Holiday gifts you've made or plan on making '05 - '07

[villanelle75]

I'm already starting to think on Christmas and we have several family birthdays coming up that I am trying to get settled for, so I'm starting a version of the "What are you making for Christmas this year" thread. Please post pics, directions, or ideas for things you've made or want to make.

Last year on Other Site, I found a very easy way to make wine charms. I bought hoops from the craft store intended for earings, put beads on them, bent the ends to make a hoop and hook closure, and they were done. They were a huge hit and I couldn't believe how much people really loved them, especially because they were so easy and cheap to make.

[lawyerlee]

Would it be OK if I changed the title to make it clear we're talking about holiday gifts? I wasn't really sure and might have skipped over it if I was rushed for time. :)

I haven't started anything yet, but I would like to make some things for gifts again this year. I usually make some stationary. In this past I've stitched initials on slippers, make fleece blankets, and made marble magnets, but I don't really care to repeat those this year. So what I really need to do is find some good inspiration! :)

[villanelle75]

That would be fine, as long as you say "holiday". Thanks!

[Brandles]

I always make an ornament for family members every year. I make about 25 of them. I made Christmas 2005's when I had the time and drive last fall! I was even selling the extras at bazaars! ;) They're small, paper-piece quilted fir trees. They're not Christmas trees because they're not decorated. They're different shades of green.

For 2006 (while I still have the time) I think I'm going to break up the old slate from an old house that I brought home and carefully drill holes in them. The pieces that survive, I'm going paint snowmen on them.

[kalogrias]

Hey there! How are you?

Making stuff...a good idea. I was thinking of framing some pictures that DH and I have taken that have gotten a lot of compliments (ie. one of the Point Loma lighthouse for friends of ours who love lighthouses)...also was thinking of making soap. I don't know why, but it just looked like fun :)

[LeslieandPaul]

I'm making a personalized calendar for FSIL and her bf (I'm about 75% done-will post pictures when it's complete). For FBIL I plan on making magnets (with clear glass beads); my sister and her bf-save the date cards b.c they will most likely get engaged at x-mas and then married the next x-mas; FMIL-terracotta pots with blackboard rim, chalk, and some herbs. Still trying to decide on everyone else's gifts.

[villanelle75]

Hi Kal! Glad to see you aroudn here! I thought you were in Singapore?

I had forgotten about the flower pots with blackboard paint. I think I will make some of those for my mom and best friend and maybe sister and MIL. They look easy and yet useful and unusual. I like the idea of including herbs or a Nursery gift certificate with them!

Before I foudn out BIL and wife were expecting I was planning on taking on of their wedding pics and scanning it, then printing it onto magnetic paper (which goes thrgouh a regular printer) and cutting out around the image, for a refrigerator magnet. I may do this for my mom for her new dog.

[ManteoChik]

My friends and family call me the "gift basket queen" because I can make a basket for just about anyone with their intrest. I usually do gift baskets and my friends and family even come to me to make baskets for people they need to give gifts too....For example:
My dad: I get a basket and fill it with gift certificates in like $20 incrimants to his favorite restaurants, and stores, like The Bass Pro Shop (fishing), Cabellas (hunting) and Sportys (flying). I also include things like, new coozies (for beer) as well as a 6 pack of coronas (his favorite) and even a bottle of wine that he likes. I will wrap the whole thing in the clear plastic cellaphane (sp?) wrap and put a bow on it.

My Mom: In her basket she gets a couple bottles of her favorite type of wine, hand painted wine glasses, new corkscrew, wine and cheese plate set, gift certificates to get a mani and pedi.

-It's really simple to make them and it can be inexpensive if you buy your baskets from a wholesale craft store and if you buy the items to go in it like Beer, wine, foods, and stuff like that at places like Sam's Club where you can buy in bulk. You can customize a basket to fit anyone's personality.

Since I am a photography major, this year I plan on taking pictures for the people in my family and matting them and framing them myself. I am having a friend of mine who is also a photography major take portraits of my brother, myself, and our little sister on the beach to give to the parents and grandparents, and then I will give the rest of the friends and family members my photos that I think they will like. If anyone is interested in having portraits taken for something like holiday gifts, just page me and I can give you some great info about students doing the work at 1/3 of the price because we love the practice and starting a client base very early.

[kalogrias]

I just got back yesterday :) Still adjusting. Didn't sleep much (if at all) last night...hopefully will be up to speed by next week... LOL. I love the magnet idea!!

[taraw]

I'm making a personalized calendar for FSIL and her bf (I'm about 75% done-will post pictures when it's complete)....
I made calendars for my DH's family last year. They all loved them. DH's grandma cried when she opened hers. Whoever's birthday was that month had their picture on that month of the calendar. Here are how a couple of the pages turned out.
http://images.snapfish.com/3443%3A7%3B523232%7Ffp3%3B%3Dot%3E2338%3D47%3B%3D% 3A89%3DXROQDF%3E232395597%3A77%3Bot1lsi

http://images.snapfish.com/3443%3A7%3B523232%7Ffp46%3Dot%3E2338%3D47%3B%3D%3A 89%3DXROQDF%3E232395597%3A783ot1lsi

I also made the flower pots with the chalkboard paint for my MIL for her birthday last year. I planted the herbs in them and she really enjoyed that gift. They are super easy to do.

I haven't given much thought to this years presents yet, I guess I better start though. :)

[jarm]

I've always wanted to do the calendars. How did you do them?

[taraw]

I used Photo Shop to create the picture layouts and then used a program called The Print Shop to make the calendar part and put it all together.

[camberne]

I love the calendars, unfortunately, my mom always turn over the top of the calendar and pins up the actual calendar part to write on. Kind of defeats the purpose!! However, I would also like to know how you did those, taraw because other people aren't such calendar-poopers like mum is!

I do my own cards, and my SIL was admiring them all last year. She asked me to make her some thank-you cards to send out. So, I'm making her a set of various patterns of thank-you cards for Christmas.

[jarm]

How do you physically put them together?

[taraw]

After I had them all printed out I had Kinko's bind them for me because they charged around $2 to put on a spiral binder. That was worth it to save the hassel of having to figure out a way to do it myself.

[jarm]

Thank you! I actually have a binding machine at work, but I don't know how to use it. Did you use like a cover stock weight paper?

[Aug2002Bride]

Can someone explain to me the pots with herbs! That sounds cool!

My aunts made calendars like that last year for the grandparents with all pictures of the grandkids on the month of their bday. They really liked it!

Ive made the cookie mix in a jar or soup mix in a jar. Ive also done clear glass ornaments filled with potpourri and then tie a ribbon on top..

Ive also taken a small glass vase/jar type thing and put a small set of white christmas lights in it and then fill it with potpourri....and then put a piece of fabric over the top and tie with ribbon...When they plug it in the lights heat up the potpourri....Kinda hard to explain so I hope that made sense!

[Chimichanga]

I really have always loved the calendars. We've done a couple for my grandma. I'd love to do one for my parents. Maybe I'll suggest it to my sister and we can get some nice professional pictures done. Neither of us has any kids, but we do have dogs. :D

[mermccau]

subscribing :)

[mrsdrummer]

I wanna make those calendars. That'll be right in my price range.

[emmjay]

There's another thread like this one in the Hobbies & Crafts forum - DIY Christmas Gifts (http://www.constantchatter.com/showthread.php?t=2601) - in case you want more ideas.

My family has decided to do all homemade gifts this year, so that should be fun - I'm looking forward to getting lots of ideas from these threads!

[gmb4503]

Subscribing for ideas :)

I really like the calendars!!

[taraw]

Can someone explain to me the pots with herbs! That sounds cool!...

These are the ones that I made. I just bought plane terracotta pots and painted the top rim with chalkboard paint, planted the herbs in the pots and labeled the pots. I gave these to my MIL, she loved them.

http://images.snapfish.com/3447454723232%7Ffp3%3B%3Dot%3E2338%3D47%3B%3D%3A89 %3DXROQDF%3E2323%3A36%3B84654ot1lsi

[Medako]

Last year I made cookbooks with my own "tried and true" recipes. They were a super big hit and I even had people requesting another copy to send to so-and-so.

This year I'm at a loss. I'm thinking of doing baskets of food for the guys ~ like chex mix, peanut brittle, and ??? (any ideas here would be helpful & appreciated).

As for the women....I'm lost. I'm a "basket person" but I'm just having the hardest time coming up with something that would be useful to all. *sigh*

[jarm]

medako - That's kind of funny because I was thinking the same thing, but then I thought, "What if I waste my time and they don't like it?" Oh well...something to think about it.

[Lolly]

I plan on making a few drink coaster sets. I'll be rubber stamping slate tiles and covering the bottoms with felt (so they don't scratch the table). I may also make some smaller stamped slate tile magnets for the fridge.

Can't think of anything else right now.

ETA: just thought of something else. I cold stamp on candles and make those as gifts too. Here's my first and only attempt so far. I did it when I was making my thanksgiving cards.
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf38b3127cce9c63b2c088e100000016108Cat2LJm4aA

If I do stamp candles I could either go with Cristmas themed ones or I could stamp flowers on them. hmmmm.

[beachlvr]

Last year I made gift boxes filled with homemade truffles (kahlua and amaretto), mini rum bundt cakes, and homemade english toffee. I made a dozen boxes for all of my friends and they were very well received.

This year I'm thinking about doing similar boxes with chocolate kahlua cake, peppermint bark, and something else.

I like those calendars taraw makes, though! I may have to do those for all of the grandparents this year.

[alliekat75]

Beachlvr,
Can you please post the recipes for your goodies? The truffles and homemade toffee sound so yummy!

Thanks so much,
Allie

[beachlvr]

Here's the truffle recipe. It's very easy. Omit the vanilla and add a bit of liquer instead to make kahlua or amaretto truffles and then roll the truffles in cocoa powder, powdered sugar, cookie crumbs, or whatever.


INGREDIENTS:

* 12 ounces bittersweet chocolate, chopped
* 1/3 cup heavy cream
* 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

DIRECTIONS:

1. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine chocolate and cream. Cook, stirring, until chocolate is melted and mixture is smooth. Remove from heat and whisk in flavoring. Pour into a small dish and refrigerate until set, but not hard, 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Use to fill candies or form balls and roll in toppings.

I need to dig up the toffee recipe because it's buried in a pile of magazine recipes!

[alliekat75]

Beach,
Thanks for posting the recipe. I'm adding it to my list!

Cheers,
Allie

[alliekat75]

Beach,
Thanks for posting the recipe. I'm adding it to my list!

Cheers,
Allie

[kindermom]

I have made truffles for family the past few years as well. They have always gone over well. (As an aside - they are really easy to make).

[emmjay]

I finally got started on my gift ideas over the weekend - I'm going to make various edible gifts (jam, candy, bread, etc.) and also a book of the recipes I use often.

For the recipe books, I bought these 8" x 8" scrapbooks and I'm going to put a food-related photo in each cover.

http://store.yahoo.com/archivalusa/kmb88cbf.html
http://store1.yimg.com/I/archivalusa_1863_2751739

For the recipes, I'll print and laminate them and then put them in the plastic sleeves inside the book so they can be taken out or left in the book to be used.

I'm trying to think of something else that I can make that is food-related, but not actual food. At least I have a few months to come up with an idea!

[BooeyJ2]

I made marble magnets a few years back. They were super easy and turned out great. They were definitely a hit!

I followed these instructions......
http://www.notmartha.org/tomake/marblemagnets.html




Here are the ones I made........
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b3cf02b3127cce9fbed179a7ef00000016108BZt27Jo2Zo


http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b3cf02b3127cce9fbed17826de00000016108BZt27Jo2Zo

[Amy_6405]

I made my parents and my in-laws coffee table photo books from www.imagestation.com, I designed some of the pages in photoshop and some I used their templates.

emmjay - I LOVE that idea for the recipe books! That would be a nice idea to keep all of mine and DH's favorite recipe's in so I don't have to dig through all my cook books. :D

[emmjay]

Amy 6405 - the recipe book idea was actually the first thing I came up with. I am always digging through my cookbooks too, and my family has asked me a million times for recipes, so it was a pretty easy one!

Can I ask you some questions about the coffee table books? Is there a range of sizes that you can choose? And covers? How was the quality? Like "real" coffee table books? I'll take a look at the site too.

I have ton of travel pictures that I need to put into a coffee table book so I would love to have it done through a website instead of trying to print/bind the whole thing on my own.

[Amy_6405]

[
Can I ask you some questions about the coffee table books? Is there a range of sizes that you can choose? And covers? How was the quality? Like "real" coffee table books? I'll take a look at the site too.

I have ton of travel pictures that I need to put into a coffee table book so I would love to have it done through a website instead of trying to print/bind the whole thing on my own.

They had either a 8 3/4 x 11 horizontal book or a 7 3/4 x 10 vertical one. The horizontal book came in either a black soft vinyl cover (which I got) or gray, cabernet red or midnight blue linen with a cut out window in the cover.

I thought the quality was very good, the pages were heavy and the printing was good quality. Also the binding seems to be pretty heavy duty. I was impressed anyway. The book I got was the basic 10 pages double sided but you could add more pages for a higher cost.
Let me know if you have any other questions or you can PM me too!

[emmjay]

Thanks! I actually want an oversized one with lots of pages, but I was able to find some other websites that do something similar (My Publisher and Photoworks) in bigger sizes.

I have to say, thank you SO MUCH for mentioning it - the last time I looked into making this coffee table book was a few years ago and it was exorbitantly expensive to have it printed and bound. I thought I was going to have to do the whole thing myself! I never would have thought to check again if you hadn't brought it up, so thanks!!! :)

[Amuse Bouche]

Last year I made a bunch of different spice rubs and sent them to family members in little tins with recipes. I bought the spices at www.kalustyans.com (they have a bunch of their own mixes, too), which was very reasonable, and I think I bought the tins at www.specialtybottles.com. It went over very well.

This year I'm living much closer to family so I'll probably do baskets of baked goods and flavored vinegars, and I might make jewelry for my aunts and girl cousins -- earrings take about a second to make.

My grandmother gets half a fruitcake every year -- she and I are the only people in the family who really really love fruitcake, so I make one every year and send her half.

[armadillo]

The Sage (http://www.thesage.com/catalog/Accessories.html?mmsID=2b2e011f69b805eb45677c2e51e 1a451)

Scroll down a little bit...see the diffuser reeds and bottles? REALLY cheap to get them here, and the bottles are plain enough that you could decorate them. Glue crystals, paint pictures, stamp something, tie it with a ribbon. If you look on the menu to the left side, you can go to Fragrance Oils and pick out fragrances to give with the diffusers. Go to Additives and pick up some Dipropylene Glycol (DPG). You'd want to mix the DPG and the fragrance...1 part fragrance to 2-4 parts DPG, depending on how strong you want the scent to be. Go to Containers and I think they should have some bottles you could use to mix the fragrance to give with the diffusers.

Anyway, that's what I'm doing this year! In the past, I've made everybody polar fleece scarves...get the fleece, cut it to size, add some fringe by making clips in the ends. Or if you have a serger, serge all the edges with a nice decorative thread. Gift baskets of soaps, lotions, bath products that I made from scratch (but that will require a lot of research if you don't already do that kind of stuff). One year I even went crazy and made everybody polar fleece jackets, pants, or sweatshirts...it took me 3 months of sewing every day, but I was able to get a LOT of really good quality fleece for $60 and that made around 15 gifts.

[emmjay]

Last year I made a bunch of different spice rubs and sent them to family members in little tins with recipes. I bought the spices at www.kalustyans.com (they have a bunch of their own mixes, too), which was very reasonable, and I think I bought the tins at www.specialtybottles.com. It went over very well.
That is a great idea! Can I steal it?? ;)

What kind of rubs did you make?

I love Kalustyans - I wish I had known about it when I lived in NY.

[Amuse Bouche]

Go right ahead! I made one with equal parts cumin, ginger, dry mustard, sugar, salt and cinnamon, that's excellent on salmon (though my aunt uses it on barbecue ribs), and one with ground anise seeds, salt and sugar, which is good on pork chops. Then I bought Ethiopian berbere seasoning from Kalustyans and Lebanese Za'atar from Kalustyans (and if you want, you can just buy a bunch of different mixes from Kalustyan's -- they have a bunch of good mixes). I used I think TND4 (though it might have been TND2) from Specialty bottles: http://www.specialtybottle.com/index.asp?PageAction=Custom&ID=25
and printed labels on my computer.

[beachlvr]

If anyone is into candy making, I found this site:

http://www.countrykitchensa.com/index.aspx

The prices on supplies look reasonable and they have some great ideas, too. I think I'm going to make the chocolate covered oreos and the chocolate dipped pretzels for my gift bags this year.

[1MegMeg]

I really want to make my parents a wine cork bulletin board (we have ~tons~ of wine corks, we have been saving them for years), but all I've been able to find are the kits, no instructions on how to DIY.

Do any of you have any idea how I could make this myself, without having to buy the special kit? It can't be that hard....I just need a little instruction. Hehe!

Here's a picture:
http://images.amazon.com/images/P/B0000AUZEY.01-AHS112MIKD2C9._SCLZZZZZZZ_.jpg

[villanelle75]

My mom has made ton of those bulletin boards over the years. Super easy! The hardest part is finding a frame in the size you want. Her's are usually lagre than the on you posted a pic of so she buys regular cheap cork boards (from Kmart type stores) and then glues the corks over that. She just uses a hot glue gun and sticks them on in the same pattern as in the pic (sets of two corks in alternating directions). The only trick is to lay them out ahead of time in the frame because the lengths and thicknesses vary so you want to make sure the overall pattern stays fairly square and everythign fits. Laso, depening on the size, you may have to have only a half row on the end which entails on cork instead of two in one direction and cutting the corks that run perpenciular to the edge in half.

ALos, you can make trivets out of corks too, which have also been a big hit for her. Smae idea as far at pattern and you can use so many thigns as a base/bottom, but IIRC, she just uses a thin piece of flat cork to glue the wine corks to. She's also made sets that include a cork trivet and a menu board. For that, just get a piece of dry erase board and attach seomthing to the back that will make it stand upright (like the "arm" onthe back of a stand-up picture frame. Then glue a boarder of single coraks around the outside. Make sure to leave a large enough dry erase surface for writing in a several course menu, and that's is. Great for friends who entertain!

[gmb4503]

ALos, you can make trivets out of corks too
I would love to make these for an aunt who just did her dining room over in the wine theme. Where do you buy in the wine corks?

[villanelle75]

Everyoen in my family, as well as many family friends, are trained to save all theri wine corks and give them to my mom. O ntop of that, we have some friends who are wine makers at some major wineries so they are a great source as well. In other words, you just need to drink more! ;) As another option, you could go to a local winery and ask if htey will give or sell you some, or perhaps even a local restaurant. I don't know of any place you can buy the, but if you find one, please let me know! I'm currnetly trying to replace all the moss in my silk plant pots with wine corks and it's slow going!

[1MegMeg]

Villanelle - Thanks so much for your help! Gluing the corks right onto an existing cheap bulletin board is a perfect idea!!! :)

[BsstGrl]

I love all these ideas, I want to try some of them this year!

My friends and I decided last year to start exchanging ornaments for presents each year instead of getting presents (also easy to ship cross country for us). I'm going to try to make something like this for them:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5d709b3127cce9423f73ee85900000016108IZsWjJsybQ
(from Out Of The Blue (http://www.shesellsseashells.com/) )

I hope it'll be relatively easy. I'll just buy some plain, empty glass ball ornaments, pour in some sand and tiny sea-shells and tie a ribbon on the top. (it helps that I live in FL, so most if this should be readily available) ;)

I hope they turn out!

[Missy2U]

I'm doing food gifts as well. I have a bunch of variations, though, so I don't get bored.

All will be in a gift basket with a christmas ornament:

Chocolate covered cherries, peppermint bark, and chocolate sauce
Soup in a jar (2 different kinds) & cornbread mix
Spiced nuts, snack mix, some type of cracker spread/dip
Chutney, cranberry sauce, herbed butter
Hot cocoa mix, homemade marshmallow snowflakes, frozen log of cookie dough

I have a sheet full of other ideas but it's at home and I'm not - so I'm relying on memory.

Just remembered some others:
Two homemade jams and a loaf of homemade bread
Barbeque sauce, rub, and cornbread mix

We give everything in threes since there are three of us - Me, Hubby2U and Son2U :) Well now there's a Dog2U but that's a whole different story...

[MES in Chicago]

Missy-

That sounds so great. Would you mind sharing your recipes?

Melissa

[Missy2U]

Melissa - I'd be happy to! I'll throw them in my bag this weekend - y'all will have them Monday. :)

[Medako]

Since DH's family are all big football fans, I've decided that this year they will all be getting "bowl week survival kits". The guys will get snack stuff, stress ball, etc. and the women will get things like bubble bath, hot cocoa, smelly candle, fuzzy househoes/socks, etc.

Even though I have the idea for the guys, I am having a little bit of a hard time coming up with anything else for their baskets other than like chex mix and some homemade candy. If anyone has any other suggestions, I'm totally open for some ideas. :)

[gmb4503]

Medako - how about some koozies of their favorite team? I just picked up some "bottle jerseys" for my Pats fan :)

[Missy2U]

Since DH's family are all big football fans, I've decided that this year they will all be getting "bowl week survival kits". The guys will get snack stuff, stress ball, etc. and the women will get things like bubble bath, hot cocoa, smelly candle, fuzzy househoes/socks, etc.

Medako, this is a FANTASTIC idea! I hope you don't mind if I copy it for some of my "guys I have to give gifts to". :D

[Freckles]

I would love to make these for an aunt who just did her dining room over in the wine theme. Where do you buy in the wine corks?

Ebay!

[gmb4503]

Freckles - I actually have never used Ebay, but I just signed up and bid on them. I fear I may get addicted to that site :rolleyes: All kinds of stuff on there!!!

[Katy]

I'd like to merge this thread with the other "DIY gifts" thread (I copied from the hobbies & crafts forum). Just wanted to give a head's up.

Happy gift making!

[MES in Chicago]

Missy2U Not to be a pest, but I would love to see those recipes when you have a chance. I am unemployed right now and would like to get a jump on the gifts while I have time. TIA!!!

[Missy2U]

MES - You aren't being a pest - I'm being a dork. :) Will have them for you tomorrow - I've been out sick and couldn't post from home. I PROMISE!!!! :D

[MES in Chicago]

Oh gosh, I am sorry to hear you have been sick! Something has definitely been going around. I hope you are feeling better soon!

[Missy2U]

I'm typing in batches... :D

Chocolate Covered Cherries, Peppermint Bark, Chocolate Sauce

Chocolate Covered Cherries
From Cooking Pleasures Magazine, December 2004/January 2005

2 10 oz. jars maraschino cherries with stems, drained
1 12 ox. pkg. semisweet chocolate chips
Rum (or brandy, or bourbon)

Fill drained cherry jars with rum, soak cherries in rum (or other liquor). Drain cherries completely on paper towels. Place chocolate chips in heavy, medium saucepan. Heat over low heat until chocolate is melted, stirring constantly. When melted, remove from heat. Dip cherries into chocolate, swirl to coat completely. Place on waxed paper lined baking sheet. Refrigerate until set.


Peppermint Bark
From Christmas With Martha Stewart Living

2 # white chocolate, chopped into 1/2 inch pieces
12 large candy canes
1/2 t peppermint oil

Line an 11 x 7 baking sheet with parchment, set aside.

In the top of a double boiler, melt the white chocolate, stirring constantly.

With a meat tenderizer or chef's knife, cut or pound candy into 1/4" pieces.

Stir the pieces of candy canes and peppermint oil into the melted chocolate. Remove from heat, and pour onto the prepared baking sheet, spread evenly. Chill until firm, 25 to 30 minutes. Break into pieces, serve. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to a week. Makes about 2 1/4 pounds.


Old-Fashioned Fudge Sauce
From Mills & Ross, Desperation Dinners, Daily Herald Food Section, 11/10/04

3 1 oz squares unsweetened baking chocolate
4 T butter
1 5 oz can evaporated milk
1 C granulated sugar
1 t pure vanilla extract
2 pinches salt

Put chocolate, butter and evaporated milk in a 4 C glass measuring cup. Nuke, uncovered, on high, until the chocolate and butter are nearly melted, about 2 minutes, stopping once halfway through to stir. After the cooking time ends, remove the cup and stir until the chocolate and butter finish melting.

Stir in the sugar. Return the cup to the microwave and cook a minute, uncovered. Remove and stir well with a wire whisk. If the sauce is grainy, microwave just until the sugar melts, 30 seconds to 1 minute more. DO NOT OVERCOOK. Whisk to stir well.

Whisk in the vanilla extract and salt, let cool a little.

Makes about 2 cups - the sauce can be refrigerated - covered for up to two weeks or frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in fridge and reheat in microwave.

[Missy2U]

Soup in a Jar, Beer Rye Bread, Brownies in a Jar
(I've been tweaking my ideas so they may not line up with what I posted earlier but they're close.)

Friendship Soup in a Jar
From Allrecipes

1/2 cup dry split peas
1/3 cup beef bouillon granules
1/4 cup pearl barley
1/2 cup dry lentils
1/4 cup dried onion flakes
2 teaspoons dried Italian seasoning
1/2 cup uncooked long-grain white rice
2 bay leaves
1/2 cup uncooked alphabet pasta

In a 1 1/2 pint jar, layer the split peas, bouillon, barley, lentils, onion flakes, Italian seasoning, rice, and bay leaves. Wrap the pasta in plastic wrap, and place in the jar. Seal tightly.

Attach a label to the jar with the following instructions: Friendship Soup

ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS: 1 pound ground beef, black pepper to taste, garlic powder to taste, 1 (28 ounce) can diced tomatoes - undrained, 1 (6 ounce) can tomato paste, and 3 quarts water.

TO PREPARE SOUP: Remove pasta from top of jar, and set aside. In a large pot over medium heat, brown beef with pepper and garlic; drain excess fat. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, water, and soup mix. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover, and simmer for 45 minutes. Stir in the pasta, cover, and simmer 15 to 20 minutes, or until the pasta, peas, lentils and barley are tender.


Beer Rye Bread
From the cookbook I got with my Oster breadmaker

1 1/2 C hot beer (115 - 125 F)
1/4 C oil
3 T packed brown sugar
1 t salt
3 C bread flour
1 C rye flour
1 1/2 T caraway seeds
3/4 t ground fennel
3/4 t fresh orange zest
2 T Red Star Quick Rise yeast.

Measure and add liquid ingredients to the bread pan.

Measure and add dry ingredients except yeast to the bread pan.

Form a well in the flour, add yeast. (NEVER let yeast come in contact with liquid when adding ingredients).

Snap pan into the breadmaker and close the lid.

Choose expressbake (80 minutes) setting.

Makes a 2 lb. loaf.


Brownies in a Jar
From Allrecipes

2 1/4 cups white sugar
2/3 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1/2 cup chopped pecans
1 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt

Pour sugar into a clean and dry one quart jar. Press down firmly. Add cocoa powder and press down firmly. Pour in chopped pecans, making sure pecans are evenly layered in the jar. Combine flour, baking powder and salt. Pour into jar and seal.

Attach the following directions to the jar: Empty mix into large bowl. Use your hands to mix thoroughly. Add 3/4 cup of butter or margarine (melted) and 4 slightly beaten eggs. Mix until completely blended. Spread batter into a lightly greased or sprayed 9 x 13 inch pan. Bake at 350 degrees F (180 degrees C) for 30 minutes or until done. Cool in pan. Cut into 2 inch squares.

[Missy2U]

Spiced Nuts, Snack Mix, Parmesan Curry Palmiers


Spiced Nuts
From Martha Stewart's web site and cookbook

1 large egg white
1/4 cup sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
1/4 teaspoon ground allspice
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1 3/4 teaspoons cayenne pepper
2 1/2 cups pecan halves or assorted nuts, such as cashews, walnuts, or almonds

Preheat oven to 300°. Beat egg white until soft and foamy. Combine all remaining ingredients except pecans; whisk into egg white. Stir in pecans until well coated; spread mixture in single layer onto an ungreased baking pan.

Bake pecans for 15 minutes, then remove from oven. Using a metal spatula, toss, stir, and separate nuts. Reduce oven to 250°, and return nuts to bake until medium brown, about 10 minutes. Remove from oven; toss, and stir again. Place baking pan on wire rack to cool (they will crisp as they cool). Break up any that stick together; store in an airtight container, at room temperature, up to 2 weeks.


Snack Mix
From a friend of mine at the American Legion in Arlington Heights

1 package Hidden Valley Dressing Mix
1/4 t lemon pepper
1/4 t dill weed
1/3 t garlic powder
1/2 - 3/4 C salad oil

Mix all ingredients together, coat chex mix (or oyster crackers or a combo of all), serve.


Parmesan Curry Palmiers
From Cooking Pleasures Magazine, December 2004/January 2005

1 sheet frozen puff pastry (from 17.3 oz pkg)
1/2 C (2 oz) freshly grated parmesan cheese
2 t curry powder
1/4 t freshly ground black pepper
1/4 t salt
1/8 t cayenne pepper
1 1/2 T currants

Thaw puff pastry sheet per directions. In a small bowl, stir together cheese, curry powder, black pepper, salt and cayenne pepper. On a lightly floured surface, roll pastry into a 14 x 10 rectangle. Generously brush pastry with water, spread evenly with cheese mixture. Sprinkle currants over cheese, lightly press into pastry with rolling pin. Roll up each long side of pastry twoard center until sides meet. Cover and refrigerate 20 to 30 minutes. Meanwhile, line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper. With serrated knife, cut patry roll into 24 1/2 inch slices, place on baking shsets allowing 1 1/2" between pieces. Cover and refrigerate 15 to 20 minutes.

Heat oven to 375. Bake palmiers 8 to 10 minutes or until light golden brown. Turn, bake an additional 7 to 10 minutes or until ight golden brown. Cool on wire rack.

[Missy2U]

Cranberry sauce, Herbed Butter, Loaf of Fresh Bread

Cranberry Sauce
From Swap Shop in the Sun Times Food Seection, 11/10/04

1 12 oz bag fresh cranberries, washed and stemmed
2 medium apples, cored and finely choipped
1 8 oz can crushed pineapple
1 1 /2 C sugar

Coarsely chop cranberries in a food processor or blender. Place ina large bowl with applies, pineapple and juices and sugar. Stir to blend. I then put these into small canning jars.


Herbed Butter
This is from nowhere, really.

1 stick of unsalted butter, softened
Sage leaves (a bunch - I eyeball this) really finely chopped

Mix the two together and form into a roll, wrap in saran wrap then cover in parchment.


White Bread
I use a prepared mix and my breadmaker. If you watch around the holidays, the breadmaker mixes tend to go on sale - so I stock up on them when they're cheap.

[Missy2U]

Hot Cocoa Mix, Homemade Marshmallow Snowflakes, Butter Rum Caramels OR Peppermint Sticks


Hot Cocoa Mix
From Allrecipes

6 1/2 cups powdered milk
1 (5 ounce) package non-instant chocolate pudding mix
1 cup powdered chocolate drink mix
1/2 cup powdered non-dairy creamer
1/2 cup confectioners' sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

In a large bowl, combine powdered milk, chocolate pudding mix, chocolate drink mix powder, creamer, confectioners' sugar, and cocoa. Divide the mixture between two 1 quart jars. Seal, and decorate as desired. These can be stored in a dry area for up to 3 months.

Attach a tag with the following instructions: Hot Cocoa: Dissolve 1/3 cup cocoa mix in 1 cup boiling water.


Homemade Marshmallow Snowflakes
From Martha Stewart Living, December 2003

2 envelopes unflavored gelatin(each 1 scant tablespoon)
1 1/2 cups sugar
2/3 cup light corn syrup
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Vegetable-oil cooking spray

Coat a 12-by-17-inch rimmed baking sheet with cooking spray; line with parchment paper. Spray parchment; set aside. Pour 1/3 cup cold water into the bowl of an electric mixer. Sprinkle with gelatin; let mixture soften, about 5 minutes.

Place sugar, corn syrup, salt, and 1/3 cup water in a medium saucepan. Cover; bring to a boil. Remove lid; cook, swirling pan occasionally, until syrup reaches 238° (soft-ball stage) on a candy thermometer, about 5 minutes.

With mixer on low speed, whisk gelatin mixture, and slowly pour the syrup in a steady stream down the side of the bowl (to avoid splattering). Gradually raise speed to high; beat until mixture is thick, white, and has almost tripled in volume, about 12 minutes. Add vanilla, and beat 30 seconds to combine.

Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet; smooth with an offset spatula. Let stand at room temperature, uncovered, until firm, at least 3 hours or overnight.

Coat a 1- or 2-inch snowflake-shaped cookie cutter with cooking spray to prevent it from sticking. Cut out as many individual marshmallows as possible; coat cutter with more spray as needed. Use marshmallows immediately or store in an airtight container at room temperature up to 1 week. Makes about a 100.


Butter Rum Caramels
From Gourmet Magazine, October 2005

2 C packed light brown sugar (14 oz)
1 C heavy cream
1/2 stick unsalted butter (1/4 C)
1/4 t salt
1/4 C lus 1 t dark rum
1/4 t vanilla

LIne bottom and sides of an 8" square baking pan with parchment paper and oil parchment. Bring brown sugar, cream, butter, salt and 1/4 rum to a boil in a 3 to 4 quart heavy saucepan, stirring until butter is melted, then boil over moderate heat, stirring frequently unti thermometer registeres 248 F (firm ball stage), about 15 minutes. Remove from yheat and stir in vanilla and remaining teaspoon rum. Pour into baking pan and cool completely until firm, 1 to 2 hours. Invert caramel onto a cutting board then discard parchment and turn caramel glossy side up. Cut into 1 inch squares.


Peppermint Sticks
From Martha Stewart Living, December 2004
This is so you have a third thing to go with the hot cocoa for someone who doesn't drink (the rum in the caramels)

For 50 sticks, you'll need 9 oz of white chocolate and 1 1/2 C of white nonpareils.

Melt the chocolate - dip in one end of the peppermint stick, spoon non-pareils over the chocolate. Stand them coated end up in a loaf pan filled with dry beans, refrigerate until set.

[Missy2U]

Pepper Jelly, Spiced Nuts, Crackers

Jalapeno Pepper Jelly
From Allrecipes

3 green bell pepper, minced
2 (4 ounce) cans diced jalapeno peppers
1 1/2 cups distilled white vinegar
6 1/2 cups white sugar
1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
1 (6 fluid ounce) container liquid pectin
5 drops green food coloring

In a large, stainless steel saucepan, combine peppers, vinegar, sugar, and cayenne pepper. Cook over medium high heat. Stir frequently until mixture begins to boil.

Stir in pectin; boil 5 minutes longer, stirring constantly, and mix in food coloring. Skim off foam, and remove from heat.

Ladle into sterilized jars. Seal, and process in a boiling-water canner for 5 minutes.

When I give this out, I add a tag that mentions spooning it over a block of cream cheese for an appetizer to serve with crackers.


Spiced Nuts
See above post


Assorted Crackers
I just buy a couple of really nice varieties form a specialty deli down the street from me - including WASA bread, stuff like that - then bag them up in cellophane bags so each person gets a variety. It's easy, and it's fast, and something I don't have to make. :D

[Missy2U]

That's it MES - I decided not to do the rub and BBQ sauce - as it is, I think I may have too much! DH is looking into having me committed - he says I'm insane to make all this stuff. But what does HE know? He's a guy!! :p

Now I'm going for smoke break - my fingers are tired. :D

[MES in Chicago]

Missy - You are awesome!!! Thanks so much. I need to may you a gift basket too:D

[KRM&TPS]

I dont know if any one has posted about the site http://organizedchristmas.com/
It is a really good site. They also have stuff for other holidays. My friend who had a shower for me last year at Christmas found some great ideas. She took two candy canes and hot glued them together to make a heart. Then put some paper on the side that had our names and date on it. It also had two rings and a ribbon. I love it and display it on my tree. So they have tons of great ideas.

[Southlooper]

Last year we made personal note cards. We designed a cover with the person's name and printed them on heavy card stock. They were a hit!

[MurphysLaw]

Subbing.....BUMP!

[BryantRN]

Thanks for posting all the great recipes!! I am making an ice cream sundae gift basket and that chocolate sauce will be perfect!! The peppermint bark sounds great too. I want to make them all!! I can't wait to get started :)

~Renee~

[Kanga]

Even though I have the idea for the guys, I am having a little bit of a hard time coming up with anything else for their baskets other than like chex mix and some homemade candy. If anyone has any other suggestions, I'm totally open for some ideas.


Maybe a 6 pack of beer/other fave beverage for the guys. This would add some weight and fill up space nicely in a basket, and maybe a movie rental gift cert for the gals.

Also, my mom has done movie gift baskets for her co workers. She will put popcorn, a can of pop or two, a gift cert to a movie rental place or a dvd, and a small throw or other type of blanket.

For thsoe that aren't that great at the computer, or don't have photoshop, etc, can have a calendar made on shutterfly in either 12 or 18 months, and can add captions and borders. They also have mouse pads, magnets, tshirts, etc.

I really like the idea of the marble magnets. I might do something similar with coasters for my parents, as a drink on a table with out one is their pet peeve.

[mindy]

Hi,

I am looking for a saying to put on a tea basket if any one has any ideas I would really appreciate it I wanted a cute poem to put on them and I am just blank.

Thanks!

[BryantRN]

I was looking through clippings that I had made from old Martha Stewart living mags and came across these recipes. I am planning on making these two as gifts and thought that I would share them with all of you. Sounds really easy and yummy.

Macadamia Butter-Crunch Popcorn
Makes about 30 cups

25 cups popped popcorn (from about 1 cup kernels)
4 cups raw whole macadamia nuts, toasted (about 1 pound)
1 ¼ cups packed light brown sugar
5 Tbs. Light corn syrup
10 Tbs. (1 ¼ sticks) unsalted butter
1 ¼ tsp. Coarse salt
¾ tsp. Baking soda

1. Preheat oven to 200 degrees. Put popcorn in a large bowl. Add the nuts; set aside. Put sugar, corn syrup, butter, and salt in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring until mixture comes to a gentle simmer, about 4 minutes. Stop stirring; continue cooking until mixture lightens in color, 5 minutes more. Remove from heat; stir in baking soda.
2. Pour sugar mixture over popcorn and nuts; toss to coat. Transfer to rimmed baking sheets; bake, stirring every 20 minutes, until almost dry, about 1 hour. Let cool on sheets on wire racks.


Chocolate-Almond Popcorn
Makes about 30 cups

25 cups popped popcorn (from about 1 cup kernels)
3 cups unsalted whole skin on almonds, toasted (about 1 pound)
1 cup sugar
1 cup light corn syrup
8 Tbs. (1 stick) unsalted butter
¼ cup unsweetened cocoa powder
2 tsp. Coarse salt

1. Preheat oven to 200 degrees. Put popcorn in a large bowl. Add the nuts; set aside. Put sugar, corn syrup, butter, cocoa, and salt in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium heat, stirring, until mixture comes to a gentle simmer, about 5 minutes.
2. Pour sugar mixture over popcorn and nuts; toss to coat. Transfer to rimmed baking sheets; bake, stirring every 20 minutes, until almost dry, about 1 hour. Let cool on sheets on wire racks.


Enjoy :)
~Renee~

[MurphysLaw]

Renee - I LOVE you for posting those!! Can't wait to try them!!:D I'll probably have a hard time keeping DH's hands out of this if/when I make it! :eek:;)

[BryantRN]

You are oh so welcome Kim!

[purpleorchids]

For those of you who made your own calendars - did you use the photo paper for the pictures? If so, did you print the calendar part on the back side of the photo paper or use card stock & glue it on the photo papper? Trying to figure out what paper to use if I am going to print the picture on one side & the calendar on the other.

A lot of great ideas - keep them coming (especially the yummy ones ;) - they are making me hungry)

[kindermom]

I will be making truffles for family and friends. I would offer up the recipe but it may hurt sales if people know how to make them!:D

[taraw]

For those of you who made your own calendars - did you use the photo paper for the pictures? If so, did you print the calendar part on the back side of the photo paper or use card stock & glue it on the photo papper? Trying to figure out what paper to use if I am going to print the picture on one side & the calendar on the other.

A lot of great ideas - keep them coming (especially the yummy ones ;) - they are making me hungry)

I used double sided photo paper. You can get full sheets of glossy on both sides paper at places like Office Depot.

[Kristeen]

Subscribing!

We are on a very tight budget this year... In previous years I have made the marble magnets (super easy and a hit) and decorated jars of bath salts (not so easy and a flop).

This year I am thinking about recipe-in-a-jar type things. I also plan on making our own Christmas cards as usual. I came across circular cards at photoworks.com I am going to use a circle cutter and grommets I already have, buy some ribbon and it can be hung like an ornament on the tree. I figure they will end up costing less than inexpensive cards (although they are 4.95 on the website)
http://www.photoworks.com/gstatic/us/img/catelog/cards/style1generic-01.jpg

[Aug2002Bride]

Im doing some of the recipe in a jar things except Im going to splurge a little and get Pampered Chef batter bowls and then put the ingredients in that with the recipe...thinking about adding the PC mini whisk as well but just depends!

[nuhmah]

Last year we made these are favors for our Christmas wedding - I am thinking of making them to attach to gifts as a little treat (or even as gifts for people like co-workers and such).

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4ce05b3127cce9b2d2bffd2e900000016108BYt2rVwyau

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4ce05b3127cce9b2d2bfc53da00000015108BYt2rVwyau

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4ce05b3127cce9b2d2bfdd2eb00000016108BYt2rVwyau

These ones were very color specific because of the wedding, but my next batch can be more personalized. :)

[Missy2U]

Jen, could you post some directions for those or point me to a website? I LOVE them!!

[Lizard]

Subscribing... I am planning on making diffusers this year, I think they'll go over well. I'll probably do some fairly normal scents... cinnamon, something flowery, etc. I need to start looking around for supplies.

[BryantRN]

Jen~
I would also love to learn how to make those. They are gorgeous!!

~Renee~

[Aug2002Bride]

My grandmother used to make those ornaments! They are cute!

[kirstyjoanne]

I would also love to have the directions to make those ornaments!!

BTW - Hi Aug2002Bride :)

[Zelda Von Yitz]

I think I will make each person a decoration to hand on the front of their door.

One friend is wild about the Mets, the other, the Yanks and the third, the Devils. So the decoration will say something like, "A Mets Fan Celebrates Here" or "A Yankees Fan Waits Here For Santa."

[Aug2002Bride]

Hey KirstyJ ;)

[looch]

I think i am going to do a family movie basket for a cousin and his family...they have two small boys, so i will get one dvd for them and one dvd for the adults and put in all the fixings for popcorn and hot chocolate.

that is all i have so far, i want to make something meaningful for my parents, i just don't know what!

[Zelda Von Yitz]

Everybody is getting a Christmas decoration geared to one of their interests.

I bought a wooden toboggan at a craft store and painted in different shades of blue and added a snowman at the bottom that has a couple of physical features of the recipient -- this one's got long curly black hair.

I'm almost done; the last thing I'll add are white or pale blue snowflakes that read "A Yankees Fan Celebrates Here" and a big blue bow tied at the top:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf22b3127cce95523ca9c36f00000015108AcNGTVk0cNL

[emmjay]

I finally narrowed down everything I'm going to make - I have a ton of work to do, but I can do a bunch of it this week to get started. If anyone wants any of these recipes, let me know.

Jam:
Raspberry-Blueberry (done!)
Peach-Blackberry
Strawberry (done!)

Spice Rubs and Mixes:
Cajun
Tagine
Herbes de Provence
Indian Curry
Berbere

Infused Oils:
Provencal (done!)
Basil-Garlic (done!)
Chili-Peanut

Mustards: (this week)
Spicy Grain
Honey Dijon

Cookies: (some of these might fall by the wayside if I get too busy, but I'm going to make most of the dough this month and freeze it)
Toffee Chocolate Almond Bars
Capuccino Biscotti
Caramel Chocolate Cups
Cinnamon Oatmeal Chocolate Chip
Peanut Butter Chocolate Chip
Gingersnaps

Candy:
Peppermint Bark
Peanut Brittle

I also have to finish my cookbook, but I'm more than halfway done with that.

I can't believe it's November! :eek:

[hmdelf]

I'd love the recipe for the cinnamon oatmeal cc cookies and any of the spice rubs if you don't mind!

[BryantRN]

I would also love the spice rub recipes. I can't believe you are going to make everything on that list. You are my idol!!

~Renee~

[emmjay]

Ha, well honestly most of it doesn't take very much time. It takes about an hour for each of the jams, and the oils hardly take any time at all (just put the seasonings in a jar and fill it with oil). The mustard and spices look pretty quick and easy as well.

Anyway....

Herbes de Provence:
4 to 5 tablespoons dried marjoram
4 to 5 tablespoons dried thyme
4 to 5 tablespoons dried summer savory
4 to 5 crumbled bay leaves
3 tablespoons dried basil
2 tablespoons dried oregano
1 tablespoon dried rosemary
1 teaspoon crumbled sage
1 teaspoon dried lavender

Combine all of the ingredients in a small bowl. Store in a cool spot in an opaque jar or bottle for up to 1 year. Yield 1 cup.

North African Spice Rub (Tagine):
1/4 cup ground cumin
2 tablespoons paprika
2 tablespoons ground cardamom
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 tablespoon dark brown sugar
1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
2 tablespoons dried oregano

Combine all ingredients in a spice mill or blender and grind to a coarse powder. Store in an airtight jar in the freezer up to 6 months. Yield 3/4 cup.

Cajun Rub:
2 tablespoons black peppercorns
2 tablespoons white peppercorns
1 to 2 tablespoons cayenne (depending on how hot you like it!)
3 tablespoons paprika
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 tablespoon kosher salt
2 teaspoons garlic powder
2 teaspoons onion powder
2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried sage
1 teaspoon dried thyme

Combine all ingredients in a spice grinder or blender and grind to a coarse powder. Yield 2/3 cup.

Ethoipian Berbere:
4 teaspoons whole cumin seeds
4 teaspoons whole coriander seeds
2 teaspoons whole ajowan seeds
2 teaspoons black peppercorns
1.5 teaspoon whole fenugreek seeds
1 teaspoon whole allspice berries
2 teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon ground cloves
1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1 - 2 teaspoons ground chili
2.5 tablespoons salt

Roast first six ingredients (through allspice berries) then grind coarsely in a grinder or blender. Add remaining ingredients and mix well. I don't know the yield because the recipe doesn't indicate anything! Probably around 3/4 cup.

Sri Lankan Curry:
5 tablespoons ground coriander seed
4 tablespoons ground cumin
2 tablespoons ground fennel
3 teaspoons ground turmeric
3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1.5 teaspoon ground cloves
4 teaspoons chili powder (more or less to taste)
1 teaspoon ground black pepper

Combine all ingredients in a small bowl. Store in an airtight container.

You can order some of the more obscure spices from Savory Spice Shop (http://www.savoryspiceshop.com/index.html) (luckily for me they are local!). They have blends already made as well.

[emmjay]

Cinnamon Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies:
(this dough freezes well, and the cookies will last 1 week at room temperature once made)

2 1/2 cups old-fashioned oats
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1 teaspoon baking soda
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon (or more if you like lots of cinnamon)
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
2/3 cup firmly packed light brown sugar
2/3 cup firmly packed dark brown sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 large eggs
1 cup semisweet chocolate morsels
2/3 cup toasted walnut halves, chopped (optional)

1. Whisk oats, flour, baking soda, cinnamon and salt together in a large bowl.

2. In another large bowl with an electric mixer on medium-high speed, beat butter until creamy, about 2 minutes. Add brown sugars gradually, beating until light andfluffy, about 3 minutes, scraping down bowl once or twice. Beat in vanilla, then eggs, one at a time, scraping down bowl. Add about 1/3 of the flour mixture and mix on low speed. Gradually add remaining flour mixture, mixing just until blended. Stir in chocolate morsels and nuts, if using. cover with plastic wrap and chill dough for at least 2 hours or overnight (or freeze at this point).

3. Preheat oven to 325°. Line 2 cookie sheets with parchment paper.

4. Drop chilled dough by generously rounded tablespoon 2 inches apart onto cookie sheets; flatten cookies using your floured palm to about 3/4-inch thickness. Bake until edges and tops just begin to turn light golden brown, about 11 minutes. Cookies will be a bit darker and firmer around edges, but soft on top. Place sheets on racks to cook for 5 minutes, then remove cookies from sheets and place directly on racks to cool completely.

[jarm]

I had all these ideas in the summer that I was going to start on, but never did. Now it's November, and I'm not sure if I'm going to have the time.

So those of you who have given your "tried&true" recipe books to family members, did they seem to like it?

[MES in Chicago]

emmjay You rock! I would love the jam recipes!!!

I would love to try to make some jam. My mom used to when I was little...maybe I can learn too!!!

[emmjay]

This is the first time I ever made jam - it wasn't as hard as I thought! I have a book that details the process, so I'll include the preservation process (so you can preserve the jam at room temperature for up to a year). If you don't care about long-term storage, you can just sterilize some jars and keep the jam in the fridge for up to 3 months. You will need the 1/2 pint glass jars with the lids and separate screw rings. They sell them at the supermarket.

Jam Preserving Process:

1. Fill a large, deep pot with water and put it on to boil. The water must be deep enough to cover the tops of the jars by 1 to 2 inches.

2. Inspect canning jars for racks, and discard the defective ones. Scrupulously wash them and fill them with very hot tap water until you are ready to fill them. Alternatively you can wash them in the dishwasher and take them out for filling up while still they are still hot at the end of the cycle.

3. Wash the lids and screw bands in hot, soapy water (not in the dishwasher). The lids must be new each time to ensure a good seal. Bring a small pot of water to a boil and drop in the lids. Turn off the heat and let them sit for 10 minutes. Do not boil them.

4. When you are ready to fill the jars, drain the hot water from them (or remove them from the dishwasher) and fill them to within 1/4 inch of the top with the jam. It is useful to have a funnel for this step. Wipe the top and inside rim of the jar with a clean, damp towel before covering the top with the lid. Screw on the bands.

5. With a sturdy pair of tongs, place the jars on a rack or a thick folded dish towel in the pot of boiling water. Process the jars with the water at a gentle boil for the time required in the recipe. If necessary, during processing, add more boiling water to keep the jars covered by 1 to 2 inches.

6. Remove the jars from the water bath and allow to cool. After 12 hours, check to see that the jars are sealed by presing on the center of the lid. It should remain concave.

7. Label and date the jars by writing on the lids with a permanent marker. Remove the screw bands to prevent them from rusting on, and store the jars for up to 1 year in a cool, dark place. The ideal temperature is 50° to 70°.

[emmjay]

Each of these recipes yields 7 to 8 half-pints of jam.

Blueberry-Raspberry Jam:
(this one was labeled as being a good first-time jam because it is easy and has consistently good results - I tasted it today and it came out great!)

4 cups fresh or frozen blueberries (about 2 pints)
4 cups fresh or frozen raspberries (about 2 pints)
5 1/2 cups sugar
2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 tablespoons water
1 (1.75-oz) package powdered pectin

1. Pick over the berries to remove any stems and any soft berries. Measure the sugar and set aside.

2. Combine the berries with the lemon juice, water and pectin in a 6-quart or larger heavy-bottomed pot. Place over high heat and bring to a hard boil, stirring often. Add the sugar and stir constantly until the mixture returns to a boil. Boil for exactly 1 minute.

3. Ladle the hot jam into clean, jot jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace, seal and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (20 minutes if at altitude).

Blackberry-Peach Jam:
(this one looks more complicated - I'm going to try it next weekend)

4 cups fresh or frozen blackberries (about 2 pints)
1 cup water
4 lbs peaches
6 cups sugar

1. Pick over the berries to remove any stems and soft berries. Combine the berries and water in a heavy-bottomed saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer until the blackberries are soft and falling apart, about 20 minutes.

2. Set a fine-mesh strainer over a bowl, and pass the berry mixture through it, pressing to extract as much pulp and juice as possible. Discard the seeds.

3. Bring a 4-quart or larger pot of water to a boil. Working with 4 or 5 peaches at a time, drop them into the boiling water and blanch for 40 - 50 seconds to loosen the skins. Transfer them with a slotted spoon to a bowl of cold water for another 30 seconds to cool them, and slip off the skins. Slice into eighths, discarding the pits.

4. Put the peach slices into a 6-quart or larger heavy-bottomed pot and mash them coarsely with a potato masher. Add the strained blackberry pulp and sugar to the peaches. Gently heat the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves. Then increase the heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Continue to cook over medium heat, stirring often, until the mixture reaches the jellying point.*

5. Ladle the hot jam into clean, jot jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace, seal and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (20 minutes if at altitude).

*Jellying point: Place a small spoonful of jam onto a cold saucer (you can put some saucers in the freezer when you start making the jam), and put the saucer back into the freezer for 1 minute. Take it out and draw your finger through the middle of the puddle of jam. If the surface wrinkles and the channel left by your finger stays divided, your jam is ready.

Strawberry-Honey Jam:
(I tasted this and it came out great - really intense, fresh strawberry flavor with just a taste of honey)

4 pints strawberries (about 8 cups)
1 (1.75 oz) package pectin
3 cups honey

1. Place the strawberries into a 6-quart or larger heavy-bottomed pot and mash them coarsely with a potato masher. Add the pectin to the mashed berries and bring to a boil. Bring to a vigorous boil, stirring frequently; boil for 1 minute. Remove from heat. Stir in honey.

2. Ladle the hot jam into clean, jot jars, leaving 1/4-inch headspace, seal and process in a boiling water bath for 10 minutes (20 minutes if at altitude).

[BryantRN]

I am definetly going to save those and use them for next year, I have too much on my plate for this year already!! Thanks for those recipes, YOU ROCK!

~Renee~

[jarm]

Anyone have a tried and true fudge recipe?

[beachlvr]

Anyone have a tried and true fudge recipe?

Me! I do!! Everyone begs me to make this for Christmas.

BAILEY'S IRISH CREAM FUDGE

In a very large bowl, combine:

2 pkgs milk chocolate chips, 12 oz. EACH
1 (12 oz.) pkg. semisweet chocolate chips
2 jars marshmallow cream, 7 oz. EACH
2 t. vanilla
2/3 c. Bailey's Irish Cream
2 c. chopped nuts -- optional

Set aside. Line a 10x15-inch pan with foil and spread lightly with: butter. In a saucepan, combine:

4 1/2 c. sugar
1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk
1/2 lb. butter

Bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook slowly, stirring constantly for 11 minutes. Pour milk mixture over the chocolate chip mixture. Stir slowly by hand to blend. (Do not use a mixer.) Pour into prepared pan. Chill until set.

Makes about 5 pounds of fudge.

[Esq.]

I am also interested in the recipe book. Does anyone have them bound somewhere? I think that I would like to do something like that if it could come out looking like a real book.

I am thinking of either the cookbook this year, different movie themed baskets (romatic movie, scary movie, comedy, classic movie, etc), or a set of 6 or so dipping oils, arranged in something cute.

Here are some things that I have made in the past:
garden stones (really easy, you just need space)
hot chocolate for 2 baskets (2 cute mugs, ghiradelli cocoa, marshmallows, and various ghiradelli chocolates)
hot dog basket for a friend who LOVES hot dogs
cds with a slightly raunchy theme (the name of the cd was "Figgy Pudding: Hope this Gets you sleighed"
Baskets with homemade sugar cookies, sugar cookie candles, and bell ornaments
bottles of wines with 2 glasses tied criss crossed at the neck

That is all that I can remember right now!

[PinkGirl]

I love the idea of using the chalkboard paint on coffee mugs. Are they still dishwasher safe?

[emmjay]

I am also interested in the recipe book. Does anyone have them bound somewhere? I think that I would like to do something like that if it could come out looking like a real book.
You can try something like My Publisher (http://www.mypublisher.com) to have it bound. It's technically for photos, but you can include text as well so you could do a photo/text combo with the recipes and some pictures of the dishes or just food photos.

[paiger]

Me! I do!! Everyone begs me to make this for Christmas.


How long would you say this lasts? I have a holiday party on Dec 10th could I still give it for presents throughout the rest of the month?

ETA: Missy ~ I have the same question for the Peppermint Bark and Butter Rum Caramels from the beginning of the thread.

[Missy2U]

Gosh - I'm not sure - the Peppermint Bark is supposed to last a week kept airtight - I couldn't say for sure because I made it the day before I gave it away last year. The Caramels I don't know either - I've only made them once, and they got eaten before a week. :o

Sorry I can't be more help...

[paiger]

Gosh - I'm not sure - the Peppermint Bark is supposed to last a week kept airtight - I couldn't say for sure because I made it the day before I gave it away last year. The Caramels I don't know either - I've only made them once, and they got eaten before a week. :o

Sorry I can't be more help...
That's okay! I haven't finalized everything I'm making, but I can just bring the leftovers to work instead of trying to save them. I'll be very popular! :D

[Zelda Von Yitz]

I made one of these for a friend of mine:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf26b3127cce954bc6d900c800000015108AcNGTVk0cNL

[Missy2U]

ardathpaige, I checked my recipes last night. The caramels will last for a week in an airtight container with parchment paper separating the layers. The peppermint bark will last for a week in the fridge in an airtight container.

Like I'd ever be able to let candy sit for a week... :D

Zelda - I LOVE that - can you give some more details? That's EXACTLY the kind of thing my various sisters and brothers in law would LOVE!

[Lizard]

I made one of these for a friend of mine:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf26b3127cce954bc6d900c800000015108AcNGTVk0cNL

That's adorable!! I made a couple of these trees last year... it's hard to see but there are Christmas lights stuck into the wood as well, so it lights up. They were quite easy and looked really nice when finished. Instead of doing all the decorative paint techniques, I bought small flat ornaments from Hobby Lobby and glued them all over. I really like the swirl tree though, and would like to try that sometime.

http://www.michaels.com/online/images/21362_lg.jpg

[beachlvr]

I was at Target yesterday and in the $1 section in the front of the store they have Christmas cellophane bags (for cookies/candy) and some other Christmas gift containers.

[PinkGirl]

I have become obsessed with using chalkboard paint to make gifts for Christmas. I am planning on making coffee mugs, herb pots, and painting plastic placemats for kids. I was at IKEA today and got the following: coffee mugs ($0.50 in blue and white), herb pots ($0.75 in white), and plastic placemats ($0.99 - striped). Just in case anyone else lives near IKEA and was wondering about prices or product selection...

[Zelda Von Yitz]

I just got done making this also:

Before:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf33b3127cce95600ba3d3d500000015108AcNGTVk0cNL

After:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf33b3127cce9560085893b700000015108AcNGTVk0cNL

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf33b3127cce95600841129e00000015108AcNGTVk0cNL

[Zelda Von Yitz]

That's adorable!! I made a couple of these trees last year... it's hard to see but there are Christmas lights stuck into the wood as well, so it lights up. They were quite easy and looked really nice when finished. Instead of doing all the decorative paint techniques, I bought small flat ornaments from Hobby Lobby and glued them all over. I really like the swirl tree though, and would like to try that sometime.

http://www.michaels.com/online/images/21362_lg.jpg

That swirl tree should be easy to make -- your best bet is felt tipped pens to add the detailing.

[Asha]

for those of you who posted about spice rubs, what is a spice rub?

[BethElena]

I just got done making this also:

Before:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf33b3127cce95600ba3d3d500000015108AcNGTVk0cNL

After:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf33b3127cce9560085893b700000015108AcNGTVk0cNL

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf33b3127cce95600841129e00000015108AcNGTVk0cNL

Cute, but the back of the Santa should say "Flyers" and he should be wearing orange. :D

[Katyanne]

I just got done making this also:

Before:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf33b3127cce95600ba3d3d500000015108AcNGTVk0cNL

After:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf33b3127cce9560085893b700000015108AcNGTVk0cNL

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf33b3127cce95600841129e00000015108AcNGTVk0cNL

That is so cool! Did you have a stensil or a pattern to follow or did you free hand it? Thats a really cool idea.. Actually it should say Red Wings ;) j/k

Katie

[nuhmah]

I took some pics once as a step by step... sorry these are so late in getting posted. I lost track of this thread, and was just thinking about it the other day.

I use 1 1/2 inch wired ribbon - I feel that the wires help hold the shape better. It takes roughly 1 1/2 - 2 yards of ribbon per egg.

I start with a long length of ribbon, and then split it down the middle - using pinking shears (this helps the ribbon to stop fraying)

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf37b3127cce9b2d2cffb77500000015108BYt2rVwyau

Next, cut them into 1" pieces - it is best to have some bigger.
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf37b3127cce9b2d2cf0364a00000016108BYt2rVwyau

Fold and press each piece into a triangle
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf37b3127cce9b2d2cfe364400000016108BYt2rVwyau

Take a styrofoam egg, and glue a small piece of the ribbon to the tip/end, and then put a pin right in the center - this helps in the long run. Once you get good at it, you can skip the pin
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf37b3127cce9b2d2cfbb77100000016108BYt2rVwyau
(I can't remember off the top of my head what size eggs I used, but there are many different sizes)

Take four triangles, and glue them to the egg (over the ribbon on the bottom) with the points facing in.
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf37b3127cce9b2d2cfc364600000016108BYt2rVwyau

[nuhmah]

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf37b3127cce9b2d2cf9b77300000015108BYt2rVwyau

Take four more pieces and do another layer - but this time, line up the points INBETWEEN the layer before it
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4cf37b3127cce9b2d2ce6365c00000015108BYt2rVwyau
(it is like a layered flower affect)

Keep with this pattern all the way up to the top. I don't suggest getting out of pattern, as it is hard to get back on. I have torn off many layers before just to get myself back on! At the top, I glued a sqaure piece of ribbon into a "bar" to put over the triangles.

Take some offray ribbon (I used two different colors) and make some small loops. Put a corsage pin through it, and place it into the top of the egg with a drop of glue to keep it in place. Before doing this, you should also add a hanging ribbon to the pin, just by looping it.

The final product looks like this
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4ce05b3127cce9b2d2bffd2e900000016108BYt2rVwyau

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4ce05b3127cce9b2d2bfc53da00000015108BYt2rVwyau

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b4ce05b3127cce9b2d2bfdd2eb00000016108BYt2rVwyau

I got this idea from a gift that was given to me - an aunt had made this about 15 years ago for a church bazaar, and had a few left over. She made it with patterned jacquard material instead of ribbon, but really like using the ribbon (she helped make some).

Here is the one she gave me
http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b3cc32b3127cce9b2d2b6d8b3500000036108BYt2rVwyau

[paiger]

Bump...

I'm planning on making some Infused EVO and Vinegar as gifts, and a few of the spice rubs in tins. I've got 2 friends to go in w/ me, so that will help w/ the start up cost.

However, I didn't decide to do this until thanksgiving, so I feel very behind! I have found a few sites w/ bottles (including the specialtybottles.com, craftsforcheap.com, etc). But, it would help me bunches to get them in town. Does anyone know the best place to find cool shaped bottles? I really like the wavy ones and half moons. I've checked out Big Lots, Walmart and Kmart with no luck.

Also, do any grocery stores sell spices like you can buy how much you want? I think the spice rubs will only be cost effective if I don't have to buy an entire bottle of the spices.

[villanelle75]

Don't know if you have one near you, but the Container store near us had a great selection of interestingly shaped glass bottles.

[paiger]

Don't know if you have one near you, but the Container store near us had a great selection of interestingly shaped glass bottles.
I think we do have a Container store, and I would have never remembered to look there. Thanks!

ETA: BOO! I went to their online site and NC is not listed as having a location. I know there is a container something store downtown, but I think it is just storage.

[kindermom]

ardathpaige -
Bottles: Have you checked craft stores for the bottles? Our JoAnn Fabrics has a great selection. Our Michaels is ok. Or you can check out Dollar stores. They are all a little different so you may need to go to several but that may help.

Spices: You can also get spices at the dollar store for ... $1. It is a great place to get the base seasongins (i.e., basil, cumin, garlic, onion). That may help offset the overall cost. I also get spices at a coop where I can buy it in whatever quantity I need.

[LittleFredPunkinHead]

Cost Plus World Market generally has a very good selection of containers... I think Pier One usually does too.

[kindermom]

I will be making beef jerky for my brother. I plan on putting it in a nice glass container that he can reuse.

So, somehow I need to find time to make truffles and beef jerky now! How many more weeks until Christmas? :eek:

[paiger]

ardathpaige -
Bottles: Have you checked craft stores for the bottles? Our JoAnn Fabrics has a great selection. Our Michaels is ok. Or you can check out Dollar stores. They are all a little different so you may need to go to several but that may help.

Spices: You can also get spices at the dollar store for ... $1. It is a great place to get the base seasongins (i.e., basil, cumin, garlic, onion). That may help offset the overall cost. I also get spices at a coop where I can buy it in whatever quantity I need.

Thanks! I was wondering if the craft stores had the bottles. I know we have Michael's and AC Moore, so I'll check about Jo Ann's. I am planning on heading to Pier 1 to check their selection out, if I can't find them elsewhere. From working there, I don't think they have a good seal on their jars and bottles. However, getting the pour spouts there is a good idea.

[MurphysLaw]

Paige - I would definitely check out Pier1. Don't forget about their clearance section too, you could find a steal! As far as the seals go...did you think about doing just a cork style top? I was thinking about something similar and needed to find containers so I have lots of websites written down...some of them had funky bottles(I think)...give me time to check & I'll get back to you. :)

[Sin Nombre]

Some of my family members are getting variations of these sleds I painted for Christmas. Each will have a different hand-painted design/scene. I also sold similar pieces at a recent crafts fair:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5ce11b3127cce94b17c528ecd00000025108QauGrlu0Z0

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf24b3127cce954659f7511600000026108QauGrlu0Z0

Some are getting wreaths or basket arrangements, some with painting, some without.

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf24b3127cce95465805117c00000025108QauGrlu0Z0

[paiger]

Cost Plus World Market generally has a very good selection of containers... I think Pier One usually does too.
I thought I'd been in a World Market before, but today was the first! It was amazing! My mom is now going to be giving us some canisters from there :D! They also had a great selection on bottles. They were like $5, but just to know that I can find them is such a relief. So far, WalMart, Target, Kmart, Michaels, Big Lots, JoAnn Fabrics, Pier 1 and AC Moore have all been a bust for what I am envisioning. So, I'm going to hit up BB&B tomorrow just to check, but I think World Market it going to be the best choice.

[Asha]

sinnombre - you are a talented artist!! i would love to get those as a gift. this one is my fave..

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cf24b3127cce954659f7511600000026108QauGrlu0Z0

[Sin Nombre]

Thanks so much, rebjc! I have recently gotten very interested in folk art, so that means a lot to me!

[paiger]

bumping again...

I have my bottles, recipes and am getting the rest of my ingredients today w/ a friend at a Bulk Store and International Food Market.

So ~ when finding recipes, I found information saying the infused EVOO should be kept in the fridge and could go bad in 2-6 months. What do y'all think? Have you heard this, too? B/c I thought they were going to be able to set the bottles on the counter, and I'm worried now.

food network:
Olive oil makes a good infusion base for some herbs, but tends to go rancid more quickly than other oils. Keep your infused oils refrigerated. Olive oil will last about a month; other oils will stay fresh for about two months.
DIY network:
It's good for about six months, although I've had some infused oils for over a year. If you use fresh fruit in the bottle, like kumquats or olives, after a while the mixture may get a little cloudy. It's still okay to use because the olive oil preserves the items that you've put into the bottle. It just won't look as pretty."

[hmdelf]

ardath-I made infused oils for my wedding favors. They lasted a long time out of the fridge. I think using fresh herbs and garlic will turn faster than dried.

[Sin Nombre]

Another handmade item, this one a Nantucket lightship basket for my Nantucket-obsessed sister:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cc02b3127cce96455d11563c00000016108QauGrlu0Z0

I painted the seascape first, then added the floral and shell decoration. This shows more detail of the painting:

http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5cc02b3127cce96455d3ad72700000016108QauGrlu0Z0

Hope she likes it!

[tinkerbelljenny]

Sin Nombre this is beautiful! You are very talented. Do you cut the wood too?



http://im1.shutterfly.com/procserv/47b5ce11b3127cce94b17c528ecd00000025108QauGrlu0Z0

[Sin Nombre]

Thanks so much! Unfortunately, I did not cut the wood shapes; I bought the sleds premade in the craft store, then stained and painted them.

I would like to learn the woodworking part of it - maybe that's my next project! :)

[marchfamily]

Anyone know where I can find some DIY snow globes? Similar to these:

http://image.orientaltrading.com/otcimg/4_2955.jpg?resize(250x250)

[isign]

Bump!

[hmdelf]

Ok- Isign started up. I just looked back on this last week. Has anyone started for this year yet? I need to be/would like to be all done by October 1st since baby #2 is due soon after that. I would like to just have to wrap and finish up for new baby after the birth.
I am doing themed fleece floor pillows (a spin-off of the blankets), stamped marbled coasters, etched glass hurricanes with holiday sayings, food baskets with canned goods from my garden and baked goods (will do baking before Xmas), bracelets for the ladies, and fleece sweatsuits, scarves & hats for the children we buy for. I am also going to construct my own tray that I will cork with wine corks DH & I have been saving from special moments and will try to make the newborns blocks. I made the calendars for the family last year and they were a HUGE hit... so I think I have to do them again.
I'd love more ideas since we have tons of people to buy for.

[philnikki]

I had to lol when I saw this thread pop back up on my user CP :D

I have had Christmas on the brain too, since we are planning on starting construction on our new house in July (to be completed by November1st) so I would like to kind of have a plan of action in place soon ;)

I did homemade candy baskets last year that were a HUGE hit! lemme see if I can find pics....

k, this is the only one I had in PB (the rest are in shuttefly).
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c139/philnikki/47b5cc07b3127cce9649cbfeadcf0000001.jpg

I got the baskets at Micheal's and the little cellophane bags from the $1 section at Target. I made Peanut Butter Buckeyes, Reindeer Food, White Chocolate Oreo Balls, Peppermint Bark, and Fudge. I can give anyone recipes if interested :)

[isign]

Recipes please!! I'm not working this year (hopefully it'll stay that way :D) and I'll have time for all of this. If I have to work, I plan on hiring a maid just so I can do all of this fun stuff :D

[vjel]

yes, yes recipes please! The white choc. oreo balls sound YUM!

[philnikki]

Ok Ok! :)


White Chocolate Oreo Balls

1 package of regular oreos
1 package of cream cheese
2 bags of white chocolate chips.
1 pack of toothpicks

1. Take entire back of oreos and mash up into little pieces. I usually do this by hand, but I am sure you can get creative with this! :)

2. In a large bowl begin to slowly mix the cream cheese with the oreos. Again, I usually do this by hand.

3. Roll them into 1 inch balls. Place on wax paper on a cookie sheet. place one toothpick in the center of each ball.

4. Once they are all rolled, place them in a freezer (or outside if its cold enough) for about 1 hour.

4. About 20 minutes before you can pull them out of the freezer, start melting the white chocolate chips in your double boiler, half a bag at a time.

5. Once you have plenty of chocolate completely melted pick up the ball by the toothpick and coat in the chocolate and place back on the wax paper.

6. One they are all dipped, place back in the freezer for a few hours. Usually by 2 hours later they are nice and firm.

7. I typically store them in the fridge once they are set, but I think you could keep them out for a day or two as well.

Peanut Butter Buckeyes

1 1/2 cups peanut butter
6 cups confectioners' sugar
1 cup butter, softened
1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
4 cups semisweet chocolate chips

1. Blend peanut butter, sugar, butter, and vanilla. (Dough will look dry).

2. Roll into 1 inch balls and place on a wax paper lined cookie sheet.

3. Put a toothpick into the top of each ball (to be used later as the handle for dipping) and chill in freezer until hard (1/2 hour).

4. Melt chocolate chips in the top of a double boiler (use very low heat, not much hotter than tap water or the chocolate will get grainy. This will take awhile).

5. Dip frozen peanut butter balls in chocolate holding onto the toothpick. Leave a small portion of peanut butter showing at the top to make them look like Buckeyes.

6. Put back on the wax paper lined cookie sheet and refrigerate 2 hours!

Reindeer Food

2 bags white chocolate chips
3 cups crispy rice cereal squares
3 cups crispy corn cereal squares
2 cups thin pretzel sticks
2 cups peanuts
1 (12 ounce) package of M&M's

1. In the top of a double boiler over simmering water, slowly melt the white chocolate.

2. In a large bowl, combine cereals, pretzels, peanuts and candy coated chocolates.

3. Slowly pour the chocolate over the cereal mixture and stir to evenly coat.

4. Spread the mixture onto wax paper and cool. Break into small pieces, store in an air-tight container and refrigerate to keep fresh.

Peppermint Bark

2 bags of white chocolate chips
1 package of candy canes
Mint Extract

1. In the top of a double boiler over simmering water, slowly melt the white chocolate.

2. Crush up the Candy Canes in to small pieces (again, get creative here! lol). Add those to the chocolate. keep stirring it all together)

3. Add 1 tsp of Mint Extract and stir.

4. Pour the mixture into a light greased (I use Pam) glass baking dish.

5. Place in the freezer for two hours or until set.

6. Break up the "Bark" into small pieces and enjoy!

I used Rachel Ray's 5 Minute Fudge Recipe...(I can look it up if you need me to)

Phew, I think that was all of em :)

[vjel]

thanks philnikki! Can't wait to try them out! :)

[jnettie]

Oh, I want to join, too!

I make cookies and treats every year for family and friends. Later, I'll post my favorite recipies! For years now, I've wanted to make a Yule Log cake...but never got around to it!

I really want to do some sewing projects this year for gifts, but know I'll have to start early...and get my serger fixed! I killed it a few years ago and haven't got around to taking it in for servicing. Anyhow, I have some patterns for pillow covers and remote control organizers that hang over a sofa arm that I'd like to make.

McCall's # 8260 for closet, car, and remote organizers and Simplicity # 9243 for pillow covers and shams.

[BryantRN]

I am so glad that this thread has started getting action again!! I was just thinking the other day that it is a good time to start planning my DIY gifts for the holidays. Thanks for the great recipies.


~Renee~

[endymion411]

those recipes look delicious! looks like i'll be making myself some "celebrating the summer" goodies! :D

[Katy]

Oh man, I can't believe you guys are starting up already!!!

[isign]

Lol I just finished my gift list & my christmas card list. Now I have to decide what I'm going to make for christmas cards :)

[jnettie]

So, I was just over at OrganizedChristmas.com, as suggested someplace in this thread, and they have some great recipies for chocolate coverd coffee spoons. I just have a question, though.

Candy Cane Chocolate Spoons (http://organizedchristmas.com/recipe29.html)

One of the steps is to put candy in a ziplock baggie, close it, and microwave until the candy is melted. Then you cut a bit of the corner off and use the baggie as a sort of decorating bag to put stripes on the spoon.

Now, it's my understanding that microwaving plastic is bad, especially when you cover food with plastic!

Is there something I could subsitute? Or maybe a disposable wax paper decorating thingy (I can't think what it's called right now...you know, the things that make the pretty frosting decorations on cakes!) that one could microwave with candy inside then use to decorate the spoons?

[isign]

Other than it melting, why is plastic bad to microwave?

I always do candy cane sticks (which can be hard to find) dipped in chocolate with sprinkles on top. You can stick those in hot chocolate and it's so yummy.

[SunnyAB]

Yes, you could still nuke the chocolate in a bowl, then pour into a wax paper 'cone', or pastry/icing bag and decorate. (I think they suggested nuking it directly in the plastic bag was for convenience - I'm not sure if or how dangerous it is)

[jnettie]

I've heard that microwaving plastics that aren't designed for the microwave can release toxic gasses. Especially things like plastic wrap or baggies. 'Course, this could be urban legend, but I'd rather not risk it, eh?

Pastry/icing bag! That's what I was thinking of!

ETA...did a little looking on the internet. Seems that while certain types of microwave save plastic wraps are ok, according to the FDA:
Never use thin plastic storage bags, brown paper or plastic grocery bags, newspapers, or aluminum foil in the microwave oven.

FDA Food Safty Website (http://www.foodsafety.gov/~fsg/fs-mwave.html)

[Medako]

Each year I make food/goodies baskets and this year I'm ready to try some new recipes. I'm slooooowly starting to organize myself (good thing it's still early). What I'm wondering is if anyone has a recipe for something like a pumpkin roll that they've tried with success.

I'm also thinking of making these photo memory boards for the young girls.
http://organizedchristmas.com/images/g_memobd1.jpg

[endymion411]

Each year I make food/goodies baskets and this year I'm ready to try some new recipes. I'm slooooowly starting to organize myself (good thing it's still early). What I'm wondering is if anyone has a recipe for something like a pumpkin roll that they've tried with success.

I'm also thinking of making these photo memory boards for the young girls.
http://organizedchristmas.com/images/g_memobd1.jpg

i've never made a pumpkin roll, but have you tried the cooking boards? i remember there was a whole thread on pumpkin, and i'm sure there was at least one recipe for a pumpkin roll.

eta, i bumped up the pumpkin thread

[Medako]

I'm looking for some new goodies for the candy/treat baskets. I haven't done the oreo balls or buckeyes, so I'm planning on making those. What are some things that have gone over well, are easy to make a few weeks in advance and package well?

In the past I've made:

peanut brittle
peppermint bark
pecans in almond bark
cinnamon hard candy
chex mix
shortbread cookies
sugar cookies
chocolate covered pretzels
toffee
apple & banana breads
fudge
divinity



***thanks for bumping the pumpkin thread

[twainny]

philnikki makes the oreo balls sound easier than they are. They are a pain in the butt to dip. But I don't make mine 1 inch (that is HUGE) I make them MUCH smaller. I don't make them offen, and they go FAST when I do make them. (when I told my DH that someone makes 1 inch balls he said "HOLD SH!T")

[jnettie]

I'm also thinking of making these photo memory boards for the young girls.
I made one for our place a few years ago. I really like it! Simple to make, too.

The huge procrastinator that I am, I hope to start working on gift stuff in August. I think I'll look into make some toys for the kids in my family, too. A few years ago, I made these cute little dolls that were a huge hit! I'll see if I can find the directions online, because I got it out of a magazine, and I'm not so sure I have the directions anymore.

[hmdelf]

I just finished a memory board for my sister for xmas.
I am working on a train letter set for my nephew. I purchased the letters and train pieces (all wooden) at AC moore and now I am painting them. I will post a pic when they are done.
Next I am going to start fleece pillow for some of the children.
After that I am on to decorative marble coasters.
This year I am trying to tackle one project at a time. I tend to start to mucha nd then can't finish. Hopefully I can cure this issue.

I made one for our place a few years ago. I really like it! Simple to make, too.

The huge procrastinator that I am, I hope to start working on gift stuff in August. I think I'll look into make some toys for the kids in my family, too. A few years ago, I made these cute little dolls that were a huge hit! I'll see if I can find the directions online, because I got it out of a magazine, and I'm not so sure I have the directions anymore.

If you can find the directions/a picture/ or link... please post. I'd love to make some dolls for the little ladies in my life!

[vjel]

philnikki makes the oreo balls sound easier than they are. They are a pain in the butt to dip. But I don't make mine 1 inch (that is HUGE) I make them MUCH smaller. I don't make them offen, and they go FAST when I do make them. (when I told my DH that someone makes 1 inch balls he said "HOLD SH!T")


LOL. these are on the top of my list to make for Xmas. Just wondering why they are a pain to dip and if there's a better way to dip to make them easier?

[philnikki]

vjel and twainny Mine are about an inch in diameter. We never seemed to think that there was a problem with them???? And they were super easy for me to make. Didn't think I was intentionally misleading anyone by posting a recipe...

And as far as dipping goes, when they are still soft, I insert a toothpick into the top of each one and then place them in the freezer until they are firm. That toothpick usually stays put and I just dip them into the chocolate by holding on the the end of the toothpick.

Good luck!

[jnettie]

If you can find the directions/a picture/ or link... please post. I'd love to make some dolls for the little ladies in my life!
I have looked all over for it, and can't seem to locate the directions! You don't even need a lot for them...I believe I used scrap fabric. But I'm still looking....

[hmdelf]

jnetie thanks!!

I have another question. How do you space the memo boards so the ribbon is even. I am sure it's very easy and I'm overlooking the obvious.


BTW_ One more craft project added to my list... Coozies! For a little something extra, DS and my nephew will decorate foam coozies for all of the guys in our family. My son is young, so he'll add the foam sticker shapes , but my nephew is 7 so I'll spell the guys names and he can affix the letter stickers.
Anyone who is interested, coozies are on sale 2 for $1.00 this week at Michael's.

[Medako]

here are the instructions I found for the memory boards....

http://organizedchristmas.com/article83.html

[hmdelf]

Thanks Medako
I have those instructions as well. It just seems like my ribbons aren't spaced evenly. I think I'll just measure and mark with a ruler before stapling. I appreciate the help though~!

[jnettie]

That's pretty much what I was going to say... the ruler and a pencil are your best friends!

[Squee]

Philnikki Thanks for the awesome idea for presents! When your oreo ball recipe calls for 1 package of cream cheese how much is that exactly? Sorry just over here in NZ our package sizes are different so I need to know how many oz yoyu use so I can convvert it to grams. Thanks!!!

[philnikki]

Squee - Thanks for the compliments! Everyone here really loved them! I don't think I can get away with not doing them again this year! ha ha

1 package of cream cheese in the US is 8 ounces (please correct me someone if I am completely off base, but I am about 95% sure this is the case) :) Good luck!

[Squee]

Thanks! Will give them a try sometime beofre christmas to see if i can pull them off.

[jnettie]

I was just searching for craft patterns online, and found a free one on McCall's site for a cloth book or journal cover:

Free Journal Cover (http://www.mccallpattern.com/freeproject/index.htm)

I had to put in my email dress to get this, so if it doesn't show up, either let me know or you'll have to do the same.

My mom also made some super cute hot dogs out of felt for my cousins' kids this christmas! I took some pictures and will post as soon as I upload them.

[Fenway]

I'm glad I'm not the only one with Christmas on the brain!! I think I may have to make a couple of those memory boards. They're so cute!

I'm doing quilts this year. Here is the one for MIL:
http://i27.photobucket.com/albums/c178/mimgrrl/IMG_1033.jpg

I really don't like the colors, but it will match her living room. I can't wait to make one in colors I actually like! I've done all the fun work on this one. Now I have to stuff it and back it. I hate that part, so it has been sitting unfinished for 3 weeks. I won't let myself start a new one until this one is done.

[jnettie]

Here's the hot dogs. The pics aren't great. But ain't they cute!

http://homepage.mac.com/jaultzlook/.Pictures/Hot%20Dog1.jpg


http://homepage.mac.com/jaultzlook/.Pictures/Hot%20Dog2.jpg

[jennylou]

bumping for new ideas. :)

[cartersmommy]

I am needing some cute ideas, that are fairly inexpensive (maybe between $15-$20) that I can make for daycare providers.... any ideas would be greatly appreciated!! :) :)

[Foley42]

I'm wanting to make a lot of presents this year. I like the marble magnets, themed gift baskets, and memory board (for my preggo cousin for the nursery). Woooo hoooo, I'm excited about making stuff, bring on the ideas :)

[emmjay]

I need to figure out what I'm doing this year - if anyone wants food-related ideas, I posted a bunch on an earlier page of this thread last year! I have a new baby so I don't have enough time to do everything again. Just a couple of the favorites (some jam, and spice cookies). I might also do recipe books - I meant to do them last year and never got around to it. I'm making one for BIL's fiancee for their wedding at Thanksgiving, so if it goes well I might make more for gifts.

I need to think of something to do for our relatives that involves the baby - maybe something with handprints? I'll have to figure something out. I am also considering making a photo book from our trip around the world (which ended in 2004, so I am REALLY behind on that one!), but I need to think of some other stuff.

Last year my sister made these great notecards - she started with plain white cards (or maybe it was cardstock and she cut/folded it), then she glued decorative papers and embellishments onto the fronts. They were great, and I used every one. Some said "baby" for showers, some were for thank you notes, some had themes for different seasons - she's doing them again so I won't be making any, but I thought I'd throw that out there for anyone else who might be interested.

[Foley42]

Found this idea on make-stuff.com

Tiny clay pots make cute bells for Christmas tree ornaments!

You will need:

* Several tiny (1.5 - 2.0 inch) teracotta clay pots.
* Tiny ringers to go inside.
* Acrylic paints or patio paints
* Ribbon
* Tinsel or lace

Turn the pots upside down and paint them Christmas-y colors with a very fine brush. Paint Christmas tree's, or holly, or snowman,...you get the idea. Then take a piece or ribbon and affix the ringers inside with a loop to suspend from the tree coming out of the bottom hole in the pot. To cover the knot, tie on a bit of tinsel or lace.

This craft is really good because you can personalize each ornament.

[Squee]

I love that idea Foley Im definatly going to give it a go if I can find some pots!
thanks.

[silvergrey]

I used the instructions (http://www.notmartha.org/tomake/marblemagnets.html) that BooeyJ2 posted in this thread last year to make marble magnets.

http://silvergrey.photosite.com/~photos/tn/778_348.ts1137224187021.jpg

(I used 3/4" plastic cabochons (http://www.tapplastics.com/shop/product.php?pid=139&) instead of flat glass marbles.)

I also made keyboard magnets by popping letters off an old keyboard, filling in the back with spackle, and gluing on a magnet.

http://silvergrey.photosite.com/~photos/tn/777_348.ts1137224265464.jpg

After I found some magnetic notepads and pencils at Michael's for like 50 cents each, I made little gift bags with the "magnet" theme. It was a really fun project, and didn't cost much at all.

[JennW]

Subscribing.

This is a great thread. My DH’s family we have all decided to do homemade gifts this year. They are all very creative and there are lots of us. I’m looking forward to making gifts. I’m going to do bath salts for one, an indoor herb garden for another (making and decorating the planter), and for a few others cross stitch, drawing, painting, photograph collage. I’m not sure on the others but figure this is a great thread to read when I have some time!

Great ideas, ladies!:)

[Esq.]

JennW- would you mind posting the instructions for bath salts? That sounds like a great gift!

[JennW]

Sure! I have to find the "recipe" I have. I have a good one for soap and bubble bath, too.:) I thought it would be a great basket idea. As soon as I find it (we just moved so it may be a little while), I'll post it. I also saw a bath fizzie kit at Micheal's Craft Store.

[nylons73]

I am needing some cute ideas, that are fairly inexpensive (maybe between $15-$20) that I can make for daycare providers.... any ideas would be greatly appreciated!! :) :)


As a preschool teacher, I am always washing my hands. (and I mean Always! heh heh) I would think that any teacher would love some scented hand lotion or nice soaps seeing that the hand washing habit is probably common to preschooler providers everywhere. :) btw: I know that this idea is not DIY, but maybe it will help you out? And...bless you for giving your daycare providers gifts! :)

[Heidi]

I am thinking about my Christmas projects now - and my major project idea is fabric postcards.

These are postcards made from fabric using techniques such as applique (sp?) and of course sewing! They are supposed to be able to go through regular mail (I have to test this before giving them as gifts!) I am thinking I could bundle a few together for each person and put it in nice packaging with fabric pens (to write their message with on the back) and stamps. Sort of a stationary (or stationery - I am bad with that word!) set with a twist.
Does this sound good to anyone, would you like to receive something like this? Can you think of anything else I should include?

here is a link to a fabric postcard site in case you are interested in them:
http://www.art2mail.com/gallery.html

[EJH]

Glad to see this thread! I think I'd like to focus on homemade gifts this year. At the very least for my parents and the ILs. For both sets of parents I'm thinking of something with DD's picture...perhaps a collage? I'd like to do something unique though...

I'm looking for budget friendly gifts!! Will have to take a peek back through the thread.

Erin

[ash313]

We are going to make floozie coozies. My Aunts and cousins are all getting together and decorating our own. We are doing this and having a little party instead of giving each other gifts.

I am trying to find instructions on how to make an angel out of different breads/dough. It is the cutest thing that I got one year for Christmas and I would love to know how to make it.

[JennW]

I have tried to find that bath fizzie recipe but I can't! Sorry for promising it to whoever asked. They do have a kit for it at the craft store, though.

I bought a few frames today that I am going to paint/decorate and give as gifts. I figure I'll put a nice photo in them and give them out!

[ash313]

does anyone have the instructions for the jingle bell wreaths? It was on one of the WC Christmas threads some years ago. Just thought I'd check to see if anyone still had the instructions.

[JennW]

For those that do painted glass – can you use regular acrylic paint? I’m doing wine glasses.

[FutureLamGirl03]

This thread is great!! i can't wait to try and make the oreo balls.

thanks

[happy1nuv]

Question... This isn't really a do-it-yourself gift, but last year I gave my bil/sil a lobstergram (didn't actually LOOK at the catalog) BUT, their prices are CRAZY... $100.00 gets you 2 ONE-POUND lobsters... I figure I can make them a really nice lobster-ish gift basket and give them a gift cert to their supermarket and they can pick up their own lobsters... BUT, what would you put with it? I like the idea of a few "in a jar" things that could be sides.. maybe some sort of rolls/bread?

My second idea for them (that I'll do for mil if not) is an "I don't want to cook tonight" basket with a bunch of "in a jar" type things for soups/chili/bread/rolls/etc. I'd like at least three complete dinners with desserts (cookies, brownies, etc.) I saw a soup recipe and the brownies/cookies earlier in this thread...anyone else got any other good jar ideas?

So, I guess I'm looking for ideas AND recipes!

[Chris~n~Jen]

For those that do painted glass – can you use regular acrylic paint? I’m doing wine glasses.


I'd like to know about this as well. I'm thinking of painting wine glasses as well. :)

[endymion411]

I'd like to know about this as well. I'm thinking of painting wine glasses as well. :)

i think if you use regular acrylic, it will just scratch off. there are specially formulated paints for painting on glass that have some way of keeping the paint on the glass

[looch]

There's paint made especially for use on glass and ceramic. Once you have painted the glasses or plates, you bake them in a low oven.

[JennW]

Can you bake wine glasses?

[1_mommy]

JINGLE BELL WREATH

Materials:

wire
pliers
jingle bells
ribbon or bows
frame


Steps:


Form heavy-gauge wire or a coat hanger into any desired shape.
Thread jingle bells onto the wire.
When full, twist the two ends together.
Take ribbon and weave it through the bells, tying it off at the place where the wire is twisted together to cover mechanics.
If making a heavy wreath, spray paint a frame the same color, and attach the wreath onto that with smaller gauge wire.
Add a ribbon to the top to hang it.

[Missy2U]

Can you bake wine glasses?

There's glass paint you don't have to bake. (http://www.michaels.com/art/online/search?type=0&keywords=glass+paint&pageNumber=2) Just check the craft stores - they'll have it.

My husband has used it on a bunch of different projects.

[ash313]

1 mommy Thanks!

[taraw]

...I bought a few frames today that I am going to paint/decorate and give as gifts. I figure I'll put a nice photo in them and give them out!

I have thought about painting frames with chalkboard paint. I think it would be especially cute for pictures of kids. You could write something like "I Love You, Grandma!" on the top and then put the age on the bottom, that way when new pictures are put in the frame, the age/date/comment could be updated.

[JamBray]

Question... This isn't really a do-it-yourself gift, but last year I gave my bil/sil a lobstergram (didn't actually LOOK at the catalog) BUT, their prices are CRAZY... $100.00 gets you 2 ONE-POUND lobsters... I figure I can make them a really nice lobster-ish gift basket and give them a gift cert to their supermarket and they can pick up their own lobsters... BUT, what would you put with it? I like the idea of a few "in a jar" things that could be sides.. maybe some sort of rolls/bread?

My second idea for them (that I'll do for mil if not) is an "I don't want to cook tonight" basket with a bunch of "in a jar" type things for soups/chili/bread/rolls/etc. I'd like at least three complete dinners with desserts (cookies, brownies, etc.) I saw a soup recipe and the brownies/cookies earlier in this thread...anyone else got any other good jar ideas?

So, I guess I'm looking for ideas AND recipes!
For the lobster basket what about bibs and claw crackers? Also, cards for lobster-type recipes (pie, bisque, etc.). That's all I can think of right now.

For more jar recipes, what about a wild rice or dried veggie combo for the side dish?

[Foley42]

I don't understand the whole jar recipe thing...can someone explain it please.

[JennW]

Another gift I am doing is for my MIL. I bought her a really pretty cookie jar and I am going to bake her favorite cookies to fill it with.:D

[katmg]

I don't understand the whole jar recipe thing...can someone explain it please.

There are recipes for mixes that can be put in a jar and then the rest of the recipe attached to the jar - things like cookies, soups, dips, etc. In the jar are all the dry ingredients - usually layered attractively - and then a list of the wet ingredients that need to be added.

[Foley42]

There are recipes for mixes that can be put in a jar and then the rest of the recipe attached to the jar - things like cookies, soups, dips, etc. In the jar are all the dry ingredients - usually layered attractively - and then a list of the wet ingredients that need to be added.

That is sort of what I was thinking. Thanks katmg!

[emmjay]

For those of you who are making food gifts, I found some websites that had nice packaging at reasonable prices - Snowdrift Farms (http://www.snowdriftfarm.com)and Candyland Crafts (http://www.candylandcrafts.com). I ordered cellophane bags, candy wrappers, boxes, and coffee-style bags (with the tops that fold down). That way I don't have to mess with tins and everything will be in Christmas packaging.

[BryantRN]

Martha Stewart has a special homemade gifts magazine that is on the shelves now. I purchased it the other day and found some great ideas. The mag also has the recipes for all the items that are featured.

~Renee~

[JennW]

I am making an indoor herb garden for BIL. I painted a small planter with a personalized message and will include potting soil and seeds.:D

[Missy2U]

Martha Stewart has a special homemade gifts magazine that is on the shelves now. I purchased it the other day and found some great ideas. The mag also has the recipes for all the items that are featured.

~Renee~

Thanks, Renee - I've been waiting on this issue!! Will head to the store this evening!

[Foley42]

Martha Stewart has a special homemade gifts magazine that is on the shelves now. I purchased it the other day and found some great ideas. The mag also has the recipes for all the items that are featured.

~Renee~
Went to the grocery store tonight to buy it and they didn't have it, boo.

[BryantRN]

If you have a Costco membership it is much cheaper to buy it there. I was so disappointed last night when I saw it there for a little over $4 and I paid $6.99!!!!!

~Renee~

[emmjay]

I just bought the Martha Stewart magazine - I'm looking forward to finding some ideas!

I have two ideas for my niece (3.5 years old) - first one is that I got a plain frame from Michaels. I'm going to paint it and use painted wooden letters to spell COUSINS, then put in a picture of her with my son. The other is that I'm having a pink bucket personalized with her name, then filling it up with all kinds of craft stuff - clay, glitter, markers, paper, felt, pipe cleaners, feathers, beads, etc. The bucket is from PBK.
http://a293.g.akamai.net/7/293/5910/0010/image2.styleinamerica.com/pkecimgs/images/products/200642/0009/img87m.jpg

[Foley42]

HGTV Holiday Ideas (http://www.hgtv.com/hgtv/pac_ctnt_988/text/0,,HGTV_22056_53732,00.html) :)

[Foley42]

This is bird bath from a clay pot. I think it would be cute for your children to paint this...maybe for an avid gardner :)

http://static.flickr.com/122/296033139_0c0a0e0a47.jpg?v=0

[L'il Bit]

Ooh, I like that bird bath idea! How great for DD to paint that to give to her grandma!

[emmjay]

I have the Martha Stewart magazine about homemade gifts and I made the pomegranate jelly tonight. It is REALLY tasty! And it is a beautiful red color, just like the picture in the magazine.

I also got a book from the library about making gifts - it was crazy. Things like making a wine rack with advanced woodworking skills, or this ridiculously elaborate hand-embroidered baby's dress. Um, if I knew how to do that kind of stuff, I wouldn't have to get a book!! :p I'll stick to the easy food recipes, thanks! Actually I'm getting another book from the library about making bath and beauty products so if there are any good/easy ones I'll post them here.

[Missy2U]

emmjay, when you go to the Library, check out Martha Stewart's holiday/Christmas books - I've done a ton of things from them and the recipes/crafts are always a hit - and not too hard!

[emmjay]

Missy - thanks! I just put a few on hold to pick up later in the week.

[Squee]

Squee - Thanks for the compliments! Everyone here really loved them! I don't think I can get away with not doing them again this year! ha ha

1 package of cream cheese in the US is 8 ounces (please correct me someone if I am completely off base, but I am about 95% sure this is the case) :) Good luck!

Another question about the oreo balls i didnt think to ask. What is the size of a package of oreos over there? Thanks again..I have all the ingredients to do a test run now but just not too sure on how many oreos to use!

[Medako]

I was just inspired while watching Rachael Ray's new show. A guest had the idea to etch a glass casserole dish to personalize it.

Here is the link (http://www.rachaelrayshow.com/?q=video/personalized-casserole-dish) to the clip on today's show.

I think I'll make one for my mom & MIL....I can't wait to get started & see how they turn out!

[Foley42]

I'll attempt to explain how to make a no sew customized fleece blanket. Hope it makes sense:o

Cut 2 pieces of the same size fleece fabric. Put the 2 sheets so they match up together. Cut a few inches into the fabric (slits) every few inches (maybe 6-8 inches). Once you cut around the whole blanket then go back and tie (either single or double knot) the two slits (from the different blankets). And there you have it...a very simple blanket. I think this would be good for sports fans with their favorite team. You could even do 2 different patterns so it would be 'reversable.'

*if you single knot it then you can untie it...put it (2 seperate pieces) into the washer...then retie it when it's dry.

[JennW]

My MIL made DS a blanket like Foley described when he was born. It is really nice and warm. A truly great gift. I was wondering how she made it...

[jarm]

Does anyone have the Oreo Ball recipe? I can't find it anywhere! TIA!

[SingleWhiteFemale]

Does anyone have the Oreo Ball recipe? I can't find it anywhere! TIA!Do you mean the Easy OREO Truffle (http://kraftfoods.com/main.aspx?s=recipe&m=recipe/knet_recipe_display&u1=keyword&u2=oreo%20truffles&u3=**1*1&wf=9&recipe_id=95085) recipe? I made it a few days ago, my only suggestion is that you really don't need that much dipping chocolate! No joke, I had over 40 truffle balls but still ended up throwing out half of the chocolate. The Baker's semi-sweet chocolate has 8 individually wrapped ounces inside, so I'd melt one box, and if you need more as you go, melt a couple more, or else you'll be tossing a lot of chocolate out.Another question about the oreo balls i didnt think to ask. What is the size of a package of oreos over there?They're a pound :)

[NotDesperate]

I am crocheting scraves for my sisters and mom this year. I'm finally good enough to do that ;)

I'm also making homemade candy.

Nothing too special!

[JubileeDawning]

I made personalized ornaments...

They have tons of different shapes and sizes of clear glass ornaments at Michael's for 50% off.. I got the round "flat" ones this year.

I painted them with paint pens. SO easy.

For mine, I painted a christmas star on one side and wrote scripture on the other: "For to us a child is born, unto us a son is given." -Isaiah 9:6. When you look at the verse, you can see the star in the background.

Obviously, you don't have to put scripture. I've done names, quotes, sports teams.. whatever.

I put glitter inside (just pull the top part out gently) and tied with a red satin ribbon. You can do all sorts of color combinations. I've found the extra fine paint pens to work best for writing, and opaque glitter does best (if you blow in the ornament, your breath makes the glitter stick to the sides. With colored glitter, you cant see the paint as well. learned the hard way!)

Everyone has loved these in years past, and they're a lot of fun to make.

[BerBer]

My MIL gave me this idea over this weekend at Thanksgiving.

I'm planting paper white bulbs in rocks, I'm using the glass vases we used for our wedding as the planters. I'll tie a nice holiday ribbion around the vases and pass them out. I have probably 300 glass vases from my wedding just taking up space in my garage and I'm so excited to get ride of a few!

[jarm]

Here's a cute idea!

Take a light bulb, paint it white. Add a mouth, buttons, a hat and a scarf and you have a snowman. They're really cute! I guess you could paint them to whatever you want them to be. A penguin would be really cute!

[Chris~n~Jen]

My MIL gave me this idea over this weekend at Thanksgiving.

I'm planting paper white bulbs in rocks, I'm using the glass vases we used for our wedding as the planters. I'll tie a nice holiday ribbion around the vases and pass them out. I have probably 300 glass vases from my wedding just taking up space in my garage and I'm so excited to get ride of a few!

Can you explain this a bit more?? I have a ton of left over vases also. I guess I don't know what "paper white bulbs" are???? :confused:

[vjel]

Can you explain this a bit more?? I have a ton of left over vases also. I guess I don't know what "paper white bulbs" are???? :confused:

here's a link that explains how to force the bulbs (http://nga-gardenshop.stores.yahoo.net/forcingpaperwhites.html)
it's really easy and a great idea! i wouldn't plant too many bulbs though, maybe 4-5 per container? one year i did this (for myself, not as a gift), my flowers bloomed nicely (they smell great) but the spikes got pretty tall and they all toppled over. i also think b/c of where i placed them, they were leaning towards the sunlight + the tall spikes made them fall.

[BerBer]

here's a link that explains how to force the bulbs
it's really easy and a great idea! i wouldn't plant too many bulbs though, maybe 4-5 per container? one year i did this (for myself, not as a gift), my flowers bloomed nicely (they smell great) but the spikes got pretty tall and they all toppled over. i also think b/c of where i placed them, they were leaning towards the sunlight + the tall spikes made them fall.

Thanks Vjel for posting the explanation, I couldn't find good link.

One thing to think about when when the stalks get to tall is tie them together with a piece of string so they don't tip, or use a tall glass vase that way they will stay standing with support from the sides of the vase.

[shopaholic]

I'll attempt to explain how to make a no sew customized fleece blanket. Hope it makes sense:o

Cut 2 pieces of the same size fleece fabric. Put the 2 sheets so they match up together. Cut a few inches into the fabric (slits) every few inches (maybe 6-8 inches). Once you cut around the whole blanket then go back and tie (either single or double knot) the two slits (from the different blankets). And there you have it...a very simple blanket. I think this would be good for sports fans with their favorite team. You could even do 2 different patterns so it would be 'reversable.'

*if you single knot it then you can untie it...put it (2 seperate pieces) into the washer...then retie it when it's dry.

I did a google search and here is one website that came up
http://www.exploringwomanhood.com/homelife/ideas/pom-jan03.htm

Also, I just throw mine in the wash and it doesn't fall apart. A few years ago I made everyone a blanket.....hard work but they turned out great.

[Foley42]

I did a google search and here is one website that came up
http://www.exploringwomanhood.com/homelife/ideas/pom-jan03.htm
Thanks for the link! Those directions are much better :)

[lovin'it]

I will be making I spy bags for my nieces and nephews.

On page 1, below, are the directions for it:

http://ce.byu.edu/cw/womensconference/archive/2004/pdf/I_spy_bag1.pdf

Here is how they look: (sorry for the huge pictures...I just wanted to give ya'll a good look at them!)

http://static.flickr.com/117/294275747_818e8d3381_b.jpg

http://static.flickr.com/115/294275752_4ba8d3f8e9_b.jpg

[Foley42]

lovin'it: OMG the spy kit is so cute!:)

[lil_nance]

I just found this site and had to share. Cute ideas for kids to parents or grandparents using hand and footprints.

http://www.dltk-kids.com/type/handprint.htm

[ash313]

I am going to make a handprint reindeer for our Christmas cards. DS's daycare did it last year and it was really cute. Last year it was a wreath made out of his handprints. They made the cards and return address labels too.

[lovin'it]

*deleted*

[KGif]

May I ask a most likely stupid question about the oreo truffles? Do yu use the entire cookie for those? Meaning do you just throw the entire cookie into the food processor OR do yous use just the chocolate cookie WITHOUT the cream?

[SingleWhiteFemale]

May I ask a most likely stupid question about the oreo truffles? Do yu use the entire cookie for those? Meaning do you just throw the entire cookie into the food processor OR do yous use just the chocolate cookie WITHOUT the cream?Entire cookie, cream filling and all :)

[Squee]

Do you mean the Easy OREO Truffle (http://kraftfoods.com/main.aspx?s=recipe&m=recipe/knet_recipe_display&u1=keyword&u2=oreo%20truffles&u3=**1*1&wf=9&recipe_id=95085) recipe? I made it a few days ago, my only suggestion is that you really don't need that much dipping chocolate! No joke, I had over 40 truffle balls but still ended up throwing out half of the chocolate. The Baker's semi-sweet chocolate has 8 individually wrapped ounces inside, so I'd melt one box, and if you need more as you go, melt a couple more, or else you'll be tossing a lot of chocolate out.They're a pound :)

Thanks for that! The recipe Im planning on making is the White choc oreo balls. Im tempted to try that one aswell but might have to leave it for next year. Dont wanna bite off more than I can chew!:)

[Squee]

Here are the recipes Im making for my baskets we're giving this year.

they will have the following in them, Ill highlight the ones I have put recipes in. The recipes are collected for martha or the lovely ladies on this board!

Russian fudge
Peppermint bark
Gingerbread men
Sherbert lollypops
Candy canes
Stained glass tree cookies
White Chocolate Oreo Balls

STAINED GLASS TREES
Makes about 3 dozen
2cups sifted all-purpose flour, plus more for work surface

1/4teaspoon coarse salt
1/2teaspoon baking powder
1/2cup (1 stick) unsalted butter
1cup sugar
1large egg
1teaspoon pure vanilla extract
7ounces (about 30) assorted clear colored hard candies, such as Jolly Rancher, colors separated and finely chopped

1. Sift together flour, salt, and baking powder into a large bowl; set aside.

2. Put butter and sugar in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the paddle attachment; mix on medium speed until pale and fluffy, about 3 minutes. Add egg; mix until smooth, 1 minute. Reduce speed to low. Add flour mixture, and mix until combined. Stir in vanilla.Wrap dough in plastic, and refrigerate until cold, about 45 minutes.

3. Preheat oven to 325° with racks in upper and lower thirds. Roll out chilled dough on a well-floured surface to a little more than 1/8 inch thick. Cut out shapes using a 5-inch tree-shape cookie cutter. Using a metal spatula, space 2 inches apart on baking sheets lined with parchment paper. Using the tip of a paring knife, make a triangular cutout in center of each cookie for candy filling. Reroll scraps, and cut.

4. Sprinkle candy in a single layer in hole of each cookie, avoiding edges of triangle. Refrigerate until dough is firm, about 15 minutes.

5. Bake cookies until candy has melted and completely filled cutout and cookie edges are just starting to turn pale golden brown, 11 to 12 minutes. Do not let the cookies brown, or the candy centers may become bubbly. Let cool completely on sheets on wire racks. Use a metal spatula to remove cookies from parchment. Cookies can be stored in airtight containers at room temperature up to 5 days.

PEPPERMINT BARK
Makes 36 pieces
One(7.5-ounce) package hard peppermint candies, unwrapped
1 pound white chocolate, chopped (do not use chips)
2cups puffed rice cereal
Nonstick cooking spray

1. Spray a rimmed baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray; line with waxed paper. Place candies in a doubled resealable plastic bag; seal, and wrap in a kitchen towel. Using a rolling pin or skillet, crush candies into tiny pieces. Sift to separate crushed candy from fine powder, reserving fine powder for another use; set crushed candy aside.

2. Place white chocolate in a heatproof bowl set over (not in) a saucepan of simmering water. Heat, stirring occasionally, until smooth, 4 to 6 minutes. Remove from heat; stir in rice cereal.

3. Pour mixture onto prepared baking sheet; using a spatula, spread evenly to a 1/4-inch thickness.

4. Sprinkle with crushed candy; with a piece of waxed paper covering entire surface, press in gently. Chill until firm, 20 to 30 minutes (no longer, as candy will begin to soften).

5. Peel waxed paper off. Break bark into 2-inch pieces. Store at room temperature in an airtight container up to 1 week.

Sherbet Lollipops
Ingredients
1 cup Chelsea Icing Sugar
2 tablespoons of powdered drink crystals (e.g. Refresh)
1 1/2 teaspoons citric acid
1 1/2 teaspoons tartaric acid
1 teaspoon baking soda
6 lollipops
Method
Put all ingredients, except the lollipops, into a bowl and mix
thoroughly. Spoon into little cellophane bags, insert a lollipop
in each bag and seal securely. To eat, lick the lollipop and dip
it into the sherbet.
Serves: 6

White Chocolate Oreo Balls
1 package of regular oreos
8oz of cream cheese
2 bags of white chocolate chips.
1 pack of toothpicks

1. Take entire back of oreos and mash up into little pieces. I usually do this by hand, but I am sure you can get creative with this!

2. In a large bowl begin to slowly mix the cream cheese with the oreos. Again, I usually do this by hand.

3. Roll them into 1 inch balls. Place on wax paper on a cookie sheet. place one toothpick in the center of each ball.

4. Once they are all rolled, place them in a freezer (or outside if its cold enough) for about 1 hour.

4. About 20 minutes before you can pull them out of the freezer, start melting the white chocolate chips in your double boiler, half a bag at a time.

5. Once you have plenty of chocolate completely melted pick up the ball by the toothpick and coat in the chocolate and place back on the wax paper.

6. One they are all dipped, place back in the freezer for a few hours. Usually by 2 hours later they are nice and firm.

7. I typically store them in the fridge once they are set, but I think you could keep them out for a day or two as well.

[emmjay]

I saw the other holiday gift thread is getting some traffic lately, so ... bump!

[Megans]

I was thinking making napkin rings for my mom and MIL using beads and wire... has anyone done this b/f???

[pixielou]

i had dd's 3rd birthday this weekend. i made a couple variations of the oreo truffles. i used vanilla sandwich creams and dipped them in butterscotch chips. i dipped lemon sandwich creams in white chocolate. and i used penut better sandwich creams (like nutter butters) and dipped them in chocolate.

the peanut butter ones came out really greasy. and i had a bit of trouble getting the balls to stay together. then if the balls got too warm while i was dipping, they would start falling apart in the chocolate. they tasted really good, but were a pain to make.

the overall favorite from the party guests was the lemon/white chocolate combo.

~pixie

[Kingdono]

http://www.tastefullysimple.com/Cultures/en-US/Products/ABSOLUTELYALMONDPOUNDCAKE.htm?CatalogNavigationBre adCrumbs=ClientCatalog%3bDesserts&ShowTop=true

I think this might belong here I made the this for my sons teachers last year. It was very easy.

[Kanga]

For those that have made the fridge magnets, where did you find the glass gems for them? I'm looking for 1" clear gems and have looked at Walmart, Hobby Lobby and Michaels, but havent had any luck. Also, what kind of glue do you use to glue it all together?