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SAVED BY LOVE CREATIONS
Upcycling DIY home decor, woodworking and Crafts
ESPRESSO MACARONS WITH CHOCOLATE ESPRESSO GANACHE
by Johnnie Collier
Espresso Macarons with Chocolate Espresso Ganache
French macarons have been on my ever growing to do list since 2014, when I had
the blissful experience of tasting a Laduree Cafe macaron in the heart of Paris!
At that time, I downloaded this great how to make macarons book on amazon and
committed to get baking as soon as we landed in the states. A short 5 years
later, I made my first macaron. This is pretty typical for my project lists. Is
it just me?
Did you know there are actually three methods for making the cookie part of the
macaron, which is a meringue mixed with almond flour, powerdered sugar and maybe
a flavoring (in this case espresso poweder)? It’s true. I call these french
macarons, but technically I guess I should call them swiss macarons. That’s just
not as search friendly on google! I say this because I use the swiss meringue
method now, after many, many batches using the french method, and a couple of
swings at the italian meringue method, I have found the swiss method to be the
most consistent and reliable. The very first batch I made using this method came
out beautifully. Wanna see?
Trust me, no hear me, when I say that there were many imperfect batches that
preceded what you are seeing here. As I agonized over failed, lumpy, cracked,
hollow, nipply shells, wanting to launch the tray out the back door like a
frisbee, my husband would remind me of a quote…
“I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work.”
― Thomas A. Edison
This would annoy me further, but then sanity would return and I would be back at
it. I am so happy I stuck with it, and you will be too. It is super gratifying
to create a beautiful batch of these delicious treats. I find myself waking up
in the middle of the night excited about a new flavor combo! Today I am doing
mango shells with white chocolate lime ganache. I can’t wait!
ESPRESSO MACARON RECIPE
TIP: So the basic recipe for the shell is the same, and quite simple. Then to
flavor it, you can add extracts, freeze dried fruits, baking emulsions. This can
be trial and error, as some oils will anger the shells and you will end up
trashing them. I bought a bunch of flavored oils from a local candy shop and
they are a no go! Extracts are ok. I prefer grinding up freeze dried fruit and
really adding the most flavor in the center ingredient of the sandwhich. Ganache
is far easier to flavor.
INGREDIENTS
ESPRESSO SHELLS
*This recipe yields between 24-30 complete sandwhiched macarons, depending on
how your piping size (this will make sense later).
* 3 egg whites 100 grams, 3.5 oz
* 1/2 cup white granulated sugar 100 grams, 3.5 oz
* 1 cup almond flour 96 grams, 3.4 oz
* 3/4 cup powdered sugar 90 grams, 3.17 oz
* 1 1/2 tsp espresso powder
ESPRESSO CHOCOLATE GANACHE FILLING
* 8 oz bittersweet chocolate, chopped up into <1 inch sized pieces
* 8 oz heavy whipping cream
* 3/4 teaspoon instant espresso powder
***Make the ganache ahead of time as it needs to sit in the refrigerator for a
couple of hours, then at room temp for 30 minutes before piping between the
macaron top and bottom
INSTRUCTIONS
SHELLS
1. To start, measure out all of the ingredients. I highly recommend investing
in a kitchen scale for accuracy as these cookies are so very fickle. I
measure my ingredients in grams, even though I have listed cup and teaspoon
measurements as well. I got this digital kitchen scale from amazon. Have 2
baking sheets ready. You can line them with parchment paper, which is how I
started, but I found no matter how many tips and tricks I used to flatten
the parchment paper, it bubbled and led to warped cookies. This is why I
LOVE the mats I ordered on amazon here: silicone baking mats for macarons .
They are super cheap and awesome. If you go the parchment paper route, you
can print off templates to help you pipe out the optimal size macaron and
stay consistent so that your sandwich cookie tops and bottoms match. Here
is the free macaron template printable I made, which you can download,
print, place under your parchment paper and carefully pull out immediately
after piping your macarons in a later step.
2. Leave a 16 in disposable piping bag fitted with a large round tip (size 10
or 12), all ready to fill with your batter.
3. Sift powdered sugar and almond flour together in a bowl and set aside. Some
people swear you need to grind the flour and powdered sugar in a food
processor. I have done both ways and I see no difference, so I don’t waste
the time. It is supposed to get rid of “bumps and lumps” in the shell of
the macaron. I find mine come out smooth if I sift the ingredients together
into a bowl, and then sift them into the meringue when that step comes.
4. Mix egg whites and sugar together in a metal bowl or in a double boiler
pan, over a small saucepan of simmering water, making sure the bottom of
the bowl isn’t touching the water. I actually use my KitchenAid mixer bowl
for this, since the egg/sugar syrup will go into it anyway. You do not want
to cook the egg whites! No thermometer needed. This is what I love about
the swiss meringue method vs. the italian method. The latter requires a
candy thermometer. It’s a hassle.
5. Whisk whites and sugar over simmering water for about 90 seconds. Remember,
this water shouldn’t be boiling, it should be at a very low simmer.
6. Once sugar is dissolved, pour the syrup to the electric mixer bowl if it’s
not already in there. With the whisk attachment, whisk mixture on low speed
for 1 minute, raising speed to medium. Whisk on medium for 1-2 minutes,
until the whisk starts to leave streaks in the meringue. Raise speed to
high, and whip for a couple of minutes until stiff peaks are formed. Here
is a great video from my macaron hero at Pies and Tacos . It shows what the
meringue should look like. Make sure you look at her other amazing macaron
recipes, tips and tricks!</li><li>As soon as the meringue reaches stiff
peaks, stop beating. Add sifted almond flour and powdered sugar. With a
spatula, slowly fold mixture, doing a J motion.</li><li>When you see that
the dry ingredients have incorporated into the meringue, you may add the
food coloring, if using.</li><li>Keep folding, slowly, until you achieve
the perfect consistency.</li><li>This part right here is called
macaronage.</li><li>Once the batter seems like molten lava, it’s ready to
be piped and baked.</li><li>That’s what every other website out there says
to describe the consistency your batter should be before you start piping
it.</li><li>Though, I think that’s a very broad way of describing the most
important aspect in the process of baking macarons.</li><li>So, there are a
few more signs you should look for. First, the batter should be falling off
the spatula in a ribbon, without breaking up.</li><li>Second, scoop a
little bit of batter with a teaspoon and spoon onto the baking sheet. Give
it several seconds. If the batter is staying still with a point that won’t
dissolve into the macaron, that means you probably have to stir a bit
longer. So go ahead and give your batter a couple more folds.</li><li>Test
again.</li><li>The batter is supposed to look glossy, fall smoothly out of
the spatula. Grab some batter with your spatula and try to draw an 8-figure
several times. If you’re able to do that without the batter breaking it,
that’s a good indication that you should stop folding.</li><li>You don’t
want to overmix your mixture either, otherwise your macarons will lose
shape and be completely all over the place.</li><li>You want to mix just
the right amount. It’s a fine line and you’ve gotta find it.</li><li>Pipe
as many circles as you can and bang baking sheets against the counter
several times, to release air bubbles that will cause your macaron shell to
break.</li><li>Let your macarons dry for 20-60 minutes, depending on how
humid your house is.</li><li>Pre-heat the oven to 325F.</li><li>Bake one
tray at a time. Bake the first tray for 4 minutes. Rotate, and bake for 4
more minutes. Rotate the tray again.</li><li>Keep baking the trays for a
total of 16-20 minutes each, rotating the tray in between to ensure even
baking.</li><li>STORAGE: Shells can be stored in an air tight container in
the fridge for up to 1 week. In the freezer, they will fo from 2-3 months
if properly stored.</li></ol>
7. As soon as the meringue reaches stiff peaks, stop beating. Sift (for the
second time) the almond flour and powdered sugar mixture into the meringue.
You will see many recipes having you add 1/3 of the mixture, folding it in,
then incorporating the remaining dry ingredients. I find no difference when
i sieve it all into the meringue at once. Try and see what works for you!
8. Now it is time to fold the dry ingredients into the meringue. Here is a
great video from Indulge With Mimi, another wealth of information on
macaron trouble shooting and some fantastic recipes. This folding of the
dry ingredients into the meringue is called macaronage, and is in my
opinion the step that makes or breaks your final product. If you don’t mix
enough, you get cracks and all sorts of ugliness. If you over fold, you get
wet blobs that never bake into solid, round cookies. It’s tragic, but don’t
give up! You will get this with experience. This video will help.</li><li>I
like to test the batter by spooning out a teaspoon onto a plate and seeing
if after several seconds the “nipple” dissolves into the macaron. If so,
the batter is ready. If not, fold 5-10 more times and try again. Eventually
you will get an eye for it.</li><li>Pour your batter into the piping bag
you have prepared in advanced.</li><li>Pipe as many circles as you can and
bang baking sheets against the counter several times, to release air
bubbles that will cause your macaron shell to break.</li><li>Let your
macarons dry for 20-60 minutes, depending on how humid your house
is.</li><li>Pre-heat the oven to 310F.</li><li>Bake one tray at a time.
Bake the first tray for 4 minutes. Rotate, and bake for 4 more minutes.
Rotate the tray again.</li><li>Keep baking the trays for a total of 16-20
minutes each, rotating the tray in between to ensure even baking.</li></ol>
9. The batter should be falling off of your spatula like a ribbon, not in
chunks. I like to scoop a spoonful out onto a plate and wait 20 seconds or
so. If the “nipple” on top dissolves into the cookie and disappears, you
are ready to pipe your macarons. If not, stir 5-10 more times and test
again. Keep doing this until you get the correct result.
10. Pipe as many circles as your batter allows. I usually fill two of my
silicone mats, sometimes a few less on the second mat. Immediately after
piping, pick up the baking tray about 6 inches above the counter and drop
it. Do this a couple of times. The purpose is to release any air bubbles in
your piped macarons.
11. For aesthetics and for more espresso flavor (cause I’m a full blown addict,
we cut a slit in the bottom of a red plastic solo cup and put a small
amount of espresso powder in the cup. Then lightly tapped the side of the
cup over the tray of piped cookies for some espresso powder sprinkles. I
tried using a salt shaker, but way to much powder came out, so my engineer
husband McGyvered a way to get the effect I was after.
12. Pre-heat the oven to 310F. This is what works in my oven. Yours may vary.
You will have to start somewhere around there, take meticulous notes and
make adjustments as needed! Remember the Thomas Edison quote earlier in the
post!
13. Many recipes tell you to leave your piped batter sit out before for 30-60
minutes to form a skin before placing in oven. I happen to live in the high
desert and my macarons form a skin within 5 minutes. The way to test for
yours is to touch one lightly. No batter should come off on your finger.
There should be a dull sheen to them as well. The skin is important,
otherwise the heat will escape to quickly and the macarons won’t rise
correctly, or they will have blown out feet (the bubbly area of the cookie
that directly contacts the filling of sandwich). If it is a humid day, it
may take well over an hour, so go by feeling the actual batter, not by
time.
14. Bake one tray at a time. Bake the first tray for, rotating after 4 minutes.
Bake 4 more minutes and rotate again. I continue to bake until 18 minutes,
rotating one more time at 13 minutes.
15. Let the cookies cool for 20 minutes or more before trying to remove them
from the parchment paper or silicone mat. They should pop right off unless
they are under cooked. In which case, back in the oven they go. I would do
2 minutes at a time. You don’t want to overcook and get hollow macarons.
Once they are cool, it is time to fill…
CHOCHOLATE ESPRESSO GANACHE
To make the espresso ganache, place the chopped up chocolate into a metal or
other heatproof bowl. In a small saucepan, heat the cream until bubbles appear.
Stir in the espresso powder until dissolved.
Immediately pour the hot cream mixture over the chocolate chunks and let stand
for 1 minute. Stir the chocolate until smooth and melted. Pour the ganache into
a disposable 12 or 16 inch piping bag clip or rubber-band off the open end and
place in refrigerator for 2 hours. When you are ready to use the ganache, let it
sit at room temperature for 30 min so that it is soft enough to squeeze out of
the bag.
Simply cut the tip off the disposable piping bag containing your ganache and
fill one cookie, coiling from the outside into the center, then place the top
cookie on to complete the sandwich. It helps to match up similar size macarons
before adding the filling so your tops and bottoms are together and ready to go.
Place in an airtight container in the refrigerator. I find macarons are the very
best after maturing in the fridge for 1-2 days. This allows the center to mesh
with the shell, the flavors to meld and the texture to perfect. Take out of the
fridge for about 20 minutes before enjoying. They are best eaten within a week.
Another option is to freeze after the 1-2 day maturation. I have frozen them for
6 weeks, pulled them out to room temp for 1 hour and served them up at a party
to watch them be devoured. They were a hit.
Give macarons a try! Don’t give up. Be patient and learn your climate, oven,
astral alignment. Pray to the macaron gods. Whatever works for you. Just find
it. It is so worth the “failed” attempts! Let me know how it goes.
STAY TUNED FOR MACARON VIDEOS AND MORE RECIPES!
GO PRANA OR GO HOME
by Johnnie Collier
I was e-l-a-t-e-d when I was asked to try out some PrAna gear and share with
you, my lovely readers, an exclusive discount code!
LET’S START WITH THE GOOD STUFF, YOUR 15% OFF DISCOUNT CODE! WPJCF18
Now, about me and my relationship with PrAna! I moved to Colorado 3 years ago
and became an avid rock climber. Obsessed. What that has to do with prAna is
that it quickly became the most prominent brand in my closet, not only because
of it’s aesthetics, but because it is the best brand I have found to stand up to
the demands of body vs. rock!
PrAna is not just for women, either. John loves his Woodman Flannel, and I can’t
take off my Diva Long Jacket. It is extremely warm and the perfect length! It is
lined by clouds, I am pretty sure.
The hood is perfect at keeping my ears from freezing off too.
Also, you get to look good while preparing to pelt your photographer with a snow
ball. I mean, come on, priorities people!
The pants are prAna as well, my favorite for rock climbing. Unfortunately I
don’t do a ton of that outside when it’s cold since feeling one’s fingers is
important in that particular sport, but they are great for hiking and being
active in general. I love them for rock because they don’t get picked and have
snags in them after climbing sharp granite or limestone walls.
The are also fantastic for tree napping.
The stitching is solid and I’m digging the sweater ribbing on the sides of the
Diva Jacket…
Their logo is subtle and well placed, and the stitching, again, solid on the
Woodman’s Flannel.
John is also sporting one of his favorite pair of prAna pants in addition to the
flannel.
Since we couldn’t show you outdoor climbing, we took our prAna to the indoor
gym! These pants are the best! I wear them almost every time I climb
And John in his favorite climbing pants, which just happen to be… you guessed
it, prAna!
The are so flexible yet strong.
If you ever see me climbing and I am not in prAna gear, I may need a neurologic
exam. Just saying.
The quality is outstanding, but more importantly, prAna is a sustainable brand
and uses organic cotton and recycled fabrics as they aim to help the planet.
Read all about that here!
Full Disclosure: I did receive the Diva Jacket and Woodman’s Flannel to add to
my already huge, self purchased prAna collection in exchange for sharing this
information with you. All opinions are 100% honest and mine! This also has been
the perfect segue into migrating a little away from DIY to more outdoor
adventures and rock climbing. So HUGE thanks to prAna for what you do to help
our planet and for being my go to outdoor gear! I love you!!
ANOTHER DIY ADIRONDACK SET ON THE CHEAP
by Johnnie Collier
We are so excited building things for our new abode! Directly across the street
is a lovely, wildflower, rabbit, squirrel and bird abundant park. We’ve decided
to rid our lives of cable t.v., which affords us way more extra time than I
realized, or care to admit. Instead of vegging out to the news upon awakening,
we enjoy our morning coffee on the front porch in our super comfy adirondack set
that we built with our own hands! We are forced to be more present and enjoy one
another and nature more than ever, but the benefits of minimizing screen time
are out of the scope of this article. I just want to talk about awesome
adirondack-ness!
This whole set took us a week, a few hours a day or so. We built the exact same
set we shared in this DIY Adirondack Set post, so you can find the plan there.
We changed the color scheme. I used Rustoleum Vintage Teal for the table. I
found outdoor pillows at Walmart for $5 each that tied everything together!
Here is the first chair finished. Notice all the screw holes we had to fill
before painting! I prefer Fast’N Final by DAP.
For the chairs and stools, I used Rustoleum Chalked in Linen White. It took 3
coats, which in my experiences is a lot for chalk paint. All in all, I am happy
with the product and will use it again.
All five pieces were sealed with Minwax Polycrylic Water Based Protective
Finish. It is my go to!
We love our new set, and our mornings spent together, present and peaceful!
DIY WOOD SHIM BOOKCASE
by Johnnie Collier
Whether it’s shiplap or pallet wood, rustic farmhouse-inspired accents and
furnishings are on trend. But before you head out to find expensive aged wood,
try this wood shim tutorial instead. You’ll find out how to incorporate that
farmhouse signature look without breaking the bank with this simple, inexpensive
and removable DIY for any bookcase.
You’ll only need one tool, a handful of materials and a couple of hours to
elevate a plain bookcase into something so much more. Stacked alternating wood
shims provide the texture, and a plywood base gives you the option to attach the
panels using tape, making this DIY removable and commitment-free.
Supplies
For this project, you’ll need:
* A bookcase (We choose one in a modern style, but you can use one that matches
your home’s decor)
* (1) 1/4”x 2 x 4 sanded plywood sheet
* 2-4 packages of 15” cedar shims
* Wood glue
* Grey tone wood stain
* Paintbrush
* Mounting tape
* Jigsaw
* C-clamps
* Tape measure
* Pencil
Step One: Pick Up a Modern Bookcase
Finding the right bookcase for this project is all about maintaining visual
balance. The clean, modern shape of this bookcase is the perfect backdrop to
showcase the natural, rustic quality of the cedar shims.
Since this project involves attaching wood panels to your bookcase, you’ll want
to make sure that the bookcase you buy can support the amount of wood you want
to add without becoming too heavy. It helps to start out with a lightweight
bookcase and limit the wood shims to just the back panels of the bookshelf.
Assemble your bookcase and measure the size of the space you want to cover using
your tape measure.
Step Two: Cut the Wood to Size
Take that measurement and trace it onto the plywood sheet twice. Cut out both
rectangles using the jigsaw and set aside.
Next, you’ll need to determine the pattern you want for the wood shim accent
panels. You can choose a classic brick pattern, basket weaving pattern or a
simple alternating stacked pattern. I chose the latter because it followed the
lines of the bookcase and provided a higher-quality finish. Mark and cut each
cedar shim to match the width of the cut plywood rectangles. You’ll want to
alternate thick and thin sides when stacking to maximize the play on texture and
the farmhouse feel. You may need to cut the last wood shim lengthways to finish
out the space. Go slow when cutting with the jigsaw to reduce any wood splitting
or chipping.
Step Three: Glue and Stain
Once you cut all of your wood shims, you can begin adhering them to the cut
plywood pieces. Brush a light coating of wood glue onto the back of the shims
and press them down onto the wood backing. Be sure to immediately clean up any
excess glue that leaks out, as it can affect how the wood stain reacts with the
wood. Clamp another piece of wood to the top of the wood panel to provide
consistent, even pressure while the glue dries overnight. An optional
improvement is to use small finishing nails to secure the wood shims to the
plywood base.
The next day, you can start applying the wood stain to the wood panels in light,
even coats. Let the stain sit and penetrate the wood for a few minutes before
wiping up the excess stain. I used about two coats to achieve my look. Allowing
some of the natural cedar tones to show underneath will give the wood that
authentic farmhouse quality. The stain will need to dry for a few hours before
you can resume handling.
Step Four: Attach the Accent Panels
Cut several strips of mounting tape and apply them directly to the bookcase
section where the wood panels will sit. Pop in your wood panels and press firmly
for a few minutes to ensure a tight bond. Add a few books or decor items, and
your farmhouse-inspired bookcase is done!
Mateo Londono is a longtime contributor to the Krrb blog who also writes for The
Home Depot. He likes to create DIY projects and provide step-by-step
instructions like he did in this article. To find a bookcase that you can add
your own personal touch to, visit The Home Depot to see their selection of
bookcases.
DIY BIRTHDAY DECOR BALLOON PHOTO DISPLAY
by Johnnie Collier
Add a personal touch to your birthday party decor, with this simple, quick and
inexpensive DIY balloon photo display! This project can be translated to fit any
celebration or holiday. Use photos of the happy couple for a golden anniversary
celebration, or for wedding reception decor. Here you will see adult female
birthday party decor, but use your imagination. The possibilities are endless,
especially if you have a Balloon Time Helium Tank, allowing you to bring whimsy
anytime, anywhere! Let’s get this party started…
For this project, you will need the following supplies:
Balloon Time Helium Tank
Balloons in your color choice
Ribbon to tie off balloons
Photos to display
Glue dots or adhesive of your choice
To create your own balloon photo display, follow these instructions:
Begin by printing off your favorite photos to go with the occasion. I edited
photos in Photoshop to give them a black and white, framed Instagram type feel.
I created a file sized to 8.5 x 11 inches and pulled each edited photo to the
new file. Then I took them to my local big box office supply store and had them
print 2 copies of the file on white card stock. It was $1.40 total! Cut them out
and set them aside. You have 2 prints of each photo.
Next, turn the green valve four times, counter clockwise. Slide the balloon neck
over the black nozzle.
Simply push down on the nozzle to inflate the balloon! So simple to use and
convenient to have on hand for whimsical decor, any time.
Tie a knot in the balloon and attach ribbon to each balloon. Now you can use
glue dots to adhere photos to the ribbon. Sandwich the ribbon between the 2
copies of each photo so that when the ribbon twirls with balloon movement, there
won’t be a blank side.
That is it! Go grab a Balloon Time Helium Tank and show us what unique balloon
displays you can create!
This is a sponsored conversation written by me on behalf of Balloon Time. The
opinions and text are all mine.
DIY SLIM COLOR BLOCK BLANKET STAND
by Johnnie Collier
As functional as it is chic, this blanket stand can hold several blankets while
only taking up minimal floor space. The fun color block pattern adds some visual
interest to your walls, and depending on the blankets, you can create a variety
of interchangeable styles for your living room. Lean it against the wall by your
couch for easy access to blankets on movie night and when the weather is warm,
the blanket stand’s slim design stays out of the way.
Supplies:
* Two 1 ½“ x 5’ pine handrails
* Four ¾” x 14” wood dowels
* Miter saw
* Electric drill
* ¾” Forstner drill bit
* Orbital sander
* Sanding sheets (220 grit)
* Wood glue
* Four strap (or trigger) clamps
* Rubber mallet
* Paint and/or wood stain
* Painter’s tape
* Blankets!
STEP 1: GATHER YOUR MATERIALS
This project calls for a slim ladder profile with a modern, clean look. Because
of this, I went with round wood stock and dowels, as they are lightweight but
still sturdy enough to support the weight of a few blankets. Handrails work
perfectly for the sides of the ladder because they have a flat side that can
butt up against the wall without rolling.
STEP 2: CUT THE HANDRAILS TO SIZE
Using a miter saw, cut the two pieces of handrail material down to five feet in
length, and the dowels, which will serve as the ladder rungs, into 14 inch
pieces. To help keep the blanket stand propped up against the wall at the right
angle, miter the bottom end of both handrails.
Step 3: Sand and Prep
A quick sanding with an orbital sander will clean up any splintering on the ends
and prepare the wood for paint and stain.
Step 4: Drill the Holes for the Rungs
To make sure the holes are even, clamp the handrails together and mark out the
placement for the ladder rungs. Leave enough space between the ladder rungs so
that the blankets can fit. Once you have the placement marked, use a ¾-inch
forstner bit to drill one inch into the handrails on both pieces. A forstner bit
drills neat-flat bottom holes that are more precise than what you can usually
accomplish with your standard drill bits or spade bits. The flat bottom holes
will allow the dowels to fit securely and ensure the ladder rungs maintain equal
length. Use some scrap sandpaper to clean out the holes and remove any stray
wood curls.
Step 5: Assemble the dowels
Squeeze some wood glue into the drilled holes and use a rubber mallet to gently
tap the dowels into place. Repeat the process for the other handrail to bring
both sides of the ladder together.
Step 6: Let the Rungs Set
To ensure a strong glue bond, use 4 flexible strap clamps (or adjustable trigger
clamps) to place pressure on the joints. Clean up any excess glue and leave the
clamps on until the glue dries, usually eight to 24 hours.
Step 7: Apply the Color Block
Now that your ladder is constructed, you can begin adding a fun color block
pattern. I went with a combination of finishes that draws your eye up, going
from a dark matte grey, into a glossy green, into a light white stain that shows
off the wood grain. Use paint-block painter’s tape to keep your paint and stain
edges clean and straight.
Step 8: Find the Perfect Spot, and Enjoy!
Lean the blanket stand up against the wall and place your blankets on the ladder
rungs. Have fun experimenting with different colors, textures and patterns to
see what works best in your space!
Mateo Londono is an avid DIYer and vegan cook who has a passion for improving
and personalizing homes with cool projects. Mateo and this DIY are featured here
on the TenX Homes site, where you can find out more about creating your own
unique space. You can also visit The Home Depot to find other wall decor accents
to make your home your own.
GLAM UP MOTHER NATURE FOR A NATURALLY BEAUTIFUL HOLIDAY
by Johnnie Collier
A foraging trip outdoors starts the holidays off right. It’s a sure-fire way to
pick some holiday spirit, and an even better way to save your money for gifts
for your loved ones rather than spending it on decor.
Combine your store-bought sparkle with nature’s bounty for beautiful decorations
that don’t break the bank. Low- to no-cost natural elements are the perfect
addition to your decoration collection for decorating the mantle, tabletop and
tree.
Turn collecting natural goodies into a scavenger hunt with the kids. Gather
various sizes of pinecones, acorns, bare branches, evergreens and berries. If
you don’t have any evergreens outside, you can stop anywhere fresh Christmas
trees are sold and get the discarded lower branches for a low cost, or possibly
for free. These work just fine to cut up for decorations. Finally, add in
goodies from the grocery store like apples, popcorn, cranberries or citrus
fruits. Now you’ve got the recipe for a pretty holiday home. It’s time to start
decorating!
Nature on Display
Start with what you already own. Clear vases or jars, cake stands, baskets and
plates turn into decorations with a bit of creativity.
Create an ornament display that is sure to become a focal point. Collect bare
branches and dig into your ornament collection. Tying the baubles on bare limbs
makes them stand out and really come to life. Do something as simple as these
red balls on one branch, or collect several branches to place in a row of jars.
You could even get a large multi-limbed branch to stand in a large floor vase.
You can also fill glass containers with pinecones and acorns. Add a bit of glam
by dusting them with glitter or fake snow. Try tucking a few tiny ornaments in
the glass container, too—look for a really interesting one to highlight, such as
a tiny pair of ice skates or a darling little Santa.
Holiday Arrangement
Create a floral-shop worthy display with a combination of your natural found
items and produce. This wonderfully scented decoration is easy to make. Gather
up apples, oranges, whole cloves, pinecones and greenery. Select a container—a
basket or bowl will work.
Begin by pushing the cloves into the oranges in any pattern you like. If your
basket or bowl is very deep, stuff the bottom of it with some balls of paper.
First, set in your oranges, toward the center. Arrange pinecones and apples
around the oranges. Cut small pieces of greenery and tuck them in between the
fruit to hide gaps or any paper that shows. Finish by accenting here and there
with a bit of something bright. You can add a few tiny ornaments, colorful
cranberries, sprigs of holly or a dusting of fake snow.
Tabletop Centerpiece
A low centerpiece is just the ticket for holiday dinners because you want to be
able to see over it and enjoy conversations with family and friends. You can
make a beautiful, simple one with your natural collection and some shiny
ornament balls.
Collect pinecones, fall leaves, greenery, ornaments and a bit of paint. Check
your paint stash for holiday shades of gold, silver, white, copper or red.
Choose one you think compliments your ornaments. Paint the fall leaves and a few
pinecones and allow the paint to dry. Leave some of the pinecones natural.
Use a flat plate or tray to hold your centerpiece. Snip evergreens in small
pieces and arrange flat to cover the plate or tray. Arrange large pinecones in
the center and then add the ornaments to the plate. Tuck tiny pinecones and the
painted leaves around the large cones and balls.
Let It Shine
Holiday parties and family gatherings are a celebration and celebrations call
for candles. Natural elements can come into play with candles. Here are a few
ideas:
* Place a few cranberries and snips of greenery in a jar. Add water and drop a
floating candle in the top. Add glamour by nestling them in some shiny bead
garland or silvery icicles.
* Place fresh cranberries in a tall vase. Nestle a candle into the berries. Tie
a pretty ribbon around the vase.
* Arrange three to five tiny votive candles on a plate with a rim. Surround
them with fresh cranberries, whole nuts and acorns.
Strings of Fun
Generations of families have enjoyed stringing popcorn on thread to decorate
their tree. While you can certainly do just popcorn, it’s fun to give it a
glamourous touch, like adding shiny gold jingle bells or a small ornament every
so often. Don’t stop with just popcorn – you can string cranberries and even
gummy candies!
After the holidays are over, don’t toss out the strings of popcorn and berries.
Hang them on bushes in the yard and enjoy watching the birds have a winter
feast.
As an organizational expert, Lea Schneider helps homeowners get organized, but
also dabbles in decorating. She provides some great tips on using nature to
decorate for the holidays. Visit the Home Depot to find a great selection of
Christmas decorations.
HOW TO MAKE JEWELRY FROM FLATTENED PENNIES
by Johnnie Collier
This post has been a long time coming. At this point, I can’t even recall what
inspired me to smash pennies and turn them into jewelry, but something did and
here we are. I will walk you through the interesting, not entirely legal process
I used. Please note that in no way am I encouraging anyone to break the law, or
to go anywhere near railroad tracks. The Midnight Rider controversy is no joke.
While cute, this jewelry is not worth dying for, so be smart.
SUPPLIES:
Pennies or other coins
Clear masking tape
Jump rings
Jewelry Hole punch
jewelry rivets
Vintaj metal paints
Lisa Pavelka Resin Magic Glos
Magic Glos UV Resin, by Lisa Pavelka
Sizzix machine
Butterfly rings Sizzix Die
Media Mixage Triangle Dies
Media Mixage Circle Dies
Vintaj Vogue Stamping Blanks, Triangle 14mm
Your favorite embossing folders
eyelet setter
ear wire
Jewelry pliers (2 pair)
Paint brush or sponge dauber
1/4 cup white vinegar
1 teaspoon salt
Non-metal bowl
Paper towels
TUTORIAL:
This is the sketchy part. SBLC assumes no responsibility for any injuries that
may occur. That said, this is also the super fun part. Tape the coins to the
railroad track as shown in the photo. Not taping them just means searching
needlessly after the train has passed, since they get thrown from their original
location during the process. The tape keeps them in place.
This is what y0u will have when you retrieve your now flattened pennies. Flat,
but yucky, right? No problem. To clean the little guys, pour the vinegar into
the bowl and stir in salt. Put about 5 pennies into the solution and let them
soak for about 10 seconds. Use a toothbrush and running water to remove debris
and rinse clean.
They don’t have to be perfect.
Emboss your pennies and die cut into jewelry shapes. Here i cut the flattened
and embossed pennies into circles and attached Vintaj Vogue Stamping Blanks
Triangle 14mm using a rivet. Just hole punch the penny circles, insert rivet
through triangle and circle, set with eyelet setter and attach jump ring and ear
wires. Done!
For this pendant, I die cut a ring with the Sizzix butterfly rings die – a
favorite die of mine. I cut a triangle with another embossed flattened penny and
painted it using vintaj patina paints for metal. Once the paint was dry, I
applied Magic Glos UV Resin, by Lisa Pavelka. I love the domed resin look. You
can put this in direct sunlight to cure, or cure it in 10 minutes using Lisa
Pavelka’s UV light. I went the 10 minute route! It’s been awhile since I used
that stuff, and I forgot how fun it is.
This piece is comprised of a Vintaj metal blank (the background circle) and a
flattened penny triangle that I painted with Vintaj Patina. I didn’t seal it. I
enjoy the simplicity of the circle/triangle, and love the colors together. After
applying the paint, go over the triangle lightly with medium grit sand paper to
reveal the raised areas created by embossing previously.
VISIT HERE FOR MORE RESIN JEWELRY TUTORIALS
What do you think? Do you have a less illegal method for flattening pennies? Can
your rope your husband into doing it for you, like I did?
You can use any coin, by the way. I just like copper.
I’d love to see what you can do with flattened coins. If you don’t have a die
cut machine, you can cut shapes with metal shears or tin snips for your own
custom creations! Happy crafting!
HOW TO MAKE A GORGEOUS FALL WREATH
by Johnnie Collier
It has been way too long since I made and shared a DIY wreath project with you
all. That is why I am a super stoked about today’s simple, cheap tutorial – a
gorgeous gilded wreath to adorn your front door. You are going to need just a
few supplies and an hour to create your very own. Let’s get started!
SUPPLIES:
Plastic or foam pumpkins and gourds (I got mine for 50% off at Michaels)
Krylon Dual spray paint in metallic gold, or your favorite color
A wreath form, or cardboard with and scissors(I used a pizza box)
Hot glue gun and sticks
Ribbon to coordinate with your paint choice
Drop cloth or old sheet to protect surface from overspray
Begin by laying out your pumpkins on the drop cloth. This project is best done
outside since you will be spray painting.
Spray pumpkins per instructions on can. Make sure you are using paint that has
primer in it. If not, you will need to prime the pieces first. I love Krylon
Dual because it has paint and primer in one. It is my go to product for spray
painting.
Now for the wreath form. I showed you how to make your own from cardboard in
this DIY Poinsettia Wreath tutorial. For this project, I wrapped the cardboard
wreath form in duct tape for durability since I planned to hang the wreath
outdoors.
Before attaching the painted, dry pumpkins, place the ribbon around the wreath.
Hot glue it into place, then begin attaching pumpkins.
It’s as easy as that!
TIP: For more cohesiveness, once all the pumpkins are in place, use the same
spray paint to spray the wreath form where it is visible in the spaces.
For more of our festive wreaths, click:
Saved by Love Creations DIY Wreath Tutorials
OVER 50 PUMPKIN RECIPES TO MAKE
by Johnnie Collier
It is one of the best things about fall and the holiday season, a great source
of potassium and Vitamin A, and is over 90% water. What is it, you ask? We are
talking about pumpkin! Today we are sharing over 50 tasty pumpkin recipes for
you to enjoy. You will see pumpkin soup, scones and everything in between. If we
missed your favorite pumpkin recipe, leave us a link in the comments so we can
share your delicious creation!
Ultimate Pumpkin Cheesecake
Easy Roasted Pumpkin Soup
No-Bake Pumpkin Cheesecake For One
Pumpkin Spice Latte Oats
Pumpkin Pie Smoothie Recipe
Gluten Free Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies
Peanut Butter Pumpkin Pancakes
Pumpkin Cheesecake
Pumpkin Indulgence
Pumpkin Pie Spice Coffee Smoothie
Roasted Pumpkin Risotto
Fudgy Flourless Pumpkin Pie Bars
Nutella Pumpkin Tiramisu
Spice Cupcakes with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting
Pumpkin Spice Frappuccinos
Pumpkin Pull Apart Bread
Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle
Pumpkin chocolate chip bars
Pumpkin Coffeecake with Cinnamon Streusel and Apple Butter Filling
Spiced Pumpkin Scones
Pumpkin Risotto with Goat Cheese & Dried Cranberries
Organic Pumpkin Spice Coffee Syrup
Pumpkin Spice Cookie Dough Dip
Pumpkin Chestnut Stew
Pumpkin Spice Whipped Chia Pudding
Pumpkin Pie Greek Yogurt Pancakes - Project Meal Plan
Roasted Root Veg
Pumpkin Spice Latte Smoothie
Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta with Kale
Pumpkin Muffins with Cinnamon Maple Crumb Topping
Vegan Pumpkin Spice Oatmeal Cookies
Pumpkin Bread
PUMPKIN, ASPARAGUS AND KALE QUICHE WITH FETA AND SPELT PASTRY
Oh-so-good brainfood muffins with carrot, lemon-lime drizzle & pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin Bang
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls with Brown Sugar Glaze
Vegan Pumpkin Oatmeal Muffins
Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta with Kale
Pumpkin Whoopie Pie Cake
Pumpkin Pie Greek Yogurt Pancakes
Roasted Root Veg
Healthy Halloween Pumpkin Chocolate Potion
Spiced Pumpkin Scones
Pumpkin Pie Cider Fizz
Pumpkin Spice Greek Yogurt Dip
Spice Cupcakes with Pumpkin Cream Cheese Frosting
Pumpkin Spice Cookie Dough Dip
PUMPKIN BUTTER
Pumpkin Spice Pecan Brittle
Organic Pumpkin Spice Coffee Syrup
Pumpkin Pie Smoothie
Next Page »
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