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stocking stuffer ideas

Healthy Stocking Stuffer Ideas (To Make and Buy)

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What is it about a Christmas stocking? Old or young, waking up on Christmas morning to a stocking lumpy with little surprises has its own special joy. These healthy stocking stuffer ideas have the perfect gift for everyone on your list!

It’s always fun pulling the hidden items out to reveal the small gifts inside, even if it’s something as small as a pack of gum or as practical as a pair of fuzzy new socks! Having all of these ideas in one big list makes your holiday season shopping even easier (even if you did miss the Black Friday deals).

The Tradition of Christmas Stockings

Thanks to the famous poem “The Night Before Christmas,” we know Christmas stockings have been “hung by the chimney with care” for over 200 years. But exactly how long ago the tradition began and why it became so popular aren’t as well known.

Most agree the Christmas stocking tradition pays tribute to St. Nicholas, the real man behind today’s Santa traditions.

The legend goes that St. Nicholas heard of a widowed man who couldn’t pay a dowry for his three daughters. This was a desperate situation in those times. St. Nicholas dropped gold coins down the widower’s chimney by night and a coin fell into one of the stockings hung by the fire to dry. The widower and his daughters were overjoyed to find the coins the next morning, their worries over.

The example of St. Nicholas continues to shape our idea of the true spirit of Christmas today! My kids also participate in the St. Nicholas Day tradition of leaving a boot out for “St. Nick” to fill with treats every December 6th.

Best Stocking Stuffer Ideas for the Whole Family

Here are some stocking stuffer ideas on the healthier side. I’ve come up with these over the years or heard others recommend them. And don’t forget to check out my 2025 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide. It has plenty of last-minute ideas for your whole Christmas list!

I have several individual gift guides, one for kids, one for her, and another gift guide for men. Those include some great stocking stuffer ideas separated by gender and age. The lists below are divided by category and include perfect stocking stuffer ideas for various ages and people. A lot of them are also good stocking stuffers for kids.

On to the list…

Edible Stocking Stuffer Gift Ideas

Something for the foodie on your list.

DIY and Beauty Christmas Gift Ideas

DIY skincare makes great gifts for everyone who loves a little self-care. Or if DIY isn’t your thing, there are plenty of natural versions to get your loved ones. Many of the skincare gift sets at stores have ingredients I’m not a fan of. You can easily create your own healthy beauty stocking stuffers with the ideas below!

Health Nut Stocking Stuffers

These supplements and healthy products are great for the health nut on your list. From immune boosting to brain support, there are plenty of options. I’ve even included kid-friendly ones.

Experiences / Sentimental

Give your loved ones the precious gift of your time and attention. These are great to give to the kids, a spouse, or even grandparents.

  • Coupon for “date” with Mom or Dad
  • Carousel or gaming tokens
  • Movie night with a favorite dessert coupon
  • A coupon to stay up an hour late (special Mom and Dad time!)
  • A coupon to pick the meals for a day
  • Mini photo book with family memories and inspirational quotes
  • A personalized bookmark for your reading enthusiast (and a book to go with it!)
  • A keepsake letter or love note
  • Movie tickets or gift certificates
  • A flip photo book with pictures from the year

Perfectly Practical Stocking Stuffers

Who says socks can’t make a good Christmas gift? Even if they’re not a socks person, here are some fun, yet practical gifts they’ll love.

Games & Fun

I love giving games as gifts in the kids’ stockings. It encourages learning, brain development, and creativity, and they have tons of fun with them. They’re also great for family game nights. And fun-loving adults appreciate them too!

Crafty Stocking Stuffer Ideas

Have a crafter on your list? Here are some arts and crafts gifts that are perfect for their stockings. I love sitting down at the table and doing art with the kids. And this gives them more supplies for our family art sessions.

Themed Stocking Stuffer Ideas

Instead of a bunch of random gifts, you can do a stocking stuffer theme! These are great for kids and adults alike.

  • “Adventure” kit for camping: compass, mini-flashlight, beef jerky, trail mix, binoculars, fanny pack – or buy one already made
  • Letter-writing kit: stationery, stickers, pen, address book, fun stamps
  • Crafting kit: yarn and crochet hooks, mini cross-stitch set, buttons, stickers, ribbon
  • Art supplies: watercolor paints, brushes, glue, stickers, paper punch or stamps
  • Purse theme (for mom or older child): mints, tissues pack, pens, hand lotion

Just Because Stocking Stuffer Gifts

Here are some other fun ideas that didn’t really fit into the categories above.

One fun twist on the stocking stuffer tradition. Instead of gifting everything in one day, slip one new gift into the stockings on each of the twelve days of the Christmas season. This traditionally runs from Dec. 25 to the feast of the Epiphany on Jan. 6. Your kids will love looking forward to a new surprise. And it will help keep their focus on the whole Christmas season!

What are some of your favorite healthy stocking stuffer ideas? Let me know in the comments!

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unique gifts

Creative & Unique Gift Ideas (They Don’t Already Have)

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I’ve shared my holiday gift guide, but many of you have asked for a gift guide of unusual ideas that aren’t the normal kitchen gear, clothing, and toys. This list of gift ideas is just that… a compilation of unique and creative ideas that your recipient likely won’t already have!

All of these gifts are practical, healthy, and usable, so they won’t sit on a shelf. Give them for a wedding, birthday, or just because. As a bonus, if you live in the same house as your recipient, you can also take advantage of the health benefits of these gifts!

Food and Drink

Chemex With Coffee

I have two rules when it comes to coffee… I don’t drink it every day, and I only drink good coffee. My Chemex is one of my favorite ways to make coffee. It’s a pour-over coffee maker that makes coffee without any trace of bitterness or acidity. Plus, it’s beautiful.

Pair it with some healthy, delicious coffee from Four Sigmatic coffee or Purity coffee. Use code wellnessmama for a discount.

Camel Milk 

Years ago I got to try camel milk at a conference and was surprised to learn how nutritious it really is. It’s more similar to human breastmilk than cow or goat milk and it doesn’t have the same proteins that many are allergic to. This also means you can freeze it and the texture stays the same.

If you don’t happen to have a camel dairy in your neighborhood, here’s where you can buy frozen camel milk. 

Barukas Nuts

A totally different type of nut, Barukas nuts have a unique nutritional profile. They’re found only in South America and are wild-harvested. Barukas are thought to be the healthiest nut thanks to their high protein, fiber, minerals, trace elements, and antioxidants. They’re roasted to neutralize anti-nutrients and increase absorption and taste great in recipes or as a snack.

CSA Box

A great way to support local farms and give the gift of fresh veggies all year. CSA stands for “Community Supported Agriculture,” and it means the member is essentially sharing in the yield of the farm that year. We’ve been a member of several different CSAs over the years and loved them all. 

You can find products like dairy, meat, fruits, veggies, and even fresh-cut flowers, depending on the farm. Search here for CSAs in your area to find one near you.

Cacao Calm

An absolutely delicious and healthy hot cocoa drink! This one also makes a great stocking stuffer. Cacao calm is expertly crafted by my friend and chocolatier Jonathan Pantalis to have a beneficial amount of stress-relieving adaptogens. I love drinking this before bed!

Clearly Filtered Water Bottle

I’ve bought (and used) several different water bottles over the years, but this one from Clearly Filtered is certainly unique. It’s stainless steel and has a built-in filter that eliminates up to 99.99% of contaminants without removing beneficial minerals. Plus, you can refill it from practically anywhere for fresh, filtered water.

Nature Lovers

Mountain Rose Herbs

One of my favorite places to get high-quality, ethically sourced herbs. Mountain Rose Herbs is my go-to for bulk herbs, but they also have essential oils, tinctures, teas, and bath and body products. Give them some ready-made products or some ingredients to make their own DIY projects.

Flower Press and Glass Frame

Many people love to decorate their homes with fresh flowers, but flowers don’t last that long. With a wooden flower and plant press though, they can preserve nature for years to come! Once they’ve pressed a variety of leaves and flowers, they can arrange them in a beautiful display with this hanging glass frame.

Mushroom Log

You may have heard of mushroom growing kits that come in a box, but these fungi come with their very own log. They can grow organic shiitake mushrooms in just 10 days from inside their own home. They don’t even need to have a green thumb since these mushrooms are guaranteed to grow. Each box/log can grow two crops of mushrooms.

Kids

Kids Daylight Computer

It’s like an iPad but so much better. I love my Daylight Computer and use it when I need to take notes before bed. Their kids’ version is similar, with no blue light, no flashy colors or videos that overstimulate, and features calm learning apps and experiences. 

The Kids’ Daylight Computer values curiosity and growth and can even be used outside in direct sunlight. 

Talkbox

Know some kids (or their family) who want to learn a foreign language? Talkbox is unique in that it approaches language in a natural progression. First, we hear a language, then we see it, then we learn how to speak it. 

I also love that it’s designed to be used in real-life, everyday situations, and the whole family is involved!

Puzzle Boxes

These beautiful Japanese puzzle boxes are a unique way for older kids and adults to keep valuable items safe, and they’re fun to learn. They’re handmade and require creativity and problem-solving. Or gift a Money Maze Puzzle Box with cash inside. This way they get the fun of a puzzle plus cash to get whatever they want. 

Balance Bike

This one is only recommended for the 5-and-under crowd on your list. It’s a fun approach to a training bike. No training wheels or pedals here, just an ultra-light bike that teaches balance. The best part? Kids can carry it, put it away, and move it on their own.

Bodycare

Red Light Facemask

This one can look a little weird when you’re wearing it, but the benefits are well worth it! For anyone who wants targeted red light therapy on their face to help with inflammation and aging. The red light face mask works at a cellular level to rejuvenate cells. 

Hard Lotion

I started making lotion bars years ago and have quite a few recipes on the blog. You can also add any skin-friendly essential oil you want to the base recipe here. And if you prefer not to DIY, MadeOn makes great hard lotion bars that meet my standards. Use code wellnessmama for a discount.

Red Light Toothbrush

I recently switched to this red light toothbrush and I’m loving it! It combines two of my favorite things: oral health and red light therapy. The near infrared and red light help to calm gum inflammation and promote circulation. And the sonic vibrations stimulate and massage.

Ice Roller

I’ve been known to dunk my face in ice water for some facial cold therapy. Not everyone wants to do that though, so an ice roller is the next best thing. It helps depuff the skin, drain lymph, and tighten and tone skin. I love the mint ice roller from Skinny Confidential.

LED Teeth Whitening

Ditch the whitening strips with this LED teeth whitener. This option does not use peroxide or other chemicals that can cause irritation, burns, and enamel erosion. Instead, they use a natural whitening gel with remineralizing hydroxyapatite, charcoal, essential oils, and other natural ingredients. And the LED system uses red and blue light therapy to target bacteria and reduce inflammation.

Red Light Hat

Is your recipient looking for fuller, healthier hair? BON CHARGE has a new red light therapy cap that uses 650nm red light to stimulate hair follicles. It takes just 10 minutes a day and they can easily wear it while doing other activities. 

Rest and Recover

JOOVV Go light

I bought one for my mom years ago and she loves it! Red light therapy helps improve skin, boost collagen, and improve mitochondrial function. The Go Light from Joovv is a mini version for on-the-go red light therapy. I also have a Joovv Combo light, a modular option. So your recipient can purchase more panels later on for a more full-body experience.

Trigger Point Massage

A Trigger Point Massage Tool looks like a cane but works for self-massage. It hits hard-to-reach spots and is great for releasing tension in the back. I love to use this while watching a movie (bonus if you’re sitting on the yoga ball chair too!).

Myobuddy Massager

I got the Myobuddy Massager as a gift and it’s one of my favorite things now! It’s basically percussive massage meets myofascial release meets infrared heat. It feels like a mixture of deep tissue massage and fascia massage, and I find it so relaxing! Use the code wellnessmama for a discount.

Sauna Blanket

There are so many benefits to daily sauna use, and an at-home one is the easiest way to accomplish this. We have a two-person Clearlight Sauna and I love it because it’s my “quiet box” where I go to sweat, listen to a podcast, and get a few minutes of me time.

The sauna blanket from BON CHARGE is an affordable, portable option. Use code wellnessmama20 for a discount. I also like the sauna blankets from Higher Dose. Use code wellnessmama15 for a discount.

Pranamat

Improve sleep, relieve tension, and increase relaxation in just a few minutes a day. The Pranamat has thousands of acupressure relief points that increase blood flow to muscles in your back and neck. This can help reduce inflammation and pain while releasing endorphins. It also boosts circulation and helps muscles breathe a sigh of relief!

Unlike other acupressure mats, Pranamat uses natural fibers like untreated cotton, linen, and buckwheat hulls for pillow stuffing. Use code wellnessmama for a discount.

WAVwatch

I got to try the WAVwatch at a conference and I bought it on the spot! It uses restorative frequencies to target specific organs and areas in the body. The WAVwatch comes preloaded with 166 frequency sets that address everything from sleep issues to reproductive health to headaches and more. Use code wellnessmama for a discount. 

LeelaQ Energy Products

You don’t have to understand quantum mechanics to harness its power. LeelaQ offers their quantum blocks, which harmonize energy and help protect from harmful energies like 5G and other radiation. They offer a variety of quantum energy products for every budget.

Mini Trampoline

Great for the lymphatic system, as an easy way to exercise, and just plain fun! A mini trampoline (also called a rebounder) will fit in most houses, and jumping on it is a great daily practice. They’re great to keep in the living room while watching your favorite shows or for small brain and movement breaks during the day.

Balance Chair

Have someone on your list who works at a desk for part of the day? Many companies are fine with switching out a chair for a more ergonomic chair, even if they won’t go for a standing workstation. This balance chair combines a yoga ball and a rolling chair for a desk chair that engages the core and negates some of the harmful aspects of sitting.

Full Spectrum Lamp

For anyone who experiences Seasonal Affective Disorder or daytime sleepiness, a sunlight lamp may be the answer. It has a bright full-spectrum bulb that simulates daytime, even indoors, and even in the winter. This is the one I use to keep my cortisol levels healthy.

Everything Else

Magic Wallet 

Not just any wallet. This magic leather wallet is like a magical illusion and is fun to use. It’s also made by my favorite leather company, Saddleback Leather. Made from full-grain leather and comes with a 100-year guarantee. 

Daylight Computer

I started using the innovative new Daylight Computer after sunset because it’s more circadian-friendly. There’s no blue light, so it won’t mess with your hormones and can be used even in direct sunlight. It has a fast, paper-like display to read, write, take notes, and use your favorite apps. The first computer that’s more nature and human-focused for a distraction-free digital experience. 

Pet Probiotic 

Have a pooch-loving friend or family member who would love a gift for their pet? Get healthy probiotics for their cat, dog, or horse here. It contains probiotics, prebiotics, and digestive enzymes for better digestion and happier pets.

Probiotics For the Home

It turns out our homes have a microbiome just like our guts, mouths, and skin. We can improve our gut bacteria in many ways, but we can also support our skin and gut microbiome by interacting with probiotics in our environment. 

These beneficial bacteria may also help ward off mold and odors in the home. Homebiotic is probiotics for the home environment that the super-crunchy person on your list may just love!

Personalized Photo Book

I make a photo book for each of my kids every year with special memories from the past year. Use Mixbooks to customize the design and size and get hardcover or lay-flat options. Record memories from a special trip or event in your photo book for your recipient to cherish.

What are some unique gifts you’ve given or gotten over the years? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

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Homestead Blog Hop - Homestead tips, ideas, animal care, and recipes every Wednesday

Homestead Blog Hop 577 – Make Crafts and Chocolate Mousse

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Welcome to the Homestead Blog Hop!

Homestead Blog Hop will take place every Wednesday and is for all things homesteading: real food recipes, farm animals, crafts, DIY, how-to’s, gardening, anything from-scratch, natural home/health, self-sufficiency, self-reliance, natural remedies, essential oils, & more! Basically, anything related to homesteading.

Meet Your Hosts!

Follow Their Blogs

Natasha – Houseful of Nicholes (Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter | Instagram)

Laurie – Ridge Haven Homestead (Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram)

Liz – The Cape Coop (Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter | Instagram)

Kelly – Simple Life Mom (Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram)

FEATURED POSTS from the Last Homestead Blog Hop

Each week we take turns choosing three posts to feature. Each post will be shared on all social media platforms by all of the hosts! Here are the features from Last Week’s Hop:

1. How to Turn a Flat Sheet into a Full Kitchen Linen Set from The Once and Future Homestead

2. Easy Christmas Coffee Filter Wreath Craft for Kids from Darcy and Brian

3. Vegan Banana Chocolate Mousse from Esme Salon

Congrats! Feel free to grab the featured on button for your post.

Just right click and ‘save image as…‘

Guidelines for this Get-Together:

  1. Click on the “Add your Link” Button below and add a great image of your project or recipe. Make sure you link to the page of your family friendly post – not the main page of your blog.
  2. Link up to three posts each week.
  3. Try to visit at least a few other blogs at the party. Be sure to leave a comment to let them know you stopped by.
  4. Link your post back to the Homestead Blog Hop. If the hop isn’t linked to your post then you cannot be featured. All featured posts will be shared on all hosts’ social media channels.
  5. Please link up posts that you haven’t linked to the hop before. You are welcome to link old posts from your blog.
  6. By joining the party, you are giving the hosts permission to use one photo from your post with a link back to your site if it is selected as one of next week’s Features.
  7. This is a family-friendly link up meant to inspire and motivate the homesteader in all of us.

Let the Party Begin!

Join Our Pinterest Board

Follow all your hosts on Pinterest and send me a message that you’d like to be added to our Homestead Blog Hop group board. The only rule is to only add posts that you’ve also added here.

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7 Holiday Cookie Recipes To Make Your Season Bright

7 Holiday Cookie Recipes To Make Your Season Bright

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Some of my favorite holiday memories are of baking with my family – eating dough, throwing a smidge of flour at each other, and most importantly ending up with a plate of hot, fresh cookies.

If you’re planning a baking session soon, here are seven tried-and-true holiday cookie recipes to make your season a little brighter.

I hope you love them as much as we do!

Gluten-Free Gingerbread Men

These chewy gingerbread cookies blend sweet cinnamon and a hint of vanilla with zingy ginger and molasses.

They’re surprisingly simple to make and so delicious!

Gluten-Free Sugar Cookies

Decorated with naturally colored sprinkles and plant-based, natural food dye, these cutout cookies are super easy to make and fun to decorate. 

Gluten-Free Snickerdoodle Cookies

Soft, chewy and rolled in cinnamon sugar deliciousness, these gluten-free snickerdoodles are made with just a handful of simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand.

Gluten-Free Brown Butter Pecan Cookies

These scrumptious gluten-free butter pecan cookies are buttery, chewy and so yummy, and you only need seven ingredients to make them!

GET THE RECIPE

Zimtsterne, which means “cinnamon stars,” is a traditional spiced cookie that’s made with ground almonds or hazelnuts. It’s naturally gluten-free, chewy in the middle, and crisp around the edges.

Soft & Chewy Chai Cookies (Gluten-Free)

Spiced with ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, allspice, cloves, nutmeg and a smidge of black pepper, these chai cookies are soft, chewy, and easy to make.

Jam Thumbprint Cookies (Gluten-Free)

Soft & buttery, these thumbprint cookies are easy to make and so delicious! Fill with whatever jam makes your taste buds sing – raspberry, strawberry, peach, and blackberry are a few of our favorites.

Bonus Recipe: Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Whether or not this favorite is actually a holiday cookie depends on who you ask, but I’m including it here for those who can’t imagine a holiday baking session without them. 

These ooey-gooey paleo cookies are one of my family’s tried-and-true favorite recipes. Ready in about 20 minutes.

More Holiday Recipes To Try

Easy, Creamy Homemade Eggnog (Traditional and Dairy-Free) – Our ancestors didn’t drink eggnog with high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, stabilizers and carrageenan, and we don’t have to either. Make this quick and easy creamy eggnog instead.

Chocolate Peppermint Freezer Fudge – This chocolate peppermint freezer fudge recipe reminds me of biting into a Thin Mint cookie, and it only takes 10 minutes of hands-on time to make.

Mexican Hot Chocolate – This rich, velvety Mexican hot chocolate is one of my favorites. It balances notes of cinnamon and vanilla with the exotic warmth of chipotle chili powder. You’ll find my recipe over at NourishedKitchen.com.

Homemade Marshmallows – Is it possible to make light, fluffy marshmallows without corn syrup? Yep. These classic-style marshmallows are made with wholesome ingredients like honey, grass-fed gelatin and vanilla.

Want more delicious, easy recipes?

No problem, I’ve created a free ebook for you – 35+ Gluten-Free Desserts – as a gift for signing up for my newsletter. Every Sunday you’ll get recipes, actionable health tips, and highly-vetted product recommendations delivered fresh to your inbox.

Sign up using the form below.

Share with a friend! 👇

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DIY Gift Box Soap | Hello Glow

DIY Gift Box Soap | Hello Glow

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There’s something so satisfying about giving handmade gifts during the holidays, and these DIY gift box soaps are my new favorites to make. They look like tiny wrapped presents, complete with a “bow” made from soap curls on top. Not to mention, they’re adorable, they smell amazing, and they’re super easy to whip up, even if you’re not the “crafty” type.

The best part? These soaps are basically just melt and pour base and mica, which makes them totally beginner-friendly and inexpensive (say it with me: we’re keeping the holidays simple this year).

You don’t need any fancy equipment or special skills, just a few supplies and a bit of patience. The soap curls on top are what really make them stand out, and once you get the hang of it (this post will help!), you can customize them with different colors and scents to match your holiday theme.

  • Clear melt and pour soap base — I like using clear base because it gives you a translucent, glassy look that lets you see the colors and glitter inside.
  • Mica — A non-toxic colorant, mica is safe for skin and blends really well into melt and pour soap base. It also creates a swirly, marble-like effect as the soap cools. I used purple-red and a dark turquoise for mine.
  • Glitter — While not totally necessary, glitter adds extra shimmer to your soap curls so they look like fancy ribbons. I used mica-based glitter rather than traditional plastic glitter because I thought it would less scratchy and it wouldn’t pollute our waterways once it goes down the drain. 
  • Essential oils — Cinnamon, clove, pine, cedarwood, sweet orange, peppermint or vanilla essential oils make for perfect holiday scents, but you can use any fragrance that makes you happy.
  • Spray bottle with rubbing alcohol — Spritz this on freshly poured soap to get rid of air bubbles and between layers to help everything stick together.
  • Vegetable peeler — It’s the easiest tool for getting those thin, ribbon-like curls. If you don’t have a vegetable peeler, check out this post [insert link for to How to Make Curls post] for different methods you can use to make your curls. 
  • Square silicone mold — You’ll need square single-cavity soap molds to create the gift box shape.
  • Heat-proof measuring cup — A glass measuring cup with a pour spout makes melting and pouring your soap a lot easier.
  • Large microwave-safe bowl — This is handy if you’re melting a bigger batch of soap or if you need extra room to mix in your mica and fragrance.
  • Kitchen thermometer — It’s important to know how hot your soap is when working in layers. I recommend keeping the soap aroun 140 F to prevent it from melting the ribbons or curls.

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Ribbons

Start by melting clear soap base and adding gold mica to create one thin square of soap for cutting into ribbon strips, plus one thicker block that you’ll use later when peeling the curls.

Step 1: Cut Soap

Cut 3 ounces of clear soap base into 1-inch cubes and place them in a microwave-safe measuring cup.

Step 2: Melt & Add Glitter

Melt the soap in the microwave in 30-second bursts, stir after each. When melted, add the glitter and stir again.

Step 3: Pour Soap

Pour about 0.5 ounce of soap into one of the mold compartments. This thin square will make the ribbon strips. Pour the rest of the soap into another mold compartment to make a thicker block for the curls you’ll make later.

Step 4: Remove Bubbles

Spritz everything with rubbing alcohol to get rid of surface bubbles, then let the soap harden completely.

Step 5: Cut Ribbon Strips

Once everything is set, cut the thin square into four strips.

Step 6: Add Ribbon to Soap Mold

Take 2 of the strips and place one on top of the other to make a plus sign. Trim off the part where they overlap in the middle so they’ll lay flat in the mold (don’t worry, the seam will get covered up by soap curls).

Step 2: Make the Boxes

The soap “boxes” require two separate pours, which helps keep the ribbons in place and prevents them from floating around.

Step 1: Melt + Color Soap

Melt 4 ounces of clear soap base in the microwave. Stir in your mica color and add essential oil.

Step 2: Cover Ribbons

Let the soap cool to about 140 degrees F. Press the ribbon strips firmly into the bottom of your mold so they stay put, then pour just enough soap to cover them.

Step 3: Remove Bubbles + Cool

Spritz with alcohol and let cool. Once that first layer has cooled, spray with alcohol again.

Step 4: Fill Soap Mold

Pour in the remaining soap to fill the rest of the mold. You might need to heat it again to remelt it. Spritz one more time, then let it cool completely.

Step 3: Attach the Soap Curls

Use a vegetable peeler to shave thin curls from the thick gold block you made earlier and stack them on top of your gift box to create a clustered ribbon effect.

Step 1: Shave Soap

Take the thick gold square you set aside earlier and use a vegetable peeler to shave off thin ribbons of soap.

Step 2: Curl Soap

If they don’t naturally curl on their own, roll them with your fingers to create the curled ribbon shape.

Step 3: Attach Curls

Melt about 1 ounce of clear soap in a shallow glass or bowl. Dip the corner of one curl into the melted soap and place it on top of the gift box. Keep stacking curls until you’ve built a little cluster that looks like a bow.

You can also pour clear melted soap base over the curl cluster or dip the curl cluster in melted soap to create a protective shell over it and help the curls hold their shape.

Substitutions

  • Clear melt and pour base — You don’t have to use clear soap if you don’t want to. You can swap it for white, goat milk, shea butter, or aloe bases depending on the look you’re going for. Each one will give you a slightly different finish and feel.
  • Soap curls — You don’t need to make fresh curls every time. Any leftover soap scraps can be shaved with a peeler and turned into curls. You can also use premade embeds if you want to save time.
  • Vegetable peeler — Use a paring knife or a cheese planer instead. They’ll give you slightly different curl shapes, but they both work.
  • Kitchen thermometer — Just rely on visual cues (or a finger, if you’re brave). If the soap is warm but not steaming, and it hasn’t formed a skin on top yet, you’re good to go.
  • Rubbing alcohol spray — Gently tap the mold on the counter to release bubbles. It’s not as effective as alcohol, but it works in a pinch.

Top Tip

Prep all your curls and tools before you start making the boxes. Melt and pour soap cools fast and forms a thin film on top pretty quickly, so this project moves at warp speed once you get going.

Storage

Once your DIY gift box soaps are finished, wrap each one individually in plastic wrap to keep humidity out and prevent the colorant from smudging or bleeding. Store them in a cool, dry cupboard away from direct light. Light can fade the colors over time, especially if you used brighter micas.

For long-term storage, place the wrapped soaps in an airtight container (preferably with silica packets to keep sweating to a minimum). 

If you’re planning to gift them later and notice the soap has developed condensation, just unwrap it and polish the surface with a soft cloth before wrapping it back up.

FAQ

Can I use cold process soap instead?

Not for this specific project. Cold process soap behaves differently, and the curls won’t work the same way. Melt and pour is really the best option here.

How long do these soaps last?

They’ll last up to a year when wrapped and stored correctly. Just keep them away from heat and humidity.

Do I have to add fragrance?

No, fragrance is totally optional. If you’d rather keep your soaps unscented, that’s perfectly fine.

Print

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DIY Melt and Pour Gift Box Soaps

These festive gift box soaps look like tiny wrapped presents, complete with overlapping gold ribbons and soap curl bows on top. And since they’re made with melt and pour soap, they make perfect last-minute holiday gifts.

Prep Time1 hour

Cooling Time4 hours

Total Time5 hours

Course: Bath and Body Soap

Keyword: DIY, holiday gifts, soap

Yield: 2 soaps

Author: Stephanie Pollard

Cost: $10

Instructions

Step 1: Make the Ribbons

  • Cut 3 ounces of clear soap base into 1-inch cubes and place them in a measuring cup.

  • Melt the soap in the microwave, then stir in the glitter until it’s fully mixed.

  • Pour about 0.5 ounces of soap into one of the mold compartments. Pour the rest of the soap into another mold compartment to make a thicker block.

  • Spritz everything with rubbing alcohol to get rid of surface bubbles, then let the soap harden completely.

  • Take the thin square and cut it into 4 strips.

  • Take 2 of the strips and place one on top of the other to make a plus sign. Trim off the part where they overlap in the middle so they’ll lay flat in the mold (don’t worry, the seam will get covered up by soap curls).

Step 2: Make the Boxes

  • Melt 4 ounces of clear soap base in the microwave. Stir in your mica color and add essential oil if you’re using it.

  • Let the soap cool to about 140 degrees F. Press the ribbon strips firmly into the bottom of your mold so they stay put, then pour just enough soap over them to cover.

  • Spritz with alcohol and let cool.

  • Once that first layer has cooled, spray it with alcohol again and fill the rest of the cavity with soap. Spritz one more time, then let it cool completely.

Step 3: Make Soap Curls

  • Take the thick gold square you set aside earlier and use a vegetable peeler to shave off thin ribbons of soap.

  • Use your fingers to roll the soap into curls.

  • Melt about 1 ounce of clear soap in a shallow glass or bowl. Dip the corner of one curl into the melted soap and place it on top of the gift box. Keep stacking curls until you’ve built a little cluster that looks like a bow.

Notes

Pour clear melted soap base over the curl cluster or dip the curl cluster in melted soap to create a protective shell over it and help the curls hold their shape.

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Best 2024 Cyber Monday Discounts on Natural Products

Best 2024 Cyber Monday Discounts on Natural Products

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On Cyber Monday many online companies offer their best sales of the year. I’ve found some great deals this year on natural products! I’m stocking up on pantry essentials, supplements, and some other gifts for everyone on my list.

My Christmas shopping is almost done… now I just have to pull the Advent wreath out of the attic and put on some Christmas music! These sales can help you get some shopping done early. And you can support some great small businesses at the same time. If you still need some gift ideas, check out my gift guide for him, her, and the kids or the ultimate gift guide with ideas for practically everyone.

These are some of the deals I’m most excited about this year. I’m stocking up for myself and getting some to give as gifts for family and friends!

BiOptimizers

This supplement brand has my favorite magnesium supplement, Magnesium Breakthrough. It features 7 different kinds of magnesium in a bioavailable pill for maximum absorption.

I’ve noticed that it helps reduce my stress levels and I feel so much more relaxed. They also have clean supplements for better sleep, brain health, better digestion, and more.

Get the Deal: Get 25% off sitewide through December 3 plus free gifts with code wellnessmama.

Everbella

Everbella’s Complete Collagen Plus tastes like caramel and supports fast-growing hair, radiant skin, stronger nails, and a naturally boosted metabolism. They use a patented micelle liposomal formula, which makes it far more absorbable than regular collagen (up to 8x more)! And because it blends collagen with MCTs, omega-3s, and vitamin E, it works from the inside-out to restore vitality.

They also have their Complete Biotin Plus on sale. It uses micelle liposomal biotin for healthier, fuller hair which delivers nutrients straight into cells for up to 800% better absorption. This supports strong follicles, balanced hormones, steady energy, and thicker hair you can actually see.

Get the Deal: Buy 1 Get 1 Free or Buy 2 Get 2 Free + Free Shipping. Get the BOGO deal on Complete Biotin Plus here and BOGO on Complete Collagen Plus here.

Plant Therapy

One of my favorite essential oil brands, Plant Therapy offers a wide variety of single oils and blends. I also love their focus on safe use and their kid-safe line with specially formulated blends for little ones. They take all the guesswork out of aromatherapy!

Plus they have carrier oils, lotions, diffusers, cleaners, and more. I also love their Holiday themed items for Christmas gifts and stocking stuffers.

Get the Deal: Get 25% off sitewide and a free limited edition 2 ounce body oil with every order.

Vibrant Blue Oils

I use several different essential oils brands, but Vibrant Blue Oils are unique. Their blends are carefully formulated with very particular ratios of specific oils. They help shift organs in the body and regions of the brain to support physiological function and emotional balance. One of my favorites is their parasympathetic blend.

In just 3 seconds, a deep inhale of the Parasympathetic essential oil blend can trigger your brain to “switch on” your parasympathetic nervous system. This calming shift allows your body to focus on repair and rejuvenation. Their Adrenal® essential oil blend is another favorite. It helps balance cortisol, boost energy, and calm your nervous system.

Get the Deal: Get their Parasympathetic blend for about 50% off here or save over 75% on their Adrenal blend here.

Wonder Cow Colostrum

This one is a newer addition to my list of favorites. Colostrum is baby’s first food and is packed with amazing health benefits like gut health, immune support, and muscle recovery. Wonder Cow uses cow milk colostrum that’s ethically sourced and tested for pesticides, glyphosate, and heavy metals. They’re having a sale sitewide with additional surprise perks all week long (including gifts with purchase).

Get the Deal: Now through December 2 get up to 35% off sitewide. Spend $100 and get a free Vanilla Stick Packs. Use the code WELLNESSMAMA

Butcher Box

Ever wish you could high quality meat delivered straight to your door without the hassle of the grocery store? Well now you can! Butcher Box offers pasture raised, grass-fed beef, crate free pork, and organic and heirloom chicken. I love the convenience and prices are comparable to my local store.

New members can get their choice of NY Strip, Filet Mignon, or Ribeye FREE in every box for a year. PLUS get an exclusive $100 off with code WELLNESSMAMA.

Get the Deal: Until 12/31 get a free choice of meat for a year, plus $100 off the first 6 boxes with code WELLNESSMAMA

More Natural Living Cyber Monday Deals

Get even more savings with even more deals for the year. These are some of the biggest sales of the year for these natural brands, so this is when I stock up!

Sip Herbals

This drink is for everyone who loves coffee, but for whatever reason wants/needs to avoid it. Sip Herbals offers a tasty alternative of loose leaf herbal teas with earthy flavors reminiscent of coffee.

Organic chicory, dandelion, and other herbs help support the body’s systems, all while tasting delicious. Choose from flavors like peppermint mocha, French vanilla, and seasonal Holiday flavors.

Get the Deal: For Cyber Monday save 30% off sitewide.

Xtrema

One of my favorite non-toxic, non-stick cookware brands is having a sale! Their products are third-party tested and they share their test results. Xtrema is also easy to clean, dishwasher and oven-safe, and won’t scratch or flake. It’s also safe to use on high heat, cooks well on low heat, and can go in the fridge or freezer. You can read my full review here.

I love their non-toxic, pure ceramic cookware. My pan has lasted me for years and they have so many different cookware options. Right now you can get 41% off sitewide only with the code WELLNESS. 

Get the Deal: Get 41% off sitewide with code WELLNESS

Purity Coffee

 So many of us enjoy coffee to start our day. However, coffee beans are often contaminated with pesticides, mold, mycotoxins, and more. I don’t drink coffee every single day, but the smooth flavor of Purity Coffee almost makes me want to!

They’re organic and tested to be free of mold, mycotoxins, and other contaminants and it’s some of the best coffee I’ve ever tasted! Right now through Monday, December 1 you can get 30% OFF + free US shipping with the link below or with the code wellnessmama.

Get the Deal: Save 30% off and get free US shipping with code wellnessmama

OneSkin

Science meets skincare when it comes to OneSkin. All their products, including OS-01 FACE are backed by lab and clinical studies, certified safe for sensitive skin, and free from harmful ingredients.

What sets OneSkin apart is its discovery of a new peptide called OS-01. Peptides are what make up our bodies, including our skin. And OS-01 is the only peptide scientifically proven to reverse skin’s biological age.

Right now they’re having their biggest sale ever with 20% off $150; 25% off $200 and 30% off $300 through December 1. Valid on new orders only. Not valid on existing subscriptions. Excludes limited edition holiday sets.

Get the Deal: Save up to $300 here

Toups & Co

This is a great clean makeup brand that actually performs well! I’ve used their foundation, mascara, and lip colors. Toups and Co carries all sorts of skincare products from lotion to deodorant to serums and cleansers.

They only use natural, organic ingredients and feature skin superfoods like tallow and aloe vera. This is your last chance to save on their products before the holidays!

Get the Deal: Save 20% off with code BLACKFRIDAY25

Radiant Life

I can’t say enough about Radiant Life products! I have their whole house water filter system and their under the sink 14 stage filter which makes having clean water effortless. You can also find many other things from Radiant Life in my kitchen.

Right now through December 7 you can take advantage of all their sales with the exclusive codes below.

  • Code WM25: $25 off orders over $100, plus free shipping (valid on any product sitewide)
  • Code WM200: $200 off any Whole House Water System or 14-Stage Purifier—up to $400 in savings on their most popular home filtration setups
  • Code WM20: 20% off the Countertop Gravity Water System, Countertop Gravity XL, and Direct Connect/Direct Connect Plus

Get the Deal: Check out their products and use the promo codes here

Our Place

I like to use their Always Pan which is the first non-stick pan without PFAS and other toxins. I also like their new Wonder Oven Pro (save $46!)which is a non-toxic air fryer/toaster/oven all in one! Air fryers are such a time saver for busy days but most of them have toxic non-stick coatings inside.

Plus you can shop all of their non-toxic cookware and bakeware for up to 35% off sitewide.

Get the Deal: Now through December 2 get up to 35% off sitewide on cookware, bundles, and kitchen favorites.

Caraway Pans and Cookware

I have the full cookware set from Caraway as well as some of their bakeware. My favorites are their loaf pan and sauce pans. Their non-toxic pots and pans are made with earth-friendly ceramic and free of harmful chemicals. I love that they have some really fun colors to match the kitchen.

Their stackable set makes storage a breeze. You can even find safe baking racks, teapots, kitchen towels, food storage containers, and more.  

  • 15% off sitewide $85+ 
  • 20% off sitewide $425+ 
  • 25% off sitewide $525+ 
  • 25% off sitewide + Gift with Purchase (the new Bar set) $975+ 

Get the Deal: Right now get up to 25% off here through December 6.

Harkla

Harkla weighted blankets, sensory swings, and other products are great for kids with sensory difficulties, ADHD, autism, and the like. Even if your child doesn’t struggle with some of these issues, sensory swings activate the vestibular system and help keep them active. You can hang the swing in your child’s room or even the living room!

They also offer digital courses to help kids improve focus, mood, and behavior, as well as infant sensory development. Harkla even has a course to help children who have retained primitive reflexes (89% of elementary students!) that negatively affect coordination, motor skills, and social skills.

Get the Deal: Get 20% off with code BFCM_2025

Beekeeper’s Naturals

This company makes a full line of bee-based health products, and it’s not just honey! I use their bee propolis throat spray to ward off a sore or scratchy throat. I also mix a spoonful of their sleep-inducing B.Chill hemp honey into a cup of tea at night.

Beekeeper’s also has a cough syrup we love. It’s free of refined sugars, dyes, added flavors, gluten, soy, cheap fillers, or anything unnecessary. I also love their soothing lozenges and their Propolis+Vitamin C!

Get the Deal: Save 30% off everything and get free gift on orders $100 or more

Clearly Filtered

We have a whole house water filter at home, but I still like my water bottle from Clearly Filtered. It has a built in filter so I can refill anywhere and not have to worry about toxins and contaminants in my water! They also have convenient pitchers, an under the sink system, and fridge filters. I use their pitcher when travelling too.

Unlike some of the options you’ll find at the local big box stores, these filter out up to 73 times more contaminants with their proprietary technology.

Get the Deal: Now until December 15 get 20% off all new filtration systems with code BFCM20

Coop Sleep

Coop Sleep has luxury pillows, bedding, and sleep accessories. You can find everything your bed needs from mattress protectors (great for little ones or homes with pets!) to duvet covers and pillows.

Today get steep discounts on pillows and accessories, sheets, cotton percale items and more. You’ll also get a free eye mask with every order.

Get the Deal: Shop Coop Sleep here for up to 60% off and get a free eye mask.

Beam Minerals

I love BEAM minerals as a source of electrolytes and minerals and I feel so much more energy with them in my morning routine. They use natural, plant-based fulvic and humic minerals that help transport minerals directly into your cells while also supporting gentle, continuous detoxification.

You just need a capful a day to keep your body replenished and balanced. Right now get 25% off when you buy any 2 of their kits.

Get the Deal: Get 25% off any 2 kits sitewide with code CYBER2025

Joovv Red Light

If you follow me on Instagram, you’ve probably seen me snap a picture in front of my Joovv red light panel in my bedroom. I have both their Joovv Go to take with me when I travel and their Solo for a full body session.

Red light therapy is great for skin repair, muscle recovery, wound healing, building collagen, improving hair growth, and more. I’ve noticed firmer skin and my scars faded since using red light. It even helped with my thyroid! Joov has their biggest sale of the year this weekend.

Now through Dec 1 you can save up to $1,000 off their red light therapy devices, including the Go, Mini, Solo, and full-body setups.

Get the Deal: Save up to $1,000 on Joov products here

Branch Basics

I never thought I’d say goodbye to my DIY cleaners, but several years ago I minimized my cleaning closet with Branch Basics concentrate. I can make cleaning sprays, laundry detergent, and even hand soap. They’re totally non-toxic and meet my high standards, but versatile and effective enough to use for any cleaning job.

Right now you can get up to 25% off sitewide on all their cleaners.

Get the Deal: Save up to 25% off today

Manukora Honey

Another simple routine I have is to take a spoonful of raw honey in the mornings for clean energy. My favorite honey is from Manukora. It’s ethically made in a remote forest of New Zealand and is packed with powerful nutrients to support immunity and gut health.

It also has triple the antioxidants and prebiotics of average honey and tastes delicious! I especially love using it during cold and flu season or when travelling to keep my immune system in top shape. Right now through December 1 get their Black Friday Manuka Starter kit for 31% off PLUS get free gifts (a $105 value). It comes with a jar of raw manuka honey, a wooden spoon, and 35 travel sticks.

Get the Deal: Save 31% off the Manuka Starter kit and get free gifts here.

RnA Reset

RnA ReSet, founded by Dr. Carolyn Dean, is one of my favorite places to get quality, synergistic formulas that deliver minerals and nutrients. They also offer supplement bundles so you can leverage the synergistic benefits of their Completement Formulas, aimed at supporting specific bodily structures and functions. And when you opt for their bundles combined with a subscription, you can take advantage of even better discounts.

Right now until December 2 you can get 22% off all formulas, including ReMag and ReMyte. You’ll also automatically get free shipping on orders of $150 or more.

Get the Deal: Save 22% off all formulas until December 2 with code RESETMYCELLS

Kids Cook Real Food

My friend Katie Kimball from the Kids Cook Real Food course is offering 35% off of the course before the regular price increases on December 5. It helps teach kids practical, real life skills in cooking that they can use right away to make meals.

For Cyber Monday, December 1 only you can get their #LifeSkillsNow Season 4 for $97 ($200 off!) here. You can also get 50% off their #LifeSkillsNow Mini-Series Ultimate Holiday Skills Bundle. This bundle includes four of their mini-series:

  • Mastering Household Skills
  • Creative Gifts Kids Can Give
  • Kid’s Guide to Party Planning and Hosting
  • Celebration Essentials

Get the Deal: Now through December 31 get 50% off their Life Skills mini-series. Or through December 4 get 35% off their VIP level of Kids Cook Real Food eCourse. Or today only get $200 off #LifeSkillsNow Season 4

Many of the items on my natural gift-giving guide are on sale. You never know what you might find at a great price this week… enjoy!

What have been some of your favorite Cyber Monday deals? Leave a comment and let us know!

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Homestead Blog Hop - Homestead tips, ideas, animal care, and recipes every Wednesday

Homestead Blog Hop 576 – Thanksgiving Meal Ideas

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Welcome to the Homestead Blog Hop!

Homestead Blog Hop will take place every Wednesday and is for all things homesteading: real food recipes, farm animals, crafts, DIY, how-to’s, gardening, anything from-scratch, natural home/health, self-sufficiency, self-reliance, natural remedies, essential oils, & more! Basically, anything related to homesteading.

Meet Your Hosts!

Follow Their Blogs

Natasha – Houseful of Nicholes (Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter | Instagram)

Laurie – Ridge Haven Homestead (Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram)

Liz – The Cape Coop (Facebook | Pinterest | Twitter | Instagram)

Kelly – Simple Life Mom (Facebook | Pinterest | Instagram)

FEATURED POSTS from the Last Homestead Blog Hop

Each week we take turns choosing three posts to feature. Each post will be shared on all social media platforms by all of the hosts! Here are the features from Last Week’s Hop:

1.Air Fryer Twice Baked Sweet Potatoes – from Air Fryer Fanatics

2. Printable Thanksgiving Pictionary – from Darcy and Brian

3. Crayon Bulletin Board Set Free Printables from Homemade on a Weeknight

Congrats! Feel free to grab the featured on button for your post.

Just right click and ‘save image as…‘

Guidelines for this Get-Together:

  1. Click on the “Add your Link” Button below and add a great image of your project or recipe. Make sure you link to the page of your family friendly post – not the main page of your blog.
  2. Link up to three posts each week.
  3. Try to visit at least a few other blogs at the party. Be sure to leave a comment to let them know you stopped by.
  4. Link your post back to the Homestead Blog Hop. If the hop isn’t linked to your post then you cannot be featured. All featured posts will be shared on all hosts’ social media channels.
  5. Please link up posts that you haven’t linked to the hop before. You are welcome to link old posts from your blog.
  6. By joining the party, you are giving the hosts permission to use one photo from your post with a link back to your site if it is selected as one of next week’s Features.
  7. This is a family-friendly link up meant to inspire and motivate the homesteader in all of us.

Let the Party Begin!

Join Our Pinterest Board

Follow all your hosts on Pinterest and send me a message that you’d like to be added to our Homestead Blog Hop group board. The only rule is to only add posts that you’ve also added here.

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How To Make a Heated Herbal Neck Wrap

How To Make a Heated Herbal Neck Wrap

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This happy little heat therapy pack nestles into all the tense nooks and crannies around your neck, soothing away tension and softening the painful spots that pop up as we age.

I don’t know when it happened, but at some point my body decided that all it wants is to be warm and comfortable. I work from home most days, so when I’m feeling cranky and just over it, I’ll change into comfy clothes around 4 PM, put on my slippers and grab this warming herbal neck wrap.

A quick spin in the microwave is all it takes to warm the flaxseed inside and activate the lavender blossoms for a little aromatherapy. Then I’ll drape it over my neck and melt into the sofa like it’s a waterbed.

While it does require a sewing machine (you don’t want glue melting in the microwave), as long as you can sew in a straight line it’ll be a piece of cake.

Herbal Neck Wrap Supplies

Making your own warming neck wrap is simple and surprisingly quick. You can finish it in about an hour, and the result feels just as cozy and effective as anything you’d buy in a store.

If you have the time and supplies, you can always make a second one that you can keep in the freezer for some cold therapy. Or scale it down and make one the perfect size for a weighted eye mask.

Since it goes in the microwave, just make sure you’re not using anything that could potentially melt or catch on fire.

  • 100% Cotton Fabric – You can use any organic cotton you like, but I prefer to use cotton flannel baby blankets. They’re soft and comfortable. They’re also organic and free of any weird chemicals or coatings that might get gross when heated. Organic linen or hemp would also work here as well. 
  • 100% Cotton Thread – Avoid any metallic thread, which might spark in the microwave, or synthetic thread, which may melt if overheated.
  • Twill Tape – While not totally necessary, I think having handles on my neck wrap is a cheap upgrade. Pulling on them increases the pressure and heat on your tired muscles. They can also be tied, helping to keep the wrap in place. But if you find the added steps overwhelming, you can leave them off without affecting the wrap.

Fill it will flaxseed (or rice, in a pinch) and some dried flower blossoms for scent. Lavender is a great choice, but you can also go with chamomile, rose or jasmine depending on your preferences.

  • Organic Flax Seed – I’ve seen both white rice and flaxseed used in warming wraps, but I recommend sticking with flax. The oils in the flaxseed heat up slowly and retain heat longer than rice, so your wrap won’t need to be reheated as often. It’s also less likely to retain moisture and get moldy, which is an added bonus. 
  • Organic Dried Lavender Blossoms – I’m partial to lavender because I find it especially relaxing, but you can use any dried flowers you like. Chamomile, rose, jasmine, gardenia or lilac could all work. You could also use soothing herbs, like peppermint, rosemary, or thyme, if that’s more your speed.

See the recipe card below for quantities.

Instructions

With the right sides together, fold the fabric in half lengthwise (hot dog style) so that the long edges line up.

Using a ½” seam allowance, sew the long seam. Then turn right side out and press.

On one of the short ends, fold the raw edge of the fabric in by ½ inch and press.

Insert the ends of your twill tape and pin in place.

Sew the end closed with the twill tape in place using a top stitch. Remove the pins.

Starting at the closed end, measure 1.5″ down from the top edge. Draw a horizontal line.

Come down to the line you just drew. Measure 1.5″ in from the left edge and draw a line lengthwise down the neck wrap, ending 2″ from the bottom (this includes your ½” inseam).

Move another 1.5″ to the right and draw a second line lengthwise down the wrap.

You should end up with 2 equidistant vertical lines starting 1.5 inches from the top edge, and 1.5 inches in from each side. The lines should stop 2 inches from the bottom edge.

Sew along each vertical line.

Your lines should look like this. This gives the wrap structure that helps keep the flaxseed in place and prevents it from settling on either end of the wrap.

Mix the lavender and flaxseed together in a small bowl. Pour ½ cup into the open end then shake to get it to the bottom.

Keep going until the wrap is almost, but not quite, full. There needs to be some flexibility so it can wrap around your neck.

Fold the raw ends of the open side under and press and insert the ends of your twill tape on the outer edges

Top stitch the end closed. And your neck wrap is ready to use!

How To Use Your Neck Wrap

Place the wrap in the microwave and heat in 30-second intervals until desired warmth is achieved. Be careful not to microwave for more than 90 seconds, otherwise you risk it drying out and starting on fire.

Test the temperature of your pack (make sure it’s not too hot!) then drape it around your neck and shoulders to relax tight muscles, ease tension, or warm up on a chilly day. You can also place it on your lower back or across your abdomen for gentle comfort.

The heat usually lasts around 20 to 30 minutes. When it cools down, just pop it back in the microwave for another minute to get it back to the desired temperature.

Top Tip: If you use white rice instead of flaxseed, place a small cup of water in the microwave with your wrap when you heat it. Rice has less oil the flaxseed and tends to dry out more in the microwave, which may cause a fire if you’re not careful. 

FAQ

What fabric works best for a DIY neck wrap?

Any organic, natural fiber fabric will work. Cotton or flannel are great choices because they’re soft, breathable, and safe to heat in the microwave. Always avoid synthetic fabrics, which can melt, off gas chemicals or give off odors.

Can I use essential oils instead of dried flowers?

Yes, absolutely. Mixing a few drops of essential oil with the flaxseed will give you the same aromatherapy benefits as dried flowers.

Can I use it as this heated neck wrap as a cold pack too?

Sure, just place it in a sealed bag and store pop it in the freezer for a few hours. It’s great for headaches, sore muscles or tired eyes.

How long does a DIY neck wrap last?

With regular use, it can last several years. If it starts to smell off or the fabric wears thin, it’s time to make a new one.

Print

]]>]]>

DIY Herbal Neck Wrap

This happy little heat therapy pack nestles into all the tense nooks and crannies of your neck, soothing away tension and softening the painful spots that pop up as we age.

Prep Time1 hour

Total Time1 hour

Course: Aromatherapy

Keyword: DIY

Yield: 1 neck wrap

Author: Stephanie Pollard

Cost: $15

Equipment

  • Wide neck funnel

  • Iron

  • Sewing machine

  • Ruler

  • Sewing chalk

Instructions

  • With the right sides together, fold your cotton fabric in half so that the long edges line up

  • Sew this long seam. Then turn the fabric right side out and press.

  • Take one of the short ends. Tuck the raw edge under by about ½” and press.

  • Insert the ends of your twill tape and pin in place. Sew the edge closed using a top stitch.

  • Starting at the closed end, measure 1.5″ down from the top edge. Draw a horizontal line.

  • Come down to the line you just drew. Measure 1.5″ in from the left edge and draw a line lengthwise down the neck wrap, ending 2″ from the bottom (this includes your ½” inseam)Move another 1.5″ to the right and draw a second line lengthwise down the wrap.You should end up with 2 equidistant vertical lines starting 1.5″ from the top edge, and 1.5″ in from each side. The lines should stop 2″ from the bottom edge.

  • Then sew along the vertical lines.

  • Mix the lavender and flaxseed in a bowl. Fill your neck wrap with the flaxseed mixture. Leave room at the top so there’s some flexibility to the neck wrap.

  • Fold the raw ends of one side under and press. Just like you did for the other end, insert the ends of your twill tape on the outer edges of this short end. Topstitch closed.

Notes

I simply poured the mixture into the wrap as best I could, trying to get the seed evenly spread between each of the three columns. But you might find that a wide neck funnel makes it easier to fill.
If you use white rice instead of flaxseed, place a small cup of water in the microwave with your wrap when you heat it. Rice has less oil the flaxseed and tends to dry out more in the microwave, which may cause a fire if you’re not careful. 
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How To Embed Shapes in Melt + Pour Soap

How To Embed Shapes in Melt + Pour Soap

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For the past several years, I’ve been diving into the world of soap making. While I love making it from scratch, I find that melt and pour soap making can be equally cathartic. Especially once I learned how to embed colorful shapes and create fun scenes without it taking days on end, like with cold process soap.

While embedding shapes in soap might seem simple (and it is!) there’s a bit of a learning curve that comes with the process. Little things you might not think about, like soap type, temperature or cooling time, can make or break your designs.

I learned that the hard way. But in this guide I’ll show you how to embed shapes in melt and pour soap like a pro, so you can get right to the fun part.

Which Melt and Pour Soap Base To Use?

Melt and pour soap base is a special kind of soap that’s meant to be cut into pieces and heated in the microwave. Once melted, you can then add scents, colors or other ingredients to tailor the soap to your own needs. You’ll then pour the melted soap into a custom mold and let it harden before cutting and storing it.

While melt and pour soap comes in a variety of types (glycerin, goat milk, oatmeal, etc.), there’s really only two types you need to be aware of when embedding shapes:

1. White soap base (goat milk, shea butter, oatmeal, etc.)

White soap base is opaque and somewhat soft. It usually contains oils or other ingredients that are good for skin, such as honey, oatmeal or shea butter. Because it’s soft (it has a lower melting point than glycerin soap), it’s often used as the out layer of soap, rather than for embedded shapes.

2. Clear soap base (glycerin)

Clear soap has a higher concentration of glycerin, a moisturizer derived from plant and animal fats. It’s not quite as soft as white soap, which means it gets hotter, cools more slowly, and holds its shape better.

Colors also appear more vibrant and pop more in clear soap base, making it ideal for embedded shapes. This isn’t a hard rule though, and once you’ve mastered the basics of melt and pour soap making, you can easily use either type of base for your shapes.

  • Rubbing Alcohol in a Spray Bottle – Rubbing alcohol is used to help layers and shapes stick together in melt and pour soap. A quick spritz before pouring helps the new layer bond to the one below it. It also helps remove bubbles from the surface of freshly poured soap for a smoother finish.
  • Thermometer – A thermometer helps you keep track of your soap’s temperature so it doesn’t melt your embedded shapes. It’s especially useful when layering, since the pour temperature affects how well the soaps bond. Keeping it within the right range makes for clean, defined designs.
  • Large Knife for Cutting Shapes – A large knife helps you slice the soap base into manageable chunks before melting and cut larger pieces into simple shapes once it’s set. It gives you control over the size and thickness of each embedded piece.
  • Small Knife or Potato Peeler for Cleaning Up Shapes – A small knife or potato peeler helps refine your shapes by smoothing edges or trimming away extra bits. It’s great for small adjustments that make your designs look a little more polished.

Ways to Make Shapes with Molds

Molds give your soap and embeds their shape. You can use traditional block molds for larger bars or smaller silicone molds for the embedded shapes themselves. Flexible molds make it easy to release the soap once it’s fully cooled.

When it comes to creating your shapes, there are 3 different ways to make them. The one you choose depends on your personal preference and/or how you’ll be embedding the shape.

1. Column Molds

This is the most common way to make embedded shapes. These flexible silicone molds have an interlocking seal the snaps together to form a long “column.”

You then pour your liquid soap base in the center, let it cool, and peel away the sides, leaving you with one long shape you’ll then embed into a rectangular mold.

2. Silicone Cake Decorating Molds

If you plan to make soap bars one at a time as opposed to in a large rectangular mold, you can use silicone cake decorating molds to make your shapes. The end result will be small shapes that you can embed on top of individual soap bars rather than inside the soap prior to cutting.

3. Non Soap Eembeds

You don’t have to make your own shapes to embed in soap. Try other ideas like these:

Molds for Pouring Soap

1. Rectangular Molds

Rectangular or block molds are large, loaf-style molds that hold several bars’ worth of soap in one pour. Once the soap hardens, you remove the whole block and cut it into individual bars with a knife. You’ll pair these molds with column molds or hand cut shapes to get the embedded-shape effect.

2. Single Bar Molds

Unlike rectangular molds, single bar molds have individual cavities that you fill separately. Once the soap cools, you can simply pop each bar out, no cutting required. You’ll often use these molds with shapes made from silicone cake decorating molds.

Preparing the Soap

Melt and pour soap is made to be heated in the microwave. While this is a rather quick and painless method, it often results in hot spots, clumps, bubbles or other issues.

Here’s how to prepare your soap so as to avoid these common pitfalls.

  • Always cut your soap into 1” cubes before putting in the microwave.
  • Heat it in 30-second intervals, stirring thoroughly between each round. This helps prevent hot spots and ensures uniform melting.
  • Once melted, let the soap base cool to about 140°F before using. To cool it more quickly, put a thermometer in the melted soap and put it in the fridge. Check it every 5 minutes, peeling the hardened soap on the top to the side and gently stirring the melted soap to even out the temperature.
  • Its important that you don’t mix the cooled crust that forms on top of the soap back into the melted soap. If you do that, it’ll make the soap chunky when you pour it into your molds.
  • When it reaches 140°F, it’s ready to pour! If you miss the mark you can always put the soap back in the microwave and heat for another 5-10 seconds to liquify it again.

3 Techniques for Embedding Shapes

I rely on three main methods for embedding shapes. You can definitely get creative and come up with your own versions later, but mastering these three first will give you the skills to handle just about any soap design you dream up.

1. Using Column Shapes in a Rectangular Soap Mold

This method uses long, cylindrical shapes made with a column mold. Once your shapes have fully set, you place it inside a rectangular loaf mold and pour melt and pour soap around it. When the soap hardens, you’ll slice it into bars, revealing the embedded design running through the center of each one. It’s a simple and effective way to create a repeating pattern that looks striking from every angle.

We have a whole post explaining how to do this step-by-step with this pink peppermint soap.

2. Embedding Shapes in Single-Bar Molds

With this technique, you’ll use small silicone cake-decorating molds to make thin, flat-ish shapes. Once your shapes are ready, pour a thin layer of clear soap into each cavity of a single-bar mold, let it set slightly, then place your shape on top.

Finish by pouring more clear soap over it to encase the design in the middle. This layering method gives your soap a clean, professional look and works well for colorful or detailed designs.

Melt white soap base and add mica for color. Then pour into your silicone butterfly molds and let cool.

Melt clear soap base. Fill the cavity of a single-bar soap mold about halfway.

Spritz with alcohol and let cool for about 20 minutes.

Arrange 2-3 butterfly shapes in each mold cavity.

Make sure the temperature of your clear soap base is between 130°F and 140°F (if it’s too hot it will melt the butterfly shapes) before pouring your second layer. Spritz with alcohol.

Let cool completely before removing from the mold

3. Embedding 3D Shapes

If you want your shapes to stand out and look artsy, this is your method. You’ll create three-dimensional shapes using silicone molds, then embed them in single-bar molds so part of the shape extends beyond the soap’s surface.

The finished bar has a sculptural, playful look that makes it feel extra special. It’s a fun way to experiment with texture and depth while showing off your creativity.

Melt the white soap base and add a little red mica for color. Pour the melted soap into a silicone flower mold.

Spritz the top of the soap with rubbing alcohol to prevent any lumps or bubbles.

Allow it to cool for 1 hour before removing from the mold and cutting the soap in half.

Heat another batch of soap base in the microwave and add green mica for color. Fill the cavity of a single-bar soap mold until it’s ¾ full and spritz it with rubbing alcohol. Let cool for 10-15 minutes.

Check that the soap is 140°F or less. Then pour a thin, second layer of green soap on top of the cooled layer. Working quickly, embed the 3D shape on top.

Let cool completely before removing from the mold.

Tips for Successful Embedded Shapes

Control the temperature

When working with melt and pour soap, temperature is everything. If the soap is too hot when you pour it, it can cause your molds to warp, melt your embeds or create air bubbles. If it’s too cool, it may not fill out the mold properly.

Always use a thermometer to check the temperature before you pour. While a lot of tutorials recommend a temperature somewhere around 125°F, I’ve found that to be too cold. Instead I recommend pour the soap when it reaches about 140°F.

Don’t let the soap overheat

Always heat your soap base slowly, in short intervals if you’re using a microwave. Overheating can cause scorching, reduce clarity, or make the soap lose moisture and harden too quickly.

Keep your embeds in place

Let your first soap layer cool and form a sturdy skin before adding the next layer. This helps keep your embeds in place instead of floating or shifting.

If you find that your shapes are melting or bleeding when you add the layers, chill them in the refrigerator for a few minutes before embedding to prevent them from softening when the warm soap is poured around them.

Use rubbing alcohol generously

Keep a spray bottle of rubbing alcohol on hand and give everything a good spritz before and after pouring your layers. This makes a huge difference in the final look.

Rehydrate the soap before reheating

If you have to reheat the soap multiple times and it’s become too thick, add ½ teaspoon of water per pound of soap base each time you reheat it.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

Embeds sinking or melting

If your embeds keep sinking or shifting around, your soap base is probably too warm or too thin when you pour. Let the first layer cool until it forms a solid film on top (I usually touch it with my finger to make sure it’s nice and sturdy) before adding more embeds. That gives them something to rest on.

For lighter pieces, pour the next layer a little cooler so it thickens faster and holds everything in place.

If your embeds look a little melty, your soap is too hot. Try keeping it in the 130-140°F range to be safe.

Bubbles or cloudy layers

Two things can cause bubbles: either the air gets trapped or the soap is poured too hot. Always spray rubbing alcohol on the embeds before you pour to help the layers stick and keep bubbles from forming.

If your clear soap turns cloudy, it’s a sign it was overheated. Always microwave the soap slowly and stir well before each interval.

Cracks or separation between layers

Cracks or peeling is frustrating but easily avoidable. Cracks usually happen when the soap has cooled too much before adding the next layer. Try pouring the next layer while the bottom is still slightly warm but not soft. A light mist of rubbing alcohol before each pour can also help prevent this.

FAQ

How long does it take for melt and pour soap to set?

For large designs, it’s best to let it sit for at least 4 hours before cutting. If you’re in a hurry, you can pop it into the refrigerator for about 30 minutes, but avoid the freezer, which can cause condensation and sweating after you take it out.

How long to wait between layers of melt and pour soap?

I recommend waiting 15-20 minutes after pouring a layer to see if it’s sturdy enough for another. You want it to feel firm when you touch it, but not completely cold. If you wait too long you might get noticeable lines between layers, which can affect the look of your finished design. 

Can I add things to melt and pour soap?

Some people say you shouldn’t add extra oils or ingredients to melt and pour soap because it might affect the texture once it cools. But I’ve found that, when used in moderation, additives don’t make a noticeable difference to the soap’s quality. Just don’t go overboard or your soap could get lumpy or greasy.

Print

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3 Ways to Embed Shapes in Melt and Pour Soap

Prep Time4 hours

Total Time4 hours

Course: Bath and Body Soap

Keyword: DIY, soap

Yield: 6 soaps

Author: Stephanie Pollard

Cost: $15

Materials

For 3D Shapes That Stick Out

For Shapes in Single-Bar Molds

Instructions

Embedding 3D Shapes That Stick Out

  • Melt the white soap base and add a little red mica for color. Pour the melted soap into a silicone flower mold.

  • Spritz the top of the soap with rubbing alcohol to prevent any lumps or bubbles.

  • Allow it to cool for 1 hour before removing from the mold and cutting the soap in half.

  • Heat another batch of soap base in the microwave and add green mica for color. Fill the cavity of a single-bar soap mold until it’s ¾ full and spritz it with rubbing alcohol. Let cool for 10-15 minutes.

  • Check that the soap is 140°F or less. Then pour a thin, second layer of green soap on top of the cooled layer. Working quickly, embed the 3D shape on top.

  • Let cool completely before removing from the mold.

Embedding Shapes in Single-Bar Molds

  • Melt white soap base and add mica for color. Then pour into your silicone butterfly molds and let cool.

  • Melt clear soap base. Fill the cavity of a single-bar soap mold about halfway.

  • Spritz with alcohol and let cool for about 20 minutes.

  • Arrange 2-3 butterfly shapes in each mold cavity.

  • Make sure the temperature of your clear soap base is between 130°F and 140°F (if it’s too hot it will melt the butterfly shapes) before pouring your second layer. Spritz with alcohol.

  • Let cool completely before removing from the mold.

Notes

If your embeds look a little melty, your soap is too hot. Try keeping it in the 130-140°F range to be safe.

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Homestead Blog Hop - Homestead tips, ideas, animal care, and recipes every Wednesday

Homestead Blog Hop 574 – Make Snickerdoodles and Crafts

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Welcome to the Homestead Blog Hop!

Homestead Blog Hop will take place every Wednesday and is for all things homesteading: real food recipes, farm animals, crafts, DIY, how-to’s, gardening, anything from-scratch, natural home/health, self-sufficiency, self-reliance, natural remedies, essential oils, & more! Basically, anything related to homesteading.

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FEATURED POSTS from the Last Homestead Blog Hop

Each week we take turns choosing three posts to feature. Each post will be shared on all social media platforms by all of the hosts! Here are the features from Last Week’s Hop:

1. Craft Stick Thankful Bucket Turkey from Creatively Beth

2. Easy Cranberry Apple Crisp with Buttery Oat Topping from Pinecones and Acorns

3. Pumpkin Snickerdoodles from Yummi Haus

Congrats! Feel free to grab the featured on button for your post.

Just right click and ‘save image as…‘

Guidelines for this Get-Together:

  1. Click on the “Add your Link” Button below and add a great image of your project or recipe. Make sure you link to the page of your family friendly post – not the main page of your blog.
  2. Link up to three posts each week.
  3. Try to visit at least a few other blogs at the party. Be sure to leave a comment to let them know you stopped by.
  4. Link your post back to the Homestead Blog Hop. If the hop isn’t linked to your post then you cannot be featured. All featured posts will be shared on all hosts’ social media channels.
  5. Please link up posts that you haven’t linked to the hop before. You are welcome to link old posts from your blog.
  6. By joining the party, you are giving the hosts permission to use one photo from your post with a link back to your site if it is selected as one of next week’s Features.
  7. This is a family-friendly link up meant to inspire and motivate the homesteader in all of us.

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Follow all your hosts on Pinterest and send me a message that you’d like to be added to our Homestead Blog Hop group board. The only rule is to only add posts that you’ve also added here.

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