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the burning sensation while promoting healing of damaged skin. For sunburn relief, you can soak a soft cloth in refrigerated witch hazel and gently apply it to affected areas. The cool temperature, combined with witch hazel’s healing properties, provides immediate comfort and helps prevent peeling and long-term damage.

Plus, the astringent properties of witch hazel help tighten the top layer of skin, which can reduce the feeling of heat emanating from sunburned areas. Additionally, it also helps restore the skin’s natural pH balance, which is often disrupted by sun exposure. Some evidence suggests that the antioxidants in witch hazel may help neutralize free radicals

5. Minimizes Appearance of Bruises

Accidents happen, but witch hazel can help minimize the appearance of bruises. Its astringent properties constrict blood vessels near the skin’s surface. This potentially helps reduce discoloration and swelling when applied soon after injury. For best results, you can apply witch hazel to the bruised area several times daily, especially within the first 48 hours after injury. Many people report faster healing and less noticeable bruising with consistent application.

When you apply witch hazel to a developing bruise, its astringent properties cause the blood vessels to constrict, potentially limiting the amount of blood that leaks into surrounding tissues. For enhanced bruise treatment, you can consider alternating between cold compresses and witch hazel applications during the first 24 hours. The cold helps constrict blood vessels while witch hazel reinforces this effect and adds healing benefits.

6. Soothes Itchy Scalp

An itchy, irritated scalp can be both uncomfortable and embarrassing. Witch hazel’s anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent natural remedy for scalp issues, including dandruff and general irritation. It helps balance scalp oil production while calming inflammation that contributes to itching. To use, dilute witch hazel with equal parts water and apply directly to your scalp after shampooing. Massage gently and leave it on for several minutes before rinsing. Regular use can lead to a healthier, more comfortable scalp environment. The antifungal properties of witch hazel make it particularly beneficial for dandruff caused by fungal overgrowth, such as seborrheic dermatitis. Its ability to regulate sebum production helps address another common cause of flaking and itching.

7. Reduces Scalp Oil and Buildup

If you find your hair getting greasy quickly between washes, witch hazel can help extend the life of your style. Its natural astringent properties remove excess oil and product buildup without stripping essential moisture from your hair. For a refreshing scalp treatment, mix witch hazel with a few drops of tea tree or rosemary essential oil and apply to your roots using a spray bottle. This can be particularly helpful for those who rely on dry shampoo between washes. Over time, regular use of commercial dry shampoos can lead to significant product buildup that weighs hair down and can even clog hair follicles. Plus, A witch hazel rinse can help remove this buildup while balancing the scalp’s natural oil production. For those with fine or thinning hair, reducing excess oil at the roots can create more volume and body without the need for additional styling products.

8. Relieves Hemorrhoid Discomfort

One of witch hazel’s most well-known medicinal uses is treating hemorrhoids. Its astringent properties help shrink swollen blood vessels and reduce inflammation. This can provide significant relief from pain, itching, and discomfort associated with this common condition.

Commercial witch hazel pads are widely available specifically for this purpose, but you can also create your own by soaking cotton pads in witch hazel and applying them to affected areas. Many sufferers report almost immediate relief and reduced symptoms with regular application. For enhanced relief, you can store witch hazel pads in the refrigerator before application. The cooling sensation provides additional comfort, especially for external hemorrhoids that cause significant burning and itching.

9. Soothes Sore Throat

Lesser known but equally effective is witch hazel’s ability to ease sore throat pain. Its astringent and anti-inflammatory properties can reduce swelling in the throat and provide temporary relief from discomfort. To create a soothing gargle, mix one tablespoon of witch hazel with a cup of warm water and a teaspoon of honey. Gargle for 30 seconds and spit out (do not swallow). This natural remedy can be particularly helpful during cold and flu season. When you gargle with witch hazel, the tannins help tighten the mucous membranes in the throat, reducing swelling and the sensation of pain. The antimicrobial properties may also help fight the bacterial or viral infections that often cause sore throats. For maximum benefit, use this gargle 3-4 times daily, especially before bed and upon waking. You can enhance the formula by adding a drop of clove or thyme essential oil, both known for their antimicrobial properties.

10. Reduces Under-eye Puffiness

Late nights and early mornings often lead to puffy, tired-looking eyes. Witch hazel’s astringent properties temporarily tighten skin and reduce fluid retention. For a quick fix, soak cotton pads in refrigerated witch hazel and place them over closed eyes for 5-10 minutes. The cooling sensation, combined with witch hazel’s natural properties, helps constrict blood vessels and reduce swelling. Plus, the flavonoids in witch hazel have antioxidant properties that protect the delicate skin around the eyes from environmental damage that can contribute to puffiness and premature aging. Regular use may help strengthen the skin in this area over time, potentially reducing the tendency toward fluid accumulation and swelling.

11. Treats Minor Cuts and Scrapes

Before modern antiseptics, witch hazel was a go-to remedy for treating minor wounds. Its natural antimicrobial properties help cleanse wounds and prevent infection. For minor cuts and scrapes, clean the area thoroughly with water, then apply witch hazel with a clean cotton pad. The slight stinging sensation is normal and temporary. Many find that wounds treated with witch hazel heal more quickly and with less inflammation. Additionally, its anti-inflammatory effects help reduce the redness and swelling that often accompany minor injuries. Research suggests that witch hazel may also support the skin’s natural healing processes by promoting the production of fibronectin, a protein that helps with wound closure.

12. Soothes Razor Burn and Ingrown Hairs

Shaving can leave skin irritated, red, and bumpy. Witch hazel’s anti-inflammatory properties make it an excellent post-shave treatment for both men and women. It soothes irritated skin, reduces redness, and helps prevent ingrown hairs. You can apply witch hazel to freshly shaved areas using a cotton pad, paying special attention to areas prone to irritation. The astringent properties of witch hazel temporarily close pores after shaving. This can help prevent bacteria from entering and causing folliculitis (inflammation of the hair follicles). Additionally, it helps remove any residual shaving cream or soap that might clog pores and contribute to ingrown hairs. For enhanced results, especially in areas prone to ingrown hairs, you can consider mixing witch hazel with a small amount of salicylic acid solution. Apply this mixture to the prone areas 24 hours after shaving. This helps keep pores clear and prevents hair from becoming trapped beneath the skin’s surface.

13. Natural Air Freshener

Are you looking for a chemical-free way to freshen your home? Witch hazel makes an excellent base for natural air fresheners. Its subtle scent quickly dissipates, allowing essential oils to shine through without competing with fragrances. To create a custom air freshener, combine witch hazel with distilled water and your favorite essential oils in a spray bottle. This natural alternative eliminates odors rather than masking them and is safe to use around children and pets. Unlike commercial air fresheners that often contain phthalates, synthetic fragrances, and other potentially harmful chemicals, a witch hazel-based air freshener relies on the natural deodorizing properties of both witch hazel and essential oils. The alcohol in witch hazel helps the essential oils disperse evenly throughout the solution. It can also act as a natural preservative, extending the shelf life of your homemade spray.

14. Gentle Glass and Mirror Cleaner

The alcohol content in witch hazel makes it effective for cleaning glass surfaces without harsh chemicals. It cuts through grease and grime while drying quickly without leaving streaks or residue. For a simple glass cleaner, you can combine equal parts witch hazel and water in a spray bottle. Use with a microfiber cloth for streak-free shine on mirrors, windows, and glass tabletops. This natural alternative works just as effectively as commercial cleaners without the harsh smell or chemical exposure. For especially dirty or greasy glass surfaces, you can add a tablespoon of white vinegar to the witch hazel mixture. This addition helps cut through stubborn residue without introducing harsh chemicals.

15. Plant Care Solution

Houseplant enthusiasts might be surprised to learn that witch hazel can benefit their green friends, too. Its mild antifungal properties make it useful for treating and preventing common plant diseases like powdery mildew. For plant care, dilute witch hazel with water (one part witch hazel to four parts water) and spray on affected leaves. This gentle solution helps keep plants healthy without the harsh chemicals found in commercial fungicides. The tannins and other compounds in witch hazel exhibit antifungal activity against various plant pathogens, including those responsible for powdery mildew, black spot, and leaf rust. For enhanced plant protection, you can consider adding a few drops of neem oil to your witch hazel solution. This combination creates a powerful yet gentle treatment for various plant diseases and pests.

16. Jewelry Cleaner

The mild astringent properties of witch hazel make it effective for cleaning jewelry, particularly pieces with gemstones. It helps remove oils, residue, and light tarnish without damaging delicate settings. For a simple jewelry cleaning solution, soak pieces in witch hazel for several minutes, then gently scrub with a soft toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry. Many find this method particularly effective for everyday jewelry that needs regular cleaning. The natural compounds in witch hazel help dissolve the oils from skin contact that often dull gemstones and attract dirt. Unlike harsh chemical cleaners, witch hazel is gentle enough for most gemstones. Additionally, the mild antibacterial properties help sanitize pieces that come in close contact with skin, such as earrings and rings.

17. Removes Sticky Residue

Struggling with sticky label residue or tape marks? Witch hazel can help break down adhesives without damaging most surfaces. Its alcohol content dissolves sticky substances while being gentle enough for most materials. You can apply witch hazel directly to the sticky area, allow it to sit for a few minutes, then wipe away with a clean cloth. For stubborn residue, repeat the process or gently scrub with a soft brush. This works particularly well on glass, plastic, and finished wood surfaces. The alcohol in witch hazel works by breaking down the polymers in adhesives. This makes it particularly valuable for removing sticky residue from children’s toys, kitchen containers, or other items where chemical exposure is a concern.

18. Natural Insect Repellent

The natural compounds in witch hazel make it mildly repellent to certain insects, including mosquitoes. When combined with essential oils known for their insect-repelling properties, witch hazel creates an effective natural alternative to chemical repellents. Research suggests that certain compounds in witch hazel may interfere with insects’ ability to detect human scent. When combined with essential oils, the resulting spray can provide significant protection from various biting insects. To create a natural bug spray, you can combine witch hazel with distilled water and essential oils like lemongrass, citronella, or eucalyptus in a spray bottle. While it may need more frequent application than chemical options, many prefer this natural solution, especially for children and those with sensitive skin.

SOURCE: NATURALREMEDYIDEAS.COM

DIY: Halloween Decorations

We used to love to decorate our house for Halloween, but since we moved and without kids to enjoy it, or even other adults to enjoy it, we don’t anymore. There is a house along our normal driving route here in town that has one of those gigantic skeletons. Over the summer, hands began to emerge out of the ground. The last time we went by that house, the skeleton had emerged from the ground up to his waist. It is soooo cool! It takes planning and dedication…but these decorations are awesome and easy to do!

Tomato Cage Ghosts

Tools and Materials

metal tomato stand

white paper lantern

pre-cut ghost face shapes (peel-and-stick felt: 2 eyes and a mouth)

lightweight white fabric, white gauze or “creepy cloth”

floral wire

1. Prep the Cages

Spray paint the metal tomato cages white. If you only have one size tomato cage and want different-sized ghosts, use a wire cutter to remove a section of the cage. Turn the stand upside down so the widest part becomes the sturdy base of the ghost. Bend the metal spikes inward toward the middle until they meet. If necessary, use floral wire to hold the spikes in place.

2. Attach the Head

Unfold and assemble the large white paper lanterns according to the package instructions. Place the lantern’s opening onto the tomato stand’s spikes. Use floral wire to hold the lantern upright.

3. Add Lights

Run white string lights up and down each row of the tomato stand, ensuring even coverage.

4. Wrap the Body

Drape the pre-cut white fabric over the top of the lantern head and down the tomato stand. Secure the fabric in the back of the stand with safety pins to hold it in place.

5. Stick on the Face

Attach the felt eyes and mouth to the lanterns to create spooky ghost faces. Instead of buying the pre-made ghost face, you could use felt to make the eyes and attach them to the ghost using fabric glue.

You can find more pictures and detailed instruction at hgtv.com.

Rats Eating a Chair

This effect is amazingly simple. The stuffing is not coming out of the cushions—it’s merely regular cotton stuffing. All you need to add is some fake rats!

Black Cat Pumpkins

Materials Needed:

faux pumpkins of various sizes and shapes

hot glue gun and glue sticks

black exterior paint

2″ foam paintbrush

scissors

black craft foam

medium-tipped white paint marker

white craft paint

small craft paintbrush

gray and light brown pipe cleaners

felt (light gray, light brown or red)

black marker

Paint Pumpkins

Cover pumpkins with three coats of black exterior paint, allowing paint to dry fully between coats.

Create Ears and Eyes

Use scissors to cut two arrow-shaped ears out of a piece of black craft foam (Image 1). Use a kitchen knife to cut a small slot in the top of the pumpkin to fit the ears (Image 2). Apply a dab of hot glue to ear tabs’ back side then insert them into the ear slots (Image 3). Use a white paint pen to draw on angled cat eyes then fill them in using the paint pen or a small paintbrush and white craft paint (Image 4).

Create and Attach Nose and Whiskers

To create a nose, use a black marker to draw an arch on one corner of a felt sheet, then cut along the marked line. Apply a dab of hot glue to the center of the nose only and secure it to the pumpkin just below the eyes. Cut three pipe cleaners in half and use hot glue to attach them to the pumpkin under the edges of the felt nose. Using a faux pumpkin ensures you can display your crafty kitties year after year — just store them somewhere relatively cool to prevent the hot glue from melting.

SOURCE: HGTV.COM

DIY: Hanging Bird Feeders

Now is a good time to start thinking about the upcoming winter and our feathered friends. This DIY project was found on the craftyhacks.com website.

Supplies You’ll Need

Bowl

Small bird seeds (3/4 cup)

Unflavored gelatin

Boiling water (1/3 cup)

Teaspoon

Twine

Barbeque stick or a straw

Cookie cutters

Parchment paper

scissors

How to Make DIY Hanging Bird Feeders

Step 1. To begin, boil 1/3 of a cup of water. Then, add 4 teaspoons of gelatin to the water.

Be sure to read the instructions on your gelatin packet. Some of them may suggest that you use different water to gelatin ratios.

Follow the instructions on your packet. Then, stir the gelatin until it dissolves completely. This should take about 1-2 minutes.

Step 2. Now, place the bird seeds into a bowl. Add the gelatin/water mixture to your bowl.

Stir well and let the mixture set for a few minutes.

Step 3. Once your mixture has a dense, paste-like texture, you can move onto the next step.

Step 4. Now, it is time to form your bird feeder using the cookie cutters. To do this, place your cookie cutters onto the parchment paper.

Begin filling them with your seed mixture. Be sure to press the mixture down firmly into the cookie cutter using your fingers or a spoon.

Step 5. Next, cut your barbecue sticks into pieces. You will need one for each of your cookie cutters.

Step 6. Place a barbecue stick into each of your bird feeders to form a hole at the top for hanging. Then, place them in the refrigerator for 35-45 minutes or into the freezer for 20 minutes.

Step 7. Now, carefully remove your bird feeders from the cookie cutters.

Step 8. Cut a piece of twine for each bird feeder. Thread them through the holes.

Hang and enjoy!

Collect Rocks Day

Filly posted a meme about a rock last month…similar to the meme below…

…which inspired me! I always thought it would be a hoot to place small, painted rocks in the stream that crosses the driveway. Heavier rains will eventually push those rocks downstream and eventually into a river. From there? who knows? Here are some rock inspirations.

DIY: Fabric Book Covers

Supplies for Making Fabric Book Covers

The first thing you need to make fabric book covers is obviously the fabric. It’s the perfect thing for a fabric remnant that’s not big enough for making a pillow but you love enough to put on display. Medium weight fabrics work best (you want a fabric that’s heavy enough that you can’t see through it but also isn’t too bulky). You’ll also need a pair of sharp fabric scissors, a tape measure, ⅝″ roll of Stitch Witchery, and an iron.

Step 1. Cut and Iron Your Fabric Piece

Measure height of your book and the “wrap-around” width of it from edge to edge with the book closed (19″ in this case):

Next, cut a piece of fabric that’s 1 ½” taller than your height measurement and 8” wider than your width measurement. If you have wrinkles in your fabric, iron them out.

Step 2. Fold & Iron The Long Edges

Lay your fabric out on an ironing board with the unfinished side facing up. Iron a ¾” fold along the entire length of both the top and bottom edges of the fabric:

Once you’re done ironing, your piece of fabric will look like this:

Step 3. Bond the Edges

Next, take a length of the Stitch Witchery and place it under one of the fabric folds that you just created starting 4” in from each end (so your Stitch Witchery piece should be 8″ shorter than the fabric length):

To activate the Stitch Witchery adhesive, place a damp cloth on top of the fold with the Stitch Witchery tucked inside and press with an iron on the “wool” setting for about 20 seconds. Continue bonding the fold down the length of the fabric piece and then repeat on along the length of the second folded edge.

Step 4. Create The Book End “Pockets”

The last step is to create pockets that the book cover can fit into on both ends to keep it in place. To do this, fold your fabric over 4″ from the end and place a 4″ piece of Stitch Witchery inside the t0p of the fold (it’s hard to see the Stitch Witchery but if you look closely you can see a white gauzy area where it’s placed). Bond the fabric using an iron and damp cloth as described above.

Repeat this with three other 4″ Stitch Witchery pieces – one for the top of the fold and one for the bottom of the fold on each end of the book cover. The finished ends of your book cover will look like this when you’re done:

Place the ends of your book into your beautiful new fabric cover – you’re done!

DIY: Insect Repellent Jars

I found this idea on thecountrychiccottage.net!

DIY Mosquito Repellent Candles

Did you know that you probably already have most of the ingredients for these mosquito repellent candles in your home? They are not only super easy to make, but the supplies and ingredients are also quite simple.

Supplies Needed for DIY Mosquito Repellent Candles

Pint mason jars

Floating candles

Lemons

Limes

Basil

Lemongrass essential oil

Water

Step 1: Slice Lemon And Lime

Slice one lemon and one lime (this will be enough for two candles).

Step 2: Add Lemon And Lime To Jar

Add a couple of slices of lemon and lime to the jar.

Step 3: Add Basil

Add a couple of sprigs of basil on top of your lemon and lime slices.

Step 4: Fill Jar With Water

Fill the jar with water up to the threads.

Step 5: Add Lemongrass Oil

Add 10 – 15 drops of lemongrass oil to your jar.

Step 6: Stir

Stir everything together.

Step 7: Add Floating Candle

Add a floating candle to your jar.

Step 8: Light Candle

Light the candle and enjoy a pest-free summer!

SOURCE: THECOUNTRYCHICCOTTAGE.NET

DIY: Picnic Hacks

It’s picnic season again and I went in search of some new and clever picnic hacks. I found these tips at The Cottage Market website.

Shower Curtain

Buy a cheap plastic shower curtain – this is about to be your favorite picnic hack. There’s nothing worse than picking a spot, laying your blanket down, and once you sit down…you realize it’s actually wet. You can skip experiencing ruined pants by putting the plastic shower curtain under the blanket.

Hawaiian Roll Mini Sandwiches

Mini Sandwiches are a Picnic-Perfect Food!
If you don’t already know the delicious glory of Hawaiian rolls, I urge you to try some. They are perfect for any kind of slider or mini sandwich you can think of. They’re absolutely perfect to take camping with you. Take your entire flat of Hawaiian rolls out of the package – try to take it out in one solid piece. Using a bread knife, cut your sheet of rolls into 2 pieces – the tops and the bottoms. Just like you’d cut a cake into two layers. Set your tops aside. Add condiments to the rolls if you want any. Put on the fillings of your choosing. Put the top layer onto the bottom half and cut the sandwiches apart on their natural edges. Then slide the sheet of sandwiches back into the package the rolls came in. Once you get to your picnic, just pull out what you need.

Salads in a Cup

Don’t fuss with a whole bowl of salad and dressing on the side. That can take up so much room. Cut down on space by making individual salads in plastic cups with lids. If you want to add dressing before the picnic (rather than at the picnic), put the salad dressing in the bottom of each cup. Add all of your veggies next, and finally any toppings such as seeds or croutons. Cut the cover on, and it’s ready to go!

Egg Carton Treats

A real tasty treat to bring on your picnic, are chocolate filled strawberries. Cut the top off the berry, cut out some of the middle, and fill with melted chocolate. The perfect place to set them while they’re setting up is in an egg carton. That egg carton will be perfect inside the cooler and will ensure your sweet berries stand up straight and nothing squishes them.

Muffin Tins
This is so useful if you’re sitting on the ground. Finding a level place to set down cups can be a real challenge. Thankfully, you won’t have to worry about that with this picnic hack! Use the muffin tin for a cup holder in the middle of the blanket, so everyone can use it.

Homemade Bee & Ant Spray

Homemade ant spray is so easy to make! It’s only two ingredients – water and peppermint essential oil. In a spray bottle, fill it 2/3 of the way full of water. Add 12 – 15 drops of the peppermint. Shake and viola! Once you’ve laid down your blanket, mist around the edges.
Also – back along some fabric softener sheets to keep the bees away. Stick one under each edge of your picnic blanket. You’ll be able to eat in peace without the fear of anyone getting stung.

More tips can be found at: thecottagemarket.com