Beauty from Nature and a Little Zhuzh from You
In a world dominated by technology and fast-paced living, there's something soothing about connecting with nature through crafts. One way to do this is by using dried flowers and herbs in your crafting. These natural elements not only add a touch of rustic charm to your crafts but may also infuse your living spaces with a gentle fragrance that invokes a sense of tranquility. Here are some crafts you can make using dried flowers and herbs, along with simple instructions on how to dry and prepare them.
Dried Flower Arrangements
Creating dried flower arrangements is a classic and timeless craft. You can arrange these preserved blossoms in elegant vases, shadow boxes, or even make your own potpourri blends. To dry flowers, follow these steps: Select fresh, healthy flowers with few blemishes. Bundle the stems together with a rubber band and hang them upside down in a warm, dark, and well-ventilated area. Allow the flowers to dry for about two weeks, depending on the thickness of the petals.
Herb-Infused Candles
Enhance the ambiance of your home with herb-infused candles. Not only do these candles provide a soft, warm glow, but they also release the soothing aroma of dried herbs. Here's how you can make them: Gather dried herbs of your choice, such as lavender, rosemary, or chamomile. Melt candle wax in a double boiler and add a few drops of essential oil for an extra fragrance boost. Mix in the dried herbs and carefully pour the mixture into empty candle holders. Insert a candlewick into the center and let it cool and solidify. Never leave candles burning unattended!
Pressed Flower Bookmarks
For the bookworms, cookbook users, and stationery lovers, creating pressed flower bookmarks is an easy and enjoyable craft that combines aesthetics with functionality. Follow these steps to make your own: Select fresh flowers with flat petals and place them between the pages of a heavy book, with parchment paper to protect the pages. Press the flowers for about 1-2 weeks until they are completely dry and flat. The denser the flowers are, the longer they take to flatten and dry out. Once dried, carefully glue the pressed flowers onto a piece of cardstock or thick paper. Laminate the bookmark for extra durability and finish by hole-punching the top and adding a ribbon or tassel.
Herbal Sachets
Sachets filled with aromatic dried herbs can serve as natural air fresheners, drawer fresheners, or even sleep aids. They make great homemade gifts, too. Here's how you can make them: Sew small fabric pouches in any shape you like, leaving a small opening for filling. Combine dried herbs like lavender, mint, or eucalyptus and a few drops of essential oils for an extra burst of fragrance. Fill the sachets with the herb mixture and sew the opening closed. Place them in your closet, drawers, or under your pillow for a pleasant and calming scent.
Dried Flower Resin Jewelry
Capture the timeless beauty of dried flowers in wearable art. Making resin jewelry with dried flowers is a fantastic way to preserve their delicate allure. Here's how you can do it: Choose small, dried flowers that will fit nicely into jewelry molds. Mix the resin according to the manufacturer's instructions and pour a small amount into the mold. Carefully place the dried flowers on top of the resin and press them gently to avoid air bubbles. Pour the remaining resin over the flowers and let it cure according to the recommended time.
Craft Ideas for Dried Vegetables
Softneck Garlic Braids
Create decorative and functional garlic braids using softneck garlic varieties. These braids can be hung in the kitchen for easy access and a rustic look. To make a garlic braid, follow these steps:
- Harvest Garlic: Harvest when the leaves are 50% yellow.
- Dry: Cure garlic in a dry, airy space for two weeks.
- Braid: Use the pliable stems to braid the bulbs together, adding a touch of kitchen charm.
Dried Corn Decorations
Corn adds a touch of the harvest season to your fall decor. Here's how to prepare it to display:
- Select Ears: Choose ears of corn with intact husks.
- Dry Corn: Hang the corn in a dry, dark place for several weeks until the kernels are hard.
- Decorate: Use the dried corn in wreaths, garlands, or as table centerpieces.
Luffah Sponges
Grow luffah gourds to make natural sponges for bathing or cleaning. Here's how to prepare them:
- Harvest Luffah: Wait until the skin turns brown and starts to dry on the vine.
- Peel Skin: Remove the outer skin to reveal the fibrous interior.
- Cleanse and Dry: Wash the luffah to remove seeds and impurities, then dry thoroughly.
- Cut Sponges: Slice into desired lengths for use in baths or cleaning.
Squash Centerpieces
Dried squash can be used as unique and colorful centerpieces for fall. Here's how:
- Select Squash: Choose varieties like ornamental gourds or small pumpkins.
- Dry: Allow them to dry naturally by storing them in a warm, dry place.
- Create Arrangements: Combine with dried flowers and herbs to make stunning centerpieces.
How to Dry Flowers, Herbs, and Vegetables
Drying flowers and herbs is a simple process that requires minimal effort. Here's a basic guide to get you started:
- Harvest the flowers and herbs in the morning when their essential oils are most potent.
- Remove any excess leaves and trim the stems to your desired length.
- Bundle a few stems together and secure them with a rubber band or string. The small bundles ensure good airflow and prevent mold.
- Hang the bundles upside down in a dry, dark, and well-ventilated space.
- Check on the drying progress regularly and make sure there is no moisture trapped within the flowers or herbs.
- Once dried, store them in airtight containers away from direct sunlight to maintain their quality.
With these craft ideas and drying techniques, you can use the bounty and beauty of nature to create unique, nature-inspired pieces that will bring joy and tranquility to your life. Let the dried flowers and herbs weave their creativity into your crafting projects.