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Holiday Decorating Idea: How to Make Glitter Snowflakes
Posted on December 22, 2011
Kids home from school for the holidays? Give them a great craft activity with these simple, sparkly handcrafted snowflakes. From Homemade: The Heart and Science of Handcrafts by Carol Endler Sterbenz.
6 Last-Minute Homemade Holiday Gift Ideas
Posted on December 20, 2011
By Crystal Paine
Author of The Money Saving Mom’s Budget
Are you crunched for time and money this holiday season? We feel your pain. Here are six simple and inexpensive last-minute gift ideas that convey the spirit of the season without draining your bank account.
Paying It Forward (at the Grocery Store)
Posted on December 19, 2011
Keep your heart open for those you can help, especially during the holidays. Even grocery shopping can present an opportunity, says Debbie Macomber, author of One Simple Act: Discovering the Power of Generosity.
Money-Saving, Menu-Planning Help for the Holiday Cook
Posted on December 15, 2011
By Deborah Goldstein
Whether you’re hosting a holiday meal or contributing to a potluck, now is a great time to map out a strategy for your grocery shopping and cooking. It’ll save you time, stress, and money later this month.
How to Make Your Blowout Last
Posted on December 14, 2011
Everyone loves a nice, sleek blowout—but you want to make sure you get your money’s worth. Use these simple tips to maintain your newly blown-out hair through day two and beyond. From hair and makeup artist Eva Scrivo, author of Eva Scrivo on Beauty: The Tools, Techniques, and Insider Knowledge Every Woman Needs to Be Her Most Beautiful, Confident Self.
Joy of Cooking Recipe: Beet and Carrot Latkes for the Hanukkah Table
Posted on December 12, 2011
Hanukkah faves get a colorful new twist (with antioxidants!) from Joy of Cooking: 75th Anniversary Edition. Where potato latkes are solid and starchy, the upstanding, if predictable, faction of latkes, these latkes are light and barely sweet.
How to Make a Centerpiece for Your Holiday Table
Posted on December 12, 2011
By Mark Montano
Author of The Big Ass Book of Crafts 2
Truth be told, I’m not the best at holiday decorating. Hear me out. I would prefer that colorful lights and glittery ornaments be around all year instead of just at Christmas time. This way, when the pressure of the holidays comes around, I’m not scrambling to make things in red and green!
Holiday Gift Idea: How to Make a Teacup Candle
Posted on December 12, 2011
Quirky antique teacups from thrift stores can be transformed into beautiful table settings and hostess gifts. From Homemade: The Heart and Science of Handcrafts by Carol Endler Sterbenz.
Holiday Tipping Guide: How Much Do I Pay?
Posted on December 8, 2011
By Deborah Goldstein
Who should you tip each December? And how much? While you might be on a tight budget (like the rest of the country), a gift or cash equivalent shows your appreciation better than just a thank you. Don’t be a Scrooge. When you create your holiday shopping list or budget, remember to include the following.
Holiday Decorating Idea: How to Make a Garland
Posted on December 8, 2011
Garlands can be displayed along banisters or draped across window frames to spread seasonal warmth throughout your home. Use these tips to make simple bouquets to weave into a garland of your choosing, from Homemade: The Heart and Science of Handcrafts by Carol Endler Sterbenz.
Chef Jonathan Waxman’s Favorite Cast-Iron Cookware
Posted on December 8, 2011
Looking for a holiday gift for the foodie in your life? Celebrity chef Jonathan Waxman shares his favorite cast-iron items, plus how to season, clean, and care for them. From Italian, My Way: More Than 150 Simple and Inspired Recipes That Breathe New Life Into Italian Classics.
10 Affordable Gift Ideas under $20
Posted on December 6, 2011
By Deborah Goldstein
While you make the rounds of parties and dinners this month, treat each host or hostess to a thoughtful gift that won’t break your holiday budget. Books are surefire pleasers. And homemade anything works well if you have the time. These simple yet thoughtful gifts work equally well for a loved one or trusted individual in your life (teacher, manicurist, neighbor).
Essential Baking Pans You Need—Even if You’re Not Baking
Posted on December 2, 2011
According to Buddy Valastro, author of Baking with the Cake Boss, these are the types of equipment that you should have on hand if you plan to do a variety of baking with any kind of regularity.
