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	<title>100 homemade gift ideas</title>
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		<title>Homemade Gift Idea #90: Sunprinting</title>
		<link>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-90-sunprinting/367/</link>
		<comments>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-90-sunprinting/367/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 09 Aug 2010 01:14:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>aniccaph</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Homemade gifts kids can help with]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Art Pieces]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Calendars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Creativity]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Gift Idea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Gifts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Natural Creations]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Silhouettes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sun Prints]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sunprint Paper]]></category>

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</style>You might remember making these homemade projects as a child, especially if you were a girl or boy scout. With just a little added creativity like framing, these natural creations can make great homemade gifts. Sun prints are those blue and white prints made from placing objects like flowers or leaves on a piece of [...]<p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-90-sunprinting/367/">Homemade Gift Idea #90: Sunprinting</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>



Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-91-homemade-snow-globes/331/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #91: Homemade Snow Globes!'>Homemade Gift Idea #91: Homemade Snow Globes!</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-clothing/homemade-gift-idea-93-tie-dye/271/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #93: Tie-Dye'>Homemade Gift Idea #93: Tie-Dye</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-96-homemade-personalized-photo-calendars/220/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #96: Homemade Personalized Photo Calendars'>Homemade Gift Idea #96: Homemade Personalized Photo Calendars</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
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</style><p>You might remember making these homemade projects as a child, especially if you were a girl or boy scout. With just a little added creativity like framing, these natural creations can make great homemade gifts. Sun prints are those blue and white prints made from placing objects like flowers or leaves on a piece of photo-sensitive paper, laying it out in the sun for a few minutes, rinsing the paper off, and voila, you have some naturally created and inspired art that that kids and adults could make. I have seen these used as framed art pieces.<br/><br />
<a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Sun-Print.jpg"><img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-369" title="Sun Print for a homemade gift idea" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/Sun-Print.jpg" alt="Sun Print for a homemade gift idea" width="332" height="221" /></a><br />
<strong>What you need:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>A <a href="http://sunprints.org" target="_blank">sunprint</a> paper kit. Sunprints.org has these.</li>
<li>Objects to place on the paper. Commonly use objects are flowers, leaves, dandelion seeds. Buy a large sheet and do silhouettes of yourself or your kids. You can also get creative and crumple up the paper to get a neat effect. <a href="http://sunprints.org" target="_blank">Sunprints.org</a> has a lot of cool ideas to check out.</li>
<li>A container of water to rinse the paper off.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>The process:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Arrange your objects on the paper</li>
<li>Lay the paper out in the sun for a few minutes. It will take longer in indirect light, or under an overcast sky.  The paper will fade to white when done.</li>
<li>Place the paper in the water for a few minutes, until the color completely reverses.</li>
<li>Let dry and you have your homemade gift!</li>
</ol>
<p>Here is a site that has a cool idea on how to turn these creations into <a title="Sun print Calendars for homemade gifts" href="http://www.makegrowgather.com/posts/2008/11/21/heres-what-became-of-that-still-life.html" target="_blank">calendars</a>.</p>
<script type="text/javascript" class="owbutton" src="http://onlywire.com/btn/button_45232" title="Homemade Gift Idea #90: Sunprinting" url="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-90-sunprinting/367/"></script><p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-90-sunprinting/367/">Homemade Gift Idea #90: Sunprinting</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-91-homemade-snow-globes/331/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #91: Homemade Snow Globes!'>Homemade Gift Idea #91: Homemade Snow Globes!</a></li>
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<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-96-homemade-personalized-photo-calendars/220/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #96: Homemade Personalized Photo Calendars'>Homemade Gift Idea #96: Homemade Personalized Photo Calendars</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
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		<title>Homemade Gift Idea #91: Homemade Snow Globes!</title>
		<link>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-91-homemade-snow-globes/331/</link>
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		<pubDate>Fri, 04 Dec 2009 20:27:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>aniccaph</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Homemade gifts kids can help with]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Craft Shop]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Creative Ideas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fake Snow]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Glitter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Gift Idea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Gifts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Snow Effect]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Snow Globes]]></category>

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</style>Inspired by our first snow of the year last night, I decided to post this playful and whimsical homemade gift idea. Homemade snow globes are great homemade gifts that you can help kids could make. They are fun, easy, and easily personalized. You can help your kids to make a bunch of these as homemade [...]<p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-91-homemade-snow-globes/331/">Homemade Gift Idea #91: Homemade Snow Globes!</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>



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</ol>]]></description>
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</style><p>Inspired by our first snow of the year last night, I decided to post this playful and whimsical <strong>homemade gift idea</strong>. Homemade snow globes are great homemade gifts that you can help kids could make. They are fun, easy, and easily personalized. You can help your kids to make a bunch of these as <em>homemade gifts</em> that satisfy their entire list.</p>
<p><strong>What you&#8217;ll need</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Clear jars. Baby food jars work, as well as jam jars, or any mason jars. Just make sure that are clean, and sealable so they don&#8217;t leak.</li>
<li>Figurines. Think of your gift-recipient for this one. Do they like Star Wars? Use an action figure. Into Legoes? Use a lego person. Just make sure that they are not water-soluble. Also check the size of the figurine so that it will fit in the jar when sealed.</li>
<li>Aquarium sealant or any other waterproof sealant.</li>
<li>Glitter or fake snow. You can find this at a craft shop.</li>
<li>Glycerin. This will make the &#8220;snow&#8221; fall more slowly. You can find glycerin at a drug store.</li>
<li>Distilled Water. You can also boil water</li>
<li>Ribbon, paint, or other decorations for the lid, which will serve as the base of the snowglobe</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Instructions</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Place the lid face down.</li>
<li>Use the glue to fasten the bottom of the figurine(s) to the back of the lid. If you want the figurine to sit higher, glue a piece of plastic or smaller plastic lid to the bottom of the figurine first to act as a pedestal.</li>
<li>Let dry.</li>
<li>Fill jar with distilled water and a few drops of glycerin.</li>
<li>Add a teaspoon of glitter. More or less as desired. More might give you a nice bed of snow effect when all of the glitter has fallen. You might want to test this out first with a test jar to make sure you get the effect that you want.</li>
<li>Screw on the lid. Seal with glue if desired.</li>
<li>Decorate the base&#8230; and you are done!</li>
</ol>
<p>Kids will love helping you make these <a title="100 homemade gift ideas home page" href="http://100homemadegiftideas.com" target="_blank"><strong>homemade gifts</strong></a>, and I am sure they will have fun and creative ideas on what to place inside them!</p>
<script type="text/javascript" class="owbutton" src="http://onlywire.com/btn/button_45232" title="Homemade Gift Idea #91: Homemade Snow Globes!" url="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-91-homemade-snow-globes/331/"></script><p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-91-homemade-snow-globes/331/">Homemade Gift Idea #91: Homemade Snow Globes!</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-90-sunprinting/367/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #90: Sunprinting'>Homemade Gift Idea #90: Sunprinting</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-clothing/homemade-gift-idea-93-tie-dye/271/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #93: Tie-Dye'>Homemade Gift Idea #93: Tie-Dye</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-98-homemade-refrigerator-magnets/163/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #98: Homemade Refrigerator Magnets'>Homemade Gift Idea #98: Homemade Refrigerator Magnets</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Homemade Gift Idea #92: Super Easy Homemade Lotion</title>
		<link>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-92-homemade-lotio/284/</link>
		<comments>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-92-homemade-lotio/284/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 03 Dec 2009 02:18:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>aniccaph</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[bath products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bath bombs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Essential Oils]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fragrance Oil]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gift Basket]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Gift Idea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Gift Ideas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[homemade lotion]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[homemade lotion gifts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[homemade soap]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lotion Base]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Scented Lotion]]></category>

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</style>Homemade lotion is gift idea that can be so easy it&#8217;s almost cheating. Combined with the other homemade gift ideas on this blog, such as the homemade soap, lip balm, and bath bombs, homemade lotion would make an excellent additional gift idea to a homemade gift basket of bath products. Most people enjoy lotion, and [...]<p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-92-homemade-lotio/284/">Homemade Gift Idea #92: Super Easy Homemade Lotion</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>



Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-97-bath-bombs/201/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs'>Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-94-homemade-lip-balm/257/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade  Gift Idea #94: Homemade Lip Balm'>Homemade  Gift Idea #94: Homemade Lip Balm</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-99-easy-melt-and-pour-soap-bars/53/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars'>Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<style type="text/css">
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</style><p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-288" title="homemade_lotion" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/homemade_lotion.jpg" alt="homemade_lotion" width="175" height="262" /><br />
Homemade lotion is gift idea that can be so easy it&#8217;s almost cheating. Combined with the other <strong>homemade gift ideas</strong> on this blog, such as the <a title="Homemade Gift Idea #99: Homemade Melt and Pour Soap" href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gift-idea-99-easy-melt-and-pour-soap-bars/53/" target="_blank">homemade soap</a>, <a title="Homemade Gif Idea #94: Homemade Lip Balm" href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gift-idea-94-homemade-lip-balm/257/" target="_blank">lip balm</a>, and <a title="Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade bath Bombs" href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gift-idea-97-bath-bombs/201/" target="_blank">bath bombs</a>, homemade lotion would make an excellent additional gift idea to a homemade gift basket of bath products. Most people enjoy lotion, and it becomes almost a necessity for some during the winter months as the air gets drier. Lotion can be a potentially successful homemade gift for men as well if scented properly. The following tutorial uses a premade lotion base that takes a lot of the work out this project. If you want to customize your lotion base check out <a title="Homemade Lotion from scratch tutorial at Soap Queen's Blog" href="http://soap-queen.blogspot.com/2008/11/gift-series-lotion-tutorial-from.html" target="_blank">this lotion making tutorial</a>. You can purchase this <a title="Homemade Lotion from scratch kit at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Lotions-Kit-1-kit-P3293.aspx" target="_blank">lotion-making kit</a> with all of the ingredients to make the lotion base from scratch.</p>
<p><strong>Ingredients.</strong></p>
<p>As with many of the other bath products listed on this blog, all of the ingredients can be purchased through brambleberry.com. They have an entire section on <a title="Lotion making supples at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Lotion-Supplies-C178.aspx" target="_blank">lotion-making products</a>. You can also purchase a <a title="Lotion making kit from premade base at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Easy-Lotion-Kit-1-kit-P3292.aspx" target="_blank">pre-made lotion kit</a> that contains everything you need to make 4 4-ounce botttles of lotion. Of course, you are stuck with the scent and color that is in the kit.</p>
<ul>
<li><a title="Premade lotion bases at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Pre-made-Bases-C180.aspx" target="_blank">Pre-made lotion base</a><strong>.</strong> If purchasing a gallon or more, consider buying a pump for the top of the bottle. Some health food stores actually carry lotion in bulk. Our local grocery co-op carries bulk lotion in their health and wellness section</li>
<li><a title="Essential Oils at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Essential-Oils-C157.aspx" target="_blank">Fragrance oil or essential oil.</a><strong> </strong>Essential oils, though more expensive, have a purer and less artificial scent than the fragrance oil.</li>
<li><a title="Containers for homemade lotion at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Bottles-C193.aspx" target="_blank">Lotion Container</a></li>
<li><a title="Avery full sheet labels from Staples.com" href="http://www.staples.com/Avery-8165-White-Inkjet-Full-Sheet-Shipping-Labels-with-TrueBlock-8-1/product_765370?cmArea=SEARCH" target="_blank">Avery full sheet labels</a> if you want to personalize the bottle<strong><br />
</strong></li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Directions</strong></p>
<p>This couldn&#8217;t be any easier.</p>
<ol>
<li>Pour your desired amount of lotion into a Pyrex or other heat-resistant container.</li>
<li>Mix in your desired amount of essential oil or fragrance. Start with adding a few drops. Nothing exhausts the olfactory sense than over-scented lotion.</li>
<li>Pour into the lotion container. If the lotion will not pour well, try heating up the lotion in 10-20 second intervals. Don&#8217;t get the lotion too hot as it might start to separate.</li>
<li>Make your label and apply to the bottle and you are done.</li>
</ol>
<p>Another way to dispense the lotion into the containers is to pour the lotion into a ziploc bag. Mix in the fragrance. Then, cut one of the corners out of the baggie, and squeeze into the container. This method will waste about 5% of the lotion however.</p>
<p>Also, you can add <a title="Colorants or homemade lotion at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/LabColors-C171.aspx" target="_blank">colorant</a> in step 2 if you desire, but colored lotion just never seems natural to me.</p>
<p>I personally have not tried making these <a title="100 homemade gift ideas home page" href="http://100homemadegiftideas.com" target="_blank"><strong>homemade gifts</strong></a>, but I&#8217;m sure everybody on your list will be happy to receive them.</p>
<p><strong><br />
</strong></p>
<script type="text/javascript" class="owbutton" src="http://onlywire.com/btn/button_45232" title="Homemade Gift Idea #92: Super Easy Homemade Lotion" url="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-92-homemade-lotio/284/"></script><p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-92-homemade-lotio/284/">Homemade Gift Idea #92: Super Easy Homemade Lotion</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-97-bath-bombs/201/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs'>Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-94-homemade-lip-balm/257/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade  Gift Idea #94: Homemade Lip Balm'>Homemade  Gift Idea #94: Homemade Lip Balm</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-99-easy-melt-and-pour-soap-bars/53/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars'>Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Homemade Gift Idea #93: Tie-Dye</title>
		<link>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-clothing/homemade-gift-idea-93-tie-dye/271/</link>
		<comments>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-clothing/homemade-gift-idea-93-tie-dye/271/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 19 Nov 2009 22:41:47 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>aniccaph</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[homemade clothing]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Gift Idea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[homemade tie-dye]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rit Dye]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Tie Dye]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[tie-dye tutorial]]></category>

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</style>This is a homemade gift idea we had some fun with a number of years back. Tie-dye clothing makes a good homemade gift idea because each one is unique, you can customize the colors, they are fun to make, fairly easy and many people love to receive them. This might be one of those elusive [...]<p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-clothing/homemade-gift-idea-93-tie-dye/271/">Homemade Gift Idea #93: Tie-Dye</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>



Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-90-sunprinting/367/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #90: Sunprinting'>Homemade Gift Idea #90: Sunprinting</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-97-bath-bombs/201/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs'>Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-91-homemade-snow-globes/331/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #91: Homemade Snow Globes!'>Homemade Gift Idea #91: Homemade Snow Globes!</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<style type="text/css">
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</style><p><strong><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-272" title="tye-dye_baby" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/tye-dye_baby-211x300.jpg" alt="tye-dye_baby" width="175" height="250" /></strong>This is a <strong>homemade gift idea</strong> we had some fun with a number of years back. Tie-dye clothing makes a good homemade gift idea because each one is unique, you can customize the colors, they are fun to make, fairly easy and many people love to receive them. This might be one of those elusive homemade gift that men would like. You can apply tie-dye to almost anything that is cotton&#8230; T-shirts, socks, clothing for toddlers. There are also many techniques to create unique designs.</p>
<p><strong>Materials&#8230;</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Rit<strong> </strong>dye. This brand worked really well,  creating nice vibrant color. I was unsuccessful with another brand that came in squirt bottles, as the color turned out dull.</li>
<li>Cotton clothing. Socks, tshirts, clothing for toddlers, anything made of cotton will work. I&#8217;ve seen examples of bedsheets and curtains as well. Just remember to use items that are at least 60% cotton, preferably 100%. Polyester blends will not turn out as vibrant. The more cotton that is in the item, the more vibrant the color will be. You can get a bunch of cheap 100% cotton tshirts at Michael&#8217;s.</li>
<li>Rubber bands or string to tye the item up with. This creates the unique tie-dye effect.</li>
<li>A 3 gallon bucket for each color</li>
<li>Rubber gloves</li>
<li>Long wooden spoon that you don&#8217;t mind getting permanently dyed</li>
<li>Clothes or sponges for cleanup &#8211; again, they ill be permanently dyed</li>
<li>Something to cover your work surface like plastic garbage bags, as the process can be really messy</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Instructions:</strong></p>
<p>There are a number of techniques for designs that you can find on the internet. Rit has a few pages from their website <a title="Tye-dyeing techniques and tutorials at ritdye.com" href="http://www.ritdye.com/Tie-Dyeing.46.lasso" target="_blank">on techniques as well as tutorials.</a></p>
<ol>
<li>Consider preshrinking your garment in the washer and dryer.</li>
<li>Prepare your dye bath(s) according to the instructions on the Rit dye container. The hotter the water is the more vibrant the color will be.</li>
<li>Working from the lightest color to the darkest color, immerse your garment in each bath for 5-7 minutes stirring occasionally. After each immersion, rinse the garment.</li>
<li>After the last dye bath, rinse the garment in warm water then in cold water until the water runs clear.</li>
<li>Wash garment with warm water and detergent and rinse in cold water.</li>
<li>Repeat step 5 one more time without detergent. This is just so that the garments don&#8217;t bleed on your gift recipients other clothing when they wash them together.</li>
<li>Let hang dry and you are done.</li>
</ol>
<p>Dude&#8230; you now have some wicked-cool clothing to give as <a title="100 homemade gift ideas home page" href="http://100homemadegiftideas.com" target="_blank"><strong>homemade gifts</strong></a>!</p>
<script type="text/javascript" class="owbutton" src="http://onlywire.com/btn/button_45232" title="Homemade Gift Idea #93: Tie-Dye" url="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-clothing/homemade-gift-idea-93-tie-dye/271/"></script><p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-clothing/homemade-gift-idea-93-tie-dye/271/">Homemade Gift Idea #93: Tie-Dye</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-90-sunprinting/367/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #90: Sunprinting'>Homemade Gift Idea #90: Sunprinting</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-97-bath-bombs/201/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs'>Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-91-homemade-snow-globes/331/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #91: Homemade Snow Globes!'>Homemade Gift Idea #91: Homemade Snow Globes!</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Homemade  Gift Idea #94: Homemade Lip Balm</title>
		<link>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-94-homemade-lip-balm/257/</link>
		<comments>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-94-homemade-lip-balm/257/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2009 01:23:52 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>aniccaph</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[bath products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bath And Body]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gift Basket]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gift Recipients]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Gift Idea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[homemade lip balm]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Lip Balm Recipes]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[lip balm]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lip Balm Containers]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Lip Balm Recipes]]></category>

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</style>This is a homemade gift idea that you could combine with Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs and Homemade Gift Idea #99: easy melt and pour soap bars to make a bath and body themed homemade gift basket. It seems relatively easy to make. The process seems a lot like the melt and pour [...]<p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-94-homemade-lip-balm/257/">Homemade  Gift Idea #94: Homemade Lip Balm</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>



Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-92-homemade-lotio/284/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #92: Super Easy Homemade Lotion'>Homemade Gift Idea #92: Super Easy Homemade Lotion</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-97-bath-bombs/201/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs'>Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-99-easy-melt-and-pour-soap-bars/53/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars'>Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
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</style><p><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-266" title="homemade_lip_balm" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/homemade_lip_balm.jpg" alt="homemade_lip_balm" width="175" height="108" />This is a <a title="100 homemade gift ideas home page" href="http://100homemadegiftideas.com" target="_blank"><strong>homemade gift idea</strong></a> that you could combine with <a title="Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs" href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/?p=201" target="_blank">Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs</a> and <a title="Homemade Gift Idea #99: Homemade Melt and Pour Soap Bars" href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/?p=53" target="_blank">Homemade Gift Idea #99: easy melt and pour soap bars</a> to make a bath and body themed homemade gift basket. It seems relatively easy to make. The process seems a lot like the <a title="Homemade Gift Idea #99: Homemade Melt and Pour Soap Bars" href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/?p=53" target="_blank">melt and pour soap bars</a>. Judging from the amount required, you could make quite a few with just one batch. I haven&#8217;t given these as gifts yet, but as part of a homemade bath and body gift basket, I am sure your gift recipients will be impressed.</p>
<p>There are literally hundreds of lip balm recipes out there. You can find quite of few of <a title="Homemade lip balm recipes from fromnaturewithlove.com" href="http://www.fromnaturewithlove.com/recipe/recipes.asp?category=19" target="_blank">homemade lip balm recipes at fromnaturewithlove.com</a>. The recipe outlined below is adapted from<strong> </strong><a title="Homemade lip balm recipe from soap-queen-blogspot.com" href="http://soap-queen.blogspot.com/2009/01/were-in-kiwi-magazine.html" target="_blank">soap-queen-blogspot.com</a>. Everything you need, oils, waxes, flavors, tins, can be purchased through <a title="Homemade lip balm section at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Lip-Balm-W5C146.aspx" target="_blank">Brambleberry.com&#8217;s lip balm section</a>. They also carry a <a title="Homemade lip balm base from brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Pre-Made-Bases-C247.aspx" target="_blank">meltable lip balm base</a> that makes the process even easier. You don&#8217;t have to worry about the proportions, you just melt the base in the microwave or double-boiler, and add your flavor and/or color.  The down side to this is you can&#8217;t customize the oil and wax ingredients, which is part of the creative fun in this kind of project.</p>
<p>The following recipe is adapted from <a title="Homemade lip balm recipe from soap-queen-blogspot.com" href="http://soap-queen.blogspot.com/2009/01/were-in-kiwi-magazine.html" target="_blank">soap-queen-blogspot.com</a>:</p>
<p><strong>Materials</strong><br />
1 tablespoon <a title="Coconut oil for homemade lip balm from brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Coconut-Oil-P3196.aspx" target="_blank">coconut oil</a><br />
1 tablespoon <a title="beeswax for homemade lip balm from brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Waxes-C249.aspx" target="_blank">beeswax<br />
</a>1 1/2 teaspoon <a title="Sweet Almond oil for homemade lip balm from brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Sweet-Almond-Oil-P3205.aspx" target="_blank">sweet almond oil</a><br />
1 teaspoon olive oil<br />
20-30 drops of the <a title="Flavoring Oils for homemade lip balm from brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Flavoring-Oils-C177.aspx" target="_blank">flavoring</a> of your choice<br />
7 to 10 lip balm containers. It will vary greatly depending on the size container that you get.</p>
<p><strong>Directions</strong><br />
You can do the melting process in the microwave, but you want to make sure you heat in brief 10-20 second intervals, stirring between each interval. To be safe, use a double-boiler or if you have a Pyrex measuring container, or other heat resistant glass for the procedure below. I like to use the Pyrex container method because it is easier to pour the mixture into the lip balm containers.</p>
<ol>
<li>Add a few inches of water into a saucepan. If you are not using a double-boiler, place your Pyrex container in the saucepan.</li>
<li>Heat water on low.</li>
<li>Add coconut oil and beeswax. Stirring often, heat until they are completely melted.</li>
<li>Add olive oil, sweet almond oil, and flavoring. (If you are adding coloring, do so here)</li>
<li>Continue heating and mixing for a minute or two.<span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span></li>
<li>Pour mixture into small lip balm containers.</li>
<li>Let cool and you are done.</li>
</ol>
<p>You can easily make fun <strong>homemade gift</strong> labels with by printing on self adhesive <a title="Avery full sheet labels from staples.com" href="http://www.staples.com/Avery-8165-White-Inkjet-Full-Sheet-Shipping-Labels-with-TrueBlock-8-1/product_765370?cmArea=SEARCH" target="_blank">Avery full sheet labels</a> and cutting them out.</p>
<script type="text/javascript" class="owbutton" src="http://onlywire.com/btn/button_45232" title="Homemade  Gift Idea #94: Homemade Lip Balm" url="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-94-homemade-lip-balm/257/"></script><p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-94-homemade-lip-balm/257/">Homemade  Gift Idea #94: Homemade Lip Balm</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-92-homemade-lotio/284/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #92: Super Easy Homemade Lotion'>Homemade Gift Idea #92: Super Easy Homemade Lotion</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-97-bath-bombs/201/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs'>Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-99-easy-melt-and-pour-soap-bars/53/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars'>Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Homemade Gift Idea #95: Homemade Photographic Greeting Cards</title>
		<link>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-95-homemade-photographic-greeting-cards/243/</link>
		<comments>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-95-homemade-photographic-greeting-cards/243/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 11 Nov 2009 04:29:28 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>aniccaph</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[photo gifts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gift Cards]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gifts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[greeting cards]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Cards]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Gift Idea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Gift Ideas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[homemade greeting cards]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[personalized greeting cards]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Photographic Greeting Cards]]></category>

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</style>This homemade gift idea kind of goes along the same lines as the previous post Homemade Gift Idea #96: Homemade Photographic Personalized Calendars. I was initially hesitant about this gift idea. Would people really want greeting cards as gifts? I have another hobby in nature photography. A friend of mine had seen some of my [...]<p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-95-homemade-photographic-greeting-cards/243/">Homemade Gift Idea #95: Homemade Photographic Greeting Cards</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>



Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-96-homemade-personalized-photo-calendars/220/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #96: Homemade Personalized Photo Calendars'>Homemade Gift Idea #96: Homemade Personalized Photo Calendars</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-99-easy-melt-and-pour-soap-bars/53/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars'>Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-98-homemade-refrigerator-magnets/163/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #98: Homemade Refrigerator Magnets'>Homemade Gift Idea #98: Homemade Refrigerator Magnets</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
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</style><p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-249" title="homemade_greeting_cards" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/homemade_greeting_cards1.jpg" alt="homemade_greeting_cards" width="175" height="111" />This <a title="100 homemade gift ideas home page" href="http://100homemadegiftideas.com" target="_blank"><strong>homemade gift idea</strong></a> kind of goes along the same lines as the previous post <a title="Homemade Gift Idea#96: Homemade Photographic Personalized Calendars" href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/?p=220" target="_blank">Homemade Gift Idea #96: Homemade Photographic Personalized Calendars</a>. I was initially hesitant about this gift idea. Would people really want greeting cards as <em>gifts</em>? I have another hobby in nature photography. A friend of mine had seen some of my shots and told me that it would make a great homemade gift idea to use some of them in greeting cards. She said the recipients would be impressed and would use them, two qualities that I strive for in every homemade gift I make. I was hesitant, but I went ahead with it. Along with <a title="Homemade Gift Idea #99: Homemade Melt and Pour Soap Bars" href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/?p=53">Homemade Gift Idea #99: Homemade Melt and Pour Soap Bars</a>, they ended up being probably my most successful homemade gift idea.</p>
<p>There are a few ways you can go about this:</p>
<p>You could upload your photos to a site like <a title="link to cardsdiect.com" href="http://www.cardsdirect.com/" target="_blank">cardsdirect.com</a><strong>.</strong> You can choose from many different of sizes, styles, backgrounds, and borders. The minimum purchase is 100 cards,  but if you are making a several boxes of these as gifts, you&#8217;ll easily make that many. The downside to them is that you can only choose one photo for every hundred cards.</p>
<p>The other way requires more work, is more hands-on&#8230; but hey the name of this site is 100 homemade gift ideas, so you are probably here anticipating some amount of work, right?</p>
<p>You can print them out yourself. All of the materials you need can be found at <a title="homemade greeting card shop at redrivercatalog.com" href="http://www.redrivercatalog.com/cardshop/" target="_blank">redrivercatalog.com</a>. I did a lot of research on the appropriate quality of stock, and these guys really know their stuff. They literally have this stuff down to a science. Their quality is the best out there, they have a great selection, and their customer service is top-notch. They also have a <a title="Homemade greeting cards tutorial at redrivercatalog.com" href="http://www.redrivercatalog.com/cardshop/tuts1/index.htm" target="_blank">detailed tutorial</a> on how to go about printing them on their <a title="Homemade greeting card help center at redrivercatalog.com" href="http://www.redrivercatalog.com/cardshop/help/index.htm" target="_blank">help center page</a><strong>.</strong></p>
<p><a title="Homemade greeting cards stock at redrivercatalog.com" href="http://www.redrivercatalog.com/cardshop/scored/53premgloss.htm" target="_blank">Paper stock.</a><br />
I have used their <a title="Homemade greeting cards stock at redrivercatalog.com" href="http://www.redrivercatalog.com/cardshop/scored/53premgloss.htm" target="_blank">53lb Premium Gloss</a>.<strong> </strong>It comes pre-scored so all you have to do is print on it and  fold it on the score line, and you&#8217;re done. As of this post it was $25 for a box of 100, a real bargain. If you are pressed for time you could always run down to the office supply store and pick up a few packs of <a href="http://www.staples.com/Avery-Inkjet-Half-Fold-Greeting-Cards-White-Matte-5-1-2-x/product_895658?storeId=10001&amp;jspStoreDir=Staples&amp;cmSearchKeyword=greeting+cards+avery&amp;fromUrl=home&amp;langId=-1&amp;catalogId=10051&amp;cmArea=SEARCH&amp;ddkey=StaplesSearch" target="_blank">Avery® Inkjet Half-Fold Greeting Cards with envelopes</a><strong>. </strong>They are $12.49 fro a pack of 20, so they re not nearly as much of a deal, nor are they of the quality that redrivercatalog.com offers.</p>
<p><a title="Envelopes for homemade greeting cards at redrivercatalog.com" href="http://www.redrivercatalog.com/cardshop/envelopes/" target="_blank">Envelopes</a>.<br />
Redrivercatalog.com also carries a wide variety of <a title="Envelopes for homemade greeting cards at redrivercatalog.com" href="http://www.redrivercatalog.com/cardshop/envelopes/" target="_blank">envelopes</a>. Just make sure you are getting the right size for the card.</p>
<p><a title="Boxes for homemade greeting cards at redrivercatalog.com" href="http://www.redrivercatalog.com/cardshop/accessories.html" target="_blank">Boxes.</a><br />
To make this a more memorable gift, I&#8217;d very much recommend these <a title="Clear top boxes for homemade greeting cards at redrivercatalog.com" href="http://www.redrivercatalog.com/cardshop/boxes/" target="_blank">clear-top boxes</a> to place the greeting cards in. They really add a professional touch to the gift.</p>
<p>If you or are going to shoot some photos specifically for this gift, here are three very basic tips for better composition in your photos.</p>
<p><img class="alignright size-full wp-image-254" title="rule_of_thirds" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/rule_of_thirds.jpg" alt="rule_of_thirds" width="213" height="142" />1. The rule of thirds. If your composition were divided into nine equal parts, illustrated by the diagram, it is often most aesthetically pleasing to place your subject <strong>not</strong> in the center, but along one of the lines or their intersections.  Placing your subject in the center often creates a very static image. Moving your subject up, down, or to the side of center usually creates more energy and interest. Here is a site with the <a title="rule of thirds explained with examples" href="http://www.photo96.com/blog/?p=371" target="_blank">rule of thirds explained with examples</a><strong>. </strong>Horizon lines should not cross the center, but across the horizoantal lines in the illustration.</p>
<p>2. Fill the frame with your subject.</p>
<p>3. And along with tip 2, simplify the composition. Cut any extraneous elements out of the frame that really have no added impact to the final image.</p>
<script type="text/javascript" class="owbutton" src="http://onlywire.com/btn/button_45232" title="Homemade Gift Idea #95: Homemade Photographic Greeting Cards" url="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-95-homemade-photographic-greeting-cards/243/"></script><p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-95-homemade-photographic-greeting-cards/243/">Homemade Gift Idea #95: Homemade Photographic Greeting Cards</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>


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		<title>Homemade Gift Idea #96: Homemade Personalized Photo Calendars</title>
		<link>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-96-homemade-personalized-photo-calendars/220/</link>
		<comments>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-96-homemade-personalized-photo-calendars/220/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 06 Nov 2009 03:10:49 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>aniccaph</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[photo gifts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Calendar Template]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[homemade calendars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Gift Idea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Gift Ideas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[personalized calendars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Personalized Photo Calendars]]></category>

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</style>In response to a request made on the Facebook page, I decided to make this homemade gift ideas post. Personalized calendars make great homemade gift ideas because they are so easy to, well, personalize.Basically you take your own photos and print them on the back of dated calendar pages get them bound at Kinko&#8217;s (err&#8230; [...]<p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-96-homemade-personalized-photo-calendars/220/">Homemade Gift Idea #96: Homemade Personalized Photo Calendars</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>



Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/homemade-gifts-kids-can-help-with/homemade-gift-idea-90-sunprinting/367/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #90: Sunprinting'>Homemade Gift Idea #90: Sunprinting</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-95-homemade-photographic-greeting-cards/243/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #95: Homemade Photographic Greeting Cards'>Homemade Gift Idea #95: Homemade Photographic Greeting Cards</a></li>
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</style><p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-227" title="homemade_calendar_small" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/homemade_calendar_small2.jpg" alt="homemade gift calendar " width="175" height="248" /><br />
In response to a request made on the Facebook page, I decided to make this <strong>homemade gift ideas</strong> post. Personalized calendars make great homemade gift ideas because they are so easy to, well, personalize.Basically you take your own photos and print them on the back of dated calendar pages get them bound at Kinko&#8217;s (err&#8230; Fedx Kinko&#8217;s, FedEx Office, or whatever it is now) and you are done.</p>
<p>Now there are a few ways you could go about this. The easiest, but most expensive and less &#8220;homemade&#8221; way is to take 12 photos to Kinko&#8217;s, and have them do all of the work. You can also upload your photos to <a title="Homemade photo calendar maker at FedEx .com" href="http://businessprinting.van.fedex.com/wall-calendars/gallery.aspx?pg=42&amp;num_req_imgs=0&amp;arr_id=0&amp;rd=2" target="_blank">Kinko&#8217;s calendar site here</a>, and them pick them up at a later time. I worked at Kinko&#8217;s many years ago, and I remember doing tons of these every holiday season. They do a pretty good job, but it is a bit expensive, I think they start off at $19.99.</p>
<p>Another option is to use these <a title="Homemade Calendar kit form redrivercatalog.com" href="http://www.redrivercatalog.com/sbproject/inkjetcalendars.htm" target="_blank">homemade calendar kits from Red River Paper</a>. However, their kit includes a digital template on a cd that is openable only in Photoshop or Photoshop Elements. The people at Red River Paper are great though, and their quality is outstanding. I have ordered from them many times for homemade postcards and greeting cards that I have printed and given as gifts.</p>
<p>If you want to spend less money, and have the satisfaction of doing them yourself  then use the following process:</p>
<p>1. You&#8217;ll need to download calendar templates to print out. There are tons out there. Just Google &#8220;free 2010 calendar templates&#8221; and you&#8217;ll find a large variety. For this tutorial, you&#8217;ll need a template will fit on an 8 1/2 x 11 sheet of paper landscaped&#8230; meaning when the paper is turned so it is wide and not tall, like in the bottom half of the photo above. I personally like the templates here at <a title="Homemade calendar template at microsoft.com" href="http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/templates/TC103619841033.aspx?CategoryID=CT103589901033" target="_blank">calendar template site for Microsoft Word</a>. If you are using a Mac and you get the message that your operating system does not support it, ignore the message and download it anyway, because it does.</p>
<p>2. Print out your calendar pages.</p>
<p>3. Compile your photos on your computer. Horizontal photos work best, becasue the pages will be situated horizontally. You can use vertical photos, but there will be a lot of white space on the left and right when you finish.</p>
<p>4. Now here is the tricky part. You need to print your photos on the back sides of the calendar pages so that when flipped they appear right side up in relationship to the monthe below it, like in the above photo. Also, if you want a particular photo to go with a particular month, say a halloween costume photo to go with October, that photo needs to be printed on the back of September. If you haven&#8217;t done this before, it might take a few tries, so you will probably end up wasting the first couple of pages. It will make sense the more you do it.</p>
<p>5. For binding the calendar I would suggest just going to Kinko&#8217;s to have them coil bound it. It costs four or five dollars per bind, but they do a good job, it looks nice, and I think they still put a clear protective cover on the front and back for you. And unless you have a comb binder at home this might be the only option.</p>
<p>There are other ways to make homemade personalized calendars that don&#8217;t necessarily involve using photos, and are more &#8220;homemade&#8221;. I might do another post on other options another time.</p>
<p>Thanks goes to the Facebook fan that suggested this <a title="100 homemade gift ideas home page" href="http://100homemadegiftideas.com" target="_blank"><strong>homemade gift idea</strong></a>.</p>
<script type="text/javascript" class="owbutton" src="http://onlywire.com/btn/button_45232" title="Homemade Gift Idea #96: Homemade Personalized Photo Calendars" url="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-96-homemade-personalized-photo-calendars/220/"></script><p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-96-homemade-personalized-photo-calendars/220/">Homemade Gift Idea #96: Homemade Personalized Photo Calendars</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>


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</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<title>Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs</title>
		<link>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-97-bath-bombs/201/</link>
		<comments>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-97-bath-bombs/201/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 03 Nov 2009 23:32:06 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>aniccaph</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[bath products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Bath Bomb Kits]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bath bombs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[bath fizzies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[homemade bath bombs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[homemade bath fizzies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Gift Idea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Indulgences]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Therapeutic Experience]]></category>

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</style>Such an unfortunate but catchy name. Bath bombs or bath fizzies make a great homemade gift idea because they are one of those luxurious indulgences that people often do not buy for themselves, but love to receive as a gift. They&#8217;ll love them even more when they realize it&#8217;s a homemade gift. They would make [...]<p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-97-bath-bombs/201/">Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>



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<li><a href='http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-99-easy-melt-and-pour-soap-bars/53/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars'>Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars</a></li>
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</style><p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-205" title="Homemade bath bombs gift" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/homemade_gift_batch_bombs1.jpg" alt="Bath Bombs" width="175" height="117" />Such an unfortunate but catchy name. Bath bombs or bath fizzies make a great <strong>homemade gift idea</strong> because they are one of those luxurious indulgences that people often do not buy for themselves, but love to receive as a gift. They&#8217;ll love them even more when they realize it&#8217;s a <em>homemade</em> gift. They would make a great homemade gift basket accompaniment to <a title="Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Homemade Melt and Pour Soap blog entry" href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/?p=53" target="_blank">Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Homemade Melt and Pour Soap Bars</a>. You have probably seen them at bath boutiques, but basically bath bombs are balls of baking soda and citric acid that when dropped in water it dissolves, effervesces and releases the scents or other ingredients you put in them. Its kind of like bathing in bathtub full of Alka-Seltzer! It can be a soothing and therapeutic experience.</p>
<p>There are a couple of ways to make them. Here is the method I have used is based off a tutorial I found off of <a title="Homemade soap making tutorial at teachsoap.com" href="http://www.teachsoap.com/bombs.html" target="_blank">teachsoap.com:</a></p>
<p><strong>The ingredients:<br />
</strong><strong> </strong></p>
<p><a title="Citric Acid for homemade bath bombs at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Citric-Acid-P3753.aspx" target="_blank">Citric Acid</a><br />
A powder that you can find <a title="Citric Acid for homemade bath bombs at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Citric-Acid-P3753.aspx" target="_blank">here at Brambleberry.com</a>. You also might be able to find it at a local winemaking/brewing shop.</p>
<p><a href="http://">Baking Soda</a><br />
Should be easy enough to find, check in your cupboard or refrigerator..</p>
<p><a title="Witch Hazel for homemade bath bombs at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Witch-Hazel-P4212.aspx" target="_blank">Witch Hazel</a><br />
You can find this at <a title="Witch Hazel for homemade bath bombs at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Witch-Hazel-P4212.aspx" target="_blank">here at Brambleberry.com</a>. Otherwise you might find it at your local health food store or pharmacy..</p>
<p><a title="Essential Oils for homemade bath bombs at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Essential-Oils-C157.aspx" target="_blank">Fragrance or Essential Oil</a><br />
You can find this at, yep, you guessed it, <a title="Essential Oils for homemade bath bombs at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Essential-Oils-C157.aspx" target="_blank">Brambleberry.com</a>, or your local heath food store..</p>
<p><a title="Molds for homemade bath bombs at soapequipment.com" href="http://soapequipment.com/bathbomb/" target="_blank">Clear Spherical Molds</a><br />
I found quite the selection here at <a title="Molds for homemade bath bombs at soapequipment.com" href="http://soapequipment.com/bathbomb/" target="_blank">soapequipment.com</a>. I haven&#8217;t tried them, but I probably will. They have <a title="kit for homemade bath bombs at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com/Bath-Bomb-Kit-1-kit-P3287.aspx" target="_blank">molds and bath bomb kits at brambleberry.com</a> but no plain spherical ones which I prefer. I have also heard of people using ice cube trays..</p>
<p>I have tried colorants like food coloring, but think I would now prefer the simplicity of a white bath bomb. It&#8217;s just a matter of preference. If you do use food coloring make sure you only use a few drops per batch, otherwise it might stain someone&#8217;s tub.</p>
<p><strong>The process.</strong></p>
<p>It&#8217;s a bit tricky at first. You might have a bad batch or two in the beginning, or a few  bath bombs that fall apart, but don&#8217;t get discouraged. You&#8217;ll get the hang of it..</p>
<p>1. Thoroughly mix 1 cup of baking soda and 1/2 cup of the citric acid. Make sure it is mixed well and there are no lumps.<br />
2. Add your fragrance and color. Fragrances are your preference, but I enjoy essential oils like lavender or peppermint. If you are using food coloring, make sure to only use a few drops.<br />
3. Lightly spray on the witch hazel while mixing. You want to spray enough on so the mixture just starts to stick together. Too much and the mixture will start bubbling and reacting.<br />
4. Just after the mixture starts to stick together, press into the molds. Make sure you squeeze the mold halves together hard.<br />
5. Wiat a few minutes, then tap them out of the molds.<br />
6. Let sit a few hours or overnight, and then they&#8217;ll be ready for wrapping.<br />
<img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-206" title="Bath bomb" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/homemade_gift_batch_bomb-186x300.jpg" alt="homemade bath bomb gift" width="186" height="300" /><br />
I have also seen some recipes that include epsom salt in the dry mixture, and almond oil to help keep the ball together. Some recipes also include cornstarch. I personally would advise against it, as I have read that it might irritate a rash or make it worse. There are conflicting views on this, but I leave it out to be safe.</p>
<p>I used clear colored wrapping, (I cannot remember what it is called&#8230; cellophane?) and raffia ribbon for the presentation of the gift.</p>
<p>I hope you enjoy making them. Make sure you make more than you need so you can indulge in this <a title="100 homemade gift ideas home page" href="http://100homemadegiftideas.com" target="_blank"><strong>homemade gift</strong></a> yourself.</p>
<script type="text/javascript" class="owbutton" src="http://onlywire.com/btn/button_45232" title="Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs" url="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-97-bath-bombs/201/"></script><p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-97-bath-bombs/201/">Homemade Gift Idea #97: Homemade Bath Bombs</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>


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		<title>Homemade Gift Idea #98: Homemade Refrigerator Magnets</title>
		<link>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-98-homemade-refrigerator-magnets/163/</link>
		<comments>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-98-homemade-refrigerator-magnets/163/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 29 Oct 2009 03:13:37 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>aniccaph</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[photo gifts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Gift Idea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[homemade refrigerator magnets]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[refrigerator magnets]]></category>

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</style>Here is another pretty easy homemade gift idea. You can have a lot of fun doing this, and is easy for kids to participate in. Refrigerator magnets can be delightful for people to receive because you really can personalize it by using photos that are unique to each gift recipient. You can use photos of [...]<p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/photo-gifts/homemade-gift-idea-98-homemade-refrigerator-magnets/163/">Homemade Gift Idea #98: Homemade Refrigerator Magnets</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>



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</style><p><img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-168" title="3_homemade_magnets" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/3_homemade_magnets1.jpg" alt="3_homemade_magnets" width="175" height="175" /><br />
Here is another pretty easy <strong>homemade gift idea</strong>. You can have a lot of fun doing this, and is easy for kids to participate in. Refrigerator magnets can be delightful for people to receive because you really can personalize it by using photos that are unique to each gift recipient. You can use photos of their children, their favorite musician or actor. If the person is into birding, you can use images of different species of birds. If the gift recipient is into astronomy, you could use images of a galaxy. The important thing is to think about here is who is receiving the gift, and what are they interested in.</p>
<p><strong><br />
Materials</strong><br />
<strong><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-170" title="flat_glass_marbles" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/flat_glas_marbles-300x200.jpg" alt="flat_glass_marbles" width="152" height="100" /></strong><a title="Flat glass gems for homemade refrigerator magnets" href="http://www.wholesalersusainc.com/glass-gems-marbles-c-58.html" target="_blank">Flat glass gems</a> can be found at Michael&#8217;s, or your local craft shop. You can also find them at online retailers like <a title="Flat glass gems for homemade refrigerator magnets" href="http://www.wholesalersusainc.com/glass-gems-marbles-c-58.html" target="_blank">wholesalersusainc.com</a> They come in a wide range of sizes and colors. I would stick with the clear 1/2 inch to 1 inch varieties, as the magnets will support them better, and they have a more gem-like appearance at a smaller size.<br />
<img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-175" title="magnet_magnet" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/magnet_magnet.jpg" alt="magnet_magnet" width="150" height="147" /><br />
<strong>Magnets..</strong><br />
Avoid the thin sheet-like adhesive magnets as they will not support the weight of the glass well. I would recommend strong 3/16&#8243; non-adhesive <a title="Circle magnets for homemade refrigerator magnets" href="http://www.save-on-crafts.com/magnets2.html" target="_blank">thick circle magnets</a>. I found some at Michael&#8217;s,  and at <a title="Circle magnets for homemade refrigerator magnets" href="http://www.save-on-crafts.com/magnets2.html" target="_blank">save-on-crafts.com</a>. You also might want to try your local craft store or hardware store.</p>
<p><strong>Adhesive..</strong><br />
<img class="alignleft size-full wp-image-177" title="GrayJay_magnet" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/GrayJay_magnet.jpg" alt="GrayJay_magnet" width="150" height="149" /><br />
Any strong clear adhesive from your local craft store will do the job, but I have found that <a title="Where to buy Diamond Glaze Adhesive for refrigerator magnets" href="http://www.diamondglaze.com/buy/wheretobuy.html" target="_blank">Diamond Glaze Adhesive</a><strong> </strong>dries crystal clear and bonds very securely.</p>
<p><strong>Images&#8230;</strong><br />
The fun part is finding the images that will suit the gift recipients. You can clip them out from magazines, use some of your own photos, or download <a title="Free images for your refrigerator magnets at everystockphoto.com" href="http://www.everystockphoto.com/" target="_blank">free images</a> from a royalty free site like <a title="Free images for your refrigerator magnets at everystockphoto.com" href="http://www.everystockphoto.com/" target="_blank">everystockphoto.com</a>. You&#8217;ll want to get the part of the image down to a size so that it fits the diameter of the glass marble. There many ways to do this on the computer. If you have a program like Photoshop just go up to the Image menu, go to Image Size and just enter the size there. <img class="alignright size-full wp-image-176" title="hitchcock_magnet" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/hitchcock_magnet.jpg" alt="hitchcock_magnet" width="150" height="159" />If you are using Windows&#8217;s Paint, use the square selection tool to draw a box around your image and drag a corner point to resize the image to the desired dimensions. In the application Preview on a Mac, go to the Tools menu, select Adjust Size and enter the size there. I think there are ways to do this in other programs like Microsoft Word, as well as many other ways, or just cut the photos out of photos or magazines</p>
<p><strong>The process..</strong><br />
Putting it all together is quite easy.<br />
1. Cut out your photo to fit the diameter of the glass marble gem.<br />
2. Use the clear adhesive to glue the face of the photo to the flat side of the glass marble gem.<br />
3. Let dry&#8230; it shouldn&#8217;t take too long but refer to the instructions on the adhesive tube.<br />
4. Glue the magnet to the back of the photo.<br />
5. Let dry and your gifts are done!</p>
<p>I had a lot of fun making these <a title="100 homemade gift ideas home page" href="http://100homemadegiftideas.com" target="_blank"><strong>homemade gifts</strong></a>. It would be fun to get kids involved in this, because they probably would have a knack for find some fun and funny images and ideas to use.</p>
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		<title>Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars</title>
		<link>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-99-easy-melt-and-pour-soap-bars/53/</link>
		<comments>http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-99-easy-melt-and-pour-soap-bars/53/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 14 Oct 2009 20:59:39 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>aniccaph</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[bath products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Gifts For The Holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Great Gift Ideas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Homemade Gift Idea]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[homemade soap]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[melt and pour soapmaking]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[soapmaking]]></category>

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</style>Making homemade soap as gifts can be pretty easy and a lot of fun. Homemade soap bars are great gift ideas because you can also whip up pretty large and attractive batches of them in a day or two and satisfy your entire holiday gift list. I made these as gifts for the holidays a [...]<p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-99-easy-melt-and-pour-soap-bars/53/">Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>



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</style><p><img class="alignleft size-medium wp-image-54" title="homemade soap gifts ideas" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/soap_gifts-300x200.jpg" alt="homemade soap gifts ideas" width="175" height="116" /><br />
Making homemade soap as gifts can be pretty easy and a lot of fun. <em>Homemade</em> soap bars are great <strong>gift ideas</strong> because you can also whip up pretty large and attractive batches of them in a day or two and satisfy your entire holiday gift list. I made these as gifts for the holidays a few years back and some of the recipients were sincerely unsure whether I had bought these at a boutique or if I had actually made them.</p>
<p>The process to making these gifts is quite simple. Basically melt the soap base for a few minutes in the microwave, add the natural scents and exfoliants, pour them into molds and let them cool. That&#8217;s it! Creating unique names and gift labels<strong> </strong>can add to the creativity and presentation of these gift to make them even more memorable. Soapmaking purists probably use a more difficult process that requires the use of lye and therefore there is a safety issue, but I found that the melt and pour soap variety as gifts are just as elegant, much easier and safer, and creativity can be involved in every step of the process.</p>
<p>Here is a video tutorial on how to make homemade melt and pour soap from the people at brambleberry.com:<br />
<object classid="clsid:d27cdb6e-ae6d-11cf-96b8-444553540000" width="425" height="344" codebase="http://download.macromedia.com/pub/shockwave/cabs/flash/swflash.cab#version=6,0,40,0"><param name="align" value="center" /><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true" /><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always" /><param name="src" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/c5ouJZfluMY&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0" /><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" /><embed type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="425" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/v/c5ouJZfluMY&amp;hl=en&amp;fs=1&amp;rel=0" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" align="center"></embed></object></p>
<p><strong>Soap Base&#8230;</strong></p>
<p><strong> </strong>First of all I have found that <a title="brambleberry.com home page" href="http://www.brambleberry.com" target="_blank">Brambleberry.com</a><strong> </strong>can be pretty much your one-stop shop for all the supplies. This article is going to seem like an ad for them, but I have had a lot of success with their site and products. They specialize in everything that is soapmaking, from soap base and molds, to exfoliant and essential oil ingredients to even boxes and labels. You can get an olive oil soap base (as well as some of the ingredients) at Michael&#8217;s or other craft store if you can&#8217;t wait for the shipping, but Brambleberry.com has so many interesting and quality choices of <a title="soap bases at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Bases-Melt-Pour-C151.aspx" target="_blank">soap bases</a> that it would be a shame not to use them. I have used their <a title="Aloe Vera" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Aloe-Vera-Melt-And-Pour-P3185.aspx" target="_blank">Aloe Vera</a> base, their creamy and dreamy <a title="goats milk soap base at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Goats-Milk-Melt-And-Pour-P3184.aspx" target="_blank">goats milk</a> base, <a title="shea butter soap base at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Shea-Butter-Melt-Pour-P3192.aspx" target="_blank">shea butter</a>, <a title="organic clear soap base at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Organic-Melt-Pour-Base-2-lbs-unwrapped-P4382.aspx" target="_blank">organic clear</a>, a <a title="honey soap base at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Honey-Melt-And-Pour-P3186.aspx" target="_blank">honey</a> base and they even have <a title="shaving base at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Shaving-Melt-And-Pour-Base-P4384.aspx" target="_blank">shaving base,</a> that would make a homemade gift idea that is more accessible for guys.</p>
<p><strong>Ingredients&#8230;.</strong><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-62" title="homemade soap ingredients" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/soap_gifts_ingredients1-300x226.jpg" alt="homemade soap ingredients" width="300" height="226" /></p>
<p>As soon as your base is melted, you can add your ingredients. Now there are far too many options to mention here but I will mention a few. As far has scents, Brambleberry carries an enormous variety of <a title="essential oils at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Essential-Oils-C157.aspx" target="_blank">essential oils</a> and other types of scents. Again, you can get a few of these at Michael&#8217;s, or better yet your local health food store, Whole Foods or grocery co-op. They tend to be a bit pricey depending on the scent, that is why Brambleberry carries cheaper options like <a title="extracts at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Extracts-C28.aspx" target="_blank">extracts</a> and <a title="fragrance oils at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Fragrance-Oils-C161.aspx" target="_blank">fragrance oils</a>. Essential oils, though expensive, have a stronger, purer scent than any of the other types of scents so if you are making large batches I would recommend  getting a few. The ones I&#8217;d recommend as essential oils are a nice soothing lavender<strong>, </strong>a citrus oil like bergamot<strong> </strong>which is a great uplifting &#8220;wake-up&#8221; scent, and maybe a rosemary, eucalyptus, or peppermint<strong>. </strong> You can also get a <a title="sampler kit of essential oils from brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Essential-Oils-Sampler-Kit-1-sampler-kit-P4399.aspx" target="_blank">sampler kit</a> from Brambleberry. They also carry a wide variety of <a title="exfoliants at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Exfoliants-C158.aspx" target="_blank">exfoliants</a>. My personal favorites are their <a title="shredded loofah at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Shredded-Loofah-P3252.aspx" target="_blank">shredded loofah</a><strong> </strong>and <a title="pumice at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Pumice-P4067.aspx" target="_blank">pumice</a>. You can also be creative and use oatmeal, which a lot of people combine with honey, bamboo extract<strong>,</strong> which is a light exfoliant, and walnut seeds<strong> </strong>or even cornstarch<strong>. </strong>You can also look in your kitchen for ingredients like cinnamon and coffee grounds. You can find soap recipes to start out with at <a title="homemade soapmaking recipes at teachsoap.com" href="http://www.teachsoap.com/recipes.html" target="_blank">teachsoap.com</a>. They also have a <a title="detailed tutorial on making homemade soap at teachsoap.com" href="http://www.teachsoap.com/mp.html" target="_blank">detailed tutorial</a> on melt and pour soap making. You can use dyes and colorants, but I have found that once you add the other ingredients, the bars take on an already attractive, and  natural looking character.</p>
<p>A few tips on scenting&#8230; The scents listed here are pretty universally enjoyed by men and women alike. I would keep the scents on the subtle side, and stay away from the more floral scents unless of course you know that the person receiving the gift will enjoy it. Also when your experimenting with scent combinations you smelling sense will often soon become overloaded, making it difficult to sample each smell. A tip that a local soapmaker once told me is to keep coffee grounds nearby, and smell them to sort of cleanse your olfactory palate between batches. Coffee grounds, by the way, are a great ingredient to include in a kitchen soap as it tends to remove or at least disguise strong smells. This is great for when you have chopped a lot of onions.</p>
<p><strong>Molds&#8230;.</strong></p>
<p>Brambleberry carries carries a wide variety of <a title="soap molds at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Molds-C184.aspx" target="_blank">soap molds</a>. You might also find molds at your local craft store or Michael&#8217;s. I personally use just a standard rectangular soap mold I got from Michael&#8217;s. Again, I think that the soap ingredients make the bars attractive enough, and any unusual shapes might just make them look chaotic and busy.</p>
<p><strong>Presentation&#8230;</strong><img class="alignright size-medium wp-image-64" title="homemade soap gifts" src="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/homemade_soap_gifts_batch-300x200.jpg" alt="homemade soap gifts" width="300" height="200" /></p>
<p>Yes, <a title="brambleberry.com home page" href="http://brambleberry.com" target="_blank">Brambleberry</a> also carries gift boxes for homemade soap<strong>. </strong>If you use these <a title="sliding gift boxes for homemade soap at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Soap-Box-Sleeve-And-Tray-P4140.aspx" target="_blank">sliding gift boxes</a><strong>,</strong> make sure your soap molds are rectangular and small enough to fit. They also carry these natural-looking <a title="gift bags for homemade soap at brambleberry.com" href="http://www.brambleberry.com:80/Small-Jute-Bag-P4529.aspx" target="_blank">gift bags</a> for homemade soap. These gift boxes are excellent for applying your own personalized <a title="avery full sheet gift labels at staples.com" href="http://www.staples.com/Avery-8165-White-Inkjet-Full-Sheet-Shipping-Labels-with-TrueBlock-8-1/product_765370?cmArea=SEARCH" target="_blank">gift labels</a> that you can make from Avery&#8217;s full sheet labels that you can get from any office supply store. It was fun for me to come up with an overall design and unique names like &#8220;lavender dreamtime&#8221; or &#8220;sunny citrus&#8221;.  If you don&#8217;t want to do all that, wrap them in some raffia ribbon<strong> </strong>from your local craft shop, and tie a little gift label to it.</p>
<p>I had fun making these as <a title="100 homemade gift ideas home page" href="http://100homemadegiftideas.com" target="_blank"><strong>homemade gifts</strong></a>. Everyone I gave these to were very impressed.</p>
<script type="text/javascript" class="owbutton" src="http://onlywire.com/btn/button_45232" title="Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars" url="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-99-easy-melt-and-pour-soap-bars/53/"></script><p><a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com/bath-products/homemade-gift-idea-99-easy-melt-and-pour-soap-bars/53/">Homemade Gift Idea #99: Easy Melt and Pour Soap Bars</a> is a post from: <a href="http://www.100homemadegiftideas.com">100 homemade gift ideas</a></p>


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