Holiday DIYs with Julie Ross

& Be Our Guest, Lifestyle.

The holiday season has arrived and with only nine days left until Christmas, we turned to DIY-extraordinaire Julie Ross of thelifeofacupcake.com for home made holiday gift ideas that are bound to make anyone smile!

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It’s the most wonderful time of the year! No really, I am Christmas’ biggest fan. Not only do I get to spend time with all of the people that I love so much, but I also have the chance to shower them with presents, treats and homemade goodies.

I admit that I tend to go a bit overboard when it comes to gifts (okay fine, A LOT overboard!). Something I have learned over the years is that all the little things we buy for gifts can really add up. So I have gotten a lot better at making my own little gifts for co-workers, friends and even family members as an extra little treat!
Today I will teach you how to make two of the easiest, cheapest and cutest Christmas DIYs.
  • Candy Cane Epsom Salts
  • Chocolate & Candy Cane Lollies

IMG_8680First up, we have the Candy Cane Espsom Salts! This year was the first time I tried making these babies. They are very easy to make, and in the end it’s how you package them that is truly “the icing on the cake.” I find these to be really great as little gifts for co-workers and friends, or even as a hostess gift at your next holiday party!

What you need:
– Epsom salts
– Baking soda
– Essential oil
– Mason jar
– Gift bag
– Ribbon
– Tag
What you do:
Put two cups of Epsom salts in a large bowl, add 2 tablespoons of baking soda and then 4-5 drops of essential oil (I used peppermint essential out because I think it’s best for the season!) stir around until set, and pour in to mason jars.
The mason jars could be decorated in so many ways, but I kept this one pretty simple. Cover the lid with Christmas washi tape, place in a plastic goodie bag, wrap twine around the top to close and finish with a heart shaped tag. Decorate it how you see fit!
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IMG_8516-1Next up, we have Chocolate & Candy Cane Lollies! I love these because they are just so easy and fun to make–not to mention as cute-as-can-be! I’ve used these as Christmas favours for my parties, and also to go with Christmas cards for co-workers, friends, etc.
What you need:
– Two large bars of chocolate (your choice, something good to melt)
– Crushed candy cane (yes, you can get it already crushed at Bulk Barn)
– Lollipop sticks
– Lollipop molds
– Cellophane
– Ribbon
– Tag
What you do:
Melt chocolate pieces in microwave or on stove. Keep a very close eye because chocolate melts very quickly and needs to be tended to. Put lollipop sticks at bottom of mold, and then sprinkle the crushed candy cane in the heart (or whatever shape). Once chocolate is melted, fill the mold. Put lollies in the fridge to cool. It is best to do it overnight or for a few hours. Once hearts are formed on the stick, wrap them in some pretty cellophane and put some ribbon around it.
And voilà! Speedy and thoughtful gifts for all the special people on your list.