There are all sorts of herb and garden-related crafts we can do indoors. This is a fruitful way to spend those winter months. We can try our hand at making soaps, cosmetics, and paper. We can use dried flowers and herbs to create all sorts of everlasting arrangements, which can range from picture frames and collages to bouquets.
How about creating your own herbal soaps? Take a look at the marvelous recipes in "The Soapmaker-Natural Handmade Soap From Your Kitchen" by Janita Morris from Watson-Guptill Publications. The easy to follow recipes don't involve using lye, so they're safer to make. Ingredients are listed in both metric and standard American measurements. She provides recipes for soap balls, molded soaps, and liquid soaps. In addition, there is a thorough discussion of basic techniques and materials along with a list of suppliers.
Herbal vinegars are nature's gift to gardeners. Why not make your own? You can use rosemary and windowsill herbs. These can also be made from dried herbs. If you have any questions about making or using herbal vinegars, consult "Herbal Vinegar" by Maggie Oster from Storey Publishing. It contains a very interesting history of vinegar along with all the basics on choosing the ingredients, making the vinegar, and using it. There are delightful recipes for mustards, chutneys, salsas, and cosmetics along with household uses. Need to remove water rings or stains on wooden furniture? Vinegar is the answer.
There's nothing like an invigorating herbal bath to help us get through those long winter evenings. If you need recipes for body care products, the place to look is "The Good Earth Bath, Beauty and Health Book" by Casey Kellar from Krause Publications. This marvelous book features over 75 easy to make recipes with complete step-by-step instructions. There are formulas for feet, hands, lips, hair, and more. She also includes chapters on potpourri and sachets to keep your home smelling fresh. There are helpful sections on aromatherapy and herbal remedies to make you feel better.
Pamper yourself. No matter where you live, the best source around for stress-busters is "Weekend Home Spa" by Linda Bird, Published by Ulysses Press, this has relaxing and energizing ideas that will help you cope with the season. It features all kinds of spa treatments from skin scrubs, baths, and natural soaps to healthful menu ideas and exercises.
