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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!

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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!

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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.

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Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #29

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 29th fun fact, I want to share that I am going camping this weekend! 

Every year, my family has a campout at my parent’s house. Between swimming in the lake across the street, eating good food, and seeing family and friends! We always have a great time!

So now, let’s jump into how to use a lemon for zero waste in the kitchen!

Lemon Juice for Baking and Cooking

There are so many recipes that call for lemon juice! Besides the traditional lemon blueberry muffins, like the ones I made, there are countless recipes to add lemon juice to!

This has everything to do with food science. Adding lemon, an acidic food, enhances the flavors of the dish. 

This is true for cooking with fish, condiments such as mayo, or tenderizing meats such as chicken. Building on that, adding lemon juice to a marinade is a great way to tenderize meat.

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Lemon juice, like vinegar, is an acid that helps break down the meat protein fibers. Just be mindful of the other ingredients you mix with the marinade.

If it’s dairy-based, adding an acid will curdle the cream. 

Another thing to keep in mind if you are water bath canning is that lemon juice is often used in recipes to prevent bacterial growth that causes botulism.

This is because water bath (vs. pressure canning) requires a specific pH to do it safely. Also note that in this case, it is recommended to use bottled lemon juice from the store.

Each bottle has a standard acidity level, and when it comes to canning, you want to be precise to be sure you aren’t allowing the food to grow any unwanted bacteria.

Lemon Simple Syrup

The second thing you can do with lemon peels for zero waste in the kitchen is to boil them in water and sugar to make simple syrup!

This can be stored in the refrigerator or frozen to make drinks down the road.

I enjoy adding simple syrup to my cocktails, but you can also make regular lemonade. 

As far as a recipe goes, all you need is:

• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup of water
• About 3-4 lemon peels cut into small pieces

Bring all ingredients to a boil and let it simmer on medium-low heat for about 5 minutes. Remove from heat and let it steep for an additional 30 min.

Once steeping is complete, you can strain the liquid from the peels. But don’t throw them away (see next section for how to use them!!) 

I’ve also used this process to make orange and lavender simple syrup (separately, of course).

So if you feel like experimenting, think 1 part water and 1 part sugar and add the produce of choice. Simmer, then let steep. And bam, you have a simple syrup!!

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Lemon Peel Candies

Next up on using lemons for zero waste in the kitchen is candy the peels! Yes, that’s right, you heard me! And this is the next step after making the simple syrup.

They taste like gummy worms if you ask me!

Instructions are as follows.

Once you’ve removed the peels from the liquid, set aside to dry. You may need to take a napkin and pat it. The big part here is to make sure they are dry so the sugar doesn’t get them soggy.

So, once the peels are dry, add them to a bowl of sugar and toss them around with a fork. Once completely coated with sugar, set aside.

You have just made yourself lemon peel candies! 

A couple of things to note here. Before making the simple syrup, try to cut off the white parts of the peel.

It doesn’t make a huge difference in taste but does leave a slightly bitter taste in the gummies. If you skip this step, don’t worry. I have done so with oranges, and I find it doesn’t make a huge difference.

Also, when you coat the peels with sugar, I’d let them sit out for a bit.

If the peels don’t get soggy by the sugar, then you must be a natural because I can’t seem to get mine to dry enough the first time around.

The solution, if this happens to you, is to dry your lemon peels again and repeat the process. 

Freshly Squeezed Lemonade

Next up on how to use lemons for zero waste in the kitchen is to freshly squeeze the lemons to make lemonade! 

I find the most efficient way to make lemonade is to put about half a peeled lemon with about 4 cups of water in a blender (add some other fruit, like strawberries, at this time if you want to add flavor). 

Once completely blended, strain it into a pitcher using a cheesecloth. I usually place my cheesecloth over a small strainer and pour the liquid.

Once it’s poured, I pick up the cheesecloth by the edges and apply pressure to separate the liquid from the pulp. 

At this point, you can add sugar and additional water to match your liking. I’ve also added honey as a sugar replacement for a more nutritious drink! 

The nice thing about adding strawberries to the lemonade is it’s a natural sweetener. Plus, the frothy top makes the drink taste fresh!

Lemon Zest

The fifth use of lemons for zero waste in the kitchen is to use it for lemon zest! 

This is perfect to top dishes with, like my blueberry muffins. You can also add them to salad dressings or cooked dishes. 

I’ve also added lemon zest to homemade soap bars before. There are conflicting opinions due to the nature of the fruit zest and spoiling the soap. I didn’t seem to have a problem when I did it, however, if you’re making soap and it’s hot and humid weather, I can see how that may increase the chances of the soap going bad.

I plan on making a soap post soon and will update this section with a link.

In it, I’ll experiment and see if I can dehydrate the zest to create a better alternative. In the meantime, check out my post on the 7 items to include in your vanity bathroom tray. In it I make a homemade liquid soap!

Lemon Peel Cleaner

The 6th use of lemons for zero waste in the kitchen is to make a cleaner with them! This is such a simple process!

All you need is vinegar, water, and lemon peels!

I don’t like my vinegar solution to smell like vinegar (I know it sounds silly), so I mixed 1 part water and 1 part vinegar with the lemon peels and let it sit for a couple of weeks. After it sat, I strained the lemon peels from the liquid and topped it with more water. 

Just don’t do what I did and stuff the lemon peels in a glass bottle like this! I then had to remove the peels from the bottle, which was a slight pain. 

So, if you do it, put it in a bottle that you can easily strain the water out of after. 

And also, as promised, here is a link to a free vinegar solution label! I printed mine on waterproof adhesive paper. It still looks good a couple of years later! 

Dried Lemon Peels and Powder

The last use of lemons for zero waste in the kitchen is to dry them for later use! 

I dehydrated the remaining parts of my strawberry lemonade that I made earlier and then blended it to make a powder. I wanted to see if I could reconstitute it to make a lemonade powder, and let’s just say that it did not taste well at all! 

In hindsight, it makes sense. You remove the pulp, dry it to make a powder, only to reconstitute it in water, and now you have pulp water.

Whomp.

But I’m not going to give up on it! I’m thinking I can add it to vanilla ice cream, but I’d love to hear your thoughts on what I should test it with! Drop it in the comments!

But, you can dehydrate lemon peels and put them in hot water to make lemon tea! 

Lately, I’ve been making lemon lavender tea with a latte twist. All you need is:

• Dried lemon peels
• Dried lavender buds
• 1 tsp of burdock root
• Splash of vanilla extract
• 1 tsp of honey
• About a ¼ cup of milk

Let the lemon, lavender, and burdock roots steep in hot water. Then add the milk, vanilla, and honey and blend it with an immersion blender until the milk has become frothy (definitely do this step in a larger container so you don’t spill everywhere).

Then pour the tea into your mug, and voila! You have a beautifully crafted lemon lavender tea with a latte twist! Top with lavender buds as seen fit.

Zero Waste in the Kitchen: 7 Clever Ways to Use Extra Lemons for Sustainable Living

There you have it! The 7 uses of lemons for zero waste in the kitchen! I hope you’ve enjoyed this post! Don’t forget to comment below and share this post with others! 

Love,

Katie

The post Zero Waste in the Kitchen: 7 Clever Ways to Use Extra Lemons for Sustainable Living 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.

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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. 

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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

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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.

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Updated: October 15, 2024

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 #41

For my 41st fun fact, I want to share that I have been listening to a lot of Jazz music lately. Close family and friends comment about it being “elevator music,” which they are not wrong about.

There’s just something so relaxing about it. Plus, it enhances the feelings of fall and winding down for the winter. 

Not All Coffee Makers Are Created Equal

Before I jump into the deep cleaning part of this post, I want to mention that not all coffee makers are created equal.

What I mean is this Bunn coffee machine is a high to middle-of-the-ground coffee maker. There are cheaper options out there, while there are also more expensive ones.

With that said, a more affordable coffee maker isn’t as intricate. Thus, cleaning it may not require you to take the machine apart. 

Either way, the idea still holds: deep cleaning is still necessary. 

Not All Bunn Coffee Makers are Created Equal

For those in the market for a new coffee machine, there are some things you need to know about Bunn coffee makers. 

Not all are created equal.

For example, growing up, my parents had a stainless steel version. They were the ones who introduced me to the brand Bunn, and I fell in love and wanted one for myself.

As a female with a special place in my heart for the color white, I put this coffee maker on my registry, and my cousin was kind enough to get it for me.

Truthfully, the advertising of the white was a little different than what I was expecting. I still like it, but the plastic does look cheaper than the stainless steel. 

However, the plus side to the white is that it shows grime and water residue buildup more than a darker alternative, thus indicating that it needs cleaning. I look at it like a health alert.

The other thing to keep in mind is the type of carafe. 

The stainless steel carafe keeps the coffee hotter longer compared to the glass. To overcome this the glass carafe version has a heating element on the bottom. However, if any spilled coffee is underneath, it gets sticky and burns on the bottom if the element is on.

Unfortunately, this can happen easily if you are not precise in lining up the carafe because there are no guards to hold it in place (like the stainless steel one has). This can get a bit annoying, but I’m sure it wouldn’t bother everyone.  

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Why I Will Never Change Coffee Machines 

All in all, I cannot complain. I love my coffee maker and would never intentionally change it for one major reason.

It brews a whole carafe of coffee in 4 minutes. 

Bunn has created a technology that can brew a whole carafe of coffee in just 4 minutes. This machine can do it because the water is heated ahead of time. 

That’s why companies like Dunkin’ have the Bunn brand because of its efficiency. 

Essentially, you pour your first carafe of water into the machine and let it heat up to temperature. When you are ready to make coffee, you’ll add another carafe of water, which will replace the first. This gives the first carafe of water time to heat up, thus having instant hot water for your coffee.

Because my husband and I don’t need the coffee machine to keep the water hot for the whole day, we shut it off during the afternoon. To make it easy on ourselves, we have electrical plugs that shut it off on a timer and turn it back on automatically. 

This way, no additional effort is necessary, and we still have the luxury of a 4-minute brew.

Although I wouldn’t say no to a cappuccino machine. I wouldn’t use it all the time because I am a low-maintenance coffee girly, but having the option to splurge now and again sounds appealing.  If any of you have recommendations, leave them in the comments below!

Deep Cleaning your Coffee Machine

Now, for the moment we’ve all been waiting for! Deep cleaning the coffee machine.

It’s rather simple to take this particular machine apart. Unscrew the two top sections, as these will need heavy cleaning. I won’t go much further than that when taking the machine apart because I don’t want to mess with the electrical unit that allows the coffee machine to run.

But a way to clean this part of the machine would be to run vinegar through it. 

I try to deep clean my machine at least once or twice a year. And it’s amazing how much better the coffee tastes after it’s clean.

My husband and I were joking because the last time we did a deep cleaning of the machine, my father-in-law had some coffee. He raved about how good our coffee was for the longest time!

It shows how important it is to do a deep cleaning of your machine now and again. Not to add, how gross the inside of my coffee machine is right now! Disgusting!! 

A couple of recommendations for cleaning the pieces are as follows. Use Dawn and baking soda. Both work great. I also recommend a long brush to get into the nooks and crannies. Just be mindful of the abrasiveness of the brush.

If the pieces are stainless, you don’t have to worry, but if the machine is plastic, you don’t want anything too abrasive. This is a general rule of thumb for plastic kitchen items because they can scratch easily.

The last thing you want is all those scratches from an abrasive brush or sponge to open gateways for grime and residue to build up. This is just asking for it to get dirty quickly. 

Deep Cleaning Your Coffee Maker the Right Way: Rustic Cottage Kitchen Essentials

Well, there you have it! Everything you need to know about Bunn coffee maker and the importance of deep cleaning your coffee maker! Hope this post has inspired you to clean your coffee machine. Until next time! 

Love,

Katie

The post Deep Cleaning Your Coffee Maker the Right Way: Rustic Cottage Kitchen Essentials 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.

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Updated: October 1, 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 #39

For my 39th fun fact, I want to share that I want to learn how to make cheeses! I’ve already made mozzarella and cottage cheese, but I’m hoping to attempt cheddar soon!

Does Non-Toxic Mean What We Think It Does?

So this is what I know. Quality cookware containing “non-toxic” advertising is the hype, and for good reason. We want to know that the products we use in everyday cooking aren’t going to have health risks down the road.

Unfortunately, just because it claims to be nontoxic, and passes specifications doesn’t mean there won’t be problems and findings later on.

Let’s take, for example, silicone. A popular alternative to plastic with the benefit of high heat retention.

Originally, I jumped on the silicone bandwagon. I had silicone mats for my cooking sheets, baggies, and even spatulas.

My husband complained of things tasting like silicone when I cooked certain meals. At first, I didn’t know what to think until I froze some raw milk in a silicone bag and was disgusted with the flavor left behind in the milk. I didn’t even finish my coffee, it was that bad.

From that point on, I started making small shifts away from silicone. If it could leach into the milk that much, who’s to say it’s not doing that to the rest of the food?

But if you investigate, there’s not a lot of substantial information proving silicone to be toxic. If anything, experts “consider” it to be safe.  

So, with that said, if a company uses “non-toxic” as a means of advertising, take it as the base value. Then, investigate, use common sense, and try to make the best decision on what tools you use in your kitchen.

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Is Emile Henry Bakeware Non-toxic?

This is what I know.

These pans consist of high-resistant ceramic clay with a glaze coating. The coating results in a nonstick layer without the added toxicity a conventional nonstick teflon pan has.

Even though Teflon pans are deemed “safe”, the dark truth has been exposed on how damaging these nonstick toxins are. Dark Waters on Netflix is a great movie to watch if you want to learn more about this lawsuit.

Emile Henry pans are crafted in Burgundy, France. Knowing that the EU has more regulations and restrictions regarding toxic chemicals and additives (compared to the US) tells me that the brand has more legitimacy when they claim their products to be non-toxic.

Not to add that they don’t use plastic in the packaging of their cookware, just recycled cardboard.

Does Emile Henry Stand the Test of Time?

I purchased my Emile Henry kitchen pans after I got married. I did a lot of research beforehand, and there was a major sticking point in making the purchase.

The 10-year limited warranty.

If any company can provide a warranty, especially a whopping 10 years, I believe they have the goods to back up their brand.

So, while yes, the cookware is a bit on the pricey side compared to alternatives, I’d rather know that I can invest in a product that will last and not need replacing.

And so far, 3 1/2+ years in, they still look new. Especially compared to my Dutch Oven, which I bought around the same time.

My Dutch Oven is an enameled cast iron pot. While the ceramic Emile Henry pans are coated in a glaze, the enamel is the metal coating equivalent.

All things equal, the Dutch Oven sees more action when I am cooking (scraping it with a spatula). However, it is significantly more scratched than the Emile Henry Pans, plus I am unable to get residual burnt food from the bottom of the pot.

The thing is, this bestseller from Amazon has always been less scratch-resistant from the start. It didn’t take long to get to where it is today.

And that is no surprise because the brand, Emile Henry, prides itself on its product’s resistance to scratches with the family’s guarded secret formula.

To further prove that Emile Henry’s cookware stands for quality, they have their employees stamp their initials on the bottom of the pan to hold for accountability. Thankfully, mistakes are uncommon due to the quality of care provided by each of the artisans.

Additional Benefits of Emile Henry Bakeware

For reference, I have the 8”x8”, 11”x8”, and 13”x9” casserole dishes, along with the 9” pie pan, loaf pan, and small oval baker. All of the pans are the color sugar white.

Of all my Emile Henry pans, the casserole dishes are used the most because of the type of dishes that I make. I use the small oval pan the least, but I am still glad I bought it because sometimes I need a smaller pan.

These pans are dishwasher safe, although I wash mine by hand to allow for more room for other dishes in the dishwasher.

Also, due to the quality control and type of clay, these pans do not chip or crack easily. This means the pans can withstand cutting directly on them without getting scratched or damaged.

Lastly, the pans exhibit thermal shock properties, making them freezer-to-oven safe. Not to add, the quality burgundy clay evenly diffuses heat to the center of the dish while holding on to heat, as the clay has superior heat retention to keep dishes hot longer than the alternative ceramicware.

Minimalist Living: Pans Serve Multiple Uses

Emile Henry pans are considered a minimalist kitchen essential in my book. Now full disclaimer, I’m more of a liberal minimalist at heart. And by that, I mean I am not a hard-core minimalist, but I like to keep my area clean and not have excess stuff hanging around that doesn’t serve a purpose.

These kitchen essentials coincide with minimalist living in my book because they have multiple uses. First and foremost, the primary purpose is to cook. The secondary reason is that they are nice-looking pans, and I don’t feel the need to take the food out of the pan and transfer it to a platter for our guests or a party.

This flexibility is great because it makes for one less dish to clean at the end and one less thing to do. It is also one less platter taking up room in my kitchen because I can use these pans instead.

Best Bakeware Pans for your Non-Toxic Kitchen

So, there you have it! The top reasons why I like Emile Henry pans and why they outperform other kitchen bakeware pans.

I hope you enjoyed learning about the best bakeware pans for non-toxic living! Feel free to reach out if you have any questions! Comment below if you have an Emile Henry pan too!!

The post Best Bakeware Pans for your Non-Toxic Kitchen 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.

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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. 

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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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, check out my grocery shopping digital downloads for an organized mealtime routine! So, without further ado, let’s jump right 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 full disclosure for more information.

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Katie T’s Cottage Home Fun Fact #37

For my 37th fun fact, I want to share that I am looking forward to the fall season that is approaching!

I live in New England, so I see all the pretty leaves changing!

5 Dimensions of Health

When most people think of health, they think of exercise and eating healthily. While this is important, it’s only a fraction of what it means to be healthy.

In addition to physical health, there are 4 other categories of health. These categories include mental, emotional, social, and spiritual.

Many typical health-promoting content creators focus on the physical health end of the spectrum.

While this isn’t bad in itself, it is missing the other four pieces of the puzzle. Without the other pieces, you don’t have a full healthy lifestyle.

With that said, today I will discuss some of the things I take issue with regarding some health-promoting content and what a realistic goal should look like. 

Getting Up at the Crack of Dawn

So, the first healthy lifestyle habits that I want to discuss revolve around the time you wake up. 

So often, I see content creators with the “what my morning looks like” trend, and they start with an early morning at 4:30-5:30. While some content creators are honest, I have doubts about some.

As a result, it’s so easy for the rest of us to feel lazy or less than because we are not waking up super early. 

Now listen, if that’s when your biological clock wakes you up, then that’s great! I have no issues with that. 

My point is everyone is different and in a different season of life. I think anywhere between 6 am and 8 am is a perfectly healthy time to wake up naturally. 

So not only does this unrealistic goal set high expectations for ourselves, but if you’re struggling to get up before 8 you’re fed tips and tricks on how to wake up early.

In some situations, these can be helpful, but I find it’s covering up the heart of the matter.

My morning routine and waking up have drastically shifted over the last 10 years. The times in life when I struggled the most to get up were usually because of external factors going on in life. 

On the contrary, the times when I find it easier to wake up are the periods in life when I am at peace with where I am. 

These “tips and tricks” distract our attention from the root cause of why it’s a struggle to get out of bed.

I know this may not be the case for all, but I’m sure plenty of you can relate to the idea that getting up may not be easy because of external factors. These external factors consume your emotional, mental, and even social well-being. So it’s no wonder you can’t wake up early.

So, my recommendation for those struggling to naturally get up early in the morning is to stop putting pressure on yourselves and start addressing the situations in life that are holding you back. 

And it could be as simple as getting more physical activity into your day. Other times, it may look like diving into the depths of your emotions and doing the hard work of healing.

It’s not easy and will take time. But the outcome will be completely worth it. 

The Problem with Routines

Next up on the list of healthy lifestyle habits for a down-to-earth catholic housewife is to discuss routines.

A routine by itself is a good thing. However, too much of a good thing is not a good thing. But before I discuss why that is, I want to mention that some routines are completely unnecessary.

Let’s take, for example, a classic skincare routine. 

If you’re eating healthy, exercising, and monitoring things like the shampoo you use, and external factors like housing and allergens, then your skin should be healthy by itself. 

Sure, you may need to moisturize after a shower or rinse your face when you first wake up, but after that, everything else is extra. Now, I know everyone has different skin types, which impacts the need to use additional products. 

However, I wholeheartedly believe that if your skin is acting up, it’s your body’s way of telling you something is off. If you’re using all of these products on your skin to make it glow, you could be missing the signals your body is trying to tell you. 

Not only that, but you’re spending time and money in doing so. As a result, this is taking time from your day to tend to other matters while ignoring the signals your body is trying to tell you. 

So, now that that’s established, I want to reiterate that routines are a good thing when done correctly. 

Having structure helps to stay organized and know what you need to accomplish.

But when there’s too much emphasis on structure, you risk missing the bigger picture.

For example, in my college years, I took between 5-7 classes in a semester, worked 20 hours a week, exercised almost daily, made time for family and friends, and managed to get straight A’s for most of college.  

The thing is, I was always so stressed, especially when I was falling behind because my whole life revolved around a scheduled routine. This hindered my ability to have a healthy emotional life.

So, make sure to make room for the “unstructured” parts of life, away from having a routine.

Just like a child needs unstructured play time, we need unstructured moments to step away and live in the moment. 

This is also where your spiritual health can influence your life. Ask God what he is calling you to do. If your focus is just on the next task at hand, you’ll miss the small nudge from Him.

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Eating Healthy

The next healthy lifestyle habits I want to share revolve around eating healthy. 

When I see content like “what I eat in a day,” I feel like it can be slightly misleading. While yes, I’m sure plenty of content creators eat super healthy, as they describe in their content, it doesn’t just stop there. 

My issue comes from the content creators Promoting their healthy choices, who are probably filming what they Ate on a Monday after the regret from the weekend diet is sinking in.

And I can’t even say what they are doing is entirely bad, but what happens is again, people have an unrealistic expectation set for themselves because they see all of these healthy eating posts. 

Also, keep in mind, that some content creators who eat super healthy are doing it because it is part of their job as content creators. The other factor is that healthy food (especially take-out food) might be more readily available in other places of the world. 

Here in the US, we have to worry about so many preservatives, additives, and dyes, to name a few, never mind the type of food we are eating. 

That’s why my personal goal is to make more food from scratch, but even that can be unrealistic. Short of eating the same few types of food every day, I can’t do it all. 

And the thing is, everyone’s “diet” will look a little different because everyone is different. 

You got the vegetarians and vegans in the world who feel completely fine with a diet of beans and pea pods, and I’m over here eating homemade beef jerky for breakfast because my body is craving protein. 

And I’d argue that’s part of what it means to be healthy. To listen to your body and what it’s craving. Now, just because you’re craving chips doesn’t necessarily mean that’s the food of choice, but rather that you’re probably dehydrated. But you get the idea.

Two documentaries that go into more detail on this notion are “Live to 100: Secrets of the Blue Zones” and “Hack Your Health: The Secrets of Your Gut”. These documentaries are super detailed about the different fundamentals of health and how to achieve it. Especially the video on gut health, which focuses on your everyday diet and food consumption. 

So, yes eat your fruits and veggies, get protein, drink water, and incorporate healthy carbs. It’s not complicated. Do the best you can do while still allowing yourself to splurge now and again. 

Get Your Priorities in Order

I believe prioritizing is vital for those looking to create healthy lifestyle habits. 

I won’t go into too much detail on how to prioritize as a homemaker because I have a full guide on how to prioritize below. The key is to make sure you prioritize your overall health. Not just “you”.

Prioritize your relationship with God (spiritual health). Prioritize your love language in your daily routine. Prioritize the things that bring you purpose. 

Don’t just prioritize your “to-do” list. This will set you up for only being productive through the lens of society, and as Christians, we are called to prioritize God as number one. Everything else will fall into place.

Also, prioritize your mental health. Don’t be afraid to take on a new challenge or set time aside to learn a new skill that interests you. 

Life itself is a voyage of lessons, so by default, we are constantly learning.

But when’s the last time you made time to learn something that interests you, all in the name of health? It’s easier to picture health in a way that is associated with exercising, but the mind also craves a challenge, just like our bodies crave the physical challenge of exercise. 

Count Your Blessings… And Friends

When you think about most of the content for healthy lifestyle habits, it accounts for a single person, i.e. drinking water, exercising, getting good sleep, etc. All those things are good, but it’s missing pieces for an overall healthy lifestyle.

Focus on spending time with good people.

We become the people we surround ourselves with. So, if you are spending time with people who are content in their misery, they will bring you down with them.

Instead, focus on the good people in your life and make room for them. We are social beings, and while some have an easier time socializing, everyone needs to make time for the good people in life.

Sometimes it’s difficult to prioritize building strong and healthy relationships with good people when life is filled with responsibilities, commitments, and everything in between. Don’t let those things hold you back from creating a life worth living.

Healthy Lifestyle Habits for a Down-to-Earth Catholic Housewife

So there you have it! Some down-to-earth healthy lifestyle habits for a Christian housewife. Let me know in the comments if you feel validated with any of these or if you disagree. As always, I’m so happy that you are hear, and don’t forget to follow for more! Until next time!

Love,

Katie

The post Healthy Lifestyle Habits for a Down-to-Earth Catholic Housewife 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.

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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. 

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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.

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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. 

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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. 

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Cons

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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 the full disclosure for more information.

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I also ask that you please leave your thoughts in the comment section below. This quick tip section of my blog is truly meant for the benefit of my readers. Short posts actually hurt the performance of my blog. So, if you find these tips helpful, drop a comment or share this post so other readers get a chance to see this information! 

The Kitchen Layout

The fourth quick tip in this mini-series is weighing the pros and cons of the kitchen layout. 

The kitchen has many different elements to think about, so I may do a mini-series on the kitchen alone in the future.

In a modern farmhouse, the kitchen is not just a place for cooking–it’s a space where memories are made and families gather. 

As the hub of activity, the kitchen should be designed with both aesthetics and practicality in mind. From durable countertops to efficient storage solutions, every element in the kitchen should serve a purpose while still adding to the overall design aesthetic. 

The big takeaway here is to think about situations like the examples below BEFORE and DURING the design stage. Don’t settle for a kitchen someone else designed with their preferences in mind.

• Where will everything be stored? (literally, take the example kitchen that you have and think about where your plates, cups, bowls, beeswax wrap, excessive Tupperware, etc. will go before you give the final approval on the design)
• Do you want a window near the sink? 
• Do you want a center island for food prep? Or would you rather have a U-shaped kitchen?
  • If either, think about the distance from the food prep area to the sink, stove, refrigerator, and dishwasher and if this distance is ideal for your cooking style.
• Does the location of the dishwasher make for optimal loading and unloading? Ex. Is the dishwasher in the corner or in an area where it will be harder to put the dishes away?
• Are you opting for easy-to-clean surfaces?
• Will specific options look dirty/stain easily? (For example, a white kitchen sink looks gorgeous in my book, but it does stain if you don’t keep it on top of it).

So, the quick tip here is to think about how the kitchen functions when it’s in use because this will make or break your overall satisfaction with cooking in the kitchen.

I hope you found this quick tip helpful! Don’t forget to sign up for the newsletter below and follow my Pinterest for more quick tips and resources like this one!

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The post Kitchen Layout: Part 4 of 10 Must-Know Interior Design Tips first appeared on Katie T's Home.