Handmade Mother’s Day: Spa in a Box
May 17th, 2009 by prissycook
A few weeks ago I made it downtown to see a screening of a documentary called Handmade Nation, a complimentary film to the book by the same name from Fayth Levine. For me the film made me think about the difference between crafters, makers and artists.
I’ve said before that I know I’m not an artist, but I really wish I was. So, the way I satiate my desire to be creative with the fact that I’m not is that I craft. I do a lot of paint by the numbers projects and I’m happy as a clam doing so. Now every now and again, I go outside of the lines, you know, put my own spin on it, but typically, I chug right along following the directions.
Last Christmas I worked on handmade gifts that included knitted scarfs, hats, and jars of instant hot chocolate mix. I loved seeing my loved ones in items I MADE! And who knows one of these days, everyone will get a pair of knitted socks (don’t hold your breath).
For Mother’s Day this year, at the eleventh hour, I found inspiration for a Spa in a Box. I found tutorials on the Craft blog to make Lemon Sugar Scrub, scented drawer fresheners and I procured a batch of homemade lavender soap from a friend.
I loved the Lemon Sugar Scrub! It was so easy to put together and I already have plans to make more.
Lemon Sugar Scrub by Katie Goodman
Ingredients:
Sugar
Olive oil
Kosher salt
Lemon zest or other citrus zest
Lemon extract (optional)
One recipe makes 2 cups, enough for a 1-pint jar, or 2 half-pint jars.
Materials:
Microplane zester
Medium-sized bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Mixing spoon
Container or jar for the finished product
Ribbon for decor
This project is great for reusing old jars that have been cleaned out (such as jam or sauce jars) or canning jars that you might have around.
Step 1: Combine 1 1/2 cup sugar, 1/3 cup kosher salt, and 1 cup of olive oil in a medium-sized bowl. Stir until the oil is evenly distributed throughout the sugar and salt mixture.
Step 2: Using a microplane zester, grate the zest of 1 large lemon. Add zest to the bowl and stir to combine. If you would like a stronger scent, add 1/4 tsp lemon extract.
Step 3: Spoon the scrub mixture into a clean jar. Make sure to wipe up any spills on the outside of the jar. Tighten the lid on and decorate according to your tastes.
Keesha oversees recruiting and training programs for GoDaddy.com. She is responsible for building programs that attract and retain amazing employees.
Keesha loves food and photography and is passionate about community volunteering. She sat on the board of directors for the Junior League of Phoenix and is on the Children's Museum of Phoenix committee. She attended Blinn College and Texas A&M University. Her most private cupcake confession? She doesn't like frosting!
I’ve been wondering about making some of this -AND I had a recent windfall of grapefruit. Wouldn’t that be wonderful? Had no idea it was so simple – thanks for posting
Where did you find those adorable jars? I’ve looked at Michael’s and they don’t have a huge selection and definitely aren’t as cute as the ones you used!
Hi Jill- I found them at Wal-Mart.