Blackbird Soap Company

Photo Friday - I found you Winter!

2012-02-10T16:16:00.003-07:00

In the past I shared photos on Sunday. But I think Photo Friday sounds better so now I will be sharing new random photos on Fridays!

This week I would like to share with you a drive we recently took last week through the mountains here in Colorado. This was just after it freshly dumped about 2 feet of snow! Yea!

This was taken on our drive through Old Stage Road

Don't Aspen just look amazing all year long!

I think I photo these mountains every time I drive through here!

If you are ever passing through Colorado or just haven't driven this back road yet I strongly suggest you make the trip. The scenery through here is just enchanting and this particular road, although it is dirt, is well maintained and even car friendly.

Take Care & Enjoy!

Scrap Wood Art

2012-02-06T03:07:00.001-07:00

If you have ever had the pleasure of coming to my house you would soon discover my home is basically a gallery of all my art and love for the color green. I refuse to buy paintings and wall art as I tend to convince myself why buy it when I can custom paint something GREEN to match my decor! LOL! So as you can imagine I have a lot of "to do" projects always piling up. Anyhoo, today I am excited to share with you my most recent creation!


I regret the lighting in my house isn't great.

I cannot take credit for this creation as my own idea. I discovered this off of a friends craft page. She shares links to others crafts, ideas, and tutorials. There you can find pages of things to keep you busy! If you are interested in seeing her page go to: Keep Calm Craft On. The original creator to this amazing creation is from a blog called Salvage Love. There you can see a more step by step tutorial. However I will share with you what it took me to create mine and my experience.

Supplies:

1 large sheet of plywood (Make yours to desired size. Mine is about 3.5'x6.5' and about 3/4" thick.
Approximately 100 pieces of wood of various sizes and depths.
Paint (I mixed my own acrylic blends making about 6 or 7 colors)
A couple styrofoam sponge rollers (those are so much better than sponge, no splatter messes!)
Sandpaper
Liquid Nails (this stuff is pretty amazing)
Table Saw (or if you are me a jig saw, YES I am a mean chick with a jig saw!)
Safety Goggles
Clamps (Optional but really useful for pieces of wood that are warped and need reshaping)

Direction:

Let me start by saying this is no quick afternoon craft. This was a very time consuming project! If you are an in decisive person like me, this will take days! LOL!

1. Start by picking a spot to do your project where it won't be disturbed if you take breaks. Lay down newspaper or something to protect your surface.

2. Before hand paint your back board and all sides a neutral color. I did mine black. This is to avoid showing raw wood through any cracks that your layers just couldn't cover. Set aside to dry. This shouldn't take long. And by no means does this need to be heavily coated!!! Only the sides should be well painted.

3. Depending on the length of your back board start cutting your first layer of wood to all be the same length. For me that was about 3.5'. I did not put much thought as to what would go where at this point. I just randomly picked pieces to cut making sure I had an even amount of each various width or depth.

4. After all my first layer pieces were cut (enough to cover the back board) I put the jig saw down for a while and focused on sanding the ends and any rough edges. I did not sand the whole thing! I only sanded the ends where I cut, rough spots and along the points to smooth things out. Dust each piece of wood off with a clean rag after you are done sanding to help your paint go on more smoothly.

5. Now comes more painting! Mix your chosen colors well. Be prepared with a we rag for messes. With a painting tray or even a plastic plate pour out one paint ( just a little at a time) color at a time. Then paint away! Don't bother painting the back side of each board. Leave it unpainted to help the glue bond better.

6. After I finished painting all my pieces I allowed them about 30 min to dry. ( I was impatient) Then I added a second coat to really bring out my colors. Allow to dry for another 1-2hrs. or if you are like me...impatient... you can start arranging your pieces. This is a lot like a puzzle so play around till it all fits. DO NOT GLUE ANYTHING till you find a nice arrangement that works for you, I look for color and balance.

7. Now the woman who first did this cut most of her wood in the beginning. But since I didn't know what I wanted I waited till my first layer was on before I started another... So I went back to the jig saw (hopefully this is not in the same area as your wet paint!) and started randomly cutting wood into smaller pieces to fill in my puzzle.

8. Repeat the earlier steps, sand, paint, dry, glue. Use your clamps on DRY painted wood (with a cloth or paper between wood and clamp to avoid damage) to help with any stubborn pieces that are warped.

9. Once I finally was at a finishing point I drilled two heavy duty screws into the back of my art work in places that were especially thick with wood. Then I used a heavy weight gauge wire to wrap around from one screw to the other to hang. Surprisingly this wasn't as heavy as I expected it to be. That is not to say it is not heavy just not nearly what I thought it would be. All the same it is being held nicely in place with just one of those Hercules hooks. It was that simple!

10. Later I do plan to coat this in a protective satin wood coating to help prolong it's vibrant color. I am using a painted wood odorless water-based varnish that is also washable. This will also dry faster than the alternate oil based coating that will come with a strong odor.

TIPS & NOTES:
Total for me this project probably cost about $60. Most of the supplies I already had including a saw, paint, backboard, sandpaper, and some of the scrap wood.

Don't have scrap wood? Check out craigslist. I often find people giving it away for free. Alternately you can go to Lowes or HomeDepot and but it new or check out their scrap wood section. Often you can get large pieces for $0.25 each!

Have questions? Feel free to ask and if you do this project share with us your finished masterpiece!

Future crafts to share: Handmade pillows! With a new wall piece we need new pillows!!! Stay tuned!

Take Care & Enjoy!

Sweet Trading

2012-01-12T20:24:00.003-07:00

It’s no secret that I’m a huge supporter for all things handmade. Recently, I've had the pleasure of doing business with a fellow handcrafted business owner. Today I would like to share with you my adventure.

In a recent post on Facebook, Jocelyn Santiago of La Fuffie's Boutique in New York, New York requested the need for a photographer to take pictures of her treats. I have often seen her postings advertisements of her goodies but had yet to sample them myself. With my new pro camera, I eagerly offered to trade photos for treats! As you can guess she accepted my offer. After talking back and forth with Jocelyn I thought it would be fun to do a small review on her business. So with that said let me introduce you to La Fuffie's Boutique:

Owner: Jocelyn Santiago

Location: New York, New York

Been in Business since: March 2011
Website: http://www.lafuffieboutique.etsy.com
Email: lafuffiesboutiquefb@gmail.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LaFuffiesBoutique

La Fuffie's Boutique specializes in (as she puts it) "YUMMY and UNIQUE Edible and non-edible party favors." This includes but is not limited to: Everything chocolate from cake pops, lollipops, dipped pretzels, cookies, and more! As well as a variety of customizable party favors.

In our small interview I asked her "What treats would you recommend to new customers?" Jocelyn replied " I always recommend my sampler box, it contains one of each item that I make. Customers can pick from milk, dark, or white chocolate bases."

I also asked "What is your favorite treat to make?" She replied,"Chocolate covered oreos and cake pops. They allow me to be the most creative."

As part of our exchange I traded my photography for her treats. Here are some of my photos of her newest treats available now and just in time for Valentines Day.

Valentine Floral Chocolate Covered Vanilla Wafers

An inside look!

Valentine Double Heart Chocolate Covered Oreos

An inside look!

Chocolate Bon Bons


An inside look. Each color with a different filling. This one is marshmallow.

My personal review:

Upon arrival, my packaged came shipped in a large box that was well packaged. Inside I was pleasantly pleased and surprised to see that she packed her treats with a nifty freezer ice pack. And yes she informed me that she does add this with all her orders. Under the ice pack, each treat was individually sorted by types in a bubbled sleeve. Inside each bubble sleeve the treats were then covered in their own clear wrapper complete with a matching ribbon. Now if that's not going the extra mile I don't know what is!

Being this was a trade I was privileged to sample 7 different treats. 3 different types of chocolate lollipops, two chocolate covered cookies, chocolate bons bons, & a chocolate covered twinkie. Of all the treats I have sampled thus far, my most favorite were her Neopolitan Chocolate Covered Oreos & her Chocolate Bons Bons (with a mix of carmel, peanut butter, & marshmallow centers).

Closing thoughts: I am impressed with the effort placed in her presentation. Her treats are beautiful, full of color, and a tasty treat that would be great for any special occasion. If you are not a fan of chocolate than her treats might not be for you. They are very rich and sweet. Each treat is a generous size and even more generous in chocolate. My family enjoyed sampling these, especially my girls who would have polished them off in a matter of hours if they'd been given the chance. Definitely remember La Fuffie's Boutique for future parties and special occasions!

Give her treats a try and share with us your thoughts. Also be sure to stop by her Facebook page to say hi and support handmade!

Photos By: Heather Gwinn
Interested in having your products photographed? Contact me for more info.

Take Care,

Cranberry Citrus Salsa

2012-01-01T00:00:00.001-07:00

Get ready to wow your taste buds with this new twist on your everyday salsa. This salsa is spicy, tart, crisp, and amazingly delicious!

Ingredients:

12 oz. - Fresh Cranberries
1 - Lime (zest and juice)
1 - Orange (zest and juice)
1 - Jalapeno (Seeded & finely chopped)
1 - Red Onion (Small-Med Sized)
1/3 c. - Honey (Natural is best for flavor)
About 1/4 c. - Fresh Cilantro

Directions:

1. There are three ways to make this salsa. Chopped by hand (This does take forever!). In your processor, or blender. Which ever way you choose. Make cranberries, onion, jalapeno, and cilantro chopped. Not soupy. Just the consistency of your average salsa. Add to serving bowl.

2. Add lime & orange - zest and juice to bowl

3. Lastly pour in honey

Mix well and chill. Serve with tortilla chips and enjoy!

Notes:

When I make this I like to double the recipe and have some to enjoy all week long.

I also found that my last batch of jalapenos weren't giving this salsa enough kick so I had to add 4 to a double batch to get enough heat... so add to taste with jalapenos.

Lastly if your salsa is still too tart you can add more orange juice or honey to taste.

Try this and share your experience!

Photos by: Heather Gwinn

Take Care & Happy New Year,

Another great product review naming us: Product of the Year!

2011-12-30T23:02:00.004-07:00

Take Care,

What are your thoughts on her review? I admit I did disagree with some of her thoughts on my products but we can't win them all right? But it does inspire me with ideas for improvement. Overall I am still pretty pleased to hear she loved our body mousse and named Blackbird Soap Company: Product of the Year! How neat! Thank you again Ashley from Lisa Freemont Street for your honest and amazing review!

Facebook 1000 Fan Giveaway

2011-12-17T19:36:00.001-07:00

Recently I reached 1000 fans on Facebook! Yea! It's been so exciting to see how much Blackbird Soap Company has grown in just a few short months! As a way to say thank you, I threw my first HUGE basket giveaway. We had a total of 83 entries! Wow! Our grand winner was Michelle, from Florida. The basket above is what was just sent to her! This included handmade wash cloths, body mousse, sugar polish, lip gloss, bath bombs and soap all packaged is a contemporary basket!

We also did two runner up prizes! All packages have been sent and will arrive sometime next week, HOPEFULLY!

My numbers are small on blogger but I've decided at 300 followers I will be throwing a basket giveaway on here too! So please pass my name on to others and come follow along. I will post about my blogger basket giveaway soon .

Thank you everyone for your constant and ongoing support!

Take Care,

Photo By: Heather Gwinn

2011-12-06T21:38:00.000-07:00

Blackbird Soap Company YouTube Review:

Blackbird Soap Company has really been growing and our name is getting out there! Yea! And thank you to all our fans who have made this possible. Today I am excited to share with you this wonderful review we recently received.

Thank you again for this wonderful review brought to you by Sugar Bubbles Soaps! ♥

More Fabulous Products!

2011-11-02T00:11:00.001-06:00

I have created a new soap that will be part of the "Frost Bitten" line. If you love a fresh minty smell then this all natural beauty if perfect for you! Very Unisex friendly!


"The Rose" is a soap we have had for a while that has been revamped! It is still the same amazing fragrance just with newly improved ingredients, color design, and a extra punch of scent to it! If you loved this before wait till you try the new and improved version! Hi Everyone! Welcome Back! I am extremely excited to once again share some of my new products with you! These are just two of several new products I have added.If you would like to buy your very own go visit my Etsy store or Website now! ♥♥♥ back for more updates. I'd love to hear your feedback and thoughts! Photos by: Heather Gwinn

New Products

2011-10-13T03:16:00.001-06:00

New Products Updates:

If you haven't tried our body mousses now has never been a better time! This cream is perfect for the oncoming winter!


This product is new to our Etsy store! Amazing products for those with a caffeinated personality!

Hi Everyone! I am extremely excited to share these new products with you! Our body mousses are extremely moisturizing and silky smooth feeling. I can confidently say you won't be disappointed! Give one a try today! Also our sugar polishes are fantastic when your feet and hands need a reboot! Scrub away dry skin and give it some needed moisture with the up coming winter! These are just two of several new products I have added. I also have more than 10 new products still to come! So check

back for more updates.

I'd love to hear your feedback and thoughts!

Photos by: Heather Gwinn

Take Care & Enjoy,

Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

2011-10-06T02:59:00.004-06:00

In our house we don't eat a lot of meat. So this is another wonderful recipe from our daily lives. This is not your typical canned tomato soup. This soup is thick, creamy, very tasty and great when you are in a hurry to put dinner on the table.

Ingredients:

2 (12 oz.) cans - Diced Italian Tomatoes ( Or Basil & Oregano flavored)
2 (16oz.) cans - Tomato Sauce (not spaghetti sauce)
About 20 leaves - Fresh Basil (add more if your leaves are small or to taste)
1 cup - Heavy Whipping Cream ( I urge you not to use a lighter cream)
1/3 cup - Butter
1/4 cup - Onion, Chopped
1-2 tsp - Crushed Red Peppers (or to taste, we really like spicy food)
1 -2 cloves - Minced Garlic
Salt and Pepper - to taste

Directions:

Place diced tomatoes, sauce, crushed red peppers, onions, & garlic in a stock pot over medium heat. Simmer for 45 minutes.
Chop your basil leaves, and add them to your pot.
Stir in the heavy cream and butter. Season with salt and pepper. Heat, stirring until the butter is melted. Do not boil.

Allow to cool some and enjoy!

Notes/Tips:

This is not an exact recipe. Just a starter point as I don't generally measure anything. It's just all from memory and taste. Adjust accordingly.

Make this a whole meal by pairing this soup with a nice grilled cheese sandwich using real sliced cheese. Once your grilled cheese sandwich is made (while still hot) open it and add a few fresh sliced tomatoes inside. Close and serve. Add a side of saltines too!

Want to make this super fresh? Replace the can diced tomatoes with fresh roma tomatoes. Start with about 4-5. I've made this soup both ways. Leave the skin on, de-seed & chop tomatoes. Allow to simmer for at least 1 hr or till tomatoes are tender.

Recipe and photo by: Heather Gwinn

Take Care & Enjoy!

Name your Scent!

2011-10-02T22:51:00.007-06:00

In today's "Photo Sunday"

I took a pic of a batch of soap I was about to make! (It's Malice Alice)

Why YES, those are my awesomely stylish goggles! Safety never looked so cool! And their green! Yea!

Sorry this comes so late on Sunday!!! All this week I've been busy with new orders and you probably can guess... making soap! In the photo above I am about to make my popular Malice Alice soap. A wonderful blend of spices and darkened chocolate. They smell good enough to eat! It's hard resisting a bite of these. But PLEASE resist! LOL

As I posted before on Facebook, I am looking for new soap/product scents to try out. And there's no one better to ask than you! So if you have any suggestions on scents I have yet to create, please post them here. Or on our Facebook page! At the end of the week (this Friday the 7th ) which ever scents I pic or are the most popular requested ones I will make. Those who's suggestions were picked to create will get a free "Full" sample of it! I will contact you if your scent is created so please leave me with an email to make contacting easier.

Sound like fun? And who doesn't lvee free products! So post your suggestions below!

Take Care and Enjoy

P.S. Sorry the delay in craft tutorials lately. I've been swamped. But they are coming!

Photos by: Heather Gwinn

Photo Sunday!

2011-09-25T00:05:00.002-06:00

Today's "Photo Sunday"...

come from my own back yard!

As I said this weeks photo is from my own backyard. Yea! This summer we spent ALL our free time here. Even my soap production slowed down because of it. Eek! So because we are finally done I am extremely excited to share what's been stealing us away from everyone.

For those of you who haven't been in our backyard, it was once a desolate waste land where only the weeds lived. Not a single bush, tree, patch of grass, patio, or decoration started here. It use to remind me of an old western film where that one song would play as a tumble weed went by... and there actually were tumble weeds! So I hope you enjoyed sharing a piece of the woman behind the soap!

Next week I'll be sharing with you how to make some fun fall decorations as well as sharing some new and upcoming products!

Take Care & Enjoy!

Apple Placemats

2011-09-18T15:01:00.002-06:00

This is a fun and simple craft technique that you can use on just about anything!

Supplies:

- 2 Apples (Any type are fine) Sliced from stem to bottom.

- Paint (Acrylic or Fabric)

- Napkins

- Plain or very simple patterned fabric place mats

- Plate for paints

- Paint brush

- Newspaper or something to cover space

Directions:

1. Prep your space with a plastic table cloth or newspapers. Paint will go through.

2. Slice your apple in half. Blot it on a napkin well to dry it off. Have paints ready on a plate.

3. Stamp apple in paint generously. But blot paint off it its too much on an extra napkin.

4. Stamp mats with apple. Press firm but don't twist it. Carefully remove.

5. Repeat pattern with other colors. When all done you can go back with your paint brush and add a leaf to every other apple or so.

Notes/Tips:

With every apple I did I stamped it twice to get a really thick apple image. If you continue to get a spot you want covered, use your finger with a little paint and lightly blot the spot till covered.

I personally liked the more stamped look but alternatively you could immediately go back and use your paint brush to smooth the apples and make them more crisp.

Don't limit this to just apples, try pears too! I've done those and they are really cute. Also select apple of all sizes and shapes for variety.

This works great on clothing (use fabric paint), think baby onsies or child tees. Make a greeting card, personalized your wrapping paper, fabric napkins, etc!

Photos By: Heather Gwinn (Sorry they're a bit dark, this craft was done at night)

Take Care and Enjoy!

Deluxe Cucumber Sandwiches

2011-09-13T02:18:00.001-06:00

This is probably the tastiest and easiest vegetarian sandwich you could ever make! It has become quite the favorite around our house.

Ingredients:

Veggie Toppings:

- Romaine (or lettuce)

- Tomatoes - Sliced

- Cucumbers - Sliced

- Banana Peppers (Optional)

- Clover Sprouts (they're a bit better)

Guacamole:

- 3 Avocados (Mashed)

- 1 Packet of Guacamole Mix

- 1 Lemon Wedge (Very Small Piece, squeezed)

- 2-3 Spoon Full of Salsa ( I use homemade salsa)

- Cream Cheese - Softened

- Sliced Bread (or your choice of bread)

- Red Wine Vinegar

- Salt and Pepper to Taste.

Directions:

1. In a med mixing bowl, peel and mash avocados. Do not discard pits! Set them aside. Add guacamole mix, lemon juice, and salsa. Mix well. Depending on your avocado size add more salsa to taste. Set aside.

2. Wash, slice, and prep your veggies. Soften cream cheese, till it's spreadable.

3. Add cream cheese to one slice of bread. Guacamole to the other. Then add your veggies in the middle. Add your vinegar last, just before you eat your sandwich to avoid any soggy sammies.

Notes/ Tips:

The way I make my guacamole will be crowed pleasing. Especially if you use a homemade salsa... But I'll share that another time or email me.

Remember your saved avocado pit? Did you know that lemons aren't the only thing that can help preserve your guacamole from getting brown! Strange as it might seem the pit of an avocado can help extend the life of your guac and keep that ugly brown layer away! I didn't believe it either but it works, You will go from 1 day of green guac to 3-4 days! Remember to store it well too.

Take Care & Enjoy!

Photo by: Heather Gwinn

P.S. I know I said we were going to do a craft next but it got pushed back till next posting. Sorry

Photo Sunday!

2011-09-11T05:04:00.004-06:00

On this weeks

"Photo Sunday..."

I'm taking you deep into an enchanted forest...


My wonderful husband Jedidiah


We saw Elk! And if you learn anything about me, you'll discover I LOVE animals! Especially the ones I get to see in the wild!


Stunning isn't it. This was taken at Bear Lake. The water was so clear and smooth it was like glass!

See wildlife!!! Isn't he cute! It's like he was posing just for me. LOL

We saw mousse too! I prayed I'd see a mousse and no sooner did I ask then I saw not one but four! This ones a baby. Mom wasn't far away.

And lastly, me! I'm sure you'll probably hear me rant about this eventually but I don't generally like to show my teeth! But thankfully Invisalign is currently working on making me smile more LOL! I know I'm a nut.

Just recently my husband and I celebrated our 8th wedding anniversary! So today I would like to share a few amazing photos from our recent anniversary vacation! And although, till now, I've only done one photo for "Photo Sunday", I couldn't resist sharing several! LOL! We spent our vacation in Estes Park, Colorado. It's a beautiful town. The same town the Stanley Hotel resides (You know, the hotel where Steven Kings, The Shining" was based off of). Which by the way is an incredibly large and beautiful hotel inside and out. But most of these photos were taken in Rocky Mountain National Forest, Colorado. Isn't this state amazing! You should move here.... I tell everyone that!

Well I hope you enjoyed seeing a bit of my life behind Blackbird Soap Company. Be sure to check back tomorrow (Monday). I will be showing you a fun craft on how to dress up your boring place mats and cloth napkins! If you like my blog, share it with other :-)

Thanks for reading, take care and enjoy

Photos were taken by me, Heather Gwinn

Blog Updates!

2011-09-10T04:47:00.001-06:00

Hi Friends and Followers! As many of you may know I have been working hard at updating this blog with new designs, logos, layouts, and more! Over the next week I should hopefully be wrapping up our blog redesign and then moving on to BlackbirdSoap.com! I truly hope you have been enjoying the new look of Blackbird Soap Company's blog as much as I have. Take a look around and tell me what you think! If there are suggestions or things you would like to see on this blog, please let me know. I'd be to hear your ideas.

Also if you are interested in advertising your business on my blog or website contact me anytime. You can use your already made button or I can create one for you. For more information email me.

Take Care & Enjoy

Photo Sunday!

2011-09-04T21:50:00.006-06:00

It's time for another

"Photo Sunday!"

Lavender Garden

This weeks photo is from my own garden. This lovely lavender is one of my top five favorite flower! And these particular lavenders are especially special because these are the flowers I use to infuse into water, oils, and my soaps! So next time you try my lavender scented soap you will be enjoying something right out of my own backyard. (Organically grown and pesticide free!) Photo taken by: Heather Gwinn. Enjoy!

P.S. Sorry the late posting... I wasn't happy with my first photos!

Raw... a milder soap

2011-09-02T02:42:00.001-06:00

More new photos on our sites as promised!

Take a walk down natures path and enjoy a simpler way of life. Enjoy Mother Nature in her true form, pure and untouched. Let her raw beauty open your eyes to a new type of aroma that’s been left in the state nature intended.

The Aroma: Purely clean with fresh notes of slightly sweetened organic olive oil and aloe vera.

The Experience: Feel the creamy moisturizing touch of olive oil and aloe vera gel as its mild properties sooth even the most sensitive of skins while a very light lather gently washes you clean.

To see more photos or purchase this amazing handmade soap go to my website or Etsy store.

ENJOY!

In with the new

2011-08-30T13:59:00.007-06:00

Slowly but surly I have been re-taking photos of all my products. I've been editing all week long (Phew it's been quite the process!). So today I am pleased to announce the newest addition to this remodel:

"The Rose - Creamy Body Mousse"

To see more photos or purchase this amazing cream go to my website or Etsy store. This product is not only new to online but it comes complete with newly designed labels!!

Photo Sunday!

2011-08-28T17:38:00.002-06:00

Welcome to my first installment of

"Photo Sunday"

I thought it would be fun to post a photo from around Blackbird Soap Company every week to give everyone a little inside look at what goes on in my workshop, my company, home, kitchen, the neighboring forests, my travels, and so much more.

So, this week’s photo is an awesome shot of a chipmunk that came across my path on our hike today. No matter how many I took, he (I'm making him a boy), just kept posing away for me! Isn't Colorado amazing! I just can't get enough of the enchanting beauty we live near! Enjoy.

Photo By: Heather Gwinn
Blackbird Soap Company

Gooey Fun

2011-06-24T23:21:00.001-06:00

Hi everyone! It's been a while since I last posted. Life has been super busy! So lets get this summer in gear and follow me as we make a fun and creative craft every few days!

Play Goo:

Supplies:

- Borax
- Distilled Water
- Food Coloring (optional but more fun with it!)
- Elmer's Glue (Or generic version)
- Measuring Cup
- Teaspoon
- 2 Mixing Spoon
- Ziploc Baggies


Some of our supplies.


First, measure out 1 cup of water and add it to your mixing bowl.


Next add your food coloring, if you plan to color your goo - mix well.


Time to pour in your borax. Stir well, it may take a minute or two of mixing to get it all dissolved. Parents please supervise your children when handling borax, it should not be consumed.

Now the second part. In a separate bowl add 1/2 cup of water.

Measuring 1/2 a cup of glue (about 1 bottle)

Adding our glue to the bowl.

Mix well!

Ready to pour!

Right after pouring. The reaction is nearly instant!


This is just after a few seconds!

Tips & Notes:

This is an extremely fun and easy recipe the whole family can enjoy. If small children are participating (mine did!) I recommend supervision or help measuring and pouring the borax. This whole process can take less than 10 minutes to create. It's best to store goo in a ziplock bag for a very long shelf life. Storing in the frig will help too. We even used Easter eggs for fun storage!

Want transparent goo? Try using the clear Elmer's glue! And as a reminder, this is not to be consumed!

Lastly I'd like to thank my lovely assistants. My daughter Chloie (11yrs), Piper (3yrs) not pictured, and my sister Hailey (7yrs) for making this fun blog with me!

Take Care and Enjoy!

Spring Gardening

2011-05-03T02:23:00.000-06:00


These babies grow fast and the aroma alone is wonderful!

Hi Everyone! A few weeks back I showed you how to start your own garden and the fun we had making ours. Now I'm going to show you our progress and how to plant them.

Our supplies

These have really sprouted up a lot over the last few days!

Separating the plants into sections

Removing the bottoms and putting slits on the sides

In it's hole and ready to cover with a light layer of soil

All done!

Supplies:

- A planting pot. (mine is 16" in diameter)

- Potting soil ( I chose an organic veggie friendly soil)

- Scissors

- Your ready to plant herbs or whatever your growing

- Water

Directions:

1. Start by filling your pot with soil. Depending on your size pot, leave about three inches of space from the top. Or about 1-2 inches if your pot is smaller.

2. Next lightly water your plants so they will stay put and not fall apart when you move them.

3. Carefully cut each plant section out from the egg crate, like shown in the picture. Once all your plants have been separated arrange where you want to put each plant in your pot.

4. Dig a small hole for each plant. Depending on the size of your plant probably no more than 1-3 inches deep. Your bag of seeds may also tell you how deep to plant them.

5. One at a time, carefully cut the bottom of each plant section like show in the pictures. Be mindful not to cut any roots. Then without allowing the plant to fall out cut a side vertically too. This will allow the plant to grow without any difficulty. Now put that plant into the soil and lightly cover. You can remove them from the egg crate pods but I didn't because it's great compost for the plants and will help retain moisture for the plants as they continue to grow.

6. Continue to do the same for all your remaining plants. Then gently water your new sprouts and place them in a sunny spot. Water daily or as needed.

Tomorrow I'll show you how to make cute labels for your new herb or plant garden! Then later on I'll show you how ours are growing and some tasty recipes to use our herbs in!

Take Care and Enjoy,

Heather

Something Special

2011-04-22T02:15:00.010-06:00

Mother's Day is just around the corner! Do you know what you're getting mom?

Why not plan ahead & surprise mom with something all natural & unique this year from Blackbird Soap Company! There's nothing like a gift that pampers you naturally. Plus we offer affordable prices that work for anyone's budget. AND for a limited time anyone who requests "gift bag" under comments at checkout will receive this stylish gift bag with matching tissue paper and gift tag for FREE to put moms gift in!

Tucking your seeds into bed?

2011-03-29T00:00:00.006-06:00

Have your supplies ready

Dampen your Carton

Fill your sections half way with soil

One of my lovely assistants


Making labels

Planting our seeds

Such cute little hands!

You can't deny how fun this cheap little craft is!

Almost done!

We decided to do a quick spray before adding the last layer of soil

Ready to grow!

Awww Spring is in the air. And nothing says spring like planting veggies & herbs. Today's craft was made with the help of my two wonderful girls. Where most kids get bedtime stories, tonight my girls got a bedtime craft!

Supplies:

- Cardboard egg carton

- Potting soil

- Seeds

- Spray bottle

- Popsicle sticks

- A pen

- A spoon ( or just your hands)

Directions:

This is such a fun and easy craft to do in your spare time. Why cardboard egg carts? Well not only do you re-recycle an already recycled paper but when it's ready to be planted in a larger pot you can STILL continue to use them... but we will get into that more when our plants begin to sprout.

Part One:

Get 6 Popsicle sticks and break each in half. You should now have 12 halves. Label each with the name of what you plan on planting. (don't worry about making them super fancy. In the second part of this tutorial I will show you some fun ways to make labels.)

Part Two:

1. Start by ripping the top of an egg carton off and using the bottom (where the eggs once sat) to plant your seeds in.

2. Using your spray bottle, spray your egg carton with water till the entire carton is dampened but not soggy or puddly.

3. Next using a spoon or your hands, fill your carton sections half way with soil. Leave room to add seeds and a top layer of soil.

4. Lightly spray your first layer of soil with water.

5. Add your seeds. Only a few per section. Then label each as you go so you don't forget what herb or plant is what.

6. After all your seeds have been added and labeled, top with the second half of your soil.

7. Spray your plants again with water, but do not drown them

Tips:

Keep seeds in a well lit area and away from any cold drafts. Mist plants with spray bottle often. Do not drown your plants just keep soil lightly moist.

Don't just limit it to herbs. You can also do this with veggies, fruit, and flowers!

This project is fantastic to get the kids into. It can even make them more eager to try new foods knowing they helped grow the herbs!

These supplies are very cheap. The carton was (with eggs) $1.50, the seeds about 4 for a $1 (walmart or dollar tree), soil $1-5 depending on size (dollar tree has soil) Spray bottle $1(dollar tree or walmart) Popsicle sticks - any craft store, mine were $1

Later I will show you what you can do with your plants once they have begun sprouting... Look for part two to this tutorial in about 7-10 days!

Hope you Enjoy!

All Natural Fruit Roll Ups

2011-03-26T00:00:00.067-06:00

This is the fruit I used in my first batch. Beautiful isn't it!


Lightly simmering and starting to reduce some.

Ready to put in the oven!

_______________________________

With so many snacks out there loaded with sugar and questionable ingredients it's hard finding something healthy, tasty, AND convenient to eat.This recipe is 100% all natural and 100% tasty.

Ingredients:

- 1 to 1 1/2 flat fresh strawberries (about 48 oz) - Chopped

- 2 cups Apple Sauce (Or like in the picture 1 basket of Blackberries)

- 3 TB Organic Honey

- 1/2 a Lemon - Squeezed

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 150 degrees F. Or if your oven is like mine 170 degrees (at that temp it just requires a little bit more attention)

2. In a blender, processor, or mashed by hand, add lemon juice, fruit, and honey. Puree till completely smooth.

3. Add pureed fruit to a cooking pot and cook on med heat till it begins to boil. Then reduce heat to low and cook for about 20-45min. Till thickened, and reduced some. (Be sure to stir often. We don't want to burn the fruit)

4. While the fruit cooks prep two cookie sheets with parchment paper. (I very lightly sprayed my pans first with a bit of pam. I find that it helps the sheet from sliding around.

5. Once your fruit has thickened, equally distribute your fruit mix onto the two cookie sheets. I used a measuring cup to make it more even. Your fruit should be evenly spread out on the sheet making sure that the fruit on the sheet isn't thin in any places. (it makes it impossible to peel later when you're eating it) You can give it a gentle shake back and forth on the counter to even and distribute it more.

6. Place the cookie sheets in the oven for about 8 - 10hrs. at 150 or 170 degrees. Keep oven on for 35 min then turn the oven off. Do NOT open the oven. Allow to sit for about an hour then repeat this process again and again till fruit has become tacky to touch. Allow to completely cool. Best to sit for several hours. Then cut them in desired sizes and roll up! Store in air tight container.

Not thrilled about all the on and off from the oven? Honestly a few of my batches I forgot the fruit and turning the oven off when I was suppose to. You can also just allow your fruit to cook for about 5-6hrs straight or till tacky to touch. Just be sure to check on your fruit as to not over cook it and make it brittle.

Tips:

- This recipe is endless! The measurements really depend on how much you want to make. Just be sure each cookie sheet is filled with a nice amount, not being too thin

- Try using canned, fresh or frozen fruit.

- Raspberries, bananas, nectarines, apricots, apple sauce, cherries, mangos, you name it! Add cinnamon, cloves, or your favorite for extra spice!

- Vegan? Sub the honey for Agave Nectar, Raw sugar, or no sugar at all.

- Did you cook your fruit too long and now it's become a bit brittle? It's possible it can be saved! Carefully trim the ends where it's the most brittle. Then wet your hands (don't pour on) and rub them lightly over the fruit evenly moistening the fruit. Then allow to dry. Cut and store as suggested above. You might even be able to use a water bottle. Just mist lightly. (I used my hands). This saved an earlier batch of mine.

Hope you enjoy!

Chocolate Covered Strawberries

2011-03-16T01:00:00.000-06:00

Who doesn't love to pamper themselves with a special treat like chocolate covered strawberries! I'm sure most of you probably already know how to make these but for those of you who don't I thought I would go ahead and make you a blog... since I was already making these yummy babies anyways.

Ingredients:

One basket of Strawberries - washed, dried and tops cut (if desired)

Microwavable melting chocolate in milk chocolate and white chocolate. ( I generally use almond bark and mine come in a large flat bar or brick they also make then in pre-measured bowls)

4 tsp. Vegetable shorting (Crisco)

a sheet of wax paper.

Directions:

1. Ahead of time place a piece of wax paper over a cookie sheet.

2.In a microwavable friendly bowl add 3-4 squares of milk chocolate. You can also do this on the stove, just I prefer the microwave.

3. Heat 30 seconds at a time. Stirring after each time till chocolate is melted. (do not try to melt too long at one time, your chocolate WILL BURN)

4. Add about 1-2 tsp. shortening to chocolate and stir. The shortening helps with making the chocolate creamier and I think makes a smoother covered strawberry.

5. Place coated strawberries on the wax paper, finish coating strawberries and allow to harden.

6. While your waiting for your strawberries chocolate to harden, start heating your white chocolate the same way as the milk chocolate. Again adding 1-2 tsp. shortening to melted chocolate.

7. Using a spoon, a cake baster, or a ziploc bag (filled with the white chocolate and a small corner cut) swirl the white chocolate over the strawberries. Just enough to give color.

Allow to harden and enjoy! You can also place these in the frig to cool if you just can't wait another moment!

Tips:

Reverse the chocolates making white with milk chocolate topping it.

Get real fancy and top with crushed peanuts, shredded coconut, mini chocolate chips, crushed oreos, or a mix of several! Just be sure to add those toppings to the chocolate while it's still warm. After it sits a moment you won't be able to add extra toppings.

I use a fork on the cut side to dip the strawberries. Dip it at an angle so the strawberry doesn't constantly fall off your fork. Adding the shortening also helps with dipping and not being too thick.

This is a fun and easy treat to get the kids involved in too!

Also don't just limit it to strawberries! Try dipping pretzels, marshmallows, cookies, biscotti, gram crackers, dried fruit etc...

Share your favorite dipped treats with us. Enjoy!

Beer Bread - Yum!

2011-03-14T01:37:00.000-06:00

This is a recipe I have been wanting to try for a while and I'm thrilled I finally did! This bread is extremely easy to make. Very moist and perfect spread with butter. For those of you who don't drink beer, fret not, it's completely different baked. It's also children safe as the alcohol in it is baked out.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups All-Purpose Flour

1 1/2 cups Whole Wheat Flour (in Colorado I used a high altitude flour)

1 TB. Baking Powder

1 TB. Honey

1/2 ts. Salt

1/3 cup Brown Sugar - Packed

1 (12 fluid oz.) can or bottle of Beer or Ale

1/2 cup Butter - Melted

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Lightly grease a 9x5 in. loaf pan.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine all- purpose flour, whole wheat flour, honey, brown sugar, salt, and baking powder. Mix well. Then pour in beer, stir until a stiff batter is formed. It may be necessary to mix dough with your hands. After mixed well scrape dough into prepared loaf pan. Then pour melted butter over top of the dough.

3. Bake in oven for 48-55 min depending on your oven, or until a toothpick inserted into center of the loaf comes out clean. Mine was perfect at 48min.

Makes about 12 servings.

Notes:

-Want to mix up the variety? Try adding dill, cheese, or garlic...

-My favorite is adding 1 1/4 tsp. Italian Seasoning, 1/2 tsp. Garlic Powder, & 1/2 tsp. Onion Powder to the dry mix before adding the beer. Mix well.

-The beer or ale you use will change the flavor too! I prefer the taste of Blue Moon. It's not too heavy. I've also heard ale makes for a better taste than beer but try your fave and let me know how it works for you!

-Not much for beer? Try replacing the beer with sprite!

- Don't just eat it with butter! Also try a bit of honey on top or serve with shredded beef and gravy for an amazing open faced sandwich! Yum!

Steam Punked

2011-02-10T04:31:00.000-07:00

Take a sneak peak into a new addition of Blackbird Soap Company!

Steam Punk Jewelry!

This new branch will be called Blackbird Bizarre. There I will add all kinds of fun hand crafted jewelry and self crafted goodies! Blackbird Bizarre will be added to our website by the end of next week. So check back often for updates.

We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts and ideas. Also don't forget to enter our blogger contest for a chance to have your blog tutorial featured here as well as tons of free products! And who doesn't love free goodies!

Guest Blogger

2011-02-02T13:36:00.000-07:00

It's time to start another contest! This should be simple and fun!

I often find myself surfing creative how-to craft blogs and other interesting reads in my late night spare time. So to start the year off right I thought we would have a contest featuring you and any creative how-to you would like to share.

How to Enter: Have you ever written a blog or created a video sharing a step by step how to? If so, then submit one to us and you could win free full sized products from us! Simply e-mail ( contact@blackbirdsoap.com ) a link to the blog or video, along with your name and address. Eligible entries can be posted on blogs or video sharing websites. Please, no claiming a blog or video that isn’t your. All entries must be entered before Feb 20th 2011. The winner will be reviewed and announced before the end of February.

The winner will have their blog or video posted on our blog and announced on our facebook. They will also receive a free bar of soap, body lotion, sugar scrub in their choice of scent (if available) and of course free shipping!

Ideas/ Suggestions: This could be a how-to on something about sewing, photography, make-up tutorials, painting, crafting, scrapbooking, hair styling, organic tips, healthier living, tasty recipes, etc. Very decriptive and easy to follow tutorials are prefered, lots of photos are a plus too!

Please remember this is an all ages friendly company and subjects should be appropriate. Please no foul language, inappropriate topics or photos.

Homemade Cranberry Bliss Bars!

2010-12-17T00:35:00.000-07:00

Recipe:

Cake Part:
1 c. - Butter (softened)
1 1/4 c. - Brown Sugar
3 - Eggs
1 1/4 tsp. - Ginger Powder
1/4 tsp. - Salt
1 1/2 c. - Flour
1/2 c. - Cranberries (Chopped)
6 oz. - White Chocolate Chips
1 tsp. - Vanilla Extract
1/4 c. - Orange Juice

Frosting Part:

8 oz. - Cream Cheese (Softened)
3 c. - Confections Sugar
4 Tb. - Butter (Softened)
2 tsp. - Vanilla Extract
3/4 c. - Cranberries
1 Tb. - Orange Juice

Directions:

Cake:
Pre-heat oven to 350F. Prep cookie sheet. Lightly spray cookie sheet with flour spray. Then top with wax paper. The spray helps with removing your wax sheet easier from your pan. It also helps it stick without sliding around when adding batter.

In a large mixing bowl add softened butter, brown sugar, orange juice, vanilla, eggs. Lightly blend. Then add salt, ginger, flour. Blend well till all clumps are gone. Then add cranberries - blend. Lastly add white chocolate chips - blend. Pour onto cookie sheet and spread out evenly. Place in oven for about 15-20 depending on your oven, till lightly golden.

Remove from oven and allow to cool. I cool mine on a cookie rack.

Frosting:
In another mixing bowl add softened cream cheese, softened butter, vanilla, and orange juice - mix. Then add powdered sugar. Mix well. Lastly add cranberries - Mix. I find this goes faster with a hand blender.

When the cake part is completely cool cut into triangles. Add frosting then garnish with a few extra chopped cranberries on top.

Tips & Suggestions:
You can just frost the whole sheet and cut later but I find it make a lot more of a mess. Individually frosting the bars looks much prettier. Whether you are making these for yourself or for a gift I suggest these are chilled in the freezer for about 5 min before you cover with plastic wrap. This will prevent frosting from sticking too much. If you have a hard container that doesn't touch the bars then you can skip that step. I do however keep my bars in the frig till ready to eat. This keeps the frosting stiff and they get tastier with age. So if you bake these ahead of time and chill them in the frig over night they will taste even better... I think it's the frosting softening the cake!

Hope you enjoy!
If you make some we would love to hear how yours turned out and see photos! Post them here!

Air Freshener

2010-12-05T04:08:00.000-07:00

What you'll need:

1 Spray Bottle (new unused would be best)
Distilled Water
Vodka or Witch Hazel (I'm using Vodka, it's cheap)
Essential oils and/or fragrance oils
Pipette or Teaspoon (for measuring essentials or fragrances)
Label
Packing Tape (to put over label and apply to bottle)
Measuring Cup

Recipe:

1 c - Distilled Water
1/3 c - Vodka or Witch Hazel
2-3 mL. Essential Oil or Fragrance ( or 2tsp)

Ready for making air fresheners! Coffee is also a must!

Ready to pour my liquids, I would use a funnel if you have one. I sadly didn't have one and just used my measuring glass.

Pouring straight in bottle.

Lastly I added my essential oils. You can add more or less depending on what you use and how strong you want yours to be.

Directions:

This recipe is VERY simple and cheap. Just measure and pour into your spray bottle. Blending possibilities are endless. I chose a cranberry cinnamon scent for one and pine needle with mahogany for the other.

Note: Just remember to keep this out of children's reach, especially if you use vodka in yours. And if you plan to make as gifts, make a warning label too... drinking this with added essentials and fragrances can be harmful and should not be consumed. Also remember to shake your bottle well before each use as oils and water do not stay mixed. Ours smell fantastic! Where to find supplies? Our bottle came from the dollar tree. Essentials oils can be found at local natural grocery stores or online. Fragrances can be found in any candle section at stores, like walmart. If you use witch hazel, that also can be found anywhere, like walmart in their pharmacy department.

Hope you enjoy! We would love to hear from you too! If you make one please send us your photos and what scents you made!

Toothbrushing Powder

2010-12-01T01:23:00.000-07:00

4 1/2 Tb. - Kaolin Clay

4 1/2 Tb. - Baking Soda

2 Tb. - Dead Sea Salt (fine)

1/2 tb. - Dried Sage (powdered)

18 drops Spearmint Essential Oil

10 drops Peppermint Essential Oil

In a small bowl mix kaolin clay and baking soda together. Then add fine Dead Sea salt. Next add dried sage powder. Alternately you can use dried sage leaves and grind it yourself using a mortar or coffie grinder. Just be sure it’s a fine powder… Lastly add your spearmint and peppermint essential oils, do not use a fragrance oil. Blend well with a metal spoon or whisk till all clumps are removed. Pour into a clean, dry jar – mason jars work great! When ready to use, just sprinkle a small bit into the palm of your hand. Wet tooth brush and then dip your toothbrush into the powder in your hand. (Keep unused powder away from water! This will help it not grow bacteria, Eeww) Brush, Spit, and rinse mouth well!

Info about this powder, Kaolin Clay is actually used in the polish dentist use. This mixture can actually prevent plaque buildup and promote healthy gums. Baking soda is a great cleansing agent and has been used so for centuries. Sage helps white teeth. Dead Sea salt, is said to freshen your breath, ward off infection, even whiten your teeth slightly. While peppermint & spearmint oil can't reverse the effects of gum disease, they can delay the process of gingivitis, reduce bacteria, and bleeding associated with gum disease.

Note: This info is a collection of gathered material. I make no personal medical claims. If you are unsure about using this consult with a doctor. However for the all natural seeker I personally think this is a great and affordable alternative to toothpaste. It leaves your teeth feeling very clean and fresh. You can actually feel the tingling as it cleans!
This powder is awesome but be prepared it is a bit salty. If you can get past the the first few seconds it’s not bad at all… just thought I would let ya know!

Hope you enjoy! And please leave me your thoughts and comments. If you made your own send in your photos on here or our facebook page!

Moisturizing lip balms are here!

2010-11-23T12:09:00.000-07:00

Pamper your lips right with a natural lip balm sure to please! They make great stocking stuffers too! Check out our site for more details!
http://blackbirdsoap.com/cart/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=28&zenid=129250aae0500a04871dd32708085116

We are Finally Live!

2010-11-13T11:08:00.000-07:00

If you haven't heard, we are live now! Yea! So be sure to check out our online shop. I am still uploading photos and products. I should be completely done this weekend. So if you stop by and don't see something you like check back later! Please leave us feedback about our site we'd love to hear from you!

Blackbird Soap Company Basket Give Away!

2010-11-10T15:00:00.000-07:00

How would you like to win a free basket of goodies??!!
Who doesn't love free stuff!

How do you enter?

Well it's simple, just recommend your friends and family to us. Whether they follow us on our blog or facebook just have them like or follow us! Then have them comment on this blog post or on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/topic.php?topic=427&uid=148159268562276 or both pages and tell us who refered them to us (ie your first and last name)! Each site counts as a reference! So refer both! The person who gets the most people to like and follow us by Nov 22nd 2010 wins a gift basket full of our sample goodies! Easy enough huh!

Rules: No fake accounts. If their account looks fake in ANY WAY we reserve the right to disqualify that reference. Refered people must comment on one of our pages (or both) with who recommended them in order for that person to count. The person with the most by the end of the contest wins a free sample basket from Blackbird Soap Company w/ free shipping! Winner will be announced the following day (Nov 23). It's up to you to contact us with your shipping address! If winner doesn't respond within 4 days a runner up will be awarded.

So if you like us, pass it us on and get a chance to win!

(Photo with basket of goodies coming soon)

Holiday Cider Mix

2010-11-09T03:20:00.000-07:00

This is a really easy and simple craft recipe you can do at home, with the kids, or in a craft group!

What you'll need:

1 Mason Jar (or recycled jar w/ lid) Any size is fine
Scrap piece of Fabric
Twine, Raffia, or Ribbon
Sheet of Paper (for printing)
Clear Packing Tape

Recipe:

1/2 c. - Orange Drink Mix (pre-sweetened, like tang powder)
1/3 c. - Lemonade Drink Mix (pre-sweetened powder)
1/2 c. - Sugar
1/4 c. - Instant Tea Powder
1/8 tsp. - Clove Powder
1/8 tsp. - All Spice Powder
1/4 tsp. - Cinnamon Powder
Apple Juice (or just water)

Tools:

Scissors

In a clean jar, measure each ingredient and add to jar in layers. You can layer them anyway you want! Once finished put your lid on the jar tightly.

Next design the label for your jar. Alternatively you can make this by hand. My label is 3in high by 3.5 in. wide. But you can make your label what ever size works for your jar. Once designed pull out a piece of packing tape long enough to cover your label leaving about a 1/2 in of extra tape on each side. For my label I needed two long pieces to cover the width of my label. Putting the tape on like this not only looks fantastic but protects your label from getting wet or damaged as quickly. Carefully put label on and gently rub in place.

This is back side of my jar. So you can see the layers. To finish your jar cut a square from a scrap piece of fabric large enough to cover your lid. I ripped my edges for a more aged look. Then place fabric on top of jar, wrap twine, raffia, and or ribbon around fabric/lid and POOF! Your done!

Note: On my label I added the directions & ingredients. For directions: Shake jar till mix is completely blended together. Add 1tb + 1tsp cider mix to 8 oz. of very hot apple juice (or water). Mix well, allow to cool to liking, and enjoy!

This is a fantastic holiday gift. It's super easy to make and affordable. Plus if you're like me, I love homemade gifts best!

Hope you enjoy,

Heather Gwinn

Natural Candle Center Piece

2010-11-02T08:10:00.000-06:00

Today we'll be making this lovely harvest candle display. It's super easy to make and here's how to do it:

What you'll Need:

Large Clear Vase
Small Clear Vase ( This must fit in large one with plenty of room around it)
Tea light or Votive Candle
Assorted Dried Beans (Many colors and sizes available)
Twigs (look around your yard)
Twine
Raffia
Two Beads
Acorn (or button, dried fruit slices, charm...)

Tools Needed:

Hot Glue Gun
Scissors
Pliers (or break twigs by hand)
Tape
Plate or Tray

Start by Trimming your twigs. This can get messy so use a plate or tray. Be careful of your eyes and flying pieces! Your twigs can be evenly sized or just eyeball it (That's what I did)

Next get your twine. Measure two pieces of twine the width of your large vase then add about 6-10 in extra length on both sides to leave room for tying later. Next tape off the section being covered in twigs (this way you don't over glue too much of your twine). Make both pieces parallel to each other and about 1 1/2 - 2 in. apart (depending on the size of your twigs, mine are about 3 1/2 in. long) Then start adding glue to your twine one twig at a time! Glue lightly and be mindful of not gluing your piece to the surface! Spacing is great too! It lets the color behind it show through!

This is what your wrap will look like finished!

My two Vases. My smaller one I've added beans to. I left just enough room for my candle to sit on top (Having one vase inside the other will allow you to change out your candle and be safer against fires)

I've added my candle to the smaller vase now

Starting to fill. I put moss on the bottom because my vase sunk to the bottom with just the beans. This made a cushy pad for the smaller vase to sit on.

Almost done! You can layer yours however you desire.

Finished filling! Make sure to leave a bit of head room on top so your candle is a bit higher than you beans...fire safety!

Close up of candle top.

Now is the time to wrap your twigs around the vase (twine on the inside is what I did) Knot and cut the strings off the bottom piece like shown. Then add a bit of glue to secure it. Lastly add a twig over it to fill your piece in. This twig will be a bit shorter.

Lastly, I wrapped some green raffia around the twig for extra support and color. I tied it in a knot then combined the twine and raffia together to make a bow. I glued the center for an extra bit of support then added an acorn in the center. Then I finished it by adding a bead to each twine piece. To hold it in place I added a dot of glue...but a knot would work as well.

Note: This is an easy project to do. So many things can be changed out for others. Try using ribbon or yarn. The beans I used are split peas, black beans, lintel beans, and coffee beans (those give a great fragrance too) You could also use small dried red peppers, rice, or any grain. Adding powdered cinnamon and clove can give your candle an added splash of fragrance too! This is also a fairly cheap craft. I purchased everything from walmart. The large vase was $3 the small $1. Raffia and Twine I had laying around but is only a few dollars.

Please leave any comments or questions you might have!

Hope you Enjoy!

Heather Gwinn

Pumpkin Cookies

2010-10-30T01:28:00.000-06:00

1 c. - Sugar

½ c. - Vegetable Shortening

1 tsp. - Vanilla Extract

1 c. - Pumpkin Puree

2 c. - Flour

¼ tsp. - Salt

1 tsp. - Baking Soda

1 tsp. - Baking Powder

½ tsp. - Cinnamon

1 tsp. - Pumpkin Spice

1-1 ½ c. - Mini Chocolate Chips

Preheat oven to 350. Grease cookie sheets. Cream shortening and sugar. Stir in pumpkin and vanilla. Then sift flour, salt, baking soda, baking powder, spices. Stir into a creamed mixture. Fold in chocolate chips finished with a quick blend. (blending too long can melt chips). Drop by teaspoonfuls onto your cookie sheets. Cooking time 8-10 min.

Prepping & measuring ahead of time helps for a quicker clean up afterwards!

After creaming shortening & sugar

Adding pumpkin & vanilla extract.

After mixing pumpkin and vanilla.

After mixing flour, baking soda, baking powder, and spices.... almost done!

Folding in chocolate chips.

Ready for baking!

Notes: This is an easy recipe to double, if made by teaspoonfuls (recommended) it will make more than 40 cookies! I live in the mountains and find no trouble with them going flat. These tasty cookies ares soft and the perfect bite size treat. Plus what’s great about these cookies is you can get your children's help making them, so easy, and this batter they can taste without any worries!!

Hope you enjoy,
Heather Gwinn

Hidden Pumpkin Patch

2010-10-29T04:16:00.000-06:00

Hidden deep in the woods far from town an eerie pumpkin patch grows. Glowing under the full moon, blanketed in a spiced mist these sweet pumpkins grow to unusually large sizes.

The Aroma: Slightly sweetened pumpkin flesh wrapped in a warm bed of cinnamon & cloves stuffed with nutmeg, a pinch of vanilla and filled to the brim with autumn air.

The Experience: Moisturize your skin with the spicy warmth of pureed pumpkin and shea butter. Your skin will glow with the silky feel of bentonite clay. As an eerie dash of honey and sugar draw in the dewy autumn air.

----------------------------

With fall in the air who can resist all it's seasonal delights! This is probably my favorite time of the year. Cool air, changing leaves, spices, and best of all PUMPKINS! If you love fall as much as I do, give this soap a try! It's sure to please your seasonal cravings!

Tomorrow I'll be carrying on some autumn fun with a tasty recipe sure to please, Pumpkin Cookies! Yummm!

Hope you Enjoy,

Heather Gwinn