This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

Best Deal

Get all my favorite digital downloads today!

Buy Now

I also ask that you please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!  

Katie T’s Farmhouse Home Fun Fact #24

Fun fact time! This is a new section I’m including on my blog posts so my readers can get to know me on a personal level!

So, for my 24th fun fact, I want to share that I love to laugh!

I guess you can say I thrive with people who have a similar humor style to mine because then the whole time is spent laughing. 

Beeswax Wraps DIY Materials

To get started on your beeswax wraps DIY project, you’ll need a few materials. 

First, gather some 100% cotton fabric in various sizes to suit your needs – think about the different items you typically wrap or cover in your kitchen.

If you have a large piece of fabric, you can always cut it to size like I did.

Next, you will need beeswax pellets or a block of beeswax, which will be the protective coating for your wraps. 

Lastly, have some parchment paper, an iron, an extra towel, a double broiler, and a brush ready for the application process. Once you have all these materials, you’re ready to dive into the fun part!

Top Deal

Get all digital downloads for a fraction of the price with this bundle deal!

Buy Now

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Beeswax Wraps

To create your beeswax wraps, start by melting the beeswax in a double boiler. If you don’t have one, you can use two pots and fill the larger one with water. 

I don’t recommend heating in the microwave (although in a perfect world, it would be easier and faster). This is because beeswax will burst into flames if it gets too hot. 

The temperature this happens at is 400 degrees, and I doubt the microwave would reach that temperature, but I don’t know about you, I’d rather not play with fire. 

Then, on a towel lined with parchment paper, place the cotton fabric on top. 

Next, use a brush to evenly distribute the melted wax over the fabric, making sure to cover all areas. 

Once you’ve coated all your fabric pieces, lift the edge and turn over the fabric. It dries pretty fast, but the idea is to completely melt the beeswax into the fabric vs it sitting on top. 

Next, take more parchment paper and put it on top of the fabric. With your iron on the lowest setting, melt the beeswax into the fabric so the cotton absorbs the beeswax. 

I’ve seen other people put the beeswax into the oven, which is another option, just remember to keep your oven on a low temperature. 

And there you have it! Allow to dry for a minute or so, and now you’ll be enjoying the benefits of eco-friendly beeswax wraps!

Tips for Reusing and Maintaining Beeswax Wraps

When reusing and maintaining your beeswax wraps, there are a few key tips to keep in mind. 

After using them to wrap food or cover containers, simply wash them with cool water and mild soap, making sure not to use hot water as it can melt the wax. 

Avoid using them with raw meat or hot items, as this can damage the wraps. To rejuvenate your wraps, you can place them in the oven on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper for a few minutes to redistribute the wax. 

By following these simple suggestions, you can extend the life of your beeswax wraps and continue to enjoy their eco-friendly benefits.

Creative Ways to Use Your Beeswax Wraps

This beeswax wraps DIY project is great for a couple of reasons. One, you can use the beeswax on food like covering fruits and veggies, or as a lid for bowls.

Another way to use your beeswax wraps is to use them as a unique gift for someone special. Not only will this add a personal touch to your presents, but it will also reduce waste and promote eco-friendly practices. 

Beeswax Wraps DIY Craft Idea for the Eco-Friendly Female

In a world overrun with plastic, making beeswax wraps is a small but impactful step towards a more sustainable lifestyle. 

By following the simple DIY guide, you can create a practical and eco-friendly alternative to plastic wrap. Remember to reuse and maintain your wraps to maximize their lifespan, and get creative with how you use them in your daily life! So there you have it! Let me know your thoughts about this beeswax wrap DIY craft idea in the comments below!

Don’t forget to follow me on Pinterest!

The post Beeswax Wraps DIY Craft Idea for the Eco-Friendly Female first appeared on Katie T's Home.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

Best Deal

Get all my favorite digital downloads today!

Buy Now

Please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!  

Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #44

For my 44th fun fact, I want to share that I love this time of the year! There is just something so magical about the weather getting cooler and the fun seasonal events and holidays coming up.

Christmas Potpourri

Level: Beginner

First up on the list of 9 inexpensive homemade Christmas gifts is this Christmas potpourri! 

Not only is this Christmas gift idea super simple to make, but it’s fun too! Especially if you have kids, this would be a great activity to get in the holiday spirit. 

Other than that, this makes a perfect gift for family and friends! Also, remember to take advantage of the FREE printable tag in the article above. 

Rustic DIY Wooden Sign

Level: Intermediate

Before diving into this project, there are a few things to note. It is relatively simple if you are used to this type of crafting, but if this is your first time making anything like this, it may present new obstacles.

The other thing to note is that I did this project with a Cricut. If you want to know more about what a Cricut is, you can read the article here. The purpose of the Cricut is to cut out the vinyl lettering to adhere to the face of the board. 

If you don’t have or know someone with a Cricut, you can freehand or even trace out the words, but it will be a lot harder and leave more room for error. 

If you do or know someone with a Cricut, this is the type of Christmas gift you could easily do! I found the frame from Walmart and purchased the thin sheet of plywood from Home Depot. 

After that, get staining or painting! Once dried, add your custom vinyl decals, and you are good to go! 

Cloth Napkin – Gift Set Edition

Level: Intermediate

This Christmas gift idea is from Ashley, who created Simple Creative Farmhouse. She loves crafting, homemaking, and gardening, and this is her first gift idea out of the 9 inexpensive homemade Christmas gift ideas in this article!

She has a full tutorial on creating a beautiful cloth napkin gift set for those who have experience crocheting. 

If you are a beginner and want to learn more about crochet terms and abbreviations before jumping into this Christmas gift project, you can learn more about them here. 

Elegant Fillable Recipe Cards

Level: Beginner

These fillable recipe cards are the perfect gift for any newlyweds or friends looking to expand their repertoire of go-to recipes! Did I mention that these fillable cards are FREE also?? You can find them and instructions on how to use them in this article. 

They are also perfect for seasoned chefs with a go-to dish everybody loves and asks for the recipe. 

For example, my mother has an apple cake recipe that almost everyone raves about. This fillable and printable card would pair perfectly with an actual apple cake as a Christmas gift. 

Pine and Orange Soap

Level: Intermediate

Next up on this list of 9 inexpensive homemade Christmas gift ideas is soap! This pine and orange soap is the perfect recipe to follow for those homemakers who want to try to make soap using lye! You don’t even need to keep that particular scent, as the recipe is flexible to change to whatever essential oil you have on hand.

I go into everything you need to know about lye for soap making in the article and why it’s not as scary as it may seem.

But no worries if you are not ready to take the leap, you can always get a melt-and-pour soap base and add the essential oils of your choice! Either way, homemade soap makes a great Christmas gift because it’s made with natural ingredients, and everyone uses it!

Unique Beeswax Candle

Level: Beginner

Another idea out of the 9 inexpensive homemade Christmas gift ideas is to make a beeswax candle! I added maple syrup to mine, but admittedly it didn’t come out as strongly scented as I had hoped. 

Learn More

Either way, this affordable gift is super simple, and you only need a few ingredients (beeswax and essential oils for the scent). 

You will also need a container to put it in. This is the perfect opportunity to utilize hand-me-down dishes you don’t use or dishes that you have found at a thrift store. 

Just be mindful if the container is glass, that it’s thick enough to handle the heat. Ideally, you wouldn’t want to light a candle in a temperature-sensitive container.

Simple Rice Heating Pad

Level: Beginner

Next up on the list of 9 inexpensive homemade Christmas gift ideas is a rice heating pad made by Ashley!

These heating pads are super practical and would make a great gift for a young woman looking to add to her repertoire of home good items.

And the best part is, these rice heating pads are super affordable and only take about an hour to make! Even if you’re new to sewing!

Homemade Beeswax Wrap

Level: Beginner

The second to last idea, out of the 9 inexpensive homemade Christmas gifts that people actually want, is to make some beeswax wrap!

Not only is this the perfect gift if you did one of the prior gifts above (because you would have already had the materials on hand), but it’s also super simple.

Ideally, this gift would be great for an eco-friendly friend or family member who tries not to be wasteful. Or even that crunchy homemaker who doesn’t like plastic!

I have these myself, and they are a kitchen staple in my book!

Memory Bear

Level: Intermediate

Last up on the list of 9 inexpensive homemade Christmas gift ideas is a memory bear!

Ashley makes these bears all the time using this pattern. 

These memory bears are a great way to preserve the memory of a loved one who has passed away by using a piece of their clothing. 

Such a sweet and thoughtful gift to give someone struggling with a loss.

9 Inexpensive Homemade Christmas Gifts that People Actually Want

Well, there you have it! A list of 9 inexpensive homemade gifts to give people this Christmas season! If you have any other ideas, drop them in the comments! I’d love the inspiration myself! Until next time!

Love, 

Katie

You might also like…

The post 9 Inexpensive Homemade Christmas Gifts that People Actually Want first appeared on Katie T's Home.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

Best Deal

Get all my favorite digital downloads today!

Buy Now

This post was made possible by Nature Packaged, a company that specializes in organic carrier oils and natural ingredients, who gifted me the shea butter! 

If you want the same shea butter, take advantage of this 15% discount on your first purchase.

Coupon Code: KATIE15

I also ask that you please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!  

Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #40

For my 40th fun fact, I want to share that I have officially incorporated raw milk into my diet!

If a local farmer sells raw milk in your area, it is definitely worth trying!

What is Lye?

So, to start with this easy homemade soap recipe, we first need to understand what lye is. 

Lye is the composition of water mixed with sodium hydroxide. 

When looking to purchase lye, you should look for sodium hydroxide, the solid form of lye. 

I bought this sodium hydroxide on Amazon, but I’m sure you can purchase this chemical in plenty of other locations. 

Sodium hydroxide is a manufactured substance, although natural ways exist to create lye without the manufactured sodium hydroxide.

Essentially, you are creating the sodium hydroxide yourself, using wood ash. This process was used to make soap before modern society was commercialized. 

While making lye organically is something I see myself doing in the future, for now, the Amazon delivery of sodium hydroxide is the way to go.

Is Lye Essential for Soap Making?

Well, to start, if you’re looking for an easy homemade soap recipe that doesn’t contain lye for the sake of not wanting to take the leap, I recommend using a melt-and-pour soap base.

This way, you will still make soap as a beginner in your early soap-making journey. However, these melt-and-pour soap bases still contain lye, but the saponification process has already taken place, turning the lye into soap.

This process is the chemical reaction when you combine lye (sodium hydroxide mixed in water) with a fat, lipid, or oil. 

During the chemical reaction, the lye reacts with the oils and converts into soap. 

So, technically, you do not have to use lye (sodium hydroxide plus water) for soap making, but the basis of the soap is the chemical reaction from an alkali liquid with a fat. Lye is just one type of alkali liquid, so you’ll be up against the same factors with other alkali liquids.

Maple Syrup Candle

Discover how to make unique maple syrup candle with only 2 ingredients!

Learn More

Tips for Working With Lye

To get started with this easy homemade soap recipe, we need to start with the basics. 

First, you’ll want to wear gloves, long sleeves, and safety goggles when working directly with lye. This may seem a little over the top, but trust me, it’s better than coming into direct contact with the lye. 

In addition, you should also cover the area you are working in. I did not take this piece of advice seriously and unfortunately learned the hard way. 

What ended up happening was the residual sodium hydroxide spilled on the counter when I was trying to remove it from the glass I used to measure it in. As a result, it ended up staining my butcherblock countertop almost instantly.

So learn from my mistake and cover your area properly. 

I’d also recommend using a disposable plastic container to measure the amount of sodium hydroxide you’ll need. However, keep in mind that not all plastic is created equal. 

A high-density polyethylene and polypropylene are the recommended plastics (HDPE, recycling code #2, PP, recycling code #5) to store sodium hydroxide, so if you can use a shampoo bottle, yogurt container, etc., to measure the chemical for soap-making, you’ll have easy cleanup because you can just through the container away if there is any residual left behind.

I would not recommend rinsing the sodium hydroxide down the drain. This is because when it is combined with water (to make lye) or neutralized with an acid, it creates substantial heat. Not something I would want to test on my drain any time soon. 

Easy Homemade Soap Cold Process Style

So now you know about lye and its importance in the soap-making process. And I know it’s a lot of information, and it sounds daunting, but trust me, it’s not as scary as it seems.

Think of it like cooking. While, yes, it’s possible to burn yourself or start a fire, if you are following proper procedures when you’re cooking, the chances of something bad happening are slim. 

I think many people get scared of working with Lye because it is not as common as some other activities we do regularly, which can be equally dangerous. 

This is why education is key, which I hope I have been able to do for you!

So, moving on, this easy homemade soap recipe is a cold-process soap. In contrast, a hot process soap recipe is harder to do, as it heats the soap from the outside, vs. cold press from the inside.

The benefit of the hot process is that you can achieve swirls in the soap and use color to your advantage. You can also use the soap right away vs. the 4-6 weeks a cold process soap needs to be able to cure. 

Easy Homemade Moisturizer

Discover how to make this simple homemade moisturizer for sensitive skin!

Learn More

Materials and Ingredients

You’ll need some materials for this easy homemade soap recipe. They are: 

• Soap mold (I have this one but recommend this one as it’s easier to pour the soap in one container. If you have the big one, you’ll also need something to cut it with)
• Immersion blender
• Digital kitchen scale
• Pan for melting ingredients
• Disposable plastic container (see why here)
• Goggles
• Gloves
• Thermometer
• Spoon or spatula
• Bowls for measuring ingredients

You’ll also need the ingredients! This recipe calls for: 

• 8 oz olive oil
• 8 oz coconut oil
• 12 oz shea butter (Get 15% off with coupon code: KATIE15)
• 4 oz mango butter
• 4.5 oz sodium hydroxide (lye)
• 10.2 oz water
• .5 oz fragrance oil (I used a mixture of orange, pine, eucalyptus and rosemary)

Easy Homemade Soap Recipe with Lye: Soap Making for Beginners

Author: Katie T Courses:Home Products

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 10 minutesCook time: 15 minutesRest time: 45 minutesTotal time:1 hour 50 minutesAmount:12 barsCalories: kcal Best Season:Available

Description

Shea and mango butter soap with a hint of orange and pine scent!

Ingredients

• 8 oz olive oil
• 8 oz coconut oil
• 12 oz shea butter
• 4 oz mango butter
• 4.5 oz sodium hydroxide (lye)
• 10.2 oz water
• .5 oz fragrance oil

Instructions

1. Gather your materials and ingredients.
2. Melt all oils (olive, coconut, shea, and mango butter) on medium-low.
3. Add 10.2 oz of water to a glass container.
4. Slowly pour the 4.5oz of lye into the glass container with water (see more details here) and mix until dissolved. The lye will rapidly heat up during this process.
5. Allow oils and lye to cool to about 115 degrees (can be any temp within 10 degrees). This will take about 45 minutes.
6. After both liquids have reached the appropriate temperature, slowly pour the lye into the pan with the oils.
7. Immediately use your stick blender to mix until you have reached trace (when the liquid is thick enough to sit on top when dripped).
8. Add in .5 oz of fragrance oils. I used a mixture of orange, pine, eucalyptus, and rosemary.
9. Use your immersion blender to stir (NOT blend. You don’t want to overmix your solution).
10. Pour the mixture into your molds.
11. Cover and leave in a safe place for 24hrs.
12. After 24hrs remove from molds (cut if needed) and let the bars cure by placing them on their side for 4-6 weeks.

Video

Keywords:Crafts, DIY, Home, Home Essentials, Home Projects, Homemaking, Soap

Easy Homemade Soap Recipe with Lye: Soap Making for Beginners

There you have it! An easy homemade soap recipe for a beginner! I hope you’ve enjoyed this tutorial! Let me know if you have any questions. Until next time! 

Love, 

Katie

The post Easy Homemade Soap Recipe with Lye: Soap Making for Beginners first appeared on Katie T's Home.

Because I ran into all those issues, I switched gears to plans B, C, D, etc., to work around the problems I was facing. Everything worked out because I ended up with a far better metal filing cabinet makeover than what I set out to do. So, let me share the tips and tricks I discovered along the way!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

Best Deal

Get all my favorite digital downloads today!

Buy Now

Updated: September 24th, 2024

I also ask that you please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!  

Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #38

For my 38th fun fact, I want to share that I’m not a fan of pumpkin flavors. I wish I liked it more because it’s a favorite in the New England area during fall, but it’s just not my cup of tea.

Rustic Farmhouse Filing Cabinet Makeover for Your Home

So, to jump right into this rustic filing cabinet tutorial, you should understand why this cabinet makeover is so great.

The first reason is the worn look of the black metal. I anticipate that the paint on this product will chip and scratch with time.

A scratch on the flat and consistent paint would be noticeable. Because the appeal of this style is to look worn, the scratches that will come with time will only add to the charm.

The second reason is that I used vinyl floor planking on the face of the cabinet. The floor planking looks better than the contact paper vinyl. It’s also a LOT easier to install, which I will go into more depth about later in this post.

Note: if you plan on tackling a similar project, please read this entire article. Not only did I make plenty of mistakes getting the filing cabinet to look good, but there are things I would have done differently. So be sure to read all the tips and tricks carefully so you don’t face the same problems I did!

Be Methodical with Your Approach

This tip seems like a no-brainer, but when it comes to your rustic metal filing cabinet diy, it’s so true! 

My filing cabinet had recessed handles, so the whole face of the cabinet was flat except for that indentation. I decided that I could attach a plank of wood over it to give a farmhouse door look. I used wood from a leftover pallet to save money on this DIY project.

After I measured what I needed, I cut the pallet to the appropriate length. When I placed it on the face of the filing cabinet drawer, it looked terrible. I played around with it to see if I could make it look good, but the wood was too thick.

After wasting time and thinking about ways to use wood for this project, I decided to move on. I scrapped that idea and came up with what I thought was better.

Mistake #2: Vinyl Contact Paper

When I scrapped the wood pallet idea, I remembered I had some vinyl contact paper with a wooden pattern that would look great on the face of the drawers. At this point, I decided I would paint the rest of the cabinet matte black. I used this spray paint because it’s made for metal.

Originally, I was going to paint the base of the cabinet white for this rustic metal filing cabinet DIY because I am a sucker for the white look. But I decided that black would look better in this application. Especially comparing it to the original vinyl, the black just looked better.

Before you spray paint or apply anything, make sure you thoroughly clean your filing cabinet. I used dawn soap and scrubbed it down with this sponge. The green side of the sponge was perfect for scratching the original paint job. I wanted to sand the original paint so that the new paint could adhere to the metal better.

After I cleaned the cabinet, I spray-painted the base. I was not too worried about getting the coat even (as you can see from the hack job in the image). I knew I would be sanding it after, so if anything, the splotchy areas added to the worn look.

As the base of the metal filing cabinet was drying, I worked on the drawers. Because the drawers had recessed handles, I had to fill them, so the face of the drawer was flat.

Admittedly, I taped a roll of thick paper towels, and it worked. It had a slight bulge, but if you did not know it was there, you would not have been able to tell.

Next came the vinyl. I applied the vinyl to the face of the metal filing cabinet drawer. This step was the most frustrating part of the process. It would not stick, no matter how much I sanded the back side of the drawer to wrap the vinyl around. I used two different types of glue, including Loctite, but both were not working.

At this point, I decided that the glue might not be working because it needs pressure while drying. I tried clipping the area I was working on, but the clips kept sliding off because of the angle of the edges.

I finally decided to take masking tape and tape the edges.

Humorously, the tape was doing a good job adhering to the back side of the drawer. Because this area is visible only when you open the drawer, I decided to keep it.

I also added vinyl to the top of the metal filing cabinet because I liked the look of the wood. You will soon find out why I did not end up keeping it.

Top Deal

Get all digital downloads for a fraction of the price with this bundle deal!

Buy Now

Do NOT Use Vinyl Contact Paper on Your Rustic Filing Cabinet

At this point in my rustic filing cabinet makeover journey, some time passed due to the weather. I wanted to work on this project outside, and my area was experiencing some snow, so I waited until warmer weather.

Once it became nice again, I found the time to finish the project. Unfortunately, I ran into some problems. The first problem was the vinyl developed air pockets underneath. I spread them out the best I could, but it was still noticeable.

After having experienced that, I can confidently say that I would not recommend vinyl contact paper on a metal filing cabinet. The air pockets could have developed because I left it outside on my screened-in porch. So, I do not know if the cold had something to do with it, but I would hate to put all the work in with the same results.

I decided to continue with the vinyl because I was in a crunch for time and wanted to finish this project soon, so I continued to work on it.

I removed the top vinyl piece because I prefer a worn look to the vinyl filled with air pockets.

I started to prepare the area for the drawer hardware. I bought this hardware for another project and had some leftovers, so it came in handy for this application.

I attempted to drill the hole towards the center of the drawer over the recessed handle. If you do this step, be sure you have the proper bits for your drill. I have this bit kit that includes bits meant for metal. I also recommend that you go slow when drilling into the metal.

As I drilled into the face of the drawer, I noticed it was not going in. I investigated and found I was drilling directly over the thick piece of metal for the recessed handle. It was too thick to continue.

Updating Rustic Filing Cabinet the Right Way

At this point in the project, I was so discouraged. The drill left a hole in the vinyl and a dent in the metal.

Even if I wanted to redo the vinyl on the whole drawer again, I would have to wait because I did not have enough left to do the face of the drawer.

At that moment, I decided that I would need to think of something else.

Then it came to me. I bought vinyl flooring planks a while ago for a different project that never happened. I hunted down the planking in a back closet and got to work.

I decided to keep the vinyl sheets on the face of the drawers because the floor planking seemed to adhere to it better than the straight metal. With that said, if you plan on giving your filing cabinet a similar makeover, I recommend buying glue proven to adhere to metal and putting this on the whole face of the drawer. Doing so will help the planking stick to the metal.

After I placed the planking down, I got the drill out again. This time, I planned on putting the hardware closer to the top of the drawer. I managed to do this rather quickly.

Rustic Filing Cabinet Makeover for the DIY Homemaker

Just like that, my metal filing cabinet was finally finished! I hope you have some useful tips and tricks on what to do and what not to do. Let me know if you agree that doing it the way I did is the best cabinet makeover idea! Comment below or reach out if you have any questions.

Shop the Look

GooBloo Large Cotton Rope Woven Basket – 18″ x 17” Tall Decorative Storage Basket for Living Room…

Buy Now

EISUROM Moroccan 5×7 Area Rug: Soft Ultra Thin Machine Washable Farmhouse Area Rugs…

Buy Now

The post Rustic Filing Cabinet Makeover for the DIY Homemaker first appeared on Katie T's Home.

So, get ready to learn these tricks and master these skills! With our guide, you’ll not only impress your followers but also create lasting memories that will inspire others to do the same. Let’s dive in and discover the secrets of an Instagram-worthy Friendsgiving table!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

Best Deal

Get all my favorite digital downloads today!

Buy Now

Choosing the Right Colors and Textures

Choosing the right colors and textures is essential when creating an Instagram-worthy Friendsgiving table. The colors and textures you select will set the tone and ambiance for your table, creating a visually appealing backdrop for your delicious feast.

When it comes to colors, opt for a palette that is warm and inviting. Traditional autumn shades like deep oranges, rich browns, whites, and rustic reds can add a touch of seasonal charm to your table. 

Consider incorporating a pop of color like vibrant yellows or orange for a more eclectic look. The key is to balance the pop of color with a neutral base. Doing so will allow that pop of color to really stand out against the rest of the table. 

FLOERVE Pack of 12 Artificial Lambs Ear Leaves Greenery Stems Bulk Faux…

Buy Now

Winlyn 110 Pcs Artificial Autumn Gourds, Mini Pumpkins, Pine Cones, Leaves…

Buy Now

Cotton Flax Dinner Napkin Lace, Natural Color Flax Napkin, Linen Napkin Set…

Buy Now

Lipo Waterproof Tablecloth Embroidery Burlap Linen with Tassel – Heavy Duty…

Buy Now

Textures play an equally important role in creating visual interest in your Friendsgiving tablescape. Mixing and matching textures can add depth and dimension to your table setting. 

Consider layering different fabrics, such as linen or burlap table runners, to create a rustic and inviting look.

Incorporate elements like woven placemats, textured napkins, or even dried wheat stalks to add interesting visual elements to your table arrangement. Don’t be afraid to experiment and mix different textures to create a unique and personalized look that will capture the attention of your Instagram followers.

(4 Sizes: 12″-13″-14″-15″) BARIEN Woven Placemats Round Set of 10, Natural…

Buy Now

Royal Imports Willow Woven Braided Gift Basket for Easter, Baby Shower, Wedding…

Buy Now

As you choose your colors and textures, keep in mind the overall theme or style you want to convey. Whether you’re aiming for a rustic farmhouse style or a modern and sleek aesthetic, your color and texture choices should align with your desired theme. 

Selecting the Perfect Props

Props are essential elements that add depth and personality to your Friendsgiving table setting. They provide visual interest and help create a cohesive and inviting atmosphere for your guests and, of course, your Instagram feed. 

When selecting props, think about the overall theme or style you want to convey and choose items that align with that vision.

DOWAN 6.5″ Large Butter Dish – Ceramic Butter Dish with Lid for Countertop…

Buy Now

Lasutho 16pcs Harvest Artificial Pumpkin Fall for Fall Party Thanksgiving…

Buy Now

One popular prop option is decorative elements. These can take your Friendsgiving table to the next level. Candles, for example, can create a warm and cozy ambiance. Consider using candle holders in various heights and styles to add dimension. 

You can also incorporate natural elements like fall foliage, pumpkins, pinecones, or seasonal flowers to bring a touch of nature to the table.

Also, don’t forget about the power of small, thoughtful details. Place cards or handwritten name tags can add a personalized touch while helping to organize seating arrangements.

Top Deal

Get all digital downloads for a fraction of the price with this bundle deal!

Buy Now

Mastering Food and Dish Placement

When creating an Instagram-worthy Friendsgiving table, the visual appeal of the food and dishes is just as important as the overall setup. After all, a mouthwatering spread is what will truly capture your followers’ attention and tempt them to double-tap that photo.

First and foremost, let’s talk about the importance of freshness. Opt for vibrant, colorful ingredients that not only taste delicious but also add visual interest to your table. 

Emile Henry 11″ x 8″ Medium Rectangular Baker – Modern Classics Collection…

Buy Now

KINGCRAFT 15 x 15 inches Round Ottoman Table Tray Wooden Solid Serving Tray…

Buy Now

Lipper International Acacia Round Flair Serving Bowl for Fruits or Salads, Large…

Buy Now

Mikasa French Country Salad Plate, 8″, White – F9000-202

Buy Now

Think ruby red apples, cranberry sauce, or deep green brussels sprouts. Fresh herbs like sage and thyme can also be tastefully scattered across platters to add a pop of natural color.

In addition to freshness, carefully consider the presentation of each dish. Use stylish serving platters and bowls that complement your table decor while allowing the food to take center stage. 

Rosoenvi Whiskey Glass Set of 4, Old Fashioned Glasses with Gift Box, 10oz Rocks…

Buy Now

Mikasa French Countryside Pitcher, 47-Ounce, Ivory –

Buy Now

Choose different textures and shapes to add variety and visual appeal to the arrangement. For example, a rustic wooden bowl can be the perfect container for freshly baked bread.

When it comes to the actual placement of the dishes, aim for balance and symmetry. Arrange them in a way that is visually pleasing and ensures that each dish gets its moment in the spotlight. Consider balancing the dishes on the table by size, shape, and height. 

Enjoy Quality Time with your Friends

Amidst the excitement of capturing the perfect angles and lighting for your Instagram feed, it can be easy to lose sight of what really matters: the company of the people around you. Friendsgiving is a time to come together, enjoy each other’s company, and create lasting memories.

As you gather around the table, take a moment to appreciate the laughter, the stories shared, and the warmth of friendship that fills the room.

Allow yourself to be present in the moment, savoring the flavors of the delicious food and the joy of being surrounded by loved ones.

When the conversations flow and the laughter echoes through the room, it’s these moments that truly make Friendsgiving special. So put your phone down, engage in meaningful conversations, and embrace the opportunity to connect with your friends on a deeper level.

While it’s natural to want to capture these memories to share on social media, remember that the essence of the occasion lies in the genuine connections you build and the bonds you strengthen. Cherish the moments spent with your friends, cherishing the moments that make Friendsgiving truly special.

Secrets of an Instagram-Worthy Friendsgiving Table: How to Set the Stage for Perfect Pictures

In a world where picture-perfect moments reign supreme, setting an Instagram-worthy Friendsgiving table has become an art form. But fear not, because armed with the secrets we’ve shared, you now possess the power to create an unforgettable feast that will leave your followers in awe. 

By carefully choosing colors and textures, selecting the perfect props, and mastering the art of food and dish placement, you’ve unlocked the key to visual storytelling that will inspire and captivate.

Yet amidst the pursuit of aesthetic excellence, never forget the true essence of Friendsgiving – the precious moments spent in the company of cherished friends. 

Now that you know the secrets of an Instagram-worthy Friendsgiving table, you gather around your beautifully arranged table and savor the laughter and conversation, for those are the memories that truly linger. Share your Instagram-worthy Friendsgiving table with the world, and in doing so, inspire others to create their own visual feasts. As you prepare to impress your followers with stunning snapshots, remember that beyond the filtered frames lies the genuine warmth of friendship. Cheers to unforgettable evenings and endless possibilities – let your imagination run wild, and may your table forever be a canvas of joy.

The post Secrets of an Instagram-Worthy Friendsgiving Table: How to Set the Stage for Perfect Pictures first appeared on Katie T's Home.

Also, be sure to check out my feminine homemaking digital download templates! So, without further ado, let’s jump in!

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

Best Deal

Get all my favorite digital downloads today!

Buy Now

Updated: August 21, 2024

I also ask that you please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!  

Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #36

For my 36th fun fact, I want to share that I am trying to get into and learn how to make cheese!

So far, I’ve started with simple cheeses like mozzarella and cottage cheese, but I’m hoping to get to a point where I can make hard cheeses like cheddar!

The Heart of the Home: Kitchen Countertops

So, first up on the list of the 6 affordable ways to update your home is to start with the kitchen counter. 

Because I’m renting this house that my mémère and pépère built, there are a lot of outdated home features, and the kitchen counters were one of them.

At the time, they were a drab gold color, and with the kitchen cabinets, it was wayyy too dark in the kitchen. So, my quick and easy fix for this problem was to add vinyl to the countertops. 

Now, full disclaimer, it was challenging to adhere the vinyl in the curved areas, like around the sink. But I’d say it is a much cheaper and longer-lasting solution than if we were to paint it.

We painted the backsplash as well, and while yes, it has also held up the same amount of time (about 3 ½ years), the backsplash sees way less traffic. Plus, there were times when we accidentally scuffed the backsplash, and it chipped the paint. 

The vinyl, on the other hand, has held up pretty well. I’d say the only areas that didn’t are the areas we had trouble with from the beginning, and even those are pretty minor. 

In addition to updating your countertop with vinyl, I would even go as far as to say what you keep on your countertops is also significant.

For example, a lot of modern kitchens keep the area simple. There isn’t much existing on the countertops for appliances and kitchen accessories. 

Updated kitchens have related items on display, like wooden cutting boards, lamps, or vintage/cottage decorative pieces.

This is where items like an oil or soap tray are perfect because they fit the description of having a decorative display in the kitchen while also being practical. 

Cozy Outdoor Living Space

Next up on the list of 6 affordable ways to update your home without remodeling is to have a cozy living space outside. 

I won’t go into too much detail on decorating your outdoor space because I have a full video and guide below, but know that having an enticing living space outside will add sophistication to your home. 

An outdoor patio can easily be associated with luxury, but it doesn’t always have to cost a fortune.

Get furniture from Facebook Marketplace and slowly acquire more decorative elements like tablecloths, rugs, plants, etc., to make your living space cozy.

Personally, I love to spend time on my screened-in porch. Whether it’s in the morning with a cup of coffee or in the evenings with a glass of wine, getting inspired by Pinterest for the upcoming projects I want to take on. 

Neutral Colors are Essential

The 3rd must-have, out of the 6 affordable ways to update your home without renovating is to acquire neutral-colored items.

I’m not a professional interior designer by any means, so this is just my opinion, but hear me out.

For the most part, colors will come and go.

So even though bold and dark colors are in right now, it doesn’t mean they’ll always be. Just like the gold countertops I mentioned earlier. At the time, it was in style when my pépère built the house. Now, not so much.

But I feel like neutral colors will ALWAYS be the base. 

So whenever you’re shopping for decorations, accessories, or essentials think neutral colors. 

For example, my comforter and chunky knit blanket are a good baseline for the orangy-toned flooring. While this pine flooring is beautiful for this room, I’d say the orangy tone is another updated color. 

Top Deal

Get all digital downloads for a fraction of the price with this bundle deal!

Buy Now

Affordable Bathroom Counter Transformation

Next up for the 6 affordable ways to update your home is to touch up your bathroom vanity. 

This way is very similar to the kitchen countertop, but it takes it a step further. 

So adhere the vinyl to the countertop. Also, on a side note, make sure the vinyl is waterproof (same for the kitchen countertop).

And add some simple yet decorative items. A bathroom vanity tray is a great way to do this.

But, take it a step further. I’d say if your sink is outdated, paint it! 

Now, I painted mine, and I do have a major recommendation. Don’t rush the process by simply taping the painter’s tape over the drain. Actually, take the drain out. 

Learn from my mistake because I just covered the drain with painter’s tape, and because it wasn’t 100% flush with the drain, water got underneath and peeled the paint.

However, all things equal, considering that only the bottom section has peeled and the rest is still intact, I’d say it’s a pretty worthy update, especially if you’re on a budget. 

Make sure you get the correct epoxy paint that can handle washing and everyday wear. You can find a link for the one I used here. 

Update the Corner into a Reading Nook

The second to last way on this list of 6 affordable ways to update your home is to have a cozy reading nook.

I think this speaks for itself, but the idea is to have an inviting and welcoming area. 

So often homes, whether outdated or not, have almost like an awkward area or vacant corner. And I find people sometimes struggle with how to fill the space. I feel like you can never go wrong with adding an accent chair, ottoman, or bench to create a cozy reading nook. 

Not only does adding these accent furniture pieces add an element of warmth, but it’s also an inviting place to sit or even put items down on. 

For example, I have a classier floordrobe because my clothes are at least on my ottoman and not on the floor. It’s all about perspective!!

Simplicity and Space

Last but not least, the 6th affordable way to update your home without renovating, is to consider simplifying your area. 

I find many outdated homes are filled with visual attention grabbers. 

In other words, certain design elements have harsh contrasts, excessive textures, or even an abundance of curvatures, all grabbing your attention. 

So, while a modern style is simple and sleek, an outdated red brick chimney, curvatures in wooden cabinets, and popcorn-textured walls don’t exactly fit the style of a modern home.

So, if you’re looking to update these areas without renovating, ask yourself how to make the area simple. Also, allow for more space to highlight the areas in your home that you want the attention on. 

This may take the form of making more space in your home by removing unnecessary furniture.

Or it may take the form of what I like to call “covering it up” by, let’s say hanging a picture or TV on that popcorn-covered wall to break up the texture. Or even adding a carpet to outdated flooring.

And don’t be afraid to have the less is more mentality when it comes to physical space.

In the end, having an area to do things, like setting up a table for paint and sip with your friends, is a priceless experience worth making room for. 

6 Affordable Ways to Update Your Home Without Remodeling 

So there you have it! 6 affordable ways to update your home without remodeling. Let me know if the comments if you have done or plan on doing any of these upgrades to your home! Again, check out my online storefront for lots of feminine digital downloads. Until next time! 

The post 6 Affordable Ways to Update Your Home Without Remodeling first appeared on Katie T's Home.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.

Best Deal

Get all my favorite digital downloads today!

Buy Now

Updated July 23rd 2024

I also ask that you please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!

Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #32

For my 32nd  fun fact, I want to share that I am trying to do more canning this year! I plan on canning cucumbers this weekend to make pickles!

I’m super excited because I’ve wanted to do it for some time, but because I’m a beginner, it is a little nerve-racking. Obviously, I don’t want to mess it up, but I find the more I do it, the more comfortable I’m getting.

Dried Spices the Affordable Way

So, for the first step in this spice organization made easy tutorial, you’ll need spices to organize!

Now, use what you have on hand, but if you need to purchase more spices, I highly recommend you do either of these 2  things. 

Buy spices in bulk or dehydrate them yourself.

Spices are so expensive nowadays, and the reality is that the smaller the container, the more you’ll spend on it. That’s why I primarily buy my spices in bulk. 

Plus, it makes more sense to have nice containers like the ones I have if you are buying in bulk. Transferring the spices from the small container you buy at the store to a rustic container is more work for you in the long run, and for no other reason than it looks so much better. 

So again, if you have the space to store bulk containers of spices, I highly recommend it. Plus, spices don’t go bad. They might get a little sticky and hard if exposed to humidity, but it’s not like you have to worry about using them in a set period.  

The two places where I primarily get bulk spices are BJs and Amazon. BJs is a good option for the classics, oregano, garlic powder, italian, parsley, and so forth. On the other hand, Amazon is good for the spices that aren’t quite as popular, like coriander, fennel, cayenne, or even crushed red pepper. 

If you want to take it further and dehydrate your herbs to make spices, then that is also an affordable option. Especially if you grew the herbs in your garden!

Now, I’m not going to lie, fresh herbs are FAR superior to anything dried. There is so much more flavor in fresh herbs, for obvious reasons. 

However, dried herbs are convenient if you are making a recipe and don’t have fresh herbs on hand. 

So, if you plan on drying herbs to stalk up in your spice drawer, then there are 3 methods that you can use. Just be mindful that the herbs will shrink because you’re removing the water content. Each herb will shrink more or less, so don’t be afraid to dry more herbs than you think it will take. 

The 3 methods of preserving fresh herbs are hanging them, dehydrating them in a dehydrator, and/or microwaving them. 

A few things to note. If you hang dry them, this may take 1-2 weeks. You’ll also want to hang the leaf part upside down. This allows the leaves to retain some of their coloring because the oils from the stem flow downward into the leaves. 

On the other hand, you can always dehydrate the herbs in a microwave or dehydrator. Both are quicker than hanging the herbs. 

I used my ninja air fryer on the dehydrator setting to dry some of my herbs from the garden. This took about 5 hours at 115 degrees. 

Meanwhile, the microwave was significantly faster. I put the herbs in for a minute and added 30-second intervals until they were dry enough. Again, the time will vary depending on the water content of that particular herb.

The benefit of drying your herbs compared to buying them at the grocery store is that the herbs retain more color, which means that they are of higher quality. 

Top Deal

Get all digital downloads for a fraction of the price with this bundle deal!

Buy Now

Spice Drawer vs. Rotating Spice Rack

Spice organization is super easy and satisfying when you store the spice jars in a drawer. 

I used to have a rotating spice rack because it was convenient to have the spices near the oven on top of the counter, not taking up valuable space in a drawer.

However, over time, the rotating spice rack was not ideal, and this is for a few reasons. 

First, because it was too close to the oven. While this is convenient in some senses, it also creates more work. Because it was in the vicinity of where oil splattered when cooking, it meant it got dirty quickly.

To make it worse, if it wasn’t cleaned daily, the rotating spice rack was a prime candidate for dust settling and becoming gross. 

The second reason is that cleaning it wasn’t easy due to all the nooks and crannies. Compared to a spice rack within a drawer, it’s just a flat surface. Wooden at that, so the metal doesn’t leave a streaky texture when wiped.

Lastly, because the spice rack rotated, if anything was behind it, it would shift or get in the way of rotating. It’s a minor issue, but an issue nonetheless. Having a spice rack in the drawer makes it super easy to access without anything else getting in the way. 

Easy Spice Recipes

The last step in your spice organization overhaul is to make your spices! This will also cut costs because you probably have ingredients to make some of the specialty spices, and you don’t even know it!

For example, you can make mesquite seasoning by combining spices: 

• ½ tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 3 tbsp brown sugar
• ½ tsp chili powder
• 2 tsp salt
• 1 mounding tbsp smoked paprika

Another easy spice to make is to grind mustard seeds for a dry mustard powder. 

You can also make an Italian herb blend by combining parsley, basil, thyme, rosemary, and oregano. 

Schedule Your Mealtime with Style

Pros

Make-Again-Meals
Recipe Card
Grocery Shopping List
Weekly Meal Planning

Cons

List item 1
List item 2
List item 3

Buy Now

Free Cricut Spice Jar Labels

So, as promised, your FREEBIE for this spice organization made easy guide! This freebie is for individuals who have a Cricut machine. If you don’t know what a Cricut is, I have a full article on everything you need to know about a Cricut before you make the purchase.

In full disclosure, this process is a little tedious. The spice jars I purchased came with labels, but I wanted something different. I love the font Rastanty Cortez from Microsoft Word, Excel, etc., but unfortunately, the Cricut design space doesn’t have a free font like this (at least not that I can find). 

The other issue is the Word or Excel document needs to be transferred to an image for the Cricut design space to accept it. I am unsure if there is an easier way to do this, but I saved the Excel file as a PDF and opened it with Photoshop to convert it to an image.

I removed the background of the spice labels in Photoshop. Because I did this step, the free PNG spice image will be easier to upload to the Cricut design space. You won’t have to remove the background manually. 

Photoshop also has a function where I can layer the font to make it slightly bolder. I added this feature to the free templates. When I did this project myself, I found if I didn’t layer the font, it was too thin to cut, and when I bolded the font directly in Excel, it was too chunky looking. Layering the font via Photoshop allowed the text to be bolded enough to make cutting and weeding the vinyl easy. 

Because Photoshop requires a subscription, I went ahead and put a template together for everyone to use, and it is FREE! If you are interested in picking a different font, photoshop offers a free trial (at least last I checked), so if you don’t like the font I chose, you can follow the steps I took to create your customized font. 

For anyone interested in the free spice labels, I have separated them into two lists: the popular spices, and additional spices. I separated them this way to make it easy during the uploading phase.

The popular spice list includes the spices that I thought would be the most popular. The additional spice list is more uncommon but still used. Once you get to the uploaded step in this process, you’ll see why I thought it might be easier to separate it this way.

Just be sure to unzip the file when you download it and follow the traditional steps you would to cut something with your Cricut! 

Spice Organization Made Easy: Rustic Cottage Spice Rack Drawer

So there you have it! The tools and inspiration to take on a spice organization overhaul. I’m telling you, once you have finished, it is completely worth it! Comment below if you have done this to your spice drawer, and I will see you next time!

Love,

Katie

The post Spice Organization Made Easy: Rustic Cottage Spice Rack Drawer first appeared on Katie T's Home.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.

Best Deal

Get all my favorite digital downloads today!

Buy Now

Updated: July 9th, 2024

I also ask that you please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!  

Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #30

Fun fact time! This is a new section I’m including on my blog posts so my readers can get to know me on a personal level!

So, for my 30th fun fact, I want to share that one of my favorite birds is hummingbirds! 

I have a feeder just outside the porch, and I love to watch them come to get a drink. 

So now, let’s jump into the 7 charming back porch essentials for a cozy outdoor living space!

Back Porch Plants

Okay, so obviously, this may not be best in the wintertime (depending on location), but during summertime, having live plants on your porch is such a must! Whether you choose house plants, flowers, or produce, having plants is a top priority out of the 7 charming back porch essentials.

There are so many benefits to having plants in general. I mean, there’s a reason why documentaries like “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones” discuss how gardening is a factor in longevity.   

Tending to plants allows us to do something besides being on our phones. It also gives us purpose. It’s exciting for a new leaf or growth to happen on a plant you’ve had for quite some time.

Plus, having plants on your porch allows you to decorate with them. And I’m sure your plants like it if your porch has better lighting than in the home.

It’s also a great use of space for those plants you want nearby or veggie scraps you are trying to regrow. 

Take, for example, my scallions on top of my decorative ladder. I hate the smell of scallions in the house, so keeping them outside on my screened-in porch is the perfect way to grow scraps from the scallion base while keeping the smell out of the house. 

Also, on a side note, if you want the full tutorial on how I painted my painter’s ladder, click the link here.

I also have an article on how to decorate your painter’s ladder.

At the time of the post, the ladder was in my office area, so the post lends itself to being indoors.

Lighting for a Cozy Ambiance

Next up on the list of 7 charming back porch essentials for a cozy outdoor living space is to have proper lighting! 

Note that string lights will get dirty with pollen and dust over time. Accompanying garland will also be a major dust collector.

This rustic garland is no exception to that. I cleaned it with a small Makita blower, which seemed to get the bulk of the dust. So keep this in mind when stringing up any lights on your porch. Anticipate that they will get dusty over time.

But whether you have string lights or candles, adding adequate lighting will set the mood of the porch 10-fold! 

Even during the day, string lights add that ambiance and rustic cozy setting. 

Charming and Clean

The 3rd, out of the 7 charming back porch essentials for a cozy outdoor living space, is having a clean area!

It’s not essential in terms of a physical product, but rather to make your porch cozy.

I have a list of cleaning essentials for the home in the article below, but as you can imagine, pollen and dust collect on the porch. 

It’s important to keep the area clean in the event you have guests over. They will feel more comfortable on a clean porch vs. one in need of some elbow grease.

Because this porch is older and in need of repair, it is difficult to keep it at its maximum cleanliness.

Like many of you, I’m a renter, so I’m slightly limited on the projects I want to tackle for various reasons. 

But, in the meantime, I will wholeheartedly enjoy this screened-in porch regardless.

It just means that adding fresh and clean items, like my white tablecloths, will add that touch of rustic cottage to counteract the chipped red paint. It will make the porch setting look rustic more than anything. 

Texture for a Charming Porch

Next up on the list of the 7 charming back porch essentials is adding texture to achieve a cozy outdoor living space!

What I mean is to add essentials like cushions, pillows, or even a rug to your porch or patio! 

Adding soft textures illuminates the cozy feeling because it is just that! 

I mean, who wants to sit on a metal seat when there could be a cushion on it?!?

Plus, adding such textures allows you to add something else, a.k.a. change color. This is huge because for situations like mine where the red porch is super bright, adding a rug will help break up the porch color and allow for a more cozy feeling. 

So, if you are picking out cushions, pillows, or a rug for your outdoor living space, be mindful of not only the texture but also the color of the items and that they can help achieve the aesthetic of a cozy cottage porch. 

Inviting and Charming Back Porch Entryway

Next up on the list of the 7 charming back porch essentials is having an inviting back door entryway!

This is easily achieved by adding a plaid rug, welcome mats, planters, faux trees, etc. The article below is a full tutorial on everything you need to know when creating an inviting entryway.

Be mindful, if you have a rug and entryway mat like mine, that there are provisions in place so it’s not slippery to walk on. You definitely don’t want to trip and fall, never mind your guests, so I recommend getting a slip mat to layer underneath so nobody is face-planting on your watch. 

Having an inviting back porch entryway adds to the overall comfort because of just that. Think about. On some level, every cozy area is inviting. That’s why we are drawn to having and creating a cozy area. 

So, if the back door is inviting, it only compliments the coziness of the porch as a whole. 

Music for the Company

If you plan on hosting a gathering, I recommend having music readily available on your porch!

My pepere built this house and was ahead of his time because he added built-in speakers to the screened-in porch. 

While we don’t use the built-in speakers because it would be more work to set it up vs. utilizing my small portable speaker, playing music will add to the overall experience.

Take, for example, my paint-and-sip night with the girls. We had music playing, and it was just enough to set the tone for the night.

I’d argue the same for a romantic dinner on the porch.

Nothing beats a candlelight dinner with classical music playing in the background. It’s almost instantly relaxing and comforting. 

Outdoor Seating

Last but not least for the 7 charming back porch essentials is proper seating! This seems like a no-brainer, but it’s so important. 

Take, for example, this lounge chair. I do exactly what it was made for. I lounge lol.

The lounge chair is where I’ll sit most of the time on the porch, and it’s so cozy. If I had a more upright seat, it would not be as relaxing.

Now, all things equal, outdoor sofas, in general, are super cozy. There’s nothing not cozy about them. But, if you are looking for new patio seating, keep in mind how you want to sit. 

Take, for example, an Adirondack chair vs a regular upright chair. The slanted back in the Adirondack chair allows for greater relaxation. It’s why beach chairs can recline compared to camping chairs. One is made for relaxing, while the other is more utilitarian. 

Either way, having a place to sit is a must-have to complete the cozy appeal of your back porch! 

7 Charming Back Porch Essentials for a Cozy Outdoor Living Space

There you have it! I hope you enjoyed reading about the 7 charming back porch essentials for a cozy outdoor living space. Drop a comment, and don’t forget to sign up for the freebie below to stay updated on all my latest blog posts!! See you next time!

Love,

Katie

The post 7 Charming Back Porch Essentials for a Cozy Outdoor Space first appeared on Katie T's Home.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

Best Deal

Get all my favorite digital downloads today!

Buy Now

Updated: Jun 19, 2024

I also ask that you please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!  

Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #28

Fun fact time! This is a new section I’m including on my blog posts so my readers can get to know me on a personal level!

So, for my 28th fun fact, I want to share that I am attempting to garden this year! I’m new-ish to gardening and would love any tips from the experts out there! 

But my goal is to make more food from scratch. Whether it be sauce, salsa, pickles, etc., so having a garden will help fulfill this goal! 

First Things First: Clean the Area

Before I list the 7 bathroom vanity tray items, make sure your area is clean! I used a homemade vinegar solution to clean my countertops.

The recipe is super simple to make. All you need is a little time and some lemon peels! Instructions are below:

• Slice up your lemon peels
• Add vinegar to them and let sit for a few weeks
• drain out the vinegar and add an equal amount of water
• enjoy your new cleaner!

Also, as promised, the FREE label for a vinegar cleaner like this one. Just make sure you use a waterproof label adhesive! 

So now, let’s jump into the 7 bathroom vanity tray items!

Decorative Greenery as an Accent

Every tray is going to look a little different, as it should. Your decorative vanity tray might be larger or smaller.

And because everyone has a unique set of circumstances, it allows for individuation and personal style in each setting. 

My preferred style is modern cottage. It’s a classy and elegant twist on a rustic farmhouse style. Although, I do go back and forth on the two styles because there is so much overlap!

Regardless, I think a good start would be to have some decorative greenery for the aesthetic. 

This is because the greenery will help give depth and fill in the voids while adding a pop of color. This holds truth even on the bathroom vanity tray that is now relocated to my upstairs bathroom. The image below is an older photo, but the greenery really adds a pop of color!

Without adding the greenery, the tray would have a more contemporary look, which is not the style I am looking to achieve today. 

With that said, a good rule of thumb when wanting to add a more rustic and wholesome look to any area would be to add organic materials like greenery, wood, or stone. 

Essential Towles and Facecloths

Next up for the 7 bathroom vanity tray decor and essentials are to include facecloths or towels!

This will vary depending on the space you are working with, but having these handy will be convenient while giving the bathroom countertop a spa-like ambiance. 

Neutral colors are always a safe bet when it comes to decor. So, if you are searching for new facecloths, I’d recommend keeping the color neutral.

Also, keep in mind, that if you decide to fold the towels in a fancy roll, like I did, any pattern on the towel may get disrupted, so it’s best to stick with a solid color. 

Top Deal

Get all digital downloads for a fraction of the price with this bundle deal!

Buy Now

Decorative Jars 

The 3rd item out of 7 bathroom vanity tray decor/essentials is a decorative jar (or two)! This is where you can showcase your style because each jar or canister will elevate the aesthetic of your bathroom decor tray.

I received these farmhouse decor accessories from a friend as a wedding gift. They are the perfect size for this stand and allow room for other essentials and decor.

Something to keep in mind is if you want the jar to be see-through or a solid color. If it’s clear, like glass, this will make it easier for guests to determine what’s in them. 

But I will say many solid decorative jars are stunning when used in a bathroom decor tray, so whatever fits your situation is the best way to go!

Another thing to keep in mind, (as someone who is facing this issue) is how well the jars handle dust.

Because these specific ones are dark AND they have a flat top, it does not lend itself to hiding dust very well. Thankfully, my husband and I are pretty on top of cleaning regularly, but if you live in an older house or live near a body of water where dust is more prevalent regardless of the amount of cleaning that you do, I’d go with a lighter, solid colored jar that doesn’t have a flat top like these do.  

Hand Cream or Moisturizer

Hand cream or moisturizer is always good to have on hand and easily accessible for guests. Keeping it in the bathroom is the perfect place, because they may want to use it after they wash their hands.

This is another area where you can put the moisturizer in a nice container, but keep in mind that it should be labeled for the sake of guests knowing what it is. That is why I kept mine in its original container. 

If you do transfer it to another container, I’d recommend keeping note of the expiration date. If it’s a glass bottle, perhaps write it on the bottom with a marker (use rubbing alcohol or sanitizer to clean it off) because moisturizer does expire. 

If you have sensitive skin like I do and want a basic two-ingredient moisturizer, click the article below.

I’m not a professional cosmetic chemist by any means, but from personal experience, this moisturizer recipe has been the only one that hasn’t burned my face.

The biggest obstacle with this recipe is that it is a harder moisturizer, so spreading it isn’t as easy. My workaround is to put it in a candle warmer to melt it, and it’s perfect to go on!

Decorative Candle

The 5th out of 7 bathroom vanity tray must-have items is to incorporate a candle.

I’ll be honest, I’m not a huge candle-burning person for a few reasons.

One, the scent of many candles is overpowering and, two, many of them contain toxic ingredients.

I go into more detail in the article linked below and show you how I made a maple-scented candle, but besides the point, I think candles are still worthy of putting in your bathroom decor tray. 

Similar to the facecloths and towels, candles give a spa-like atmosphere, which is the perfect finishing touch to a bathroom vanity, regardless of style. 

Live Plant

Next up is a live plant!

Again, similar to the accent greenery, a live plant adds an organic and natural look.

Plus, there are many added health benefits of having plants in the home. Many of them clean the air we breathe, and who wouldn’t want that??

Homemade Soap

Last on the list of the 7 bathroom vanity tray items is to include homemade soap!

Okay, I know I don’t technically have soap on my tray. But I thought it was worth mentioning here because it is super important. 

Also, the recipe I used for my soap is as follows:

• 1 part castile liquid
• 2 parts water
• several drops of essential oil

If you are nervous about having soap on or near a wooden soap tray, check out my post on how I added a waterproof layer to my kitchen soap tray!

7 Bathroom Vanity Tray Decor Essentials for a Small Organized Bathroom

Well, my friends, that’s a wrap! I hope you’ve enjoyed learning about the 7 bathroom vanity tray essentials to include in your small AND now organized bathroom! Don’t forget to comment below on what you think or if you have any additional recommendations for this list! Until next time! 

Love,

Katie

Shop the Look

2 Tier Bathroom Counter Organizer, Wood……

Buy Now

Turkish Bath Towel Set for Bathroom 650 GSM Double Stitched Edges & Double Piles…

Buy Now

Glass Soap Dispenser for Bathroom countertops, Kitchen countertops, Decor for homes…

Buy Now

Vtopmart 5 Pcs Mason Jar Bathroom Accessories Set, Lotion Soap Dispenser…

Buy Now

Sand + Fog Scented Candle – Vanilla Sandalwood – Additional Scents and Sizes – 100% Cotton…

Buy Now

Supla 3 Pcs Realistic Eucalyptus Leaves Bushes Artificial Greenery Stems Faux Eucalyptus Branches…

Buy Now

The post 7 Bathroom Vanity Tray Decor Essentials for a Small Organized Bathroom first appeared on Katie T's Home.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a small commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure for more information.

Best Deal

Get all my favorite digital downloads today!

Buy Now

Updated June 4th, 2024

I also ask that you please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. I’m always trying to produce helpful content for my readers, and without knowing what you think, it’s hard to know what you find helpful/not helpful. So please leave your thoughts below!!

Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #26

Fun fact time! This is a new section I’m including on my blog posts so my readers can get to know me on a personal level!

So, for my 26th fun fact, I want to share some really exciting news!!! I just completed my online storefront!

This has certainly been a journey in its own right, and I’m so proud of how far I’ve come on this journey.

My creations reflect what it means to be a feminine homemaker, and I’m happy to promote this. At the end of the day, the work I do is to encourage young women to pursue their dreams of being stay-at-home moms or homemakers regardless of the judgments that the world puts on us.

So check out my digital downloads by clicking this link! I’d be forever grateful!!

Practicality vs. Styling

One day I was eye-guzzling Instagram reels, and I kept seeing reels on wearing vs. styling different outfits. It occurred to me that home decor is not much different.

You can have any area in the home as is, “wearing”, but adding the proper accent pieces will upgrade the area as a whole “styling”.

However, not all of the styling tips are practical. And I think this is where it is easy to get lost. Because with any promotion, you run the risk of feeling like every nook and cranny of your house has to be just so. This creates unrealistic expectations.

This is why I advocate making areas in your home look aesthetic while still being practical. I go into more detail on how I made a practical kitchen counter centerpiece look aesthetic in the article below.

For the sake of getting to the point for this post, I’ll share the obstacle I encountered last year.

Practical Kitchen Ideas in the Making

Last year I bought this kitchen soap tray to organize my kitchen essentials. I searched and scoured Amazon to find what I was envisioning for my kitchen.

When I found it, I made the impulse buy without giving it a second thought. When the package came in and I opened it, I knew right away that the wood was not water-resistant. 

At that moment, I decided I would need to figure out a way to waterproof it. In the meantime, I decided I’d “be careful” and set it up anyway because I was excited to see it in my kitchen.

I told my husband my plan to waterproof it but, in the meantime, to be careful. That same night I discovered soap residue on the tray… I should have known. But to make it worse, I kept it as is and said we’d have to be mindful to take the soap dispenser out whenever we were washing the dishes. 

Well, that didn’t work. The next day when I did dishes, I took the soap dispenser out, but because it was not far enough away from the tray, water still managed to splash and left even more water damage than the night prior. At that moment, I decided I needed to waterproof it ASAP before it got worse. 

Top Deal

Get all digital downloads for a fraction of the price with this bundle deal!

Buy Now

DIY Soap Tray: The Hack

Having experience with DIYs and crafting, I knew there were different products made for making wood water resistant. So, I dug out this polycrylic and got to work. 

Just be sure to use the matte polycrylic if you don’t want excessive shine.

It will still be relatively shiny, and it will darken the wood, but considering mine is a year in and it’s still waterproof/resistant, I’d say it’s a worthy sacrifice.

You’ll also need painter’s tape, a sponge or brush to apply the polycrylic, and an exacto knife/ kitchen knife or painter’s spatula (which is what I used because the exacto knife can scratch).

Taping the Metal Frame

Other practical kitchen ideas include finding a waterproof tray. I mean, it would make sense being so close to the sink. Or, perhaps an oil tray that is not as close to the sink.

But for this kitchen, there isn’t a ton of counter space, and I was already invested in the style of this modern cottage tray. So I got to work.

You’ll want to start by taping the metal frame. You don’t need to tape it perfectly around the circular edge, just completely cover the metal part. Then go back with the knife or painter’s spatula and cut the excess tape off. You can use the metal as a guide to get a clean edge.

Apply the Polycrylic as Directed

Apply the Polycrylic as directed. I painted the first coat and waited 2 hours before applying the second one. I debated doing a third coat, but I tested the wood after the second coat. The water did not soak through, so that was my way of knowing that 2 coats were sufficient. 

Practical Kitchen Ideas

In summary, to achieve the balance between a practical and a stylish kitchen, you’ll need to consider what issues you are facing and the workaround needed to solve those issues.

So the question becomes, what issues are you facing in your kitchen? You may want an area to look aesthetically interesting, but for one reason or another, it’s not possible. Type your struggles in the comments below! I’d love to bounce different ideas to help your situation

Shop Katie’s Amazon Finds

Stratton Home Decor Metal and Wood Round Tray | Wooden Coffee Table Tray Decor…

Buy Now

KitchenAid 5 Quart Ceramic Bowl for all KitchenAid 4.5-5 Quart Tilt-Head Stand Mixers KSM2CB5TWM…

Buy Now

Youngever 3 Pack 16 Ounce Clear Glass Boston Round Bottles with Stainless…

Buy Now

KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer with Pouring Shield…

Buy Now

DOWAN 6.5″ Large Butter Dish – Ceramic Butter Dish with Lid for Countertop…

Buy Now

AOZITA 17oz Clear Glass Olive Oil Dispenser Bottle – 500ml Oil & Vinegar…

Buy Now

Practical Kitchen Ideas: DIY Kitchen Soap Tray Hack

Now that you have applied Polycrylic for a durable finish to your modern cottage soap tray, you can sit back and admire your handiwork in the kitchen.

The sleek look of the protective coating will enhance the overall experience of your DIY creation, adding a touch of elegance to your space. These practical kitchen ideas are about finding a visually appealing balance while serving its purpose for years to come!

The post Practical Kitchen Ideas: DIY Kitchen Soap Tray Hack first appeared on Katie T's Home.