Tutorial: How to create a whimsical succulent terrarium... by Jes

How to Create a Whimsical Succulent Terrarium

A while back I was throwing a baby shower where my concept was

"vintage botanical"

Obviously terrariums were a must.

So, late one night with the help of my handsome and ever supportive husband we created the 

cutest darn terrariums I ever did see.   

Step 1: Gather your materials

A container to house your terrarium

( I would suggest one with a lid. This will create a true terrarium, mimicking a greenhouse.)

A small trowel or a large spoon

Gravel

Activated Filter Carbon

 (This can be found in the fish section at a pet store. It keeps the water clean and keeps funky stuff from happening)

Moss

Potting Soil

Plants and any decorative items you would like

Step 2: Layer your materials like so:

1) Gravel - a good inch or so -

 This gives the water somewhere to go, so you don't end up with soggy soil that could get stinky or even kill your plants.

2) Activated Carbon - about half an inch -

This filters the water as mentioned above, this will also help keep your terrarium mold free.

3) Moss - however much looks right -

This keeps the soil in it's place and adds a nice layered effect.

4) Soil - however much looks right, but a good few inches at least -

(remember to leave enough room for your plant to be completely inside) 

I would probably do a bit of light watering now, before your plants go in. 

5) Plants and accessories

Always choose plants that have the same water needs if you plan on keeping your terrarium for a while.

I found succulents fared the best, they are low maintenance and cute.

To create a diorama feel, print out small animals onto cardstock,

 cut them out and tape them to a toothpick.

(If you want them to last a while a layer or two of mod-podge wouldn't hurt)

Arrange in your terrarium as you like.

Enjoy!

Jes

Lemonade Sugar Scrub by Jes

I have been using a Trader Joe's Tangerine Sugar scrub for years.

BUT...
*Cue dramatic music here*

THEY DISCONTINUED IT!
(DUN DUN DUN)

So! I found a similar recipe online and decided to give it a shot.
It's super easy, and you most likely have everything you need for it already!

Mix 2 1/2 Cups of Sugar with 1 Cup of Olive Oil.
Add 4 Tablespoons Lemon Juice
(or essential oils of your choice)

Mix really well until it turns into a gritty paste
then spoon into a glass container.
Make sure you have a container with a lid that seals well.

This will make enough to fill a 12oz mason jar If it's been sitting a while you may need to stir it before use, as the sugar will settle.

Get creative with different oils and aromas for your own custom mixture!

I even found a way to incorporate something from my list into this project. #9-Give more gifts. I gave a jar to Jessie.
She voted it "Best Shower Ever"

Now you too can benefit from my #9.
Check back in later this week as we'll be giving away a jar in our
FIRST EVER GIVEAWAY!
(woo hoo!)

Typewriter and Faux Terrariums - By Jes

I have a baby shower coming up that I am hosting

AT MY HOUSE!

(I know, it's a big leap from having family over for dinner to hosting a real party, but go big or go home, right?)

So, I have been crafting my little fingers off, which I will happily share with you as soon as my panic inducing frenzy is over.

In the meantime,

I can show you 2 items that will be making an appearance at this baby shower.

1. Smith Corona Typewriter circa 1940

Those are my husbands hands, not mine. Sheesh.

2. Faux Terrarium in a Jar

I will also be attempting to make real terrariums.

Have no fear, I will take lots of pictures and will post the results, good or bad. 

I'm open to tips or ideas if anyone has any...

 Jes