Mind-body research shows that the mental focus and repetitive movements in knitting produce physiological changes that counter stress. I think the same goes for other crafts. Working with your hands (and your heart) to make one-of-a-kind gifts is relaxing and meditative. Why not embrace your inner artisan, create an oasis of calm and save a bit of money? Here are a few ideas to get you started.
Beautiful Bath Salts
1. In a large glass or ceramic bowl, combine 1 cup of coarse-grained or kosher salt, 1 cup Epsom salts and 1 cup baking soda. Mix in 15 drops of lavender essential oil (or less, depending on how strong you like the scent) and 1/4 cup sweet almond oil.
2. Spoon into small glass jars or cellophane bags (available at arts and crafts stores). Decorate each jar or bag by tying a ribbon or strip of fabric around the top. Add a tag or label if you like. You can also tuck a sprig of fresh lavender through the ties.
Happy Headbands
1. Get plain plastic headbands at the drugstore. Cut a strip of fabric that’s a little bit longer and wider than the headband.
2. Iron fusible interfacing to the back of the fabric to help it hold its shape and keep edges from fraying. Trim interfacing to the size of the fabric.
3. Wrap the fabric around the headband, gluing it down with dots of fabric glue as you go along. Trim excess.
4. Glue a pretty piece of ribbon or trim along the seam of the fabric to neaten it up.
Collage Cards
1. Buy blank cards and envelopes at an arts and crafts or stationery store. They come in all sizes; translucent vellum envelopes are especially elegant.
2. Gather your favorite bits of fabric and trimmings. I collect vintage Japanese kimono fabric because I love the rich colors and designs. You can also recycle old clothes with pretty patterns.
3. With very sharp scissors, cut fabric in strips of varying widths or other shapes. Arrange in a collage on the front of the card. Be creative—don’t be afraid to mix patterns, colors and shapes!
4. Use a glue stick on the back of the fabric as well as on the card to secure the pieces. Trim ragged ends. Accessorize with ribbon, colored paper, ink or other scrapbooking materials.
5. Use as this year’s holiday cards. A set of cards and envelopes (bundled together with ribbon) will also make a nice gift.
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