Halloween craftGlowing Crystal Ball

These crystal balls are crafted from ordinary second-hand and hardware store finds!

The glass domes are easily found most second-hand stores for a dollar or two, and candle bases from any garage sale or flea market. The addition of glitter gives the balls a mystical look, and the glow-sticks offer a safe alternative to candles or electricity.

The glow sticks will last for 8 to 12 hours depending on temperature and come in assorted colors, but green looks the best.

Materials Needed:•White Glass Dome (don't use clear or smoked)
•Acrylic Craft Paint with Sparkles
•1" Wide Paint Brush
•Candle Holder with a Wide Base
•Glow Sticks from the Hardware or Camping Supply store

Directions:1.Clean the glass dome thoroughly and let it dry.
2.Coat the dome with the sparkly acrylic paint using the paint brush and let it dry. You can also use a spray-on sparkle paint. The paint could take up to 48 hours to dry and should not be handled much.
3.Activate a glow stick and place it inside the ball.
4.Place the ball on the candle holder and enjoy.

homemade baby wipes

Polymer Clay - Pumpkin Bead

Polymer clay – any brand – orange & green (or colors of your choice)
Liquid polymer clay
Clay knife, or plastic knife
Toothpick or bamboo skewer
Sculpting tool or plastic knife
Eye pins or wire (optional)
Oven for baking – it is recommended to use a clay - only oven (toaster oven). You can also enclose your project inside two baking pans; clamp closed & bake in regular oven. Remove once cooled.

Condition a small amount of each color of clay until soft and pliable by rolling and squeezing in your hands. You will need more orange. Test to see if it cracks when you bend it – that means it needs more conditioning!

Roll out an even log of each color & divide it in half with your knife. Keep dividing it until you have the size you desire. This is the best way to get evenly sized pieces.

Roll the orange clay into a ball & flatten slightly.

Roll one end of the green piece to get a cone shape.

Use your knife or carving tool to make indentations is each orange piece – looks more like a pumpkin now, doesn’t it?

Use your bamboo skewer or toothpick to make a hole in the top of your orange pumpkin – not all the way through!

Place a drop of liquid clay into the hole – a little goes a long way!!! This will adhere during the baking process – it’s not “glue”.

Insert the skinny end of the green clay cones into the hole & bend to resemble a stem. Texture it if desired for realism. Add vines, etc of you like.

Poke a hole or insert eye pin/wire for hanging. NOTE: if using wire – after baking, remove & place a drop or Crazy Glue and reinsert. Clay will not adhere to the metal!

Bake according to the manufacturer’s directions & let cool.

Glaze if desired. I use varathane – found in most hardware stores. For small projects, use the clay manufacturer’s glaze. The bottles are smaller & more affordable!

CREATE something lovely with your beads or set them out as tiny decorations. Great for dollhouses too!

Simple Pine Cone Gifts

Pine cones, in my opinion, are a wonder of nature. They also can make for some interesting crafts! You can make everything from simple, painted Christmas tree ornaments to stunning tabletop decorations. The only trick to using fresh pine cones in crafts, is to remember that pine cones have seeds inside them and some may also contain sap. You can avoid the mess this can cause simply
by setting your pine cones on a cookie sheet and placing them in a 200 degree oven for about an hour.

 

If you, or a friend, have an open fire, a lovely touch is to throw scented cones into the flames.

beeswax
an old tin can
essential oils
pinecones
food coloring if desired

Melt some beeswax (or old candle stubs) in a washed can placed in a pan of water. Using a can inside the pan means you can simply throw it away and are not left with a waxy pan to try to clean. Add a few drops of scented oil. Leave to cool and thicken very slightly and drop cones in. Remove the cones with tongs and leave them to drain and dry on aluminum foil. Don't waste expensive essential oils on this--cheaper oils are just fine. Keep a big basket full of these by the fire.


Spiced Pinecones

You will need:
Pinecones
Ground ginger
Ground cinnamon
Or any crushed dry spice you wish
craft glue
foam brush

Instructions:
Mix 1 part glue to 1 part water. Use foam brush to paint the
pinecone. Mix equal parts of the spices in a bowl. Sprinkle
spice over the pinecone and roll in spice. When coated, allow to dry.

Uses: You can use these in baskets, glued on wreaths, or even solo,
as an ornament. Hot glue a ribbon the the very top of the pinecone.
Add accents to the top, such a spanish moss, raffia or dried flowers.



Pine Cone Air Freshener

Instructions to make a simple gift or decoration.

Materials Needed:

Pine Cones
Christmas Tree Lights
Potpourri
2 Quart, Large Mouth Jar
Lace Material (or a doily)
Ribbon

Instructions:
Place the pine cones and potpourri in the jar so it is about 3/4 of the way
full. Gently tuck a small string of white Christmas tree lights in the jar.
Use a ruler or pencil to spread the lights out so they are evenly spaced and
can be seen well on all sides. Make sure you have enough of the light string
hanging out so it can easily be plugged in. Once the lights are in place,
fill the jar to the top with the potpourri. Do not cover it with the jar lid

Cut a circle out of a piece of lace material about 2 inches larger than the
top of the jar. Lay it on the top of the jar, making sure the plug end of
the light string is sticking out in the back under the lace.

Secure the lace by tying a ribbon around the top edge of the jar. (Instead of the lace
material, you can use a doily and get the same great effect!)

Once plugged in, this is a beautiful decoration and the scent is wonderful!
This is a simple craft that makes a wonderful gift!


TIP from Uhlamae: Uhlamae uses only potpourri and she adds scented oil as
she layers in the potpourri.


Pine Cone Angel

Instructions to make an angel out of a pine cone. A fun gift idea or even a
great Christmas tree ornament.
Materials Needed:

Pine Cone
Paint
1 inch Wooden Ball Head
1 - 2 Inch Wide Lace
Silver Pipe Cleaner
Doll Hair, Yarn, Etc.
Glue
Instructions:
The pine cone will be the angel's body. Paint it whatever color you like. I
painted mine white.
Once the paint is dry, glue the wooden ball onto the pointy side of the pine
cone. I was lucky enough to be able to simply slide the hole in the wooden
ball onto the tip on the pine cone. You can paint the ball/head if you like,
I left mine as it came.
For the wings, I cut two 6 inch pieces of lace.
Lay them on the table so the gathered edges are together and pinch them in
the middle. Tie where you pinched with a small piece of pipe cleaner. Glue
the pinched/tied section to the back of the pine cone for the angel's wings.
Paint a simple face on your angel. Glue on doll hair, yarn, or something
else for the hair. Add a small circle of the silver pipe cleaner for the halo

Your little angel will make a nice gift for someone. You can even try to
find a 'Guardian Angel' poem to go with it! You can also use it as a
Christmas tree decoration.

Pine Cone Bird Feeder

Simply get yourself some Pinecones, dip them in peanut butter or honey, dip them in some bird seed and tie them to your trees with a bit of twine!
They look nice and keep our feathered friends happy, especially in winter.

You can make and freeze for a supply to put out later in winter.

sled ornament

Create the perfect little ornament that your kids can make in a jiffy.

Materials

• Craft knife
• Craft stick
• Glue

• Paint
• Cord

1. For each mini sled, you'll need 6 colored craft sticks.

1. To fashion the steerer, use a craft knife to make an angled cut at each end of 1 stick, leaving a 2 1/2-inch piece (A). Save 1 end (B) and discard the other. Lay 2 whole sticks side by side and hot-glue piece A across them, near the top.
2. finished sled
    

tree of life neckless

The tree of life is a symbol which appears in a variety of different cultures. In most religions, it represents not only fertility and rebirth, but also the connection between the realms of earth and sky. It appears in Kabballah, as well as in sacred geometry. Within the Norse pantheon, some practitioners connect the tree of life with Yggdrasil, the World Tree. For many Pagans and modern Wiccans, the tree has personal meaning -- it often can symbolize rebirth and fertility, spiritual journeys, and growth.
If you'd like to make a tree of life pendant to wear, you can make one like this with just a few basic craft supplies.
You'll need:

Jewelry wire
Seed beads
Needlenose pliers
A chain or cord

The first thing you'll need to do is shape the outer circle of the pendant. The one in the photo is about an inch and a half wide, which seems to work well, but you can make it smaller or larger if you wish.

To make your circle, wrap a length of wire around a broom handle or dowel rod twice, leaving a bit of extra wire on either end, forming a double circle. Slide the wire circle off the dowel rod, and wrap the extra length around the double circle so that your wire won't unravel as you bead.

To form a ring at the top of the circle (which is where you'll thread a chain or cord through), simply twist a bit of the circle around the needlenose pliers before you secure the ends in place. Another option would be to slide a jeweler's "jump ring" onto the circle and crimp it with your pliers.

To form the roots of the tree, you'll need to cut four equal lengths of wire -- 7 to 9 inches is plenty (you'll be trimming off the excess later). Fold each of these pieces in half. Position them equally along the bottom where the roots of the tree will be, and wrap them around the outer circle as shown in the diagram. Use the needlenose pliers to crimp the wires into place. This will leave you with eight pieces of wire sticking off your outer circle.

The next step is to create the trunk of your tree. To do this, pull all eight of your wires into the center of the outer circle. Bring them together about a quarter to a third of the way into the circle, and twist them together as shown. Once the trunk has been twisted into place, fan the eight wires out to form the main branches of the tree.

Thread your seed beads onto the wires, working with one at a time. Once you've put enough beads on a branch to reach the outer circle, wrap the wire once around the circle to keep it in place. Repeat this with all eight branches.

Here's where things can get a bit tricky. Once you've filled all eight branches with beads up to the circle, you'll still have some spaces left. Add a few beads onto the remaining wires, and weave them in and out of the existing main branches. Use the needlenose pliers to help you guide the wires in -- it may get tight as you add more wires and beads. Continue doing this until you've filled in as much of your tree as you want

Once you've filled in as much of the wires and beads as possible, use the needlenose pliers to weave any poky bits of wire into the design -- you don't want them jabbing you when you wear it! Trim off any excess strands of wire after you've woven them in.
Add a chain or cord, and wear your new pendant!

window cling

Let the sun shine in through a few of these glittery window clings. They stick to glass and plastic but, unlike real snow, they are easy to remove!

Materials

 

Paper and pencil

Cookie sheet

• Waxed paper
• Dimensional fabric paint (we used Scribbles brand in Glittering Crystal) 

Draw a snowflake template (small, compact designs work best)(Let the kids design their own.) faceup on the cookie sheet and cover it with the waxed paperUsing a thin line of the fabric paint (approximately 1/8-inch wide), trace the snowflake design on the waxed paper as shown, making sure all of the paint lines connect. I like to add glitter to the snowflake at this time if your paint doesn't have sparkle. Let the window cling dry overnight, then carefully peel it from the waxed paper.

Making Herbal Paper and Ink

Grandmother were making felt and paper. Tedious, messy,
sometimes Smelly, creative and loads of fun for little ones to help with. (Just keep
them Away from the simmering part because of the caustic soda).

The Chinese have been credited with the invention of paper making around
105 A.D. Using flax with tree bark. One needs the cellulose fibers of plants
in order to make paper. Some plants are better than others for this purpose.
The best ones are flax, straw, nettles and rush. Marijuana is quickly coming
into its own as a great fiber source. Various cultures have used bamboo,
butchers broom, chamomile, cow parsley, dandelion, dill, fennel, iris, mullein,
papas grass, sunflower, and most cereal grasses.


Herbal Paper
Equipment needed to prepare the pulp:
* 3 to 5 gallon bucket;
* wooden spoon;
* 12 quart steel pot (stainless or galvanized is preferred);
* pestle and mortar;
* metal sieve;
* rubber gloves;
* strong nylon net bag; I realize this is not period, but the finer the
the plant fibers are blended, the finer the paper. With that in mind, one may
want to utilize a blender.

Pulp Process:
1. Gather 3 gallons of herbs, cut or tear them into 1 or 2 inch pieces
2. Crush the pieces (this aids in the breakdown process) Caution!!!! When
using caustic soda, use rubber gloves and avoid inhaling the fumes!!! Wash off
any splashes with cold water.
3. Place 1 qt of cold water (well or distilled) into pan, add caustic
soda, using a wooden spoon, stir gently.
4. Add herbs, cover with warm water, stir gently until herbs are covered,
simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours (until fibers are soft).

5. Rinse herbs to remove all traces of soda, then strain through a metal sieve.

6. Place pulp in net bag and rinse for several minutes, squeezing pulp repeatedly
7. If blending by hand, a mallet is helpful. If not, blend 2 and 1/2 half
tablespoons of fibers with 3 cups of water for 20 seconds. You now have
pulp.
8. An old trick to size paper so that you can write on it is to mix 1/5
teaspoon of cold water laundry starch with some water and mix with the
pulp.

Equipment for making the paper:
wooden frames: 8 1/2 by 11 or 8 1/2 by 14 with strong netting tacked or
stapled taut. You need to waterproof the joints using wax (or you can go modern
with caulking); one wooden frame of the same size without netting; large basin
(one the size of a kitty litter box works well); newspapers (some use old
cloths/sheets);

Making Paper:
1. Fill the basin with the pulp mixture to just below the rim.
2. Place the 2 frames together(the empty one over the netted one).
3. Hold them together, dipping them vertically into the basin.
4. Once in the water, tilt the horizontally below the water, raise slowly
catching the mixture onto the netting.
5. Lift from basin, horizontally, place on cloth or newspapaers to dry.
6. Remove empty frame.
7. If decorating the paper, now is the time to sprinkle flattened flowers
or leaves onto the paper, leave to dry.
8. Slide a palette knife under the paper to loosen it.
9. Clean frame and reuse.


11th century Oak gall ink
Ingredients:
1. 8 oz of oak galls
2. 2 and 1/2 quarts of boiling water
3. 3 oz of sulfate of iron (ferrous sulfate)
4. A few drops of myrrh
5. A few drops of essential oils
6. 1 1/2 oz gum Arabic
Process:
1. Steep galls in water for 24 hours, strain.
2. Add oils to myrrh then add gum Arabic.
3. Stir oils into the gall infusion along with the sulfate of iron
4. Bottle and label (Dark colored glass is preferrable)
The study of herbals is never ending. Maybe some of you will try your hand
at this ancient art.

Chocolate play clay and modeling clay

Chocolate play clay Chocolate peanut butter to be exact. Make an army or animals then eat them. create place settings that can be eaten afterwards. Even make roses. The crafts are endless. - 1 (16 oz) container ready-to-spread chocolate frosting - 1 c creamy peanut butter  -1 1/2 c confectioners' sugar

Directions

1. In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients; mix well. This is ready for use or can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Stored as directed, it should keep for a few weeks.


******

Traditional Clay

Clay dough makes great modeling material for all kinds of arts and craft projects. It can be formed into sculptures just like real clay, dried, and painted. Making your own clay dough is easy and fun!

Ingredients

- 1 c flour - 1/4 c salt - 1 tsp oil

- 2 tsp cream of tartar - 1 c water, warm - food coloring

Directions

1. Mix all of the ingredients together, adding the food coloring last.
2. Stir ingredients over medium heat until smooth.
3. Remove from pan and knead dough until it's blended and smooth.
4. When cool, store dough in airtight container or sealed plastic bag.

Two Minty Bath and Body Products

Peppermint Body Butter

Peppermint relieves many respiratory problems including nasal congestion, sinusitis, asthma, bronchitis, colds, and cough. It also relieves stress, pain, and is an immune system booster. These facts make it a welcomed parent to anyone on your list.

1/2 cup aloe vera gel
1 1/2 Tablespoon cornstarch
1 Tablespoon witch hazel
1 Teaspoon Vitamin E oil
5-6 drops peppermint e.o.

Mix the aloe, cornstarch and witch Hazel in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring at 30 second intervals to incorporate. Cook until this mixture becomes clear and thick. Now add your e.o, and peppermint oil. Mix well. Store in an air-tight container and label.


Cocoa mint scrub

Invigorate your feet at the end of a tough day with this rich and minty scrub. The raw sugar scrub will smooth and cleanse, while the cocoa butter makes your feet super soft. Peppermint oil is a well-
known energizer. Use this scrub any time your feet—and spirits—need a lift.

• 2 tablespoons cocoa butter, grated
• 2 tablespoons almond oil
• ½ cup raw sugar
• 4-5 drops peppermint essential oil

1. Gently heat cocoa butter and almond oil until cocoa butter melts;
stir well.

2. Add sugar and peppermint oil and mix.

3. Massage into clean feet and rinse with warm water. If your feet
are extremely dry, massage in a bit more cocoa butter and cover your
feet with clean cotton socks for 15 to 20 minutes.

Janice Cox

making your own bath gel

Bath Jelly

Bath jelly is a fun alternative to bath gel and can be found in all the popular bath shops. This is perfect for kids. Add a small toy tucked into the Jelly before it sets will give the kids an incentive to get to the bottom of the Jelly soap. There are so many inch high mini toys out there to choose from. If creating a group of jellies for a craft fair just stop by a bubblegum machine with toys and start on the magical journey of creation.

1 packet of Unflavored gelatin (1tbs) 1/2 cup of Liquid soap
1 tsp of Salt 3/4 cup of Water
Food Coloring to match fragrance Storage jar seal able lid
Fragrant oils or essential oils

Empty the packet of gelatin into a bowl and set aside. Boil 3/4 cup of water using a saucepan or kettle.

Carefully pour the hot water into a mixing bowl and mix it with the gelatin powder. Let the gelatin dissolve completely.

Next pour the liquid soap into the gelatin mix. Add 2 drops of food coloring into the mix and also add your fragrance oil. Add about 5 drops and stir it very gently so the bubbles do not become too agitated. Add salt.

Pour the mix into a clean storage container and allow to set for several hours in the refrigerator. Add the toy now if adding one
Dispose of the jelly after several weeks or if mold is present. Avoid mold by keeping it in an airtight container in a cool place at all times.

Add a plastic character spoon to the jar to make use easier. Attach a tag saying

(Child's name) Bath Jelly :any fragrance and color the child likes- monkey farts for a boy and maybe strawberry's for a girl. Or a action figure like "Green Lantern Bath Jelly" {Making it green and maybe apple scented or lime scented}.

Place a small amount of jelly under warm running water to use.

Dream pillow's

Cherokee Dream pillow

To bring good and prophetic dreams.  All flowers are dried.

2 oz. lavender flowers
2 oz. sage
1 oz. ground orris root
2 oz. deer's tongue herb
1 oz. cedar shavings
2 oz. coltsfoot herb
2 oz.sweet fern
1 oz. violets

The following mixture is stuffed into a small pillow that is placed under your
regular pillow or next to your head while you sleep. Start by sewing up three
sides on two squares of fabric fill the pillow and close with a simple stitch.

Moon Day Dream Pillows
Prepare for psychic dreams tonight! Make a dream pillow by mixing some or all of the
following herbs to make a cupful:

(the first two are required)

mugwort,

lavender,

rose petals,

catnip,

chamomile,

jasmine,

orange blossoms,

and buckwheat hulls.

Sew them up in a small rectangle of Moon-and-star printed cloth. Stuff the dream pillow into your pillowcase with your usual pillow.

Before sleep, tell yourself that you will remember your dreams.

Place a small notebook and pen by the bed so you can record the dreams you remember when you wake up in the morning.

Continue using the dream pillow for best
results.

~Denise Dumars

With mabon upon us it is time to start making teas

Red clover's mild anti-inflammatory properties which make it useful in alleviating skin conditions such as eczema. In addition, they contain compounds which help to reduce airway congestion and sooth coughs. Red clover has antiviral and antifungal properties, has estrogen-like effects, is an antispasmodic and expectorant, has anticancer properties, and is an excellent blood purifier. Daisy strengthens the appetite and the metabolism. It stimulates the digestion and can also allay coughs. daisy tea can help against swollen feet because of it's diureting effects.

Red clover tea

 

- 1 tsp dried red clover flowers - 1 c boiling water - 1 tsp daisy petals

- honey to taste - cinnamon stick and daisy bud for garnish

Directions

1. Mix the dried Clover flowers with hot Water add Daisy petals and Honey to taste
2. 1 Daisy bud with leaf or a Cinnamon stick for garnish Place the flowers and petals in a gauze wrap or tea ball and steep for 15 minutes. Remove and flavor with honey.


Tranquility Tea

1 c	red clover blossoms
1 c	rose hips
1/2 c	german chamomile flowers
1/2 c	peppermint leaves

This makes 1 qt jar full of mix. To use simply fill a tea ball and put into boiling water and steep. Or put into  resealable teabags  like below and iron shut

Bath time

A bath can be just that or it can be a cleansing of mind and spirit. We use baths to get clean and to rid ourselves of unwanted thoughts.  These baths each have a purpose. The first to sooth sore dry skin as the winter months can take their toll. The second one is for after a ritual when your thoughts are flying and you feel a drain from the ritual

Lavender get away bath

For a soothing winter bath,
Both the lavender and the oatmeal will work to soothe dry skin and calm frazzled nerves as well

put 2 tablespoons of lavender buds (Lavandula angustifolia)
and 2 tablespoons of finely ground oatmeal into a small muslin bag or a piece of cloth.
Secure tightly with a string or rubber band.

Tie the bundle with the string or a piece of ribbon so that it under the spigot of your bathtub.
Once the bath is full, try rubbing the bundle gently over your skin.

*****

Verbena bath

Its an invigorating herbal wash that is great after ritual or when you feel slightly off kilter.

Vervain leaves - 4 stalks worth
Honey 1/4 cup
Florida water or other perfume (a few dabs)
1-1/2 cups of water

Blend all ingredients in a blender. Combine this in a gallon jug and fill with warm water.
Stand in shower and dump mixture all over, then just towel off.

As fall grows near

Many are going back to School or college and will need a little help with the heavy school load.

Study Power

Mental Power For Studying to heighten mental power and to increase enthusiasm and determination to overcome obstcles and to meet the day's challengers.

2 drops Pine
2 drops Rosemary
4 drops Lemon

Use in an oil burner to heighten mental power and to increase enthusiasm and determination to overcome obstcles and to meet the day's challengers.
************

While others plan on solving their finances through other means:

Lottery Dream Powder

Want to dream a little dream that can make you money? Give this a sniff!

Combine these dry herbs equal amounts:

Orris root (or powdered sugar)
Cardamom
Cinnamon
Coriander
Licorce
With a pinch of: Mugwort

Sprinkle on spell charcoal and burn in a non-metal container before you fall asleep (make sure it's all done burning BEFORE you trip out to the light fantastic).

As SOON as you wake up (no going pee first) - write down any numbers you remember from your dreams (ie saw 3 ducks - write down 3, counted 24 pens, write down 24 and so forth).

It may take a couple of nights to get all the numbers you want to play.

*********

Money Oil

to use with money spells

1/8 Cup base oil of your choice
5 drops Sandalwood
5 drops Patchouli EO
2 drops Ginger EO
2 drops Vetivert EO
1 drop Orange EO

As you blend the oils, visualize your intent, and take in the aroma.
Know that this oil is sacred and magical. Label, date, and store in a
cool, dark place.

********

Moon Brew

Set a silver container filled with water out on the night of a Full Moon just as it rises.

 Allow the water to soak up lunar rays all night, then just before dawn, rise and retrieve the water.
Place the water in an earthen jug and cork tightly.
Use this brew to anoint money to increase wealth.
Touch it to your brow to promote psychic awareness.
Or place it in the bath prior to lunar rituals to become attuned with the spiritual planes.

******

Money Drawing Oil

3 drops wood marjoram oil
2 drops lemon oil
2 drops eucalyptus oil

Romanies roll their bills rather than keeping them flat. Smearing the outside bill with money‑Drawing Oil is believed to attract cash.

Harvest has ended and now it is time to think Yule/Xmas

Sharing the Season

Yule or Winter Solstice, is a time of family and a sharing of traditions. As the world spins around us, it is a time to sit back and drink in the smells, tastes, and laughter of loved ones. For just a few moments we are at one with our heritage, our families and our surroundings. However getting to those few moments of heaven can be quite a chore. Grocery shopping for the days feast, searching for just the right present only to watch it get tossed a side in an ever growing mount of Presents. I was beginning to dislike the entire process, until........

A few years back I started making a simple request for Yule. Homemade gifts. I simply wanted things I could Cherish for a lifetime. Something of the person who gave it. Face it, you can buy anything someone could buy for you. But crafts are unique, they are never the same even if you start out with the same stuff, our uniqueness takes over and we create something no one else can.

I invite you to put back the old time spirit of giving something you have lovingly made with your own two hands into Yule. Here are a few gifts I have made in the past. I hope you can enjoy them as much as I did.

　

Deep Woods Aftershave Gel

For that special in your life here is a woodsy He-man scent that is an analgesic, antibacterial, antibiotic, anti fungal, antiseptic, and antiviral. It will repair damage from cuts or nicks while clearing your congested nose and treating any facial eczema or psoriasis.

1/2 cup aloe vera gel 1 Tablespoon pine water
2 Tablespoons vodka 5 drops sandalwood e.o.
5 drops pine e.o. spruce e.o.

Combine all of the ingredients in a bowl and stir with a wire whisk until well blended. Bottle and label. Allow to sit 1 week before using to blend the scent.

NOTE: Some people have allergies to Aloe Vera so check for allergies before applying to your face. You can do this by applying a little to the inside bend at the elbow and waiting 2-4 hours for signs of allergies.

　

Diaper rash cream

Coconut oil and raw shea butter are the perfect combination for a safe, natural and simple diaper cream. It is antimicrobial, antioxidant, antifungal, antibacterial, and soothing. Together it is a powerhouse for defeating yeast infections as well. Use it directly on their bottom. The added bonus is it washes out of any clothing beautifully.

1/8 cup coconut oil
1/4 cup raw shea butter
3-4 Tablespoons cornstarch (optional, to thicken)

Combine coconut oil and shea butter in a small high sided bowl with a hand mixer. Add cornstarch a tablespoon at a time until you achieve the desired thickness. It will look similar to a whipped icing.That’s when you know it is done! Transfer to a small covered container and place at your changing station. Keep a small portion in the diaper bag as well. Apply liberally with each diaper change as a preventative and rash salve. Makes about 1 cup.

　

Secret Garden Bath Tea
An escape from the hustles and bustles of day to day life. Imagine being on a dessert isle with beautiful flowers and sandy beaches while catching some rays. Relax and enjoy.


1 tsp lavender flowers (dried) 1/4 tsp rosemary (dried)
1 tsp rose petals (dried) 1/2 tsp lemon balm (dried)
1/8 tsp spearmint (dried) 1 drop patchouli EO
4 drops lavender EO 2 drops rose EO

Mix well, put into heat seal able teabag. This is for one Bath tea bag.

NOTE: A great gift giving suggestion is putting 6-8 teabags in an antique large teacup with matching saucer. Then wrap it with colored plastic gift basket wrap and a pretty bow. Attach a tag saying The part above the recipe.


Bath Gems

6-8 drops Food Coloring
5-10 drops Essential oil or fragrant oil (the choices are endless).
Chunky Salt pieces available from rock salt suppliers

For a Witchy alternative to standard bath salts you can use a chunky rock salt to make whats commonly known as Bath gems.

Just add all the ingredients together and mix well.

Make sure the food color, blends in to the salt or it wont look very inviting. You can do this by tossing the salt over and over again.

Add your chunky bath salts to a covered glass gift jar for an exquisite gift any woman would love, From grandma to a young girl. You can get many nice ones at a dollar store. Look for one that will hold a cup or two and has a seal of some kind.

Attach a tag saying something like

"Cherry almond" or Blooming Jasmine" Bath Gems. To use drop 1-2 chunks into the bath.

Bath Jelly
Bath jelly is a fun alternative to bath gel and can be found in all the popular bath shops. This is perfect for kids. Add a small toy tucked into the Jelly before it sets will give the kids an incentive to get to the bottom of the Jelly soap. There are so many inch high mini toys out there to choose from. If creating a group of jellies for a craft fair just stop by a bubblegum machine with toys and start on the magical journey of creation.

1 packet of Unflavored gelatin (1tbs) 1/2 cup of Liquid soap
1 tsp of Salt 3/4 cup of Water
Food Coloring to match fragrance Storage jar seal able lid
Fragrant oils or essential oils

Empty the packet of gelatin into a bowl and set aside. Boil 3/4 cup of water using a saucepan or kettle.

Carefully pour the hot water into a mixing bowl and mix it with the gelatin powder. Let the gelatin dissolve completely.

Next pour the liquid soap into the gelatin mix. Add 2 drops of food coloring into the mix and also add your fragrance oil. Add about 5 drops and stir it very gently so the bubbles do not become too agitated. Add salt.

Pour the mix into a clean storage container and allow to set for several hours in the refrigerator. Add the toy now if adding one
Dispose of the jelly after several weeks or if mold is present. Avoid mold by keeping it in an airtight container in a cool place at all times.

Add a plastic character spoon to the jar to make use easier. Attach a tag saying

(Child's name) Bath Jelly :any fragrance and color the child likes- monkey farts for a boy and maybe strawberry's for a girl. Or a action figure like "Green Lantern Bath Jelly" {Making it green and maybe apple scented or lime scented}.

Place a small amount of jelly under warm running water to use. 


Peppermint Body Butter
Peppermint relieves many respiratory problems including nasal congestion, sinusitis, asthma, bronchitis, colds, and cough. It also relieves stress, pain, and is an immune system booster. These facts make it a welcomed parent to anyone on your list.

1/2 cup aloe vera gel
1 1/2 Tablespoon cornstarch
1 Tablespoon witch hazel
1 Teaspoon Vitamin E oil
 5-6 drops peppermint e.o.

Mix the aloe, cornstarch and witch Hazel in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring at 30 second intervals to incorporate. Cook until this mixture becomes clear and thick. Now add your e.o, and peppermint oil. Mix well. Store in an air-tight container and label.

A List of Yard and Garden Hazards for Pets

A List of Yard and Garden Hazards for Pets
By Ellen Brown

Most gardeners are aware that certain plants can cause illness or even death to pets depending on the amount ingested. However, many are unaware that there are a number of other things around the yard and garden that have the potential to be equally, if not more, dangerous. Here is a list of some common garden hazards for pets that gardeners should be aware of.

Algae (Blue-Green algae). When certain types of algae bloom they release naturally occurring toxins. Dogs and other animals have died after drinking lake and pond water containing these toxins. Dogs are at high risk because they enjoy being in and drinking the water, even if there is a layer of green-colored algae floating on top. And also because algae can attach to their coats and be swallowed when licking themselves clean. You can find more information here.

Animal toxins. Bites from certain species of toads, insects, spiders, snakes, and scorpions can also be hazardous to pets.

Baits (Rodent). Many baits that are used to attract rodents contain inactive ingredients that dogs and cats find appealing. Ingestion can lead to potentially life-threatening problems for pets including bleeding, seizures, kidney damage and even death. Pets can also be in danger of secondary poison from eating dead rodents killed by poison. Remember, even if you never use rodenticides, your neighbor might.
Baits (Fly and slug). Avoid using fly and slug baits containing methomyl and metaldehyde. If ingested in even small amounts, it can be fatal.

Balconies. Tall balconies without safety railings can lead to a disastrous fall.

Citronella candles. Keep citronella candles, insect coils, and oils secure and out of reach. If ingested, they can produce stomach irritation and central nervous system depression in pets.

Cocoa mulch. Cocoa mulch contains ingredients that can be deadly. Unfortunately, it also has a sweet chocolate scent that some pets find appealing.

Compost (particularly when moldy). Most dogs will find any half-digested or moldy organic material attractive. Compost may contain spoiled foods, coffee grounds, plants, and other ingredients that are potentially hazardous materials for pets, so keep them away.

De-icing salts. Some de-icing products contain chemicals that are irritating to paws and hazardous to pets (and wild birds) if ingested in large amounts. Paws should be cleaned as soon as the animal comes in from the snow. Even many of the "Eco-friendly" and "paw-friendly" formulas still contain salts. As an alternative, use coarse sand or chicken grit. Its dark color promotes melting, provides great traction, won't harm pets or wild birds, and can easily be swept up in the spring.

Fences, gates, and deck lattice. Openings in damaged fences or gates can allow pets to escape. Dogs and cats can get their heads stuck in the openings of deck lattice, which can lead to cuts and scrapes or possible strangulation.

Fertilizers. Once applied to the yard and garden, fertilizers and plant food can be easily accessible and fatal to a pet left unsupervised.

Fire pit/BBQ grill. Flames can result in serious burns to your dog or cat, and ashes can cause illness if ingested. Certain types of matches contain chlorates, which can harm your pet if ingested, so always keep matches (and lighter fluid) out of their reach.

Flowers and plants. Many types of flowers and plants can be harmful to dogs and cats. For printable lists of plants that are both TOXIC and NON-TOXIC to dogs, cats, and horses, visit the ASPCA website.

Gasoline, Oil, and Pesticides. These all contain chemicals that may cause serious illness depending on the type of exposure. Some types of antifreeze/coolants contain ethylene glycol, which is highly toxic to dogs and cats even in tiny amounts.

Power Equipment. Know where your pet is when operating power equipment, so you can keep them well away from sharp blades and flying debris.

Swimming pools and hot tubs. Never leave your pet unattended near uncovered pools, even if they can swim. Keep treatment supplies securely stored.

What to do if Your Pet Becomes Sick
Don't panic. Take a few seconds to collect the material you suspect made your pet sick. This will help your veterinarian or animal poison control center determine the proper course of action more quickly. When taking your pet to a local veterinarian, take the product's container with you and any material your pet may have vomited or chewed.

Your pet may appear normal for several hours (even days) after becoming poisoned, so if you see it ingesting something potentially toxic, call your veterinarian or animal poison control.
ASPCA National Animal Poison Control Center: (888) 426-4435
(A $50 free may be applied to your credit card)
The Animal Poison Hotline: 888-232-8870
(A $35 fee may be applied to your credit card)
NOTE: If your pet exhibits severe symptoms such as seizures, loss of consciousness, is unconscious, or is having difficulty breathing, call your local veterinarian or emergency veterinary clinic immediately.

Natural Pesticides

Rhubarb Leaf Pesticide Spray

1 cup rhubarb leaves
6.5 cups water
1/4 cup liquid dish detergent or soap flakes

Cover rhubarb leaves with water and bring to a boil. Boil for 20 minutes then remove from heat and cool. Strain then add 1/4 cup liquid dish detergent. Spray on plants. Good for aphids, june beetles, spider mites, thrips.
Rhubarb leaves are poisonous, take care when preparing and handling. Do not use on food bearing plants.
******
Garlic Tea Spray

Make your own garlic spray by boiling a pint of water, throw in roughly chopped garlic cloves and steep until the water cools. Remove garlic bits then spray on plants (from Quick Tips For Plants & Garden).
Garlic, Peppers & Onion Insecticide
2 hot peppers
1 large onion
1 whole bulb of garlic
1/4 cup water

Toss in the food processor and add water, blend until a mash is made. Cover mash with 1 gallon hot (not boiling) water and let stand 24 hours. Strain. Spray on roses, azaleas, vegetables to kill bug infestations. Bury mash in ground where bugs are heaviest. Good for thrips, aphids, grasshoppers, chewing and sucking insects.
*******
Tomato Leaves Spray

Crush leaves from a tomato plant and soak in water for a couple days. Strain then spray. Good for grasshopper and white fly control.
Tomato leaves are poisonous, take care when preparing and handling. Do not use on food bearing plants.

******
Basil Tea Spray

4 cups water
1 cup fresh basil (or 2 TBS dried)
1 tsp liquid dish detergent

Bring water to a boil then add basil. Remove from heat, cover and steep until cool. Strain. Mix in the liquid detergent then spray on plants. Good for aphids.
Onion Insect Repellent For Plants
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Salt Spray

2 TBS salt
1.5 gallons warm water

Mix salt and water to dissolve, allow to cool to room temperature. Use for spider mites, caterpillars, cabbage worms and chewing insects.

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Slug Bait Trap

Set out beer in shallow containers to attract slugs, they’ll drown in the beer.

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Diatomaceous Earth

An all natural solution for insects of all kinds (ants, snails, slugs, etc.). Sprinkle diatomaceous earth on top of soil around plants with pest infestations.
******
Horticultural Oil Spray

1 TBS vegetable oil
1 tsp liquid dish detergent
2 cups water

Fill a spray bottle with the ingredients then shake to mix.
*****
Hot Pepper Spray

1/2 cup hot peppers (or 2 teaspoons cayenne pepper)
1 quart water
1 tsp liquid dish detergent

Bring water to a boil, remove from heat and add peppers. Cover and steep until cool. Strain then mix in soap. If using cayenne pepper, no need to bring water to a boil first. Spray on plants.
*****
Citrus Spray

2 cups orange peels (or lemons)
4 cups water

Bring water to a boil, remove from heat and add peels. Cover and steep until cool. Strain and spray. Use the lemon mixture to repel white flies.

******
Dish Detergent & Baking Soda

2 TBS liquid dish detergent
2 TBS baking soda
1 gallon water

Mix all ingredients together then spray on plants.

*******
Peppermint Tea

1 TBS peppermint essential oil (can also use an infusion made with mint leaves, increase amount to 1 cup infusion)
1 quart water

Mix together and use as an insect spray (good for ants).
********
Japanese Beetle Bait Trap

2 cups water
1 mashed banana
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup wine
1/2 tsp yeast

Mix ingredients together and put in an old margarine container, cover with lid and set container out in the hot sun for a day. The next day, remove lid and set in garden where the beetles have been spotted (use a shallow container).

******

Potato Leaves Tea

1 cup potato plant leaves
2 cups water

Chop leaves then cover with hot water. Seal container and leave 24 hours in a sunny window. Strain then spray.
Potato leaves are poisonous, take care when preparing and handling. Do not use on food bearing plants.

*****
Neem Spray

1 TBS Neem soap (shavings)
1 liter water

Add soap to water then let sit for an hour. Shake bottle then spray.


NOTE:

Working With Homemade Pesticides: Tips

Apply the pesticide on top of the leaves as well as underneath–don’t overdo it, excess spraying can cause damage to plants.
Most recipes can be used effectively with just a weekly spray. Excessive spraying may affect the plant as well as kill the good insects you want to encourage in your garden (earthworms, bees, ladybugs, etc.). If you aren’t seeing results with a 7 day spray, you can bump it up to 5 days but watch the plant carefully to make sure it can handle it without being damaged.
Avoid spraying during hot sunny weather, spray later in the day to reduce the risk of plants burning.
If it looks like rain, delay spraying the plants until the weather is clear since any rain will wash away the new treatment. If it has recently rained, wait till the plants are dry before applying treatment to prevent the recipe being diluted with water.
When trying a new pesticide recipe on a plant, test a couple leaves before spraying the whole plant (spray then watch how the test leaves react after two or three days, if no signs of damage proceed with spraying the whole plant).


Need an aphid  spray try this or one that I found for garden pests

http://organicgardening.about.com/od/pestcontrol/a/spraysforaphids.htm