2-1/2 cups sugar, divided 1-1/3 cups applesauce 2 packages (3 ounces each) red or green gelatin 2 envelopes unflavored gelatin 1 teaspoon lemon juice
In a large saucepan, combine 2 cups sugar, applesauce, red or green gelatin, unflavored gelatin and lemon juice; let stand for 1 minute. Bring to a boil over medium heat, stirring constantly. Boil for 1 minute. Immediately pour into a cold 11×7-in. baking dish coated with cooking spray. Refrigerate for 3 hours or until firm.
With a spatula, loosen gelatin from sides of pan. To remove, invert onto waxed paper. Using kitchen scissors or small sharp cookie cutters dipped on hot water, cut into 1-in. squares or shapes.
Place on waxed paper. Dry at room temperature for about 8 hours or until slightly sticky. Roll in remaining sugar. Store in an airtight container.
Need a quick and easy Valentine gift for the cook in the family! A Valentine Apron.
What you need :
Valentine Kitchen towel (mine came from Dollar store)
Ribbon ( will be the Ties for the apron) in matching color
Basic Sewing Supplies /Machine
Directions :
Fold dish towel in half width-wise -with pattern showing
Make three pleats by pinching fabric (1 in middle of towel and 1 on each side ) Pin in place.( Box pleats) . Then sew across the top of pleats to keep them in place.
Then measure out enough ribbon to go around wait and add extra for ties (you make have to guess if you are giving as a gift/extra is always good)
Then pin Ribbon on to dishtowels (fold ribbon in half this is the center and pin to center of towel. Pin across in place and sew -across . Both top and bottom. You can also use a decorative stitch if you have one on your machine.
Done!
Pleats :
Ribbon ties :
You can make these for all occasions – they are inexpensive and cute.
Are you a DIY person ? Look for a way to save money for your big day ? Read on as this author gives you tips to make your day special and takes only a Day to make :
It’s one of the most important days of your life. Or it’s the wedding of your dear friend or a beloved family member — what can you do to help make it as memorable and personal as possible? Add a graceful and unique touch to the celebration with handcrafted decorations and keepsakes! This practical guide will show you how to quickly and easily create a terrific variety of ornaments: a centerpiece, guest gift, tablescape, and more. You don’t need any crafting experience for these easy projects, and best of all, they can be completed in less than a single day. Each book in Dover’s Make in a Day series presents 15 projects with illustrated step-by-step instructions. The beginner-friendly projects are ideal for anyone wishing to whip up something simple but special. Supplies are easy to find and are readily available at major craft stores. Other titles in the series include Make in a Day: Modern Wreaths, Make in a Day: Pompom Crafts,Make in a Day: Paper Flowers, Make in a Day: Garlands, and Make in a Day: Centerpieces.
Net Galley Book Review :
Released 16th Jan 2019 by Dover publications, it’s 66 pages and available in paperback and ebook formats. This book is perfect for all of us DIY ers and crafters with great pictures and tutorials to inspire us to get started. This book highlights wedding but with a few changes can be used for any type of celebration you need help decorating on a budget. With all the materials easily sourced at local craft stores this book is a big winner to me. So if you are planning a party -read this book…. Lisa
Today is National Peanut Brittle Day !! So make a batch and give as gifts or care packages to your love ones away from home-
2 C sugar
1 C light corn syrup
!/2 C Water
1 C butter in chunks
2 C raw peanuts
1 teaspoon baking soda
Butter 2 Cookie sheets : Combine sugar,corn syrup and water in a heavy sauce pan . Cook on Medium heat for 8-12 minutes. After it comes to a Boil ad butter in slowly while stirring for another 15-25 minutes ( candy thermometer reads 280) . Stir in peanuts and continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes (reach 305 ). Take off stove- and add baking soda . Pour hot mixtures onto prepared cookie sheet and let cool and harden.
DIY for gift giving :
I know you kept those old metal cookie tins from Christmas. Time to recycle cookie tins for a great container – just a little spray paint and a ribbon and your set. ( you may have to do a little sanding if its very glossy finish ) but spray paint comes in great colors these days, -so have fun. Lisa
Love Color ? But need help choosing the right one? Read this –
Choosing colours for your home can become an overwhelming and confusing process—there is just so much on offer. Love Colour will help you to bring your favourite colours to life by successfully making all those challenging decisions. Renowned international colour expert Anna Starmer takes you by the hand and guides you through this lavishly illustrated rainbow world of colour combinations, teaching you everything you need to know about hues, tones, accents and foundation colours along the way. Start by simply choosing a colour you love, then take your inspiration from our accessible and practical palettes to create your own colour combinations.
About the Author
After studying textile design at Chelsea College of Art, Anna Starmer has worked closely with many leading design studios developing ideas and pioneering trends. Clients have included IKEA, Marks and Spencer and Dulux paints. Anna is a key member of the British Textile Colour Group and Editor and Creative Director of the bi-annual colour publication The Mix Interior. Her work and her home have been featured in a number of magazines including Elle Decoration, Marie Claire and Vogue.
Net Galley Book Review:
Ready for Spring? I know I am and with that I am ready for a color change. This book has great colored pictures and explain everything you need to pick the perfect color for your house, The perfect book to inspire you to Love Color. Lisa
Ready to learn more about calligraphy ? Have an upcoming party or wedding you want to make invites for ? Read on:
The Complete Book of Calligraphy & Lettering provides expert instruction on the intricacies of traditional lettering techniques, as well as an introduction to contemporary hand-lettering formats.
From selecting the appropriate tools, such as pens, nibs, brushes, inks, and papers, to learning optimal hand positioning and understanding the intricacies of lettering angles, heights, spacing, and strokes, The Complete Book of Calligraphy & Lettering will help lettering enthusiasts swiftly master their craft.
Step-by-step lessons, practice templates, and a range of stunning alphabets demonstrate the breadth of artistic achievement that comes with practice and dedication. Four professional artists guide you through traditional calligraphy techniques, as well as an introduction to contemporary hand-lettering art forms, such as brush lettering and mixed media, for a well-rounded approach to the craft.
Additionally, a short section on Chinese brush lettering and several mixed media lettering projects inspire creativity and demonstrate how calligraphy and lettering can be used in wider artistic contexts and projects. Including practice templates for several featured alphabets in addition to mixed media “bonus” projects designed to inspire artistic creativity, The Complete Book of Calligraphy & Lettering will inspire lettering enthusiasts of all skill levels to strengthen their existing skills and delve into new, lesser-known variations of the trend.
Net Galley Book Review:
This book starts with a brief history of calligraphy and examples of many types of calligraphy making this a great reference book.
T he material is presented with a clear layout and in a pleasing design. It is important to note that this is a comprehensive guide not a workbook. But a few practice sheets are included. But If you are ready to learn more and get creative this book is a winner. Lisa
Happy Friday ! And today I am sharing a quick and Easy half apron pattern- perfect for beginners -you can make this out of any fabric for any occasion : Valentine gift maybe for some one you love:
Lets Gather some supplies:
Sewing machine /Thread -iron and ironing board -self-healing cutting mat -scissors -pinking shears -pins
Fabric for Apron:
one 16″x36″ piece of cotton fabric (for the skirt) -two 12″x12″ pieces of contrasting fabric (for pockets) -one 54″x5″ piece of contrasting fabric (for the waistband)
Sewing Directions:
The skirt : Cut from one piece of fabric or 3 (14X16 ) strips. If using 3 sew together and press open seems to make skirt. Lay out and cut top edge with pinking shears.Fold (2) side edges by 3/4 inches and press down. Pin in place. Fold bottom hem 3/4 and press and fold again and press (double ) – pin in place – Take to sewing machine and with a straight stitch sew each side while taking out pins. Then after both sides -sew the bottom the same way. Across the top run a long basing stitch with machine or by hand.
Pockets : (2) Fold each edge 3/4 inch and -Press. Then do it again. Position your pocket squares onto your skirt piece and pin in place. Remember, these are going to be pockets, so the one edge we’ve already stitched on the squares (the top) will not be attached to the skirt. Pin them down when you’re satisfied and take it to your machine. Slowly stitch along the left side, bottom, and right side. Repeat on the second pocket
Pull lightly on the bating stitches Pull the stitch and work your pleats toward the middle until you are satisfied with your gathers. Tie off each end and pull your pleats so they are distributed evenly.
Now the waistband – Lengthwise, fold your piece in half and press with your iron. You should have a nice, crisp crease down the center. Open the fabric up and press a 3/4″ crease into each 54″ edge. We will not be double-folding these edges. On the sides, press a 3/4″ crease. Pin into place.
Find the center of your waistband and place the top edge of your skirt inside. Fold the band over and pin in place. Start at the short side (the ends) of your waistband and stitch along the edge. Continue around along the bottom edge of the waistband, sewing the skirt portion into the waistband along the way. Continue until you reach the end and stitch the second short edge. Give a little backstitch,
Happy Friday morning ! Its a beautiful day in South Louisiana but cold. I know not really if you live any where else. But January in Louisiana can run from Warm (short sleeve weather ) to Cold in a single week. But Today is a perfect time to go out and explore the outdoors and plan my new garden spot for the upcoming Spring.
Ever Blooming Roses:
My roses bloom about year round here . And I use them in lots of different things .So I keep them free of pesticide and chemicals So that I can use them in recipes . Rosewater is one of my favorite things to make and give when they are fresh and I also dry them for future use in crafts. Lisa
Home made Rose water recipe : You need Roses and distilled water to make this. And a clean jar for storage.
Remove petals from stems and run them under water to clean.
Add petals to a large pot and top with enough distilled water to just cover . Not to much water is need.
Cook over medium-low heat bring the water to a simmer .
simmer for 20-30 minutes or until petals have lost their color and Water is a pale pink.
Strain the mixture and discard petals.
place water in a glass jar to store. Keeps 7 days at room temperature or refrigerate for longer shelf life.
A true Southern Classic : Camille
Japan – In Japan the camellia flower is called “Tsubaki” and symbolizes the divine. It is often used in religious and sacred ceremonies. It also represents the coming of spring. Korea – In Korea the camellias flowers is a symbol of faithfulness andlongevity.
Daffodil
Meaning & Symbolism of Narcissus / Daffodils. Symbolizing rebirth and new beginnings, the daffodil is virtually synonymous with spring. Though their botanicname is narcissus, daffodils are sometimes called jonquils, and in England, because of their long association with Lent, they’re known as the “Lent Lily.”
Happy Saturday ! Are you busy wrapping presents today and need tags for your packages ? Well I got (Big Red) Sizzix cuter out and my tag die out and Christmas paper scraps and had fun around the table. A perfect way to use up you Christmas paper scraps. Lisa
Now little one might need help with the die machine – but you can pre Cut a bunch out before time. And tie yarn on. Lisa
And time to decorate with what ever you have to use, Die cuts,stickers or paper cut outs.
Stamp the back (Gina K) or you can write from To & from.
Have a Crafty Saturday !!! What will you be making today ? Lisa
Not only gifts of food comes out of my kitchen but I am busy making gifts for love one- these are also great hostess gifts if you are invited to a party.
Homemade lotion:
3/4 C Oil (your choice -Coconut ,Argan, Jojoba ) J
3 T Beeswax
3/4 C filtered water (warm)
essential oil
Melt oil and beeswax in double boiler or microwave. Transfer after melting to stand mixer or food process and slowly add in water. ( Think mayonnaise ) when done -transfer to jars.
Homemade Face mask :
3 T strong Chamomile tea
3 T aloe Vera
3 T honey
4 T Ground oats
Mix all of the ingredients together to achieve a thick, gluey consistency. Apply and leave on for 15-20 minutes, then wash off with lukewarm water.
Met and Pour Honey Soap :
Soap base ( you can use glycerin ,honey or goat milk)
Pyrex Measuring cup to melt soap base in.
honey ( 1/2 tsp per pound)
Soap mold
Melt soap base in the microwave slowly (like chocolate) After melting add honey -and stir . Pour into molds and let harden.
Julia's recipes and commentary, straight to you from Iowa City! Normally, they're based around what looks good at the local farmers market. And yes, they're all out of order since they were copied over from Philip's flower blog which you should also check out -- see the link at right...
Peripatetic philomaths...focusing on what's really important, eating ethically and cleanly, fermenting, foraging/wildcrafting, practicing herbalism, and being responsible stewards of our land. Sharing our photos, musings, and learnings. Still seeking our tribe.
