DIY: Recycled Sweater "Valentine" Wine Bag

 Everyone has an old sweater....whether it's red, pink, cream or white, here is a great project for recycling those old sweaters into a "Valentine" wine bag!  Using the sleeve of an old sweater, you can create this adorable wine bag that anyone would love to receive.  Like I mentioned in an earlier post, I love receiving home made gifts!  This one can easily be customized for the recipient by changing the words you use to embroider, Valentine themed of course!  Like the conversation heart candies....I love you...be mine...xoxo....I'm yours.....  You get the point!!

You will need:

-the sleeve of an old sweater

-red felt

-red yarn

-"embroidery" thread + embroidery needle

(I have red pictured here but used white...you can use whatever color you like)

-white thread + sewing needle

-fabric glue

-chalk pencil for marking letters (optional)

-first cut the sleeve to the length of a your wine bottle

-turn the sleeve inside out, and sew the opening that you cut (not the cuff!) closed

-turn right side out, and sew your thread around the cuff to create a "draw string"

-trace a heart on your red felt and cut out

-using your embroidery thread, embroider whatever words you choose.  You can mark this first with the chalk pencil if you would like or you can do it freehand

-once you finish embroidering the heart, affix it to the center of the bag with fabric glue

CHEERS!

DIY: Melt and Pour "Valentine" Soaps

It is always special to receive a handmade gift from someone.  It is so nice just knowing they took the time to make it themselves just for you.These Lavender soap bars are a really easy craft to make and give as Valentine gifts.  You can easily use this craft for any holiday, just by changing the paper you wrap them in and maybe the scent too.  I buy the melt and pour soap base at the craft store, however you can even find organic or all natural ones on line.  Here's how to make them.

What you will need:

-melt and pour soap base

-soap molds (also available at craft stores)

-essential oil (I am using Lavender)

-dried lavender flowers (optional)

-decorative paper

-First break up the block of soap into smaller pieces for quick and easy melting

-Put them in a microwave safe container, I use the pyrex measuring cup for easy pouring

-melt the soap in the microwave in 30 second intervals stopping to stir in between until melted

-add about 10-15 drops of lavender essential oil and about 3tbsp. of the dried flowers and mix

-pour into your molds and let cool completely

-when cool release them from the mold

-I wrapped mine in pinks and reds for Valentine's Day with paper found at the craft store

-simple and pretty little gifts!!