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Easy scented pine cones potpourri recipe
Scented pine cones are becoming increasingly popular, and with that popularity they are also becoming more expensive to purchase commercially. But never fear! If you have access to pine cones you can scent them yourself. Used similar to potpourri, scented pine cones serve as great aromatic hearth decorations. The fragrances used are the same ones that are used in potpourri. After in use for some time the scent will begin to diminish. Simply toss old cones into the fireplace and the burning will release more scent. Scented Pine cones Method #1 These are quick and easy to make, they are ideal for group activities or school children. Rinse pine cones under running water, lay pine cones on an old cookie sheet and bake at 200F until the pinecones open up (kills bugs, melts sap etc) spread pine cones out on layers of newspaper. Use a foam brush to apply glue. Mix cinnamon, ginger and nutmeg in baggie. Add pine cones in spice mix. Shake to cover. Allow to dry overnight. Use scented pine cones in gift baskets, on wreaths or placed in bowls. Hang them from your door handles or from your Christmas tree. Method #2 Pour cinnamon, clove or Christmas blend essential oil into a spray bottle with a little water and spray cones until they are damp. Place scented pine cones in a plastic bag and seal for 24 hours. Method #3 Place pine cones in a sealable plastic bag, add several drops of cinnamon, clove or Christmas blend essential oil, close bag a and shake several times to distribute. Keep sealed for 2 -7 days. To scent 2 pounds of cones you will need 3 ounces of cinnamon oil, 1/2 pound cinnamon chips, 1/2 pound of whole 3" cinnamon sticks, and one large heavy duty plastic garbage bag. Seal bag tightly and leave scented pine cones in bag for 8 weeks. Shake and toss the bag once a week to blend the mixture. For Large Cones If you live near or have access to large pine cones (5" tall or more) you can scent them and decorate them individually. I have found that the best scent for these is apple cinnamon. Make the bottom of the cone level for setting. Take slices of dried apples and glue them between the cone petals. Scent the dried apple slices and the cone with scattered drops of cinnamon oil. You can further decorate this "pine cone tree" as desired. It looks especially nice with small, dried flowers and tiny ribbon bows glued on. Decorating TipsOnce you have made a batch of homemade scented pinecones the next step is finding a way to display or package them. Cut a large square of the fabric, netting or mesh, place a number of scented pine cones in the center and gather fabric up around the cones. To secure it, tie gathered end with a ribbon and make a bow. Attach cinnamon sticks and small berry floral picks to the bow. Scented pine cones are not only easy to make, they are also a fun way to experiment with different scents. Kitchen Gift Basket Idea Lay a decorative tea towel inside of a new pasta strainer and fill with matching pot holders , salt and pepper shaker, recipe collection , cookie cutters , country kitchen potpourri, scented pine cones If you like my free recipes and would like to contribute, please leave a donation so you can enjoy the spirit of giving too. |