The steps involved to learn how to make a catnip sock toy are not difficult and with this catnip toy, you will keep your cat amused for hours.

DIY catnip toys are easy to make and very affordable.

Using the steps below is one way you will know how to make homemade cat toys out of socks.

Materials:

• Sewing Machine or a thread and sewing needle
• Scissors
• 20 TBSPs of Catnip
• 4 Toddler Socks (size 18-24 months)
• Multi-Colored Feathers

Instructions:

• Add 5 TBSPS of catnip to each toddler sock. This is how much catnip to put in cat toy! For other types of cat toys, others are asking how to infuse cat toys with catnip. After a while, you will become comfortable with how much catnip is right for your cat.
• Choose different colored feathers and pair them with each sock. Feathers are irresistible to cats and with catnip, you are sure to have your cat rolling on the ground in pure glee!
• Use a sewing machine or by hand to stitch the feathers into the center of the sock’s opening and then stitch the sock shut making sure to pass over the feathers to sew them in place.

Once you have completed all four socks or as many as you choose to make, cut off any excess threads with your scissors. Best of all, this is a refillable DIY cat toy.

VOILA! Your catnip kicker sock is complete.

If you want to add extra catnip inside kickers it is not a problem as long as you are aware of how sensitive your cat is to catnip.

Now you know how to make cat toys out of socks! You could also use other cloth items and just stitch them closed.

For more DIY cat toys be sure to follow us as we will be posting new ones regularly!

These DIY toys make great holiday gifts as well!

Can I put catnip in a sock?

Yes! You can put catnip in a sock for your cat!

When cats sniff or consume catnip, it can cause an intoxicating and euphoric reaction.

Simply take a clean, old sock and fill it with some dried catnip (you can also add a bit of silvervine for an extra kick). Then tie off the end of the sock and let your kitty go wild.

Not only is this a cheap alternative to store-bought cat toys, but you can easily refill the sock as needed.

So grab some catnip and start filling those socks for entertaining and satisfying playtime with your furry companion.

This easy DIY fall pumpkin pie garland project is perfect for homesteaders who want to add a touch of autumn decor to their homes.

Plus, crafting is a fun way to spend a rainy fall afternoon when you can’t be out harvesting in your garden or fields.

As the weather starts to cool and the leaves begin to change color, it’s time to start getting into the fall spirit.

One of the best ways to do this is to decorate your home with seasonal touches.

This garland is sure to get you into an autumn mood.

It is adorable as a fall garland for a mantle.

I’m always looking for easy DIY fall decor for our homestead.

DIY Fall Pumpkin Pie Garland

Supplies:

• 1 sheet of each: Orange and White Felt
• 2 sheets of tan felt
• Bakers twine
• White yarn
• Scissors
• Hot glue gun

Directions:

To make the pom poms

I used a scrap of cardboard for this.

Begin wrapping white yarn around a scrap of cardboard, until you have covered the cardboard about 30 to 40 times.

Tie the yarn in the middle tightly.

Now cut the loops on the opposite sides of the place you tied the middle.

Trim as desired to fluff.

To make the pie slices:

Cut triangle shapes into your orange felt. I cut a variety of sizes to use as much of the sheet as possible.

Now, cut slightly longer triangles from 1 sheet of the tan felt. You want to have about ½” more tan at the top for the crust.

From the scraps, cut thin strips to use for lattice crust.

From the second felt sheet, cut long thin strips.

Begin layering your pie triangles to glue.

You will want to glue from the point of the triangle (the bottom of the slice) and stop gluing about halfway up so the top of the pie is not secured.

To create the crust, I folded up, then down, then back up again, repeating until I reached the end.

I recommend gluing a little with the hot glue gun, then working the crust, adding more glue as you go.

The glue will dry fast, and you don’t want to feel rushed with the crust.

After the crust is finished you are ready to begin attaching the pie to the twine and securing the pie to the crust at the top.

With bakers twine, fold the pie back at the top, where it has not been glued, under the crust.

Lay the twine between the pie and the crust and glue it down.

Leave as much space as you like between slices.

I went for about a 6” space between pie and pom pom.

After the pie is secure along with the garland you can begin to tie or glue your pom-poms in place.

As a final touch, if you would like to make whipped cream dollops, cut a small square of felt and fold the ends so they all touch, add a squirt of hot glue to the center and squeeze.

Glue the white whipped cream dollop into place.

NOTE: it is essential to use a hot glue gun on this project.

White all-purpose glue and glue sticks will not hold felt in place and absorb into the materials.

How do you make a simple garland?

Garlands are a simple way to decorate for the fall season.

All you need is a length of ribbon or string, and some fresh or artificial fall flowers (such as mums or sunflowers), dried leaves, or other greenery.

If you’re using fresh flowers, start by creating a base of greenery.

Then, add on your flowers, spacing them evenly along the length of the garland.

Once you’ve added all of your decorations, tie off the end of the garland and hang it up.

If you’re using artificial flowers, you can simply thread the flowers onto the garland without any additional greenery.

Garland is a great way to add a fall festive touch to any space, and best of all, it’s easy to make yourself!

Here are more fall garland ideas:

Fall is a time for cozy fires, pumpkin spice everything, harvest dinners, and beautiful garlands draped around doorways and mantles.

This year, why not try something a little different with your garland?

We’ve gathered some of our favorite ideas to get you inspired!

From simple berry wreaths to intricate paper chains, there’s something for everyone here.

So gather your supplies and get creative!

If you’re looking for a quick and easy project, try making a berry wreath.

Gather your favorite berries (we used cranberries, but any type would work) and tie them together with a piece of twine or ribbon.

You can either leave it as is or add a few sprigs of greenery for extra color.

If you want something a little more festive, try using paper chains instead of traditional ribbon or string.

This is a great project for kids and can be customized to any color scheme.

If you’re feeling ambitious, why not try making your own garland out of flowers?

This is a great way to use up leftover flowers from other projects or even from your garden.

Simply tie the flowers together with some string or ribbon and you’re done!

If you’re looking for a more rustic look, try using branches as garland.

Gather some branches from your yard or local park and tie them together with some twine.

You can leave them natural or give them a coat of paint to match your decor.

Another great option for a rustic look is to use dried leaves as garland.

Collect some leaves from your yard or local park and tie them together with ribbon or string.

This is a great way to use up those leaves that are starting to turn yellow and brown!

If you’re feeling crafty, why not try making your own garland out of paper?

This is a great project for kids and can be customized to any color scheme.

All you need is some paper, scissors, and glue!

Another fun option for kids is to make a garland out of pompoms.

Gather some colorful yarn and make pompoms in any size you like.

Then simply tie them together with ribbon or string!

If you’re looking for a more traditional garland, try using ribbon or string.

This is a great option if you want something that will last year after year.

Choose your favorite colors and patterns and get creative!

Finally, don’t forget the ever-popular Christmas lights garland! This is a great option if you want something that will light up your home during the dark winter months.

Simply hang some lights along with your doorways or mantles and you’re done!

Final Thoughts 

Garland is a great way to add a little bit of festivity to any room and it’s especially perfect for the fall season.

With just a few materials, you can make your own pumpkin pie garland in no time!

If you are looking for DIY fall banners this is one you’ll want to use year after year.

We hope you enjoy this fun DIY project.

Happy fall homesteading!

Check out this cherry almond oatmeal soap recipe made with goat’s milk.

I was super intimidated by the idea of making my own soap.

When I finally took the plunge I couldn’t believe how easy it was.

It took a little trial and error to get it right

It was important that the recipe be simple, fragrant, and with ingredients that were easy to acquire.

I believe using the melt and pour method to make your own soap is the best way for beginner homesteaders to start soapmaking.

We are all about modern practical self-sufficiency.

It can be intimidating working with lye, so starting your soapmaking journey using a melt and pour base is an excellent way to see if you even like soapmaking.

Cherry Almond Oatmeal Soap Recipe

Goat’s milk is high in nutrients and moisture, making it an excellent choice for those with dry or sensitive skin.

The oatmeal acts as a gentle exfoliant, while the almond oil adds a light, sweet scent.

And of course, the cherry gives the soap a beautiful pink color.

It is Moisturizing, beautiful, with an AMAZING fragrance that’ll enhance your entire bathtime experience.

Supplies:

We thought it was really important to find a recipe for homemade soap that was truly simple and easy to do from HOME!

For us, that meant finding a list of ingredients that you can find easily in your grocery store or order online.

We were able to accomplish that, with some help from Amazon.

A goat’s milk base with some pink coloring, cherry, and almond fragrance oils, and some quick oats combine for a truly amazing soap!

With some other easy-to-find kitchen tools, you’re ready to start making this amazing soap.

Soap Ingredients:

• 1 lb (16 1”x1” cubes) goat’s milk melt and pour soap base 
• ½ tsp pink mica colorant
• 10 drops of almond fragrance oil
• 15 drops of red cherry fragrance oil
• ¼ cup quick oats
• Silicone 4” soap mold
• 4 cup microwave-safe measuring cup
• Wooden craft stick, or something to stir the soap
• Spray bottle with rubbing alcohol.
• Soap cutter or knife

Directions:

When we said simple, we meant it.

With a few easy steps, you can get your soap-based ready for coloring and everything else.

All you need is a microwave and a measuring cup to get it ready.

To properly heat and melt your soap-based, look below.

• Cut the soap base into 1-inch cubes and place it into a measuring cup.
• Heat soap base in the microwave for 30 seconds, remove, and stir well. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring well between each heat session, until the soap base is fully melted.
• Add mica colorant, stir well.

Tip: to help prevent color clumps, you may add mica to a very small bowl or dish, and add a very small amount of rubbing alcohol, then stir.

This can help the color blend easier.

The color comes out looking really soft and pleasant, which we felt was perfect for this soap.

Now that your soap is melted and colored, it’s time to add the fragrance!

We chose Red Cherry and Almond fragrance oils for this soap.

The combination works amazingly, and is strong in the air but not overwhelming on your body!

It’s really the perfect setup for a pleasing, cleansing shower.

There’s really only one step here for the fragrance, but it’s pretty important.

• Add fragrance oils, stir well.

DIY Projects With Scrap Wood That You Can Make This Weekend

Now that the fragrance is added, it’s time to add the oats!

They add a slight exfoliating effect to the soap, plenty of moisturizing power, and an extra hint of scent to the soap.

You want to add most of the oats now and stir thoroughly, keeping some to sprinkle on the top of the soap after.

Once you’ve got them mixed in and ready, it’s time to pour!

The mold we used produces 4 standard bars of soap and doesn’t take any real effort to pour or settle.

Obviously, you want to be doing these steps quickly, since you want your soap mix to stay melted for this step.

Once you’re ready, pour the soap mixture into the mold, spraying with rubbing alcohol to reduce any possible bubbles.

Now that your soap is in the mold, there are only a couple of quick steps to finish up!

We love to make homemade soaps and scrubs for the holidays.

You can easily and affordably make soap and scrubs into beautiful DIY Christmas gifts.

Sprinkle the remaining oatmeal over the top of the soap.

This is mostly an aesthetic choice, but it really adds so much to the presentation of the soap.

Once you’ve finished with the extra oatmeal, allow the soap to set for about 4 hours, or until firm.

You should be able to tell pretty easily when it’s done.

When it’s finally done setting, gently remove the soap from the mold.

Be sure not to break any large chunks off, we set out to have uniform, beautiful bars of soap.

When removed, cut into (4) 1-inch bars.

Packaging and storage are somewhat flexible, but we simply plastic wrapped and then wrapped them in tissue paper when gifting.

If you’re keeping them for personal use, you can simply box or wrap them, and store them where you see fit.

The fragrance doesn’t decay meaningfully, and can be a little strong depending on where you store it so keep that in mind!

Can you make homemade soap without lye?

Believe it or not, you can make soap at home without using lye.

Lye is a caustic ingredient that is used to make soap, but it can be dangerous to work with and can cause skin irritation.

If you don’t want to use lye, you can make what’s called “melt and pour” soap.

This type of soap starts with a base that has already been saponified, meaning that the lye has already been mixed in and the base is safe to handle.

You can find melt and pour bases at most craft stores and on Amazon.

To make your soap, simply melt the base in a double boiler and add your desired fragrance, color, and other ingredients.

Then pour the mixture into molds.

What can I use instead of lye in soap making?

There are a few different options that can be used instead of lye in soap making.

One option is to use glycerin.

Glycerin is a by-product of soap making and is actually very similar to lye.

It can be purchased at most craft stores.

Another option is to use soap flakes.

Soap flakes are made from saponified oils and are very similar to lye in terms of properties.

They can be purchased online or at some health food stores.

Finally, you could also try using commercial soap bases.

These are already saponified and do not require the addition of lye.

This is the method we are currently using.

My favorite base is goat’s milk.

I use a goat’s milk melt and pour base and add in different scents, colors, herbs, flowers, honey, and oatmeal to make many luxurious soap varieties.

Is almond soap good for skin?

Almond soap is a type of natural soap that is made from the almond oil.

This soap is good for different types of skin, including dry, sensitive, and inflamed skin.

Almond oil is full of nutrients, including vitamins A and E, which help to keep skin healthy.

In addition, almond oil is known for its ability to soften and moisturize the skin.

As a result, almond soap can help to reduce the appearance of dryness, redness, and irritation.

When used regularly, this soap can help to keep the skin feeling soft, smooth, and healthy.

Is oatmeal soap good for your skin?

Oatmeal soap is a natural way to cleanse and moisturize your skin.

Oats contain compounds that can help to soothe itching and inflammation, making them an ideal choice for people with conditions like eczema or psoriasis.

Additionally, oatmeal soap can help to lock in moisture, keeping your skin hydrated throughout the day.

Not only is oatmeal soap gentle on your skin, but it’s also affordable and easy to find.

You can often find it in the same aisle as regular bar soap at your local grocery store.

If you’re looking for a natural way to care for your skin, oatmeal soap is a great option to consider.

What can I use to scent homemade soap?

There are a number of ways to add scent to homemade soap. One option is to use essential oils.

These concentrated oils can be added directly to the soap base, and they will retain their fragrance even after the soap is made. Another option is to add fragrance oils to the soap.

These oils are typically less expensive than essential oils, but they may not be as potent.

You can also add dried herbs or flowers to your soap for a subtle scent. Just make sure to grind them into a powder first so they don’t clog your pores!

Finally, you can always scent your soap with natural ingredients like citrus peel or vanilla beans.

Whatever route you choose, just make sure to add the scent BEFORE you pour the soap into its mold.

Honey Oatmeal Soap Recipe:

Final Thoughts: 

This Cherry Almond Oatmeal Soap recipe is super beginner-friendly, and I hoped I made it as simple as possible to understand.

This soap teaches you all the basics to really jump into soap making, even if it’s something as simple as changing the fragrances and coloring!

We hope you give it a try, this simple soap is so much more than the sum of its parts and doesn’t take much effort.

Whether it’s for a gift or your own personal use, this Cherry Almond Oatmeal Soap is truly beautiful and amazing while being guaranteed to please.

If this is your first time or your hundredth time making soap,

I’m confident this one will leave you incredibly satisfied!

Making wood projects out of scrap wood can be a full-time hobby if you enjoy woodworking.

With the farmhouse theme being particularly popular, there are many items you can make to add a finishing touch to any room in the house.

Best of all, wood pallets are either free or very inexpensive depending on where you live and the wood is soft and easy to work with.

If you do not have retail stores with pallets near you, you can search online for places to purchase lots of wood pallets.

Dismantling them is fairly easy if you have the proper tools, but still, you will want to be careful to remove all the nails.

When you pick them up, it is easier to take them apart if this is possible before transporting them.

You can likely throw away any waste and will be able to stack a lot more in your vehicle.

15 DIY Projects With Scrap Wood

1. DIY Wooden Photo Pallet – It’s Always Autumn

This DIY wooden photo pallet is a fun project! Best of all, once you learn this photo transfer technique, there’s no limit to the types of DIY projects you can make to accent your home decor.

This process might be totally new to some,  for others, it might bring back memories of craft projects you did years ago.

In a nutshell, this project involves creating a reversed laser copied photograph and transferring it on to a piece of wood using Mod Podge, which you may have used in the past.

This technique can be tricky at first, so it is explained in detail and has an accompanying video.

It’sAlwaysAutumn.com

2. Make a DIY Wood Cheese Board – DIY in PDX

• Making a cheeseboard is not difficult, it’s all about using the right kind of wood.
• Hardwoods are the best woods to use if you want your cheeseboard to last. Hardwood is less porous and this helps reduce concerns about bacterial contamination.
• For this project, the best wood choices are walnut, maple, or cherry.  You want to stay away from pine. It may be easy to work with but it is very soft.
• Many retail cutting boards and cheese boards are now being made out of Bamboo. Bamboo is very hard and has an attractive finish.
• Once you have selected the piece of wood you will be using and it has been sized to the proper dimensions, the remainder of the project is finishing the surface. This includes sanding and cleaning the board with a tack cloth and then finishing the surface with a safe oil such as mineral or walnut oil. Only oils that are safe to use in the kitchen.
• Since you cannot use wood stain, make sure you start with the correct color wood. The oil will darken the wood a little.

DIYinPDX.com

3. 3M DIY Pallet Wood Centerpiece Box – A Night Owl Blog

If you enjoy woodworking projects that can be done in a day this is a great DIY woodworking project.

This farmhouse-style centerpiece box can also be used as a planter or window box.

Though the plans include the use of a power tool, there is no need to go out and purchase power tools or use them if you are concerned about safety. 

The entire project can be completed from start to finish with a hammer and a hand saw.

ANightOwlBlog.com

4. DIY Wood Triangle Bookends – Make and Tell

These simple DIY bookends are the perfect accent piece for your bookshelves.

The project is more of a crafting project. It does not require pallet wood and is a great way to get familiar with woodworking.

MakeandTell.com

5. Easy DIY Rustic USA Wood Sign – Houseful of Handmade

Making wood signs is always a fun project. Signs are not hard to make and the ideas you can come up with are endless.

This patriotic sign can be made in a day and depending on the tools you have, can be done for under $10.

HousefulofHandmade.com

6. DIY Wood Burning With a Cricut – Some of This and That

Wood burning seems to have been a lost art for years.

Fortunately, it is making a comeback and is perfect for many homes with a farmhouse or country decor.

What has made it so popular is the ability to use tools that automate the process.

It’s still ok to use your old wood-burning tool if your one who doesn’t mind “coloring outside the lines”.

In fact, wood-burning projects with a personal touch look great.

SomeofThisandThat.com

7. DIY Wood Plant Stand – The Merry Thought

This DIY wood stand looks great and makes a great accent piece for any room in the house. It is one of those projects that goes well in any room and can be constructed for under $10.

TheMerryThought.com

8. How to Build Own Indoor Herb Garden – Love Create Celebrate

Growing an herb garden is becoming very popular, now that herbs are being used more and more for both cooking and aromatherapy (essential oils).

Very few supplies are required.

The clay pots can easily be obtained at your local dollar store.

LoveCreateCelebrate.com

9. DIY PlywoodArch Mirror – The Merry Thought

This mirror is the perfect solution for a tight spot in the house. The plans are well drawn out and easy to follow.

TheMerryThought.com

10. How to Make a DIY Chalkboard Menu (With No Power Tools) – Grillo Designs

This is a straightforward DIY wood project that can be a great addition to a Farmhouse kitchen.

It can be a great way to keep your meals organized and adds a style we have come to associate with many rustic-style restaurants.

Grillo-Designs.com

Related: 10 DIY Rain Barrel Ideas For Your Homestead

11. DIY Wooden Baby Gym – Sarah Hearts

This DIY wooden toy is not hard to make and your baby will love it.

SarahHearts.com

12. DIY Wooden Boxes – Tell Love and Party

These DIY wooden boxes are stylish and can be used in a number of ways.

TellLoveAndParty.com

13. How to Make a DIY Wood Countertop – Artsy Chicks Rule

If you are serious about DIY woodworking this is a great project you can enjoy every day.

If you have the power tools and experience and could use a new countertop, definitely check out the plans for this project. ***

ArtsyChicksRule.com

The Dewalt compact table saw is perfect for remodeling projects.

It is a workhorse and replaces the need for a large free-standing table saw:

14. DIY Pallet Swing Bed – The Merry Thought

If you have access to pallets and have a place to construct this DIY Pallet Swing Bed, definitely give it a try.

It is a larger project and will take some work, but it can pay dividends on those long summer days when you are looking for the

perfect place to put your head down and read a book.

TheMerryThought.com

15. DIY Wooden Tree Growth Chart – Meaningful Mama

This DIY wooden tree growth chart is not a difficult project and will be a keepsake filled with memories.

As parents, many of us can remember our parents or grandparents charting our growth on the kitchen wall or the door molding.

As adults, it would be fun to look at the markings and reminisce.  But there was one problem … you couldn’t take it with you.

Growth charts are fun to make and chart your child’s growth. 

In addition, you can write down dates next to each mark, and put comments or note milestones to remind you of that time in your child’s life.

MeaningfulMama.com

More DIY scarp wood projects ideas!

Final Thoughts

If you are just starting to do woodworking projects, we hope some of these DIY projects with scrap wood will help you get off to a good start!

If you live in a cold climate, you know the importance of having well-insulated windows. Windows can account for up to 85% of the heat lost in your house.

These interior storm window inserts are extremely cost-effective, insulate well, and are very easy to make.

Once you have followed the plans to make one storm window insert, you will know how to make interior storm window inserts for all the windows in your home.

Best of all, only basic woodworking tools are required. 

But first, a few basic details about interior storm window inserts to help you decide if they will work for you:

1. Building these storm window inserts will save you money, effort, and time. Custom-made windows will cost hundreds of dollars more and may need to be installed. x
2. If you are not using storm windows, this interior storm window kit idea can significantly reduce your heating bill.
3. Using plastic shrink wrap is what makes this project an affordable, weekend project. Just search for interior storm window inserts at Home Depot.
4. To improve the efficiency of these storm windows, they are double-paned.
5. The windows are very lightweight and easy to install and remove.
6. You can construct this window (as will be discussed) to fit in with your home decor by adding

If you feel this type of window will serve your purpose, we will now outline the steps on how to make low-cost storm windows. It is important to keep in mind that if you want interior storm windows that open, this project may not be suited for you.

Granted taking the lightweight storm windows out is not difficult if there is a need to open the window.

How To Make Interior Storm Window Inserts

If you already use plastic sheeting to insulate your home, you probably already know how effective this form of insulation can be. If you have always wanted to know how to make window inserts we hope you will find the answers in this article.

Best of all, because these double-paned windows are easy to insert and remove they will not cause damage to or discolor paint damage done to your window sills caused by the use of double-sided tape.

This project will show how to make low-cost storm windows that do not require any adhesives to keep the window in place.

Basic woodworking tools and supplies required:

Everything required can be found at a hardware store, Home Depot, or Lowe’s.

Tools:

• Miter Box and Saw: It does not have to be a powered miter saw since the largest wood you will be cutting is only 1” x 2”. whether you decide to do straight cuts or angle cuts a miter saw is the best way to make exact cuts. Straight cuts are the best for this project.

• Wood Clamp: Since the window is double-sided, you will need a shrinkwrap kit that is twice the dimensions of the window measurements calculated based on the information below.

• Hair Dryer  To shrink the plastic any hairdryer will do. It is best if it has a variable speed control. Whatever heat source you use will work as long as you determine the intensity of heat or distance to hold the dryer so you do not burn a hole in the plastic. Overheating the plastic can also cause it to pull away from the edges. The amount of heat should be just enough to tighten the plastic and remove the wrinkles.

Supplies:

• Window Insulator Kit  Since the window is Going to be double-sided, you will need a shrinkwrap kit that is twice the dimensions of the window measurements calculated based on the information below.

• 1” x 2 “ wood or resin The length of the pieces you will need will depend on the size of the window. (Allow extra length.)

• Wood glue  Strong wood glue is recommended. For the best result, using both glue and screws is the best.

• Clear Shipping Tape

1. Measuring your windows for DIY window insulation inserts

Window measurements can be tricky because there is a need to make a lot of space allowances so they will fit properly.

The last thing you will want to do is measure incorrectly or not subtract room for weatherstripping.

Once you have completed a window insert, if you have to resize the interior storm window inserts, it will cost time and money.

Even worse is the frustration of having to start over. This is one of those times when you measure and then measure again. “Measure twice and cut once is what they say!”

Ultimately, you want the inserts to fit snugly.

The weatherstripping comes in ¼” or ½” thickness and this will have to be taken into account when measuring the actual size of the frame from one outside edge to the other.

This means it is necessary to subtract a ½” or 1” depending on whether you use ¼” or ½” weather stripping.

Example:

                   With 1/4″ weatherstripping, subtract 1/2″ from the height and width of the window dimensions.

2. Making the Frame.

What to avoid:

Constructing the frame is not hard though there are a few details you will want to keep in mind:

• Make sure to account for the thickness of the wood at each end when measuring the middle piece (see below).
• Since you will be allowing up to ½” (¼” on each side) for the weather stripping, subtract ½” from the height and width of the window measurement.

A) Cut the (4) 1”x 2” pieces of wood to the proper length to create the frame.

B) Connect each corner of the frame using screws and glue.

C) Be patient after you have completed the frame.

This project is not difficult and it is tempting to get it done quickly. Ideally, you should let the glue dry for 24 hours.

If the window is long, you will have to put a wood support piece in the middle of the frame.

If you want to create small-paned windows, this is also the time to put additional dividers in place.

3. Attaching the plastic sheeting:

A) Place the frame on a clean, flat surface.

Cut a piece of plastic that will wrap around to cover both sides of the window.

You can do each side separately, but this will be more work and will not hold up as well.

B) Place double-sided tape around the perimeter of the window on both sides and all around the edge. (see diagram)

C) Starting on one edge, adhere to the plastic sheeting and wrap the shrinkwrap around the entire window adhering to the end to the edge where you started.

Use a piece of double-sided tape to secure the end where you started.

The wrapping process does not have to be very tight as the plastic will tighten when the heat is applied.

It is better to focus on placing the sheeting correctly and not worrying about how tight it is.

D) Once you have wrapped the sheeting completely around the frame, use the UPS clear packaging tape to secure the ends.

It is best to also apply the packaging tape on the sides, as this will make a much stronger bond of the plastic to the frame and prevent it from pulling away during the shrinking process.

4. Shrinkwrapping

At one time or another, you have likely used shrink wrapping to wrap a gift or seal a document.

The shrink wrapping for this project is what will make your window airtight and look clear as glass.

A hairdryer or heat gun (on low heat and at the proper distance) is used to uniformly heat the plastic until it is taught.

Start on low heat and keep enough distance at first until you know the right amount of heat to use.

You cannot do any harm if you start the shrink-wrapping process slowly.

If you apply too much heat, it is very easy to melt a hole through the plastic.

Continue to heat the plastic evenly alternating from one side of the window to the other until all the wrinkles are removed. Stop as soon as the wrinkles are gone.

If you shrink the plastic too much, it may not melt but it will pull away from the adhesive holding it in place.

10 Cold Weather Hacks That’ll Keep You Warm This Winter

Are you looking for ways to chase off the ice-cold chill of winter? Try these 10 expert cold weather hacks that will help you stay warm and toasty! These are the very best tips that we use all winter long to stay warmer in bitter cold New England Winters.

5. Applying the weatherstripping.

A) The perimeter weatherstripping is what will make your window fit snugly and stay in place.

There are a few types of weather stripping. What is most important is to make sure it is applied with a strong adhesive so it will not pull away.

We use the following steps to make sure the weatherstripping stays intact:

1. Use self-adhesive foam weatherstripping.

2. first place double-sided tape to attach the weatherstripping.

3. Glue both the double-sided tape to the frame and the weatherstripping.

6. Attaching pull tabs to remove the window.

Plastic Pull Tab

Having plastic pull tabs on each side of the DIY window inserts is important when it is time to remove the storm windows.

The plastic sheeting can easily be punctured, so you want to make removal as easy as possible.

Attach the plastic pull tabs in the middle of the window on each side.

Attach the adhesive starting at the front of the window (the part of the window facing out) and use adhesive or glue to bond the pull tab over the edge.

This will leave the tab facing inward so you can easily remove the interior storm window insert.

Demonstration of Completed Two-Pane Interior Storm Window Inserts

Pros:

• They are extremely lightweight compared to a standard storm window insert.
• They can be a simple solution for older houses that otherwise require custom-sized window inserts. Custom storm windows or window inserts can be a small fortune.
• DIY window inserts are cost-effective because they’re inexpensive to make and are effective at conserving heat.
• Simple to install and remove using the plastic pull tabs.

Cons:

• They are delicate and need to be handled and stored very carefully.
• Since they can easily be punctured, they may not be suitable if you have young children.
• Plastic interior storm window inserts are not as efficient as double-paned, glass, factory-made windows.

Cost to make interior storm window inserts:

If you want to learn how to make interior storm window inserts, the cost will depend on the size of the window and the materials you use.

• Wood or Resin frames will cost $5 to $10 dollars depending on the size of the window. If aesthetics is not a concern, you can also use free repurposed wood from pallets.
• Window Sheeting: The cost of weatherproofing window plastic varies.
• Tape
• Weatherstripping

The last time I made these DIY interior storm window inserts for my house, they cost less than $10 each. They are a simple and inexpensive solution for drafty older homes.

FAQ’s About Interior Storm Window Inserts:

1. Are storm window inserts worth it?

• The U.S. Department of Energy has determined that window inserts significantly decrease radiant energy loss which can decrease your energy bill by 20% in both the winter and summer.
• Factory-made storm windows or window inserts are clearly more efficient than homemade storm window inserts. However, to benefit from the cost of purchasing and installing custom windows you want to consider how long it will take to realize the savings.
• Replacing windows costs thousands of dollars so it is worth trying to estimate how much you will save each year. Also, consider how long you will be living in your home.

2. Do custom-made storm windows increase the value of your home?

Though replacing windows with year-round, double-paned storm windows can be a plus when it comes to selling your home, many buyers will not see the value compared to a remodeled kitchen or bathroom. Window replacements are a good option if you plan to remain in your home for many years after they are installed.

3. How do window inserts work?

Interior storm window inserts create a pocket of air between your window and the insert. This space acts as an insulating barrier. The space between double-paned factory windows uses this same principle to retain radiant energy. In addition, the dead space between window panes is either vacuum-sealed or filled with inert Argon gas.

4. How much do window inserts for the winter cost?

The higher end for standard winter window inserts that are factory-made is around $40. This cost can go up significantly if custom modifications are made.

5, What are the benefits of storm window inserts?

• The benefits of storm window inserts are far more than just keeping out cold air.
• During the summer the insulating effect of window inserts also helps keep the cold air in.
• For those who live in the city, inserts can help reduce city noise from traffic.
• Lastly, window inserts can reduce the health risk of smog in major cities. Those who live in a major city or factory town are well aware of the build-up of smog-related dirt on windows and blinds. Hopefully, in this setting, air purification is also being used.

6. Are windows replaced from the inside or outside?

Window inserts can be placed on the inside or outside of a window. The goal is still the same which is to create a pocket of dead space. What usually determines if the insert is placed on the inside or outside is the configuration of the window sill and molding. If inserts can easily be placed from the inside this is far more desirable. If placed on the outside the inserts often have to be screwed in place and caulked. In this situation,  your window inserts would need to be made out of materials that can withstand the weather.

7. Where do I buy the materials to make interior storm window inserts?

You will definitely want to buy your materials (wood, Insulating kit, tools, etc.) at a large home improvement center such as Home Depot or Lowes. You will pay far more if you purchase materials at an independent hardware store. Small hardware stores are great for items in a pinch and convenience but they do not intend to compete with the large retailers.

Interesting story:  

At our local hardware store, a friend went in to purchase a hammer. The price was far more than the same hammer at Home Depot. When the owner was told  “I can get this hammer for a lot less at Home Depot” the owner simply replied… “then go to Home Depot and buy it”. He was not angry, local hardware stores have to ask their customers to pay more for personal service and convenience. Small hardware stores cannot compete with large retailers and they don’t try to. This is important to keep in mind for any household projects. It’s also not to say you shouldn’t shop at small businesses as these business owners do offer a valuable service if the lowest cost is not your only goal.

Oreo is going to be a mom very soon. She is fast at work preparing her nest box. 

Are you wondering how to build a rabbit nest box?  You are not alone!

Though you can purchase a nest box for rabbits, it is a good idea to know how to build one.

You might need a nest box (also known as a kindling box) urgently if you suddenly learn that your rabbit is pregnant.

Unless you are watching for signs of pregnancy, your doe may not show signs or symptoms of pregnancy until a few days before she is due. This leaves you little time to prepare.

Before purchasing or learning how to build a rabbit nest box, there are some things you can look for to confirm if your rabbit is pregnant.

This post may contain affiliate links, you can catch our full disclaimer at the bottom of this post.

How to determine if your rabbit is pregnant:

“Multiplying like rabbits” is not just an expression. One doe can have as many as 60 babies in one year!

What can be difficult is knowing if your rabbit is pregnant. With a gestational period of only 31 days, you will want to know as soon as possible so you can prepare for the litter.

Fortunately, there are some changes you might observe if your rabbit is pregnant.

If you look for these, it is unlikely you will be surprised by a litter of kits.

1. Nesting behavior: This is one of the first behavioral signs that might indicate your doe is pregnant. She will start to build a nest with hay and wood chips. Then, right before the babies arrive, she will start pulling fur for the nest to keep the kits warm.

Oreo’s nest made of hay

Oreo started pulling fur only hours before she delivered at 5 AM on 8/24/2020

2. Aggressive behavior:  If your doe starts to show more aggressive behavior, this might be a sign she is pregnant. the better you know her temperament, the more likely you will be able to notice this change.

3. Palpating the abdomen: This physical finding is the most definitive way to know if your doe is pregnant, short of getting an ultrasound. It is the technique breeders and veterinarians use to confirm pregnancy.

Keep in mind that Rabbits don’t like to be handled on their underside, so this will take some practice.

When your rabbit is around two weeks pregnant, gently palpate the abdomen, and you will start to feel the kits in the horns of the uterus. Rabbits have a bicornuate uterus.

There are two horns and this is why they can have such large litters.

The diagram below illustrates why the pregnant uterus will feel like  “marbles” with the kits lined up in each horn.

Is She Really Pregnant? How To Palpate Your Rabbit

By the third week, it can be much easier to feel the kits moving around. To prevent harming the babies, you want to be very gentle when palpating the abdomen.

During the last week of pregnancy, you may even be able to feel the kits kicking.

Once you have determined that your doe is going to give birth in the next week or two, you will want to help her prepare.

She will know what to do as long as she has what she needs. What she will need more than anything, is a nest box!

Before we start to discuss how to build a rabbit nest box, it is important to know a little bit more about nest boxes, in general.

The following, are some of the common questions people ask when selecting a nest box.

What kind of nest box is best?

Many people who are first-time rabbit owners ask this question as they start o prepare for their first kindle of kits.

The simple answer is:  Any kind of nest box will do! But let’s be real, when it comes to most pet owners, from hamsters to GreatDane’s, “any kind” won’t do!

There are a number of types of kindling boxes you can purchase or make for your mom-to-be and her kits. There are different configurations and various materials used to make kindle boxes.

Our choice and the best way to learn how to build a nest box is to start with the classic wooden box with a screen mesh floor. Mesh is best because the kits will be staying in the box for up to 2  weeks.

The accumulation of urine-soaked hay and rabbit waste will make the nesting box dirty and it will start to emit a strong ammonia smell.

In addition, if the box is not kept fairly clean, kits can get infections if they are left in the nesting box too long.

The following instructions on how to build a rabbit nest box are not difficult if you enjoy small construction projects.

The most difficult part of the project is cutting the five pieces of wood.

We will discuss some options if this is a concern.

How to Build a Rabbit Nest Box

Tools required:

• Screwdriver
• Saw
• Sandpaper
• Hammer
• Ruler
• Razorblade knife
• Wirecutter
• Drill (optional)

Supplies:

• A sheet of plywood or siding measuring  2’ x 4’

• 1” Wood Screws (14)
• Wood glue
• Sharpie marker
• ½” x ½” wire mesh

STEP 1:

If you are planning to make one nest box you can draw the five pieces for the nest box directly on the board you have selected.

If you plan to make a number of nest boxes, you will want to make a template or stencil (below).

This extra step will take a little more time but it will save you a lot of time and effort in the long run.

To make a template or stencil, we used foam board. If you want a more durable template you can make it out of a thin piece of wood or cut a template out of sheet metal using a wire cutter.

The dimensions of the five pieces of wood required for the nest

The box is illustrated below: (rabbit nest box dimensions)

• Front and Back
• 2 Sides
• Top

Note: As you learn how to build a rabbit nest box, whatever material you choose to build your nest box with is fine, as long as it is sturdy, non-toxic, and not easily destroyed by your rabbit’s sharp teeth.

Even wooden kindle boxes get chewed on a lot.

This is also why you do not want to use any toxic finishing materials such as paints, stains, or varnishes.

STEP 2:

To conserve wood, place the templates and stencils on the wood leaving the least amount of scrap wood.

Then trace out the pieces with a sharpie and carefully cut them out. Most nesting box plans will come with a template. Using it

in this way will be more cost-efficient.

Since the cuts are all straight cuts you can use a hand saw, skill saw or jigsaw.*

*When selecting the material you will be using, keep this step in mind. Cutting the pieces is the most difficult part of the project.

If you will not be using an electric saw and want an easier option, use ¼ inch plywood and a hand saw. There are also metal nesting boxes you can purchase or make.

Though they are easier to clean and last longer, they are more often used for commercial purposes.

Most small-scale breeders and pet owners prefer nesting boxes made out of wood.

STEP 3:

Prepare each piece before assembling the nest box. Then loosely put the pieces together to make sure they fit well.

1. Sand each piece to prevent splinters and get rid of sharp edges. Kits are very “fragile” when they are born and need a place that is free of any objects that could pierce their skin. It is no wonder, that mom pulls fur off to line the nesting box prior to delivery. The fur protects her kits and keeps them warm (102 degrees).
2. Drill 2 holes along the edges that will be attached. We are going to use screws and glue for this box. Another option is to use nails with glue. What is most important is to use glue whether you choose to use nails or screws. The glue will make your nest box more durable.

STEP 4:

1. Now that the pieces are prepared, put a screw in each of the holes drilled in step 3. As you attach each piece, put a bead of glue down the edge before screwing the pieces together.

STEP 5:

1. Cut a piece of ½” x ½”  wire mesh for the floor.
2. Staple the mesh in place making sure not to leave any sharp ends.

Conclusion:

Awesome, you are all done, and for under $10. Now you know how to build a rabbit nest box!

If you plan to make more than one nest box you will want to consider purchasing a 4’ x 8’ sheet of wood.

Each nest box will then cost well under $5 from start to finish.

If you plan to purchase large sheets of plywood or siding, remember to plan how you will get them home.

Most lumberyards will cut 4’ x 8’ sheets in half. You could even have them do three cuts leaving you with 4 sheets of 2’ x 4’.

BTW Oreo loves her Midwest Wabbitat cage

Midwest Wabbitat Folding Rabbit Cage

If you are planning to breed rabbits, your water usage is going to increase.

Rain barrels are a great way to increase your water supply without increasing your water bill.

Check out our post: 10 DIY Rain Barrel Ideas For Your Homestead

FAQ’s

1. How big should rabbit nesting boxes be?

The ideal size for a rabbit nesting box is 18 inches long, 10 inches wide, and 10 inches high. This is big enough to give your doe enough room to manage her kits until the box is no longer needed.

If you handle newborn rabbits will the mother kill them?

This is a myth! Rabbits are protective of their kits and will prefer you don’t touch them, but they do not reject them if you touch them.

This myth likely came about because there are situations when does will eat their kits. But it is not because they have been handed.

2. Why do new mother rabbits eat their babies?

As strange as it seems, there are a few reasons why a mother rabbit might eat her new kits:

• She is more likely to eat them if she is under 6 months old.
• Stress and overwhelm in first-time moms can cause a doe to eat her babies. This is very likely because rabbits are prey animals and are already in a constant state of fight-or-flight, so the additional stress of pregnancy may cause this behavior.
• Since rabbits are prey to many animals they are fastidious about not leaving any scents that might attract predators. Like other animals, they eat their placentas so eating their babies can be a survival instinct if they feel threatened.
• First-time moms are more likely to eat their kits for essentially the same reason, the stress of new babies.
• From a survival standpoint, if food has been scarce, new moms might eat their babies for nutritional support so they can breed again and nurse their kits.

3. Why do rabbits thumb?

Rabbits thump when they sense fear from something they smell, see or hear. Even pet rabbits will thumb when it seems they are not frightened. This is often because they are upset about something, Thumping is an activity they use to make noise since they do not typically make vocal sounds.

Conclusion:

We hope this article gives you a start if you are looking for nesting box plans. It is an incredible feeling once you become experienced with how to build a rabbit nest box.

Even if you believe you don’t have the necessary woodworking skills … give it a try!

If you have the resources and a few tools you may come to enjoy constructing wood projects that can serve many needs at a very minimal cost. This is one of the best rabbit nesting boxes you can make for an affordable price.

Are you looking for DIY Rain Barrel Ideas for your homestead?

Collecting rainwater is an excellent way to conserve water, save money, and help the environment.

 According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), it only takes 1/4 inch of rain on your roof to fill a rain barrel. A 1,000 sq ft. roof plus 1 inch of rain equals about 600 FREE gallons of water!

Rain Barrels can provide the average home with about 1300 gallons of water/yr.

Depending on the type of rain barrel collecting system and the average rainfall in a particular location, it is not hard to exceed 2000 gallons a year.

Rain barrel water can be used in your garden and for many non-potable needs both indoors and out.

If you are in a rush this is the rain barrel our readers buy most often.

It might seem hard to believe that there are certain states that have restrictions on rainwater collection.

Some of these laws are long overdue for reform and others are based on some practical factors that are not hard to comply with.

As you will see most restrictions are not based on concerns about rainwater collecting having an impact on the hydrologic water cycle.

Private homes collecting water was studied and not found to be a concern if the water was used for personal use Scientific World Journal.

The state restrictions are actually quite reasonable and make sense to avoid abusing the use of this natural resource.

Below, is a list of some of the restrictions states may or may not impose on rainwater collection.

The most common stipulation or restriction that states require is that water collected on your property stays on your property and is not transported to another facility or location.

* This prevents the sale of rainwater and the disruption of the hydrologic water cycle for a particular location.

Collecting Rainwater:

1. It is to be used on the property where it was collected.
2. It cannot be used indoors.
3. The collecting system must be designed by trained engineers.
4. Total water collection restrictions apply in some states (Colorado, Utah, etc..)
5. The collection is for personal use.
6. Some states offer DIY rain barrel ideas.
7. Many states encourage it for conservation.
8. Some states have incentives (Florida, Rhode Island).

This list is only some of the restrictions a state might impose. Many states have no restrictions and actually encourage the collection of rainwater. Since this list is being constantly updated, it is important to check with your local water supply company to be aware of the most current guidelines for rainwater collection in your community.

 The following website is an excellent resource to determine what the legalities are of collecting rainwater in your state: Is it Illegal to Collect Rainwater in 2020: State by State Guide

There is no federal law restricting rainwater collection which is great news for homesteaders!

Let’s jump in and take a look at some simple DIY rain barrel designs.

10 DIY Rain Barrel Ideas For Your Homestead

1. Rain Barrel Stand  by Practically Functional

Having a secure rain barrel stand is a must.

Depending on how much rain you will be collecting using one of these DIY Rain Barrel Ideas, the collection tank can get very heavy.

If not securely fastened, it could be extremely dangerous if the collection tank was to fall on top of a child or animal.

The Rain Barrel stand presented by Practically Functional is an excellent plan and is very stable.

PracticallyFunctional.com

2. Easy Trash Can Rain Barrel  by A Cultivated Nest

Coming up with creative DIY Rain Barrel Ideas for your home is not difficult and best of all, they can be very inexpensive.

There are so many examples of DIY Rain Barrel Ideas online that your head will be spinning.

Whatever rain barrel you choose for your home, there are a few important details you want to keep in mind:

1. Make sure it is secured when filled.
2. Avoid collecting water that may contain toxic substances.
3. Determine the capacity you will need to serve your needs.
4. Construct out of materials that will hold up best through multiple seasons.
5. Consider DIY rain barrel ideas that you can add on to, so you can make collection and storage modifications if your water needs increase.

ACultivatedNest.com

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3. DIY Raised Rain Barrels  by Pretty Handy Girl

Rain barrels need to be winterized to prevent damage. All standing water needs to be removed or ice will form and will crack the rain barrel. Whatever is channeling water into your rain barrel has to be disconnected or diverted. Lastly, it is important to wash out the inside and remove the spigot.

PrettyHandyGirl.com

4. Your Rain Barrel by Condo  Blues

Remember to winterize your rain barrel if you live in an area that has winter weather with temperatures dipping below freezing. If ice forms in your rain barrel it will crack.

To avoid this make sure your fall checklist includes making sure there is no standing water in the rain barrel before the onset of freezing temperatures.

In addition, you will also want to disconnect your downspout connection to the rain barrel or use a downspout diverter. With all the chores we need to do in preparation for winter, it is easy to forget to drain your rain barrel. Add this to your list so you won’t forget.

CondoBlues.com

5.  Garbage Can Rain Barrel with Hose  by Design Decor

DIY rain barrel ideas are endless. This design includes a hose for easier water distribution. This an inexpensive way to get your rain barrel system up and running.

You can always swap it out for a prettier or fancier one later on.

You’ll have access to free water for your garden or other homestead projects quickly.

When you start homesteading you learn fast that it can be expensive. Inexpensive or free is the way we approach projects on our homestead.

Can we do it for free?

If not, can we do it inexpensively?

DesignedDecor.com

6. Rain Barrel Stand by The Handyman’s Daughter

If a rain barrel is going to become a permanent fixture on your homestead, you will want to be sure it is supported by a solid stand.

Even the smallest rain barrel, when filled with water, is extremely heavy.

If it is perched on a stand that is not designed properly it can pose a significant danger if it were to fall.

TheHandyMansDaughter.com

7. $35 Rain Barrel  by Measuring Up

If you are looking for easy DIY rain barrel ideas that won’t break the bank, this rain barrel is a great option.

It is made from a 55-gallon plastic trash can.

The only additional items are a spigot to be attached at the bottom, a stand that you can make, or improvise with stones and a screen to cover the water to keep mosquitoes away.

Though this gutter-less rain barrel can stand alone. You can also learn ways to increase rain collection!

JustMeasuringUp.com

8. Backyard Rainwater Collection System  by Salvage Sister and Mister

If you are looking for a done-for-you rainwater collection system, this is for you.

Follow the process of installing a rain barrel system to supplement your outdoor watering needs.

SalvageSisterandMisterr.com

9. Gutter-Less Rain Barrel by Confessions of an Overworked Mom

If you are considering using one of these DIY rain barrel ideas it is important to note that you don’t have to collect the water from your gutter.

If you do not have gutters, during a rainstorm, go out and observe where the water from your roof collects and runs off the roof.

That will be the place you will want to put a catch basin that will funnel into a collection tube. Water run-off volume is usually the largest where two portions of the roof intersect.

If your roof has gables, dormers, etc. knowing the place with the most water runoff is best done by observation during a heavy storm.

You can measure and design all the plans in the world, but ultimately the channel water takes off your roof is most easily determined through observation. Once you funnel the water, a rain barrel pump can be used to direct the water to additional storage units.

Conclusion: 

Are you looking for ways to chase off the ice-cold chill of winter?  Try these 10 expert cold weather hacks that will help you stay warm and toasty!

These are the very best tips that we use all winter long to stay warmer in bitterly cold New England Winters.

This post contains affiliate links. You can read our affiliate disclaimer at the bottom of this post.

1. Dress in layers of clothes

Layers will help insulate and keep you dry and warm. So make sure you wear a shirt, sweater or sweatshirt, and a coat. Also, be sure you have a hat, gloves, and/or mittens.

Another way to keep warm during the winter is to wear thermal underwear underneath your clothes. Flannel is another option, though thermals are the best design for cold weather.

The thing that’s great about thermals is that they are form-fitting and made of a material to wick away moisture from the skin surface which reduces the discomfort and chills associated with the cold weather.

Remember the importance of keeping your hands and feet warm.

Wool socks are a great way to keep toes warm and cozy.

2. Waterproof boots

Make sure you are wearing waterproof boots when you go outside.

A good way to add a little extra waterproofing is to put plastic bags on your feet before you put on your boots.

Yes, just like your mom made you do when you were a kid!

This definitely works to keep their feet drier.

Your feet can be easily affected by the cold. Do everything you can to keep your feet warm and dry.  

Investing in a good pair of boots that keep your feet warm and dry is priceless when working around your homestead in the winter.

3. Put felt inside your indoor shoes and your outdoor boots.

This is an inexpensive hack that can easily add extra insulation and warmth to your feet this winter. You can get the felt at any craft store.

You can try Michael’s, Joann Fabric, or even Walmart. Just cut the felt to fit the sole inside the shoe.

4. Make meal plans that involve using the oven.

A great hack to add a little more warmth to your home during the winter is to cook and bake more in the afternoons.

The oven gets to do double duty by cooking and baking and heating your home (at least the kitchen area).

When you’re done baking and the oven is off, you can open the door and let the excess heat warm up the room. (Never run the oven with the door open).

11 Best Homemade Mac N Cheese Recipes

Are you looking for the best homemade mac n cheese recipes? Look no further! Mac n Cheese is one of the most popular comfort foods. It is Delicious, versatile, and filling! Homemade Macaroni and cheese can be a stand-alone meal or a side dish, either way, it is always a crowdpleaser!

5. Be sure to insulate your windows

It is estimated that 85% of home heat is lost through the windows. Stop heat loss by insultating your windows.

This can be decreased significantly with DIY window insulating products available at hardware stores.

Even if your windows are double panes, adding a third layer of insulation can make a difference.

This is one of the best things you can do to keep the cold out. You can cover them with an insulating film or use heavy curtains that will insulate your windows as well.

6. Place wool Blankets, throws, and scarves next to couches and chairs for easy use.

In our family room, we keep a basket of blankets and throws to help us stay warm on cold afternoons and nights. 

I found this DIY no-sew fleece blanket tutorial that is a budget-friendly way to make sure you have enough warm throws for the winter months.

We enjoy writing curled up on the couch, but it can get cold as the sun goes down and temperatures drop. This is another blanket that we love:

Sherpa Reverse Blanket

7. Be prepared for sudden winter storms.

Winter storms can be unpredictable. Living in the Northeast, we often see rainstorms that quickly turn into 30-inch snowstorms resulting in power outages and fallen trees. 

Some things you may want to have on hand:

• Cold and Flu Medication, be sure you have everything on hand in case you or your kids or your spouse get sick in the middle of a storm, that is the worst.
• Have extra food, snacks, diapers, wipes, and formula if you use it. Just in case the power goes out. It’s a good idea to keep a stash of batteries as well.
• If a winter storm is on the way, I always make sure that the kids and the adults have all taken baths and showers just in case the power goes out.
• Have sand or rock salt available to spread on icy walkways and stairs.
• Make sure your snowblower is working before the storm. If you travel, make sure you take it slow.
• Make sure your snow plow is good to go. Even if you have a 4 wheel drive truck, consider getting a good set of chains.
• Make sure you always keep a small shovel, sand, and blankets in your vehicle.

8. Keep a list of winter and snow day activities

Some options for snow day activities include:

• Select books to read to your child
• Coloring books
• Try new recipes
• Play your child’s favorite movies

A great option in the winter is the free videos that come with Amazon Prime Video. Amazon Prime Video is a free perk you get when you’re a member of Amazon Prime.

They have lots of movies and TV shows for free. It’s a great way to keep the kids entertained on a snowy cold day and keep them in the warmest room in the house. 

9. Serve more hot beverages and soup

The winter cold has a tendency to go right into your bones. A good way to fight feeling cold is to drink more hot drinks and eat more soup.

I find drinking warm beverages like hot chocolate, tea, coffee, warm broth, and eating soups for dinner helps keep us warm. 

Soups are easy to make in your slow cooker, dutch, oven, or instant pot.

We’ve put together our 20 favorite instant pot soup recipes that are perfect for cold winter days.

10. Fix an old fashioned bedwarmer: warm rice and bean bags

Crawling under freezing cold blankets at bedtime can make falling asleep more difficult.

One solution is to fill socks with dry rice or beans and heat them in the microwave, or on your woodstove before bed.

Slide them under the covers to pre-heat your blankets and sheets.

It is old fashioned but it works!

There are many ways to save money on family Christmas gifts. For new families, how much you can save will depend on what Christmas represents in your family as a whole. If the focus is on gift-giving there is no doubt that as your children grow up the task of making Christmas an exciting holiday will require more effort and cost.

Starting at an early age, if your children see Christmas as a time when the family is the focus, their memories of Christmas will be a healthy balance of family activities and receiving gifts.

As an adult or parent, if you think about your most memorable Christmases as a child, it is very likely your memory will relate to a family event or experience. A place you went on Christmas that remains fresh in your mind to this day. It is very unlikely you will remember the gifts you received from your toddler years through your early childhood.

This post may contain affiliate links, you can catch our full disclaimer at the bottom of this post.

10 Ways To Save Money On Family Christmas Gifts:

1. Make a list and stick to it.

This will be the most important first step you can take to save money on family gifts over Christmas. We have all heard this before but how often do we stick to this plan.

The distractions these days are tremendous and without organizing your list early, time management and spending can easily get out of control over the holidays.

Make a list of the people for whom you feel you must buy a gift. Then consider if any of these people would prefer a gift you can purchase or a DIY gift including something you can bake? You’d be surprised how deeply grateful and touched people can be by homemade gifts, especially baked goods.

My mom always ships some homemade Christmas cookies with my son’s gifts. Don’t tell her, but it is her cookies he looks forward too and loves the most! The gifts are wonderful, but it is always the cookies he is digging through the box looking for first.

Mom’s Homemade Christmas Cookies

Once you have crafted your list, stick to it. Consider making a list for all of your holiday buying needs before you start shopping. Include in this list the items you’ll need for baking or Christmas dinner.

Will you be traveling over the holidays? Will you be traveling with a baby? Consider a list for those expenses and needs as well. 

Stick firmly to your list and you won’t feel overwhelmed or too overspent to enjoy the holidays. Worry is the thief of joy as they say…and worrying about the January bills is sure to rob the joy right out of Christmas.

2. Cash only.

Even if you are not on a tight budget, avoid using credit whenever possible. One of the most common complaints after the holiday season is credit card debt.

Add to this credit card finance charges and you will find yourself paying for the holiday well into the new year.

If you can’t afford it, don’t buy it! Stick to this simple rule and you will not get hit with the financial crunch so many fall into.

3. Hit the thrift stores/Apps/Clearance sections.

Thrift stores are always a good place to look for items that are more affordable and trendy. Some of the best finds come from thrift stores.  

Much like thrift stores, there are many great Apps that list the same types of items you find in a thrift store. If you are familiar with buying using apps you probably already know how easy this can make your shopping experience. With local apps, you can limit your distance to 10 miles or less away and find more than enough good bargains.

A few of the more popular apps are listed below. Some apps are selling apps (Mercari, OfferUp, and Facebook Marketplace) and some help to give you real-time prices for comparison, using photo images or barcodes (eBay, Amazon).

Mercari  

This is a great selling app for household items. I have used this app for years and it works extremely well. The process of shipping is very streamlined and the verification process for both buyers and sellers is very effective at preventing spam and scams. When dealing with the buying and selling of used physical products online, you do have to be extremely careful. There is a learning curve involved after which you will be able to pick up scams more easily. Much of the information on apps that is not legitimate becomes more and more apparent as you become familiar with the online selling platform.

OfferUp  

OfferUp is a local selling app. It is ideal for selling items if you want to sell local and don’t want to pay for shipping. This can be particularly useful for large or heavy items (furniture, strollers).

eBay

If you have an eBay account you will quickly find that the eBay app is not just for buying and selling. You can check prices very easily using your phone camera by simply taking a picture of an item or barcode and find it on eBay for price comparison. In addition, if you have an eBay business, there’s no limit to how this app can help you make money over the holiday. This is not to suggest that you should start trying to earn money with eBay over the current Christmas holiday as there is a learning curve. However, if you start now, your business will be well-established by next Christmas.

Amazon

Much like the eBay app, the Amazon app is like having an Amazon browser at your fingertips. Simply point your camera at the barcode on a particular item and if the item is available on Amazon, you will immediately see how much the item is selling for new or used. This is another great app to help you make extra money “if” you are already an Amazon seller. If not, learning to sell on Amazon to make money for next Christmas is definitely an option. Learning to use these apps requires time. With both eBay and Amazon, if you don’t learn the platform well you can lose money selling physical products.

Facebook Marketplace

Given the size of Facebook, you might not think of it as a place to buy used items. However, Facebook Marketplace is actually a great way to find items being sold in your area. This can be a great place to find items that are like new and being sold at bargain-basement prices. If you are looking to make extra money for the holiday and have items you no longer need? List your items on Facebook Marketplace, it is very easy to do!

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4. Make it or Bake it.

When looking to save money on family Christmas gifts consider making and baking gifts. Homemade and DIY gifts are special and a unique way to personalize gifts for each member of your family

If you enjoy baking, baked gifts are always appreciated! People love food. Every year I make dozens and dozens of cookies to give as gifts.

Some of my favorite cookie recipes to give are:

• Hershey Kisses Shortbread Cookies – The Cookie Writer
• Kris Kringle Crinkles – Two Sisters
• Soft-Batch Christmas Sprinkle Cookies – The Salty Marshmallow

5. Compare prices.

Whether you shop online or brick-and-mortar retail stores, it pays to take the time to compare prices.

Fortunately, compared to years ago, E-commerce websites are now comprised of affiliate networks and encourage comparative shopping without having to leave the website.

These websites offer up-to-date pricing. If you prefer not to order items online and the stores are nearby, you can use the website information to determine which store to go to.

The ease of comparative shopping on one website is a luxury. You do not have to deal with travel time and the cost of physically going to each store.

With the click of a mouse, you can compare prices between Amazon, Walmart, and Best Buy. Perhaps you will also want to search eBay as well. eBay has new items and you will find many companies that use eBay to sell their merchandise (often at a discount).

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6. Make a gift budget per person.

Much like the first tip, budgeting your spending per person is also a great idea. Make a checklist format if you prefer. There is always something very gratifying about checking off completed items on a list.

This list can serve as a way of making sure you don’t forget the people you plan to buy gifts for, be it family members, friends or work colleagues.

Once you have tackled your list, you can always go back and make changes. There’s nothing worse than realizing you forgot someone during the final hour.

7. Shop early / Use layaway when available.

Shopping early and using layaway during the Christmas season can be a great approach:

• The selection is better
• Less stress than last-minute shopping
• Layaway allows you to hold items that are on sale or are hard to find.
• You get the best of both worlds. If an item goes on sale that you have on layaway or is discounted steeply right before Christmas, just make the switch.

Shop early and stay out of the stores on Christmas Eve day! It can be so tempting when you get caught up in the excitement of Christmas to go overboard on last-minute gift buying.

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8. Make it a minimalist Christmas.

Stepping back from the overspending, commercialized frenzy of the holiday season is a great way to cut costs and make the season more peaceful and enjoyable.

A simple gift plan of something your children want, something they need, something to wear,  plus homemade food/treat gifts is a perfect way to make the holiday less costly and far more personalized to each child.

I always give the kids their own containers of homemade cookies and homemade Christmas crack as part of their Christmas gifts.

9. Do free family activities that create memories and traditions with your children.

When I think back on my favorite childhood holiday memories, it isn’t gifts that I remember. It is the family traditions, the experiences, the smell of baking cookies, or putting up the Christmas tree and lights. Staying up late, watching Christmas movies and drinking hot chocolate together as a family. Those are the things that really matter.

Focus on scheduling family events when your children are young. This will help your children think of Christmas as a family event and not only about gifts.

Some fun free or cheap ideas for family activities this holiday season:

If you have Amazon Prime or plan to get it for holiday shopping, take full advantage of everything they give you: Hundreds of free Christmas movies on prime video and Amazon Prime music for Christmas music.

You can also use free apps on your phone for Christmas music, Pandora, iHeartradio, and Spotify all have free options!

A way to take advantage of those amazon free perks is to crank up the Christmas music and bake Christmas cookies!

Photo Credit: Maternity Comfort Solutions

Another way to take advantage of Amazon prime is with Amazon Prime Video. Have a family Christmas movie night, make snacks and hot chocolate. Stay up late! Amazon has hundreds of Christmas movies for free!

Gingerbread House With Homemade Graham Crackers

Make Gingerbread houses with graham crackers and make your own icing. You get candy for the houses at the dollar store. You can even make homemade graham crackers. One fun activity we like to do is a group project making gingerbread houses. 

• Turn on the Christmas music or a Holiday movie while you are making them and you’ll be creating holiday memories and traditions your kiddos will love.
• Hop in the car and check out the neighborhood lights or see if your city or town has a free light display, many do!
• Some of the better-known lightings include Boston, Chicago, and New York. Events such as this leave lasting impressions on your children and get them into the Christmas spirit.

10. Skip the traditional expensive wrapping paper

Wrapping paper is ridiculously expensive and most often is rarely worth the expense as our children tear through their gifts on Christmas morning. This is one place where DIY ideas are a great inexpensive option.

One of the ideas I really love and in very much in right now is the “farmhouse” inspired look. An easy way to use it to your wrapping advantage is to buy a large roll of brown kraft paper on Amazon. It makes amazing wrapping paper!

You can add some plaid or other holiday ribbon and tie a dollar store ornament to the package and are good to go!

You can have your children paint or stamp on the kraft paper to make wrapping paper too. This could be another inexpensive family activity to enjoy during the holiday season.

One of our favorite family holiday activities to make homemade swags for around the house and mini-swags to tie to gifts bags and packages.

I get the Christmas tree clipping for free from a local tree lot. They just throw them in the trash and are happy to have me take them away.

One Of The Many Uses For Swags

Another suggestion that’s really inexpensive and practical is to put gifts into reusable shopping bags.

Many grocery stores offer reusable bags in many pretty colors and styles for .99 cents or less. You can add a cute ribbon and dollar store, or homemade ornament and it is perfect and sure to be appreciated.

I know we’d love to receive gifts this way. We try to be environmentally aware and we never seem to have enough reusable bags.

There are so many ways to wrap gifts for free. Use shopping bags, newspapers or buy a large amount of packing paper at a shipping store such as U-Haul.

Thinking ahead, consider buying gift wrapping supplies at the end of the holiday season when it is practically given away. Often discounted by 80-90%.

What to read next:

• 10 Quick Tips For Baby’s First Thanksgiving
• 15 Tips For Baby’s First Christmas