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Balloon Banner Arch by Suzanne from the IE

Supplies:

Directions:

A box of paper clips - regular size
12 lb test fishing line -
if it isn't heavy enough it will break while you're trying to attach the balloons
Balloons, I usually do mine in two colors
Helium tanks - you have to use helium, blowing them up with regular air will not work
A chair
One hint: Get people to help you tie the balloons or get plugs for them -
otherwise your hands will get very sore.

Tie one end of the fishing line to the back of the chair.
Open one side of a paper clip,
so the wire is sticking out at a 90 degree angle to the rest of the clip.
Blow up a balloon and tie it.
Run the wire that is sticking out through the tied end (NECK) of the balloon.
Blow up another balloon of the same color and run it through too.
Then blow up a balloon of your second color.
Attach as the first 2 were.
Close the paper clip.
And clip it on to the fishing line.
Repeat with another three balloons,
but when you clip them on the line, put them in the "window" of the first three -
so it looks very full.
Make sure you put the single color balloon(not the pair)
right next to the last single color balloon.
This will make a stripe that goes around the column/arch.
About every 5-6 balloon groups,
wrap one of the necks of the balloons around the line
and push all the balloons together-
this will make them stay and be tight on the fish line.
Continue until you have it the length you want.
For an arch -
tie both ends of line to bricks
and drape bricks with a pretty fabric to cover them up.
For columns,
rent 7 ft. Aluminum poles from a party place
and force the balloons onto the poles by pushing them into the pole.
Columns are usually topped by very large balloons -
these are available at a party store, too.
Just tie the end to the top of the pole.

No Push Pin Bulletin Board -MAR:IE

Supplies:

Directions:

24" X 18" Piece of Foam Board
26" X 20" Piece of Fabric-Desired Color
Glue Gun & Glue Sticks
1/2" X 4 1/2’ of Ribbon-Desired Color
Scissors & Ruler
5 Thumb Tacks-Desired Color

If necessary, iron the fabric on the correct setting and place it wrong side up on a large flat surface.
Center the foam board on the fabric.
Pull the fabric to the back of the foam board on one of the short sides and using the glue gun,
adhere the fabric to the back of the foam board from two inches from one end to two inches from the other end.
Do the same with the other short side and both of the long ends.
Be sure the fabric is flat and as tight and smooth as possible.
Fold over the fabric on the corners and remove any excess fabric
with the scissors and then glue the corners in place.
Turn the covered foam board over and make sure the fabric is smooth.
Take the ribbon and lay it across the foam board
from one top corner to the opposite bottom corner.
Leave an inch of ribbon on both ends and cut the ribbon.
Repeat this process for the other two corners.
Take the rest of the uncut ribbon and lay it across each corner six inches
down from the point of the corner and again leaving an inch of ribbon,
cut these four pieces of ribbon.
According to my measurements,
these small pieces of ribbon should be 14 inches long.
Using the glue gun, glue one inch of one end
of one of the long pieces of ribbon to the back of one corner of the foam board
and then glue the opposite corner.
Repeat this process with the other long piece of ribbon
and the four small pieces of ribbon.
Push the thumb tacks into the intersection of the two long pieces
in the center of the bulletin board and at the center
of each of the four short pieces of ribbon.
Pictures, notes, etc. can now be placed where ever you like
under the ribbons and you won’t need any more push pins again.
Variations and Ideas:
I have seen this project used to display pictures
or flat memorabilia instead of a bulletin board.
Instead of the ribbon, a large piece of cork and push pins
can be used to make this bulletin board,
still using the foam board as a backing.
A simple frame can also be added around the board, if desired.
The foam board can be left uncovered for this project too,
but it isn’t as pretty.
Fringed ribbon can also be used,
but I have found that the curly fringe on the ribbon sometimes catches things
that are being put on or taken off the bulletin board.
The size of the bulletin board is not written in stone either,
but use a yard stick to be sure of your ribbon measurements,
it’s longer than it looks from one corner to the other far corner.
You could eliminate the tack by hot gluing those and/or use some type of applique in place of them.

Cloth Covered Styrofoam Balls by Ilene from the IE

Supplies:

Directions:

To cover a 3" styrofoam ball you'll need:
Two fabric circles, cut 4 3/4" in diameter
Straight pins
fabric glue
decorative trim to cover twice the circumference of ball
hot glue gun and glue
tassle
decorative cap for hanging

Pin mark center of each circle of fabric.
Pin one circle to styrofoam ball,
distributing fullness evenly at raw edge.
Glue edge of fabric to ball, making small tucks to ease in fullness.
Repeat for opposite side of ball,
using remaining fabric circle.
Glue trim around middle of ball,
covering raw edges of fabric.
Cut trim in half;
glue around ball in opposite directions,
thus dividing ball into four sections.
Use center pin marks as guide for centering braid.
Insert trim in decorative cap; knot ends.
Shape cap to fit top of ornament;
secure with hot glue.
Attach tassel to bottom of ornament,
using hot glue.
You can decorate with any type of trim.
Good luck, they are fun!

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Diaper Cake

Supplies:

Directions:

1 toiletpaper tube
1 pkg. padded cloth diapers
1 pkg. receiving blankets
6 pr. or more baby socks
1 pr. plastic pants
1 pkg. diaper pins
misc. baby toys to decorate the cake with
sm. pompons for flower centers
Silk leaves

Fold diapers to the length of the toilet paper tube
wrap around the tube
start the next diaper under the previous one
Do the same thing with the blankets
Tack end of blanket to the roll with needle and thread
Or fasten with two of the diaper pins
I put it on a real cake plate but you could just cover a cardboard circle slightly larger than the cake
Put the rest of the diaper pins, and plastic panties in the toiletpaper tube
To make flower buds...fold sock in half lengthwise and roll tightly.
Tack or pin to sides of cake
To make full flowers...fold sock in half lengthwise and run a basting thread through the length of the folded edge
carefully pull thread to gather sock into a circle and baste together
Tack or pin to sides of cake
Tack or pin leaves around the flowers. Decorate top of cake with other toys attaching with hot glue or thread (where possible).

Hershey Kiss(tm) Rose Buds

Supplies:

Directions:

green floral tape
green floral wire stems
silk rose leaves
hershey kisses or hugs
red and/or yellow cellophane wrap
ribbon(optional)

Cut cellophane into 2 1/2 to 3 inch squares
hold 2 kisses, flat sides together
wrap cellophane around the kisses tightly
twisting cellophane tightly at one of the kisses points
wrap with floral tape to seal
place wire at the tape line
wrap tape around end of wire and "bud" to hold together
add two silk rose leaves at the base of the flower
wrapping floral tape around them to secure
tie on a ribbon bow and Wish Someone a Happy Valentine's Day

Dollar Bill Rose

Supplies:

Directions:

5 crisp bills
floral tape
silk rose leaves
18 or 20 gauge wire

Fold each bill in half lenthwise
Unfold
Lay bills face up
(looking at George)
Curl all 4 corners tightly using fingers
Curl until the 2 side curls meet at fold.
Scrunch the bills in the center, from the bottom of George to the top
Fold wire in half and place the scrunched center of the bill into the fold of the wire
Twist the wire to secure
Shape bill by smoothing out the base and forming a cup-like shape
Do this to remaining bills
On the 1st petal push in tight to form the inner petals
Place 1st inside of the second, pushing these petals tight
Intertwine the wires as you add petal layers
Twist the bills so that the edges are not lined up
Continue until you've used all bills
Each layer will be a little looser than the one before it
Shape the rose, you can use a bit of tape to keep the petals where you want them
Gather all the wires from the bills and wrap with floral tape
Start at the base of the rose and wrap
Add rose leaves.

DOLLAR BILL ROSES, TOO

Supplies:

Directions:

5 New $bills
(you choose the denomination!)
Floral wire
Floral tape
2 or 3 silk leaves
Toothpick (for curling)

With all 5 bills lying President's face UP
Curl all four corners up on all 5 new bills
Curl up, towards President's face
The curl is the outside of the rose
Turn bills over onto back and fold in half
Crimp fold with fingers and place a piece of floral wire across fold and bring under fold and twist to form a stem
Do this to all 5 bills to form 5 buds
With thumb, cup each bill inside to form into a petal- like shape
Form rose by beginning with one wired bud
Add second and third bud back to back around first, covering open sides of first bud
Add last two buds back to back with first bud
Twist all wires together to form one long stem
Wrap florist tape from top of rose to about 3" down
Attach leaves by wrapping florist tape around their stem and then continue wrapping tape to end of wire
Give to that special someone
Makes a great wedding, birthday or graduation gift!

Snowman Pin I saw this in an old Family Circle Magazine, as a large door wreath. I thought it'd make a cute winter pin for all of my relatives, who lovingly put up with all of my crazy ideas!

Supplies:

Directions:

1 pkg small straw hats (available at Walmart for under $2)
1 pkg small pin backs
1 sm bottle white Plaid paint
1 sm bottle sky blue Plaid paint
1 sm bottle black Plaid paint
1 broad tipped paint brush
1 fine tipped paint brush
low temp glue gun and glue
wooden red/orange toothpicks
2 strips of small plaid flannel 1/4 inch wide X 2 1/2 inches long
1 push pin
small twigs approximately 1 1/2 inches long (optional)

With broad brush, paint entire top surface of hat white and let dry
Paint 3/4 of rim of hat blue and let dry
With fine brush, dot on "snowflakes" randomly over the blue painted rim
Dot on eyes and 5 dots for mouth, let dry
Break off 1/4 inch of the end of toothpick, breaking off or filing down the point
Poke hole in center of hat with pushpin
Push toothpick tip through hole and secure with hot glue on the inside of the hat
Hot glue the pin back onto the center top of the back of the hat rim
Hot glue twigs onto either side of the white part of rim at about a 45 degree angle, if desired
Fold fabric strips to make an "X" shape
Hot glue onto the white rim covering the lower tips of the twigs, to make a scarf
You could even use these as ornaments

Bead Necklace

Supplies:

Directions:

a small print,cotton blend fabric strip cut 3 inches wide X 31-37 inches in length(depending on where you want the finished piece to fall
9 marbles or 1/2 inch beads (which weigh less)
10 pony beads,in a coordinating color
scissors
sewing machine
needle and thread
small crochet hook or similar sized, blunt object to push the fabric through the pony beads
iron
a dull pencil or dowl rod for turning the fabric right side out

measure and cut fabric, prewashing isn't necessary
fold in 1/2 widthwise, right sides together
press with iron
sew together along the fabric's length, finishing one end at a 45 degree angle(leaving the other end open)
trim close to seam
turn right-side out using the pencil or dowl (the dull pencil is good for getting the end point
poke fabric through 1st ony bead, with the crochet hooks flat end
pull fabric through until it's 12 inches from the finished end of the casing (for 30 inch necklace)
push a marble through the casing until it meets up with the first pony bead
continue to alternate pony beads and marbles, making sure you end with a pony bead
re-adjust beads, to make sure they're centered,as needed
fold and tuck in fabric on open end to make a 45 degree angle
whip stitch closed
press fabric ties flat

Doily Pins

Supplies:	Directions:
a small crocheted doily, measuring no more than 3 inches across (crochet it yourself or purchased) 4-7 colored buttons in varying sizes 1 "decorative" button (i.e. characters, flowers, seasonal) 1 pin back scissors hot glue and gun OR fabric glue (optional) needle and matching or coordinating thread	fold doily in half tack together with needle and thread attach pin back to the upper center of the folded doily by gluing or sewing arrange buttons in a pleasing design (odd numbers look better) glue into place If desired, sew them on with colored thread or embroidery floss for a more "home spun look" Small ribbon bows also make a nice accent.

Scented Cinnamon Ornaments

Supplies:

Directions:

4 oz or 1 C cinnamon (you may substitute ginger OR 1/2 C of each).
1 T ground cloves
1 T nutmeg
3/4 C applesauce
2 T white glue

In medium bowl, combine spices.
Add glue and applesauce and stir thoroughly.
Work dough with hands for several minutes until it feels smooth and ingredients are thoroughly incorporated.
Divide into 4 equal portions.
Roll out each portion to 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch thick and cut out with cookie cutters.
Use a straw or toothpick to make small holes at the top of each ornament.
Place cut outs on a wire rack and allow to air dry for several days, turning daily.
Thread ribbon through the hole in the ornament.

Cinnamon Applesauce Dough Note: This recipe was found on the Idea Exchange

Supplies :

Directions:

6 T Applesauce
10 T cinnamon
cookie cutters of various shapes
straw or pencil

Mix 6 Tablespoons warm applesauce and 10 Tablespoons cinnamon together to form a ball.
Sprinkle cutting board with cinnamon and roll out dough to 1/4" thick.
Cut out dough with cookie cutters in shapes of your choice (hearts, stars, etc.). The number of ornaments the recipe makes will depend on the size of the cookie cutters used.
If cutout is to be used as an ornament, use a pencil (or a straw) to make a small hole in the top.
Place cutouts on cake racks in a 150 degree oven; leave door ajar. Dry for 6 hours.

Cinnamon Cutouts by Andi Anderson: from the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
1 1/2 Cups of Applesauce 2 1/2 Cups of Cinnamon	Warm applesauce Measure out cinnamon Mix together to form a ball Sprinkle cinnamon on a pastry board Roll out dough to 1/4 inch thickness Cut with cookie cutter Use hollow straw to make hole in ornament top Dry in 150 degree oven for 6 hours with door ajar

Bath Bomb by Kateo: from the Front Porch

Supplies:

Directions:

2 Tbsp Cornstarch
2 Tbsp Citric Acid
1/4 C Baking Soda
3 Tbsp Coconut Oil
1/2 tsp Fragrance Oil
Coloring (optional)

Mix first 3 ingredients together.
Melt coconut oil, and add fragrance oil to it.
Slowly add oil mixture to the dry ingredients.
Add color, if desired.
Mix well.
Take truffle sized scoops and roll into balls.
Let sit for a couple of hours, reshape if needed.
Then let dry for 24-48 hours.
You can wrap them or put them in candy cups and then wrap.
Vickie said she used more fragrance oil than the recipe called for and "the coconut oil added so much to the bath water...forget Calgon...LOL"

Floral Bottle Oil Lamp by Angie: A Front Porch Friend
I know that you have seen these in the stores, a bottle with flowers inside of it, and it comes with a wick!
You think "gee, I could do that", then you see the price tag and think "wonder what's in there"?
Well, let me solve the mystery!

Supplies:

Directions:

One bottle,medium or large, with a cork .
Some dried flowers (you can get these at any craft store).
A "Bottle Wick" (It comes in 2 sizes, at any craft store).
A bottle of candle and lamp oil (It is made from 99% pure liquid paraffin).
A block of paraffin wax.

Place the flowers inside of the bottle.
Filling it about half way with the flowers.
Pour the oil into the bottle, filling it almost to the top.
Put the cork in the bottle, making sure that it is good and tight!
In the top pan of a double boiler, melt the paraffin.
Dip the top of the bottle into the melted wax.
Take it out and let it set a minute, dip again.
Repeat this a few times, until there is a good strong seal on the top.
Wrap the sealed bottle along with the Wick and a little instruction card explaining to remove the wax seal...insert the wick...light and enjoy!

Herbal Bath Oils by Angie: A Front Porch Friend
This is another one of those that you see in the store and then get sticker shock!
I wonder myself why anyone would pay that much for a bottle of bath oil.
So I did some research and a little experimenting and sort of created my own "knock-off"!
Now I've also changed a few things, like the flowers...
I mean who wants oily flowers in your tub?

Basic Supplies:

A couple of glass bottles, with corks
A bottle of light mineral oil
A bottle of bergamot essential oil
A bottle of orange essential oil
A bottle of almond oil.
A bottle of sandlewood essential oil.
A bottle of rose essential oil.
A bottle of Vitamin E Oil

Angie has just a few tips about essential oils...
There are a thousand combinations that you can use, and each essential oil have a different effect on your system. Some bring on a relaxed state, others can invigorate you. Never ever use essential oils without diluting them first! In other words do not apply them as perfume on your wrist and behind you ears! A little goes a long way, just a few drops of a straight essential oil into your tub will give you a tub full of scent! Always use real essential oils, not potpourri scents or home fragrances. Essential oils can usually be purchased at New Age shops, Health Food Stores, and through mail order. Bath Oils Continued by Angie: A Front Porch Friend

Supplies For A Stimulating Bath Oil:	Supplies For A Relaxing Bath Oil :
1 1/2 - 2 cups of light mineral oil 4-5 drops of bergamot essential oil 3 drops of orange essential oil contents of 4-5 capsules or 4-5 drops of Vitiman E oil.*	1 1/2-2 cups almond oil , , 4-5 drops of sandlewood essential oil 3 drops of rose essential oil contents of 4-5 capsules or 4-5 drops of Vitiman E oil.*

* Vitamin E oil can usually be bought in health food stores, and it isn't necessary it just helps to soften the skin. If you can't find the oil itself, you can buy Vitamin E capsules and use the oil inside of 4 or 5 of them. Directions for Bath Oils by Angie: A Front Porch Friend

Supplies:

Directions:

Glass or ceramic bowls reserved for non-food crafts
wooden spoon reserved for non-food crafts
funnel reserved for non-food crafts
Glue (or Glue Gun)
Block of paraffin wax
Flowers, lace, ribbon, other embellishments.

Always mix you oils together in glass or ceramic bowls and use a wooden spoon to mix.
After you have mixed it up, let it cure overnight.
Now that the oils has cured over night you are ready to put it in the bottles.
This is the hard part! Use a funnel to pour the mixture into the bottle.
Put the cork in good and tight.
Heat up your parafinn wax in a double boiler, and dip your cork in it.
Do this 3 or 4 times until you get a good seal on it.
Attach flowers, moss, lace, or any other embellishments that you like with glue or glue gun.
Write up a little card describing the oil (i.e. relaxing) and the instrutions for use. (i.e. "Add a little to your bath water for a relaxing and stress relieving bath.")

A Few Tips from Angie... You can get bottles from Walmart for about .97/each, they have all sizes.
The smaller ones are in the craft department, the larger are with the housewares.
You can get the flowers from the clearance sections of craft stores, you only need the flowers not the stems, and usually they are discounted because the stems are broken.
The lamp and candle oil can be purchased at some craft stores and places like Walmart.
In craft stores the oil is with the lamp making or candle making supplies.
The Bottle Wick comes from craft stores (AC Moore has a great selection). Homemade Powder* by Angie: A Front Porch Friend

Supplies:

Directions:

Basic Powder:
8 ounces arrowroot or cornstarch, or a blend of both.
4 ounces of baking soda.
For Woodsy Scented Powder add...
1 tbs ground clove
1 tbs ground slippery elm
1 tbs mace
1 tbs ground sandalwood
1 tbs ground vetiver root
to the basic powder
For Floral Scented Powder add...
1 tbs ground clove
1 tbs ground slippery elm
1 tbs ground rose petals
1 tbs ground lavender
to the basic powder
For Citrus Scented Powder add...
1 tbs ground clove
1 tbs ground slippery elm
1 tbs ground orange peel
1 tbs ground lemon peel
to the basic powder

Blend all the ingredients in a glass or ceramic bowl.
Store in a large glass jar covered for two weeks, allowing scents to blend.
Shake jar well every other day.
NOTE: For additional scent add 10 to 15 drops of the essential oil of your choice. i.e. more rose, sandalwood, or orange.

*Recipes from a wonderful book called Herbal Treasures, written by Phyllis V. Shaudys. Bath Oil - Krystal: from the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
1 cup vegetable oil 1/2 cup liquid bath soap 1 T. vanilla extract 1/4 cup honey(optional but recommended, since honey is a natural cleanser)	Combine and pour in your favorite bottle Add a sprig of 2 of your favorite dried flowers Shake well before each use

Carrot Mask - Krystal: from the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
2 carrots A "little" honey	Peel and slice carrots Boil until soft Cool, mash and mix with honey to form smooth paste-like mixture. Store in a squeeze-type bottle and use within a few days.

Bath Bombs:-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:

Directions:

1/4 C baking soda
2T citric acid
1T borax
2T powdered sugar
2T almond oil
1t vitamin E oil
1/4t fragrance

Combine dry ingredients in bowl and stir till blended.
Drizzle in oil and stir till moist.
Add Vit E and stir till mixed.
Take teaspoon-sized mixture and form balls.
Note: It will be crumbly.
Place on waxed paper and leave 2-3 hours.
Let air dry 10 days ( in a humidity-free environment) and then store in airtight container.
You can also mold bath bombs by pressing them into something like ice cube trays VERY firmly.

Bath Bomb Recipe II!!! -shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

*explosive (fizzing) version (hee hee)*

Supplies:	Directions:
1/4c baking soda 2 TB citric acid (or sour salt in Kosher food section of grocery) 1 TB borax 2 TB powdered sugar 2 TB almond oil 1 tsp. vitamin E oil 1/4 tsp. fragrance (essential oil or fragrance oil)	Combine dry ingredients. Mix almond oil, vitamin E and fragrance. Drizzle this over the dry mix. Glob into tsp. size balls. Put on wax paper and let harden 2-3 hrs. Reshape.

Oatmeal and Honey Bath -shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
1/2 cup of ground (to a fine powder) rolled oats 1/4 cup of honey	Grind oats to a fine powder. Dissolve in 1/4 C warm water. Add honey Add to a warm (not hot) bath and relax.

Zesty Orange Bath Oil: :for dry, itchy or sensitive skin
-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
2 tablespoons of orange extract 3 tablespoons of safflower or sesame oil (or any vegetable oil.)	Mix extract and oil. Shake and refrigerate. Add one capful to a warm bath and enjoy!

Bath Salts Recipe #1-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
1/2 gallon sea salt one capful of glycerin few drops of fragrance oil of your choice food coloring (optional)	Place ingredients in a gallon resealable plastic bag Knead baguntil thoroughly mixed Pour out into a sheet of butcher paper to dry Store in air-tight containers Add a few tablespoons to warm running bath water, to disslove

Bath Salts Recipe #2-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
2 cups sea salt 1/4 tsp. glycerin 1/8 tsp. pigment diluted in 1 tsp. water 15 drops essential oil	Combine ingredients in a gallon resealable plastic bag Mix well after each addition, kneading your bag. Place on a paper plate to dry. When dry, store in airtight container.>

Bath Salts Recipe #3-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:

Directions:

4 cups kosher salt or rock salt
2 Tsp vegetable glycerin
2 drops of food coloring that will correspond to the scent you plan on using.
15 to 25 drops of the essential oil scent you would like to use.
If using more than one scent, use 25 drops total.

Put these two ingredients in a large ziploc plastic bag.
Knead the bag until the glycerin has had time to spread throughout the salts.
This will take about 10 minutes
Add coloring
Knead the bag again until the color is distributed throughout
Remember,a little food coloring goes a long way
and you want pastel colors - not bold colors.
Knead the bag again.
Test your scent and see if you need more oil.
If the scent is too strong, add more salt and knead away again
Test the scent the following day
If the scent is just right, pour the salt into bottles and cap them right away.
Store them in a cool, dry area away from direct sunlight.

Disappearing Bath Oil-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

This wonderful bath oil is great because most bath oils just float on top of the water.
But by combining a natural oil together with glycerin and soap, you have a mixture that disperses throughout your bathwater.
You create a bubble bath that works it way beautifully through your bath,
leaving your skin soft and smooth. It makes a marvelous
gift and can be enhanced by adding your favorite fragrance or scented oil.

Supplies:	Directions:
1 cup light oil (I like to use almond oil, light sesame, or canola) all of which can be purchased at your grocery store. 1/2 cup glycerin which can be bought at your local pharmacy 1/2 cup ivory liquid soap a few drops of your favorite scented essential oil (optional)	Mix together all ingredients Pour into a clean bottle with a lid or stopper. To use: Shake gently and pour 1/4 cup into bath under running water. Yield: 16 ounces, enough for 8 baths.

Foaming Bath Salts-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:

Directions:

1/2 cup liquid soap
1 tablespoon light oil
food coloring (not too much)
6 cups rock salt crystals

Mix together soap, oil, and food coloring.
Pour this mixture over rock salt in large plastic or glass bowl.
Stir continuously until salt crystals are evenly coated.
Spread salts out in a thin layer on a cookie sheet covered with wax paper
and allow to air dry. This can take up to 24 hours.
Put the salts into a decorative container when they are completely dry.
To use: Pour 1/4 cup of the salts into the bath under running water.
Yield: 48 ounces, enough for 24 baths.

Foaming Honey Vanilla Bath-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange
Made from kitchen basics, this rich bath is full of fragrant, foaming bubbles. For a special gift, package the bath liquid in multicolored glass bottles (found at Michaels, most Pier One and other stores). Use silicon glue and attach a few glass marbles or beads to an ordinary cork for an interesting bottle stopper.

Supplies:	Directions:
1 cup oil 1/2 cup honey 1/2 cup ivory liquid soap 1 tablespoon vanilla extract (pure is better)	Mix together all the ingredients Pour into a clean bottle with a tight-fitting stopper or lid. To use: Shake before using. Pour 1/4 cup into the bath under running water. Yield: 16 ounces, enough for 8 baths.

New Years Baby Bath-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange
This gentle bath will leave baby's skin soft and silky. Milk is rich in fat and lactic acid, and both help soften and hydrate skin. Prepare an extra portion of this for yourself because people of all ages can benefit from this rich, relaxing natural bath. You may want to package this in an envelope to give as gifts or a pretty bottle with a cork.

Supplies:	Directions:
1/4 cup dry milk 1/4 cup whole dry buttermilk 1 tablespoon cornstarch 1 drop orange essential or fragrance oil (optional)	Mix together all the ingredients Pour into a clean container or resealable plastic bag. To use: Pour 1/4 cup of the bath powder into a full tub or 1 tablespoon into a small baby bathtub. YIELD: 4 ounces, enough for 2 baths.

Milk Bath #2-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
1 cup powdered milk 1/2 cup epsom salts (you can also use sea salt) 1 tablespoon baking soda 1 teaspoon cornstarch A few drops of your favorite essential oil (optional)	Mix all the ingredients together in a bowl. This blend can be used directly in the bath or packaged into tea bags remember to seal the tops of the bags. It looks pretty in old milk bottles sealed with a cork. Shelf life 2 to 3 months.

Honey Cleanser -shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange
...This is a mild, non-soap cleanser that works well for dry skin types.
It is not at all sticky and can be used for either a facial cleanser or bath gel.

Supplies:	Directions:
1/4 cup honey 1 tablespoon liquid soap 1/2 cup glycerin	Mix together all ingredients pour into a clean bottle Remember to use nonbreakable containers if you are going to be using it in the tub or shower.

Solid Perfume-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
1 ounce (28g) beeswax 8 ounces (227 g) petroleum jelly 1 tablespoon (15 ml) essential oil small containers to store perfume in (small baby food jars work nicely)	Melt beeswax and petroleum jelly in a glass pan or double boiler over low heat Remove from heat and stir in essential oil Stir slowly for about one minute Pour the mixture into decorative containers and let air-dry until firm Shelf life is about two years

Beeswax Lip Balm -shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
2 tablespoons grated beeswax 1/2 tablespoon coconut oil	In a double boiler or microwave, gently melt the beeswax and coconut oil together and stir well. Pour into a clean lip balm container or small plastic box and allow to cool completely. Yield: 1-1/2 ounces

Dispersing Milk Bath Oil-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
1 whole egg ? cup baby or mineral oil 2 teaspoons liquid soap or dishwashing liquid 1/4 cup vodka 2 tablespoons honey 1/4 cup whole fresh milk Fragrant oil (optional) estimate about 1 teaspoon	Mix all ingredients in a blender for 30 seconds. Use only one or two tablespoons of this oil in a bathtub of water. (paperdoll note: I believe the reason for the vodka is that it acts as a dispersal agent for the oil.)

The Scent-sational Bath- Citrus-Scented Bath Oil-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
1 c. safflower, sunflower or soybean oil 6 drops lemon essential oil 6 drops orange essential oil Decorative glass bottle with cork Dried orange slice and dried foliage Glass mixing bowl, spoon, and funnel Note: essential oils can be found at most natural food stores	Pour safflower oil into GLASS bowl. Add essential oils and stir to blend. Use funnel to pour mixture into decorative bottles. Add dried orange slice and foliage, and cork Decorate bottle as desired. Add note which reads, "Add 1 or 2 tablespoons to bathwater for a skin-soothing bath. ENJOY!"

Fragrant Bath Crystals-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:

Directions:

1 c. course sea salt or rock salt
2 or 3 drops blue food coloring
2 or 3 drops green food coloring
6 to 8 drops geranium essential oil
Decorative glass bottle with cork
Glass mixing bowl and spoon
Note: Sea and rock salts can be found in large supermarkets

Place salts in the GLASS mixing bowl.
Add blue coloring, 1 drop at a time, stirring well after each addition.
Do the same with the green coloring.
Add essential oil a few drops at a time, stirring well after each addition,
until desired fragrance is obtained.
Spoon crystals into bottle, cork, and decorate as desired.
Add note, which reads, "Add 1 or 2 tablespoons of crystals to bathwater for a relaxing bath. ENJOY!"

Old-Fashioned Rose Petal Water-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
? c. fresh rose petals, firmly packed, plus 2 or 3 Large fresh rose petals 2 c. boiling water 1/4 c. vodka or medicinal alcohol Coffee filter or cheese cloth Decorative glass bottle with cork 2 glass mixing bowls, spoon, plastic wrap, and a funnel Note: Vodka is used because medicinal alcohol isn't readily available.	Place 1/2 c. rose petals on GLASS mixing bowl. Pour boiling water and vodka over petals and mix well. Cover with plastic wrap and let steep until cool. Using funnel, pour into glass bottle and add the large petals for a touch of romance. Cork and decorate as desired. Refrigerate and use within 2 weeks. Add note that reads,"Use rose water as a stimulating skin toner. ENJOY!"

Lavender Dusting Powder-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
1 c. cornstarch 2 t. baking soda 10 to 12 drops lavender essential oil Decorative wide-mouthed container with lid or cork Velour puff (available in HBA of Wal-Mart) Glass mixing bowl and spoon	Place cornstarch and soda in mixing bowl; stir well. Add essential oil a drop at a time, stirring after each addition. Spoon powder into container, add puff and cover. Decorate jar as desired. Add note, which reads. Use puff to pat on after bathing for a silky feeling and wonderful smell.. .ENJOY!!!

Scented Bubble Bath-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
1 c. Ivory or Dove dishwashing soap 1/4 c. glycerin 2 or 3 drops green food coloring 6 or 8 drops of rosemary essentail oil Decorative glass bottle with cork Glass mixing bowl, spoon, and funnel	Mix dish soap and glycerin in glass bowl. Add food coloring and essential oils I drop at a time, stirring well after each addition. Using funnel, pour into bottle and cork. Decorate as desired. Add note, which reads, "Add 2 to 4 tablespoons of bubble bath to bathwater for a luxurious bath. ENJOY!"

Shower Gel-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
3/4 c. rosewater ? c. unscented shower gel 1-1/2 tsp. table salt 2 single packets of Knox gelatin 2 tsp. calendula-infused oil	Warm rosewater in microwave. Mix in gelatin. Add other ingredients and whisk until blended. Put in fridge and stir every other hour.

Stimulating Bath Oil (ooooh la la)-shared by Loni of the Idea Exchange

Supplies:

Directions:

16 oz glass bottle ("pretty" would be nice) with cork stopper
assorted dried flowers
(lavender, rosebuds, amaranth, queen-anne's lace, foliage)
6 oz of one or a mix of any of the following:
1 soy oil, safflower oil, sunflower oil, olive oil or wheat-germ oil
24 drops rosemary essential oil
(or jasmine, peppermint, pine or a citrus oil)
8 vitamin E capsules (omit if using wheat germ oil)
funnel
paraffin

Wash the bottle in hot soapy water and let it dry.
Fill it with your choice of dried flowers
(not FRESH flowers or they may mold).
In separate container, blend the oils.
Break open the vitamin E capsules and empty them into the oil mix.
Mix the oils and add more fragrance, if desired.
Using the funnel, pour the oil over the flowers into the bottle.
Cork the bottle.
If you want to seal the bottle with wax:
melt the paraffin inside a coffee can that is placed into
a pan filled with a couple of inches of simmering water.
Make sure you have enough paraffin in the can to
submerge the cork and top of the bottle into.
Dip the corked top into the melted paraffin and then let it harden.
Repeat this procedure as many times as is necessary to
have a good seal on it.
Decorate the neck of the bottle- raffia,
sprigs of dried flowers or herbs, etc.

Gel Potpourri -M :from the Idea Exchange

Supplies:

Directions:

1, 16 oz Florascent Concentrate Simmer Potpourri (available at Wal-Mart)
1 box (4 pack) of Knox unflavored gelatin
Containers of choice. (I use the 4 oz jelly jars - available at Wal-Mart)

Pour 1 cup (1/2 of bottle) of Potpourri into a sauce pan (not for other use afterwards) and heat just until boiling.
Turn off heat and add the Knox gelatin, using all four packs.
When this is dissolved, add the remaining potpourri and stir.
Pour into your jars or containers of choice.
Refrigerate for at least two hours or until gel is set.
Remove from refrigerator and enjoy.
NOTES:
If using the jelly jars, one 16 oz bottle makes 5 jelly jars full.
You can also purchase lace and cut out a large circle and place on top of the jar then place the lid and twist ring onto the jar. This will keep the gel from evaporating until you are ready to use.
You can also make a small label attach it to the lid with a ribbon tied around the jar ring. (including the scent used)
They turn out real cute and make wonderful gifts.

Snowman Poop -Aunt Bea: a Front Porch FriendHere's a cute idea I found for those people who like to decorate with snowmen.... (you can put these in a basket by the door or little stockings for co-workers..)

Supplies:	Directions:
Approximately 15 marshmallows A little baggie (or colored saran wrap) Enough ribbon to make a bow with A little card on which you write ..."I know you've been naughty....So listen, here's the scoop...I'm running out of coal this year......So here's some snowman poop!"	Put the marshmallows in the baggie/wrap Tie shut with the ribbon Attach the card Give 'em away!

Poems for "Snowman Poop" -MAR: from the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
Include a small bag of mini marshmallows and/or a marshmallow snowman	Heard you've been bad So here's the scoop, Instead of coal You get snowman poop!

"Snowman Kisses" -MAR: from the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
Include a litte bag of Hershey's kisses	You've been so good! What great news this is Time to give you Snowman kisses!

Snowman Seeds-MAR: from the Idea Exchange

Supplies:	Directions:
Include a small bag of mini marshmallows and/or a marshmallow snowman	After the first frost of a cold autumn night Sow these seeds in a spot just right With plenty of room that will allow to grow, Jolly round men made out of snow. These snowmen seeds are not easy to find So plant them well and if you don't mind, Share them with a friend because They came with love from heaven above.

Easy "Gingerbread" Men -barbgarrett: from the Idea ExchangeEvery year, I spend a whole day baking gingerbread men to hang around my kitchen and enhance my Gingerbread Man motif dishes.
I hang them in garlands, decorate a small tree and even attach them to ribbon-wound napkin rings with a homespun bow.
I created a way to make gingerbread men quick and easy and with hardly no mess.
I can't believe I haven't thought of this years ago. -barb

Supplies:	Directions:
pumpernickle bread slices lg gingerbread man cookie cutter whole cloves narrow strips of torn fabric	Cut out lg gingerbread men with cookie cutter (1 per slice of bread) Toast on each side just until hardened...not brown (I used my broiler but put the rack at the bottom.) Decorate with whole cloves for eyes, nose and buttons Tie on "homespun" fabric bows Hope this idea comes in handy for you, too!

The Wright Christmas Story

Directions:

Story:

Sit everyone in a circle (or several circles, if the group is large) and tell all to pass the wrapped gift, that they are holding, by listening to and following the directions (directional words) given in the story.
When the story is finished, all unwrap the gift that they are holding...

Once upon a time, there was a little boy named Tommy WRIGHT. He lived with his mother, Mrs. WRIGHT and his father Dr. WRIGHT and his sister Sara WRIGHT.

He had four shiny quarters LEFT from the birthday money that Grandma WRIGHT had sent him, besides the $8.12 LEFT in his piggy bank. Now it was time to buy the RIGHT present for each member of the WRIGHT family. So one morning, he hopped RIGHT out of bed, RIGHT into his slippers that were RIGHT next to his bed and quietly LEFT home. He went carefully ACROSS the street to the big store on the LEFT side of Main Street. The store was decorated with lights and Christmas ornaments.

Tommy WRIGHT thought and thought about Christmas presents and he looked at all of the things for sale. "Let's see," said Tommy, "I know, I'll get Mother WRIGHT some warm gloves. I sure hope there's some pretty gloves LEFT." He reached ACROSS the shelf to get the prettiest pair. He said, "Here is the RIGHT one, but where is the LEFT one? Oh! Here it is, RIGHT under the RIGHT one. I sure hope they are the RIGHT color. They don't have any more like this LEFT. Let's see... They cost $3.06... so I'll have $6.06 LEFT to spend. Now, for Daddy WRIGHT... Would he like a truck or maybe a ball or a LEFT-handed catcher's mitt? I know, I'll get him a football so we can play catch RIGHT in our own back yard, when he comes home from work. Let's see, I had $6.06 LEFT and the football is $5.06... so now I have $1.00 LEFT for Sara's present. RIGHT here is what she wants. A pretty new purse and I think I have just enough money LEFT to buy it." Tommy WRIGHT clutched his presents happily and went running RIGHT up to the lady at the counter and gave her all of the money in his RIGHT pocket.

"Is that RIGHT?", he asked as he gave her the money. "It will be $1.05 with tax," she said." "Oh no," said Tommy WRIGHT. "I forgot about tax." Tommy WRIGHT started crying RIGHT in front of the lady. Tears streaked RIGHT and LEFT down his little face. RIGHT then the door burst open and in came Santa Claus who had LEFT the North Pole and had come RIGHT to Tommy WRIGHT's town to take orders from children for Christmas. "Ho, Ho, Ho," said Santa. "We can't have Santa's helpers sad like this. Let's see now, I bet I have five pennies RIGHT here in my LEFT pocket. Santa Claus checked his LEFT pocket and found nothing. "Oh, no," said Santa. "I must have put them into my RIGHTpocket instead of my LEFT. Here they are RIGHT here in my RIGHT pocket, Tommy. Ho! Ho! Ho! and a Merry Christmas to all the WRIGHT's from Santa Claus and his helpers."

Tommy WRIGHT LEFT the store, ran back ACROSS the street and all the way home to tell his sister, Sara WRIGHT that he had seen and talked to Santa. He was so happy that he wrapped his presents RIGHT away and LEFT them under the Christmas tree. Mr. and Mrs. WRIGHT and Sara WRIGHT were thrilled with their presents. Tommy WRIGHT felt really happy even though he had no money LEFT. Christmas morning for the WRIGHT family was joyful and Christmas LEFT nothing to want.