In her delightful guide, "The Best Salt Dough Ornaments (with Video!)", Julie Blanner invites crafters of all ages to explore the joys of creating cherished keepsakes. Offering a simple yet effective recipe, she demonstrates how easy it is to whip up a batch of salt dough using just three pantry staples. Julie’s step-by-step video provides clear instructions, ensuring even novice crafters can follow along with confidence.
From festive holiday decorations to personalised gifts, the versatility of salt dough ornaments is boundless. Julie encourages creativity, suggesting various embellishments and painting techniques to bring unique characters to each piece. With her expert tips, you'll be inspired to host your own crafting sessions, making memories with loved ones while creating beautiful, handmade treasures. Whether for special occasions or everyday décor, these salt dough ornaments are sure to add a touch of charm to any home.
When it comes to keeping your nursery tidy and functional, over-the-door organisers are a brilliant solution. They maximise space without sacrificing floor area, and can be essential for storing everything from toys to changing supplies. Here are five of the best over-the-door organisers for your nursery:
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Honey-Can-Do Over-The-Door Organiser: This versatile option features multiple pockets of varying sizes, perfect for stashing away diapers, wipes, and even small toys. Its neutral design fits seamlessly into any nursery decor.
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Munchkin Nursery Organizer: Designed specifically for baby essentials, this organiser offers a combination of clear and fabric pockets, making it easy to find what you need at a glance. It also includes sturdy hooks to ensure it stays securely in place.
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Simple Houseware Over-The-Door Hanging Organiser: With an impressive 8 large pockets, this organiser is ideal for those who like to keep everything accessible. The robust construction can hold heavier items like blankets, giving you peace of mind as your little one grows.
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Paw Patrol Over-The-Door Storage Pocket: For parents who want a fun twist in their nursery, this character-themed organiser is a hit with toddlers. Featuring bright colours and fun graphics, it provides ample storage for toys and books.
- Room Essentials Clear Over-The-Door Storage Bag: This sleek option boasts transparent pockets that allow quick visibility of contents. It’s perfect for busy parents on the go, providing easy access to frequently used items without rummaging through drawers.
Each of these organisers brings a unique blend of functionality and style, helping to create an inviting and clutter-free environment in your nursery.
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As the crisp autumn air settles in and families gather to celebrate Thanksgiving, the star of the feast is undoubtedly the turkey. This year, elevate your festive table with a mouth-watering, time-honoured turkey recipe that will leave your guests raving. Start with a high-quality, free-range bird, ideally around 5 to 6 kilograms, ensuring it’s well-rested from the refrigerator before roasting.
Begin by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). For extra flavour, create a herb butter by mixing unsalted butter with freshly chopped sage, thyme, and rosemary. Carefully loosen the skin over the turkey breast and massage the herb butter beneath, allowing the flavours to infuse during cooking. Don’t forget to season the cavity generously with salt and pepper and stuff it with aromatic ingredients like halved lemons, garlic cloves, and a few sprigs of herbs.
Place the turkey on a roasting tray and cover it loosely with foil to protect the skin from browning too quickly. Roast for approximately 2 to 2.5 hours, basting it regularly with the pan juices. For the final 30 minutes, remove the foil to allow the skin to turn a beautiful golden brown. Ensure the turkey is thoroughly cooked by checking that the juices run clear when pierced at the thigh.
Once removed from the oven, let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving, allowing the juices to settle for the most succulent slices. Serve with all the traditional accompaniments—delicious stuffing, cranberry sauce, and steamed seasonal vegetables—all set to create a memorable Thanksgiving feast shared with loved ones.
Indulging in a soothing bath has long been cherished as a delightful ritual for relaxation and self-care. One of the best ways to enhance this tranquil experience is with homemade bath salts. Not only are they simple to make, but they also offer a natural remedy for stress relief and rejuvenation.
To create your own bath salts, combine Epsom salt, Himalayan pink salt, and sea salt in a bowl. Each of these salts serves a unique purpose; Epsom salt helps ease muscle tension, while Himalayan salt provides essential minerals that nourish the skin. Add a few drops of your favourite essential oils—lavender is particularly renowned for its calming properties—along with dried herbs like chamomile or rose petals for an extra touch of luxury.
Once mixed, store your bath salts in an airtight jar. When you're ready to unwind, simply add a generous handful to your warm bath water. As the salts dissolve, they will infuse the water with their soothing properties, creating a serene escape from the stresses of daily life. Embrace the comforting ritual of self-care and let the natural aromas and therapeutic benefits of your homemade bath salts transport you to a place of peace and tranquility.
Looking to add a personal touch to your festive decorations? This delightful free knitted Christmas stocking pattern is perfect for crafters of all skill levels. Designed to evoke the warmth and nostalgia of the holiday season, the stocking features a classic ribbed cuff and a cheerful fair isle motif that captures the spirit of Christmas.
Using soft, seasonal colours, this pattern allows you to customise your stocking with names or initials, making it a wonderful personalised gift or decoration for your home. Each stitch brings a sense of joy, and the quick-knitting design means you can whip up several in no time. Whether hanging above the fireplace or adorning the stairs, this knitted stocking is sure to become a cherished part of your holiday traditions. Grab your needles and cosy yarn, and let the festive crafting begin!

