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  • Personalized Crafting: How to Add your Essence into your Crafts

    Personalized Crafting: How to Add your Essence into your Crafts

    Crafts are a great way to express your personality. Make them for yourself, or give them away as gifts to show people what you like and what you’re interested in.

    personalized crafting mortar

    If you’ve been struggling with finding time to make crafts, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to infuse your personality into your crafts without taking up all your free time. Here’s a few ideas:

    Personalized crafting prompts you to use things that remind you of yourself: If you love collecting stamps from different countries and want to use those stamps on your cards, go for it! It’s a unique way to add some flair.

    Find inspiration in everyday life: Look around at the things that surround you every day—the food on the table, the clothes in your closet—and see if there’s anything there that could inspire a craft project.

    Think outside the box: Don’t be afraid to experiment with new materials or methods of crafting! You never know what might come out of it! You can find lots of great ideas for crafts on Pinterest. There are also websites that offer free printable cards, so you can make sure your message gets across in style!

    personalized crafts sunshine

    Use what you already have: If you’re not sure where to start, think about all of the materials that are already in your home. You might be surprised by how many items can be repurposed into a craft project! Look online for inspiration: There are so many cool ideas out there, and it’s easy to find them online. Search for terms like “cute DIY cards,” “creative handmade gifts” or “cheap handmade Christmas presents.” You’ll find a wealth of ideas that will help you get started.

    Look for inspiration at thrift stores: Thrift stores are great places to find materials, and they’re also good places to look for inspiration. You never know what kinds of interesting things you might find! Keep an eye out for interesting items that you can re-purpose for a craft project. You’ll be surprised at how many things have multiple uses in personalized crafting!

    -Be creative! There’s no right or wrong way to do a craft project, so feel free to experiment. You can try different materials and techniques until you find what works best for you.

    personalized crafts boxes

    -Don’t worry about making things perfect: It’s easy to get caught up in making sure that everything is just right, but that’s not always necessary. If your handmade gift looks homemade and imperfect, it can actually be better than something that looks store-bought!

    -Have fun! Personalized crafting is meant to be a relaxing activity, so don’t stress out if something doesn’t turn out the way you planned. Instead, just enjoy yourself and try again next time.

    If you have a moment to spare please go check out my socials @atcraftycottage on Instagram and Facebook. (Poshmark and eBay have the same name)

  • Crafty Kitchen: 5 Spinach Recipes for the Creative Home Cook

    Crafty Kitchen: 5 Spinach Recipes for the Creative Home Cook

    Spinach Recipes

    Crafty Kitchen: 5 Spinach Recipes for the Creative Home Cook

    Spinach is a versatile and nutritious leafy green that can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and smoothies to soups and stews. It’s packed with vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, and vitamin K, making it an excellent choice for maintaining good health. In this blog post, we’ll explore some delicious and easy spinach recipes that are sure to please everyone, whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for a healthy and tasty addition to your meals. Get ready to add more green to your diet with these spinach-filled dishes!

    spinach recipes hands

    5 Spinach Recipes for the Creative Home Cook

    Spinach and Mushroom Frittata recipe:

    Ingredients:

    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • 1/2 onion, chopped
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 8 ounces sliced mushrooms
    • 4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
    • 8 large eggs
    • 1/2 cup milk
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1/4 cup shredded Parmesan cheese
    spinach recipes mushrooms

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
    2. In a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic and cook until the onion is soft and translucent.
    3. Now add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 5-7 minutes or until they are browned and tender.
    4. Then add the fresh baby spinach leaves to the skillet and cook until they are wilted.
    5. In a separate bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, salt, and pepper.
    6. Pour the egg mixture into the skillet, making sure to evenly distribute the ingredients.
    7. Cook the frittata on the stove for 3-4 minutes or until the edges are set.
    8. Sprinkle the shredded Parmesan cheese over the top of the frittata.
    9. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 10-12 minutes or until the frittata is golden brown on top and fully cooked in the center.
    10. Once the frittata is done, remove it from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.

    Spinach and Feta Stuffed Chicken Breast:

    Ingredients:

    • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
    • 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
    • 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 1/4 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
    • Salt and pepper to taste
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • Toothpicks
    spinach recipes chicken

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat the oven to 375°F.
    2. In a medium bowl, mix the chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, minced garlic, and chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
    3. Using a sharp knife, carefully cut a pocket into the thickest part of each chicken breast.
    4. Stuff each chicken breast with the spinach and feta mixture, using toothpicks to hold the pockets closed.
    5. Season the stuffed chicken breasts with salt and pepper.
    6. In a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, heat the olive oil. Add the stuffed chicken breasts to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side or until browned.
    7. Once browned, transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is fully cooked.
    8. Remove the toothpicks from the chicken breasts and serve hot.

    Spinach and Potato Curry

    spinach recipes curry

    Ingredients:

    • 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
    • 1 onion, chopped
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 2 teaspoons ginger, minced
    • 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
    • 1 teaspoon coriander powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
    • 1/4 teaspoon red chili powder (optional)
    • 1/2 teaspoon garam masala
    • Salt, to taste
    • 2-3 tablespoons oil
    • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and chopped
    • 1/4 cup water
    • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
    • Chopped cilantro, for garnish

    Instructions:

    1. Heat oil in a large pan or wok over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them splutter for a few seconds.
    2. Now add the chopped onion and sauté until it turns translucent.
    3. Add minced garlic and ginger, and sauté for another minute.
    4. Then the coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder (if using), garam masala, and salt. Stir well.
    5. Then the cubed potatoes and mix everything. Add 1/4 cup of water and cover the pan with a lid. Cook for 10-12 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
    6. Add chopped spinach leaves and mix well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until spinach is wilted.
    7. Add lemon juice and give it a final stir.
    8. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with rice or naan bread

    More spinach recipes…

    Spinach and Beef Stuffed Potatoes

    spinach recipes potatoes

    Ingredients:

    • 4-5 medium-sized potatoes, scrubbed clean
    • 1 pound ground beef
    • 1 onion, chopped
    • 2 garlic cloves, minced
    • 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, washed and chopped
    • 1/2 teaspoon cumin powder
    • 1/2 teaspoon paprika
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • Shredded cheddar cheese, for topping (optional)

    Instructions:

    1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    2. Pierce each potato several times with a fork and place them on a baking sheet. Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until they are tender and can be easily pierced with a fork.
    3. While the potatoes are baking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
    4. Add the chopped onion and sauté for a few minutes until it becomes translucent.
    5. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.
    6. Add ground beef and cook until it is no longer pink. Drain any excess fat.
    7. Add chopped spinach, cumin powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the spinach is wilted.
    8. Once the potatoes are cooked, remove them from the oven and let them cool for a few minutes.
    9. Cut off the top third of each potato and scoop out the insides using a spoon. Leave about 1/4 inch of potato around the skin.
    10. Mash the potato flesh and add it to the skillet with the beef and spinach mixture. Stir well to combine.
    11. Stuff the potato skins with the beef and spinach mixture, and top each potato with shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
    12. Place the stuffed potatoes back on the baking sheet and return them to the oven. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

    Spinach, Potato, and Pork Stir Fry

    Ingredients:

    • 1 lb pork loin, cut into thin slices
    • 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
    • 2 cups spinach leaves
    • 1 small onion, chopped
    • 2 cloves garlic, minced
    • 2 tbsp soy sauce
    • 2 tbsp oyster sauce
    • 1 tbsp cornstarch
    • 1 tbsp vegetable oil
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    spinach recipes potatoes 2

    Instructions:

    1. In a small bowl, mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and cornstarch. Set aside.
    2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add pork slices and cook until browned, stirring occasionally. Remove pork from the skillet and set aside.
    3. In the same skillet, add onions and garlic. Cook until onions are translucent.
    4. Add diced potatoes to the skillet and cook until they are tender and browned, stirring occasionally.
    5. Add the cooked pork slices back into the skillet and pour the soy sauce mixture over everything. Stir well to combine and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
    6. Add spinach leaves to the skillet and stir until they are wilted.
    7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
    8. Serve hot over rice or noodles. Enjoy!
    spinach recipes leaf

    In conclusion, as I said at the start of this post, spinach is a versatile and nutrient-packed ingredient that can be used in a wide variety of recipes. Whether you’re looking for a healthy breakfast, a delicious lunch, or a satisfying dinner, these five spinach recipes are sure to please even the most discerning of palates. So why not get creative in the kitchen and try out one (or all) of these delicious recipes today? With a little bit of creativity and a few simple ingredients, you can transform spinach into a culinary masterpiece that your whole family will love. Happy cooking these delicious spinach recipes!

    I hope you enjoy these recipes! Let me know if you have any questions or suggestions for more delicious spinach recipes.

    Spinach recipes

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  • The Ultimate Guide to Repurposed & Upcycled Decor Ideas for Creative Crafters

    The Ultimate Guide to Repurposed & Upcycled Decor Ideas for Creative Crafters

    The Value of Repurposed & Upcycled Decor Ideas

    UPCYCLING IS THE PROCESS OF RE-USING SOMETHING THAT WAS ONCE CONSIDERED TO BE USED UP OR TRASH

    The process of upcycling can be used for both functional and decorative items. It is a way to save money by not buying new things and it is also a way to reduce waste by recycling.

    Repurposing is the act of taking an object that has outlived its original purpose and giving it a new use, often in an imaginative or resourceful way.

    3 Reasons Why Repurposed & Upcycled Decor is Important for the Environment

    It is important to understand the three reasons why upcycling is important for the environment. Keeps items out of landfills and reduces the need for new materials. It also helps to reduce environmental pollution by reducing the consumption of resources like water, energy, and air. Finally, helps us to create something new and useful out of something old and useless.

    Repurposed & Upcycled Decor for Creative Crafters

    Repurposed & Upcycled Decor Ideas

    1. Upcycling reduces waste in landfills:

    2. Upcycling reduces environmental pollution:

    3. Upcycling creates something new and useful:

    Repurposed & Upcycled Decor Ideas That You Can Make Yourself

    Save money and upcycle your old furniture or other materials to create interesting pieces of decor. There are many DIY ideas that you can try out.

    In this article, we will provide you with some of the best home decor ideas that you can make yourself. These are not expensive, but they look great and are very creative.

    DIY Projects to Inspire Your Upcycling Dreams

    Repurpose reuse and upcycle old things:

    DIY projects are a good way to save money and get creative with your space. This article will give you some inspiration for upcycling your home into something beautiful.

    painting an old dresser 
crafty creations 
Repurposed & Upcycled Decor Ideas

    -Create a chalkboard out of an old window with some chalkboard paint.

    -Turn an old cabinet into a coffee station with just some paint and hardware.

    Great ways to repurpose reuse and upcycle old things around your house or neighborhood.

    Different Ways You Can Start Upcycling your Home Decor Today

    We all know that the best decorations are those that are made with love. So, here are some ideas for you to create your own decorations for your home.

    1) Create a beautiful garland using paper clips and colorful ribbons.

    2) Make a pretty flower arrangement using flowers and leaves from outside.

    3) Use egg cartons to make crafts with the kids.

    Embrace your Creative designer side with these repurposed & up-cycled Decor Ideas

    Repurposed & Upcycled Decor Ideas

    The following are a few tips for those of you who are trying to turn your home into a creative haven.

    1. Use your personal style to create an eclectic and inviting space.

    2. Use colors that make you happy and that inspire you.

    3. Mix textures, patterns, and styles in order to create a unique look that is all yours.

    4. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors, textures, and patterns – the more you learn about design, the more confident you’ll feel about creating your own style!

    Repurposed & Upcycled Decor Ideas

    Repurposed & Upcycled Decor Ideas for DIY Home Décor that Don’t Cost a Dime

    DIY home decor projects are a great way to save money and make your home feel more personalized. With these ideas, you can make your house look like new without spending a dime.

    -Create a table runner or napkins with fabric scraps or old t-shirts.

    -Decorate your walls with paper snowflakes, postcards, or maps.

    -Hang string lights in the window for a festive mood.

    -Create cute little villages from used orange juice/milk cartons

    Repurposed & Upcycled Decor Ideas

    In conclusion, upcycling and recycling for crafters can have a significant positive impact on the environment by reducing waste and conserving resources. By giving old or unwanted items a new life, crafters can create unique and sustainable creations while also saving money. Upcycling and recycling also offer an opportunity for creative expression and can foster a sense of pride in one’s ability to make something beautiful and useful out of materials that might otherwise be discarded. So whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, consider incorporating upcycling and recycling into your creative process and do your part to make the world a better place.

    I hope you found some inspiration for your DIY journey.

  • Discover the Magic of Crafting here At Crafty Cottage

    About At Crafty Cottage:

    “At Crafty Cottage is a blog dedicated to helping crafty stay-at-home moms enhance their homemaking, crafting, and homeschooling journey through DIY project ideas, homeschooling resources, creative inspiration, and homeschooling suggestions delivered with a personal touch.”

    Hello, my name is Kristen. I am a stay-at-home mom who is passionate about my family, my hobbies, and my dreams. My daughter, is the light of my life, and I’ve made the choice to homeschool her to ensure she receives a customized education that aligns with our family values.

    At Crafty Cottage

    As a hopeful small business owner, I’m always on the lookout for new opportunities to turn my interests into a profitable venture. I’ve found success in the world of online resale, using platforms like eBay and Poshmark to sell carefully curated items.

    Crafting is another passion of mine, and I enjoy spending my free time creating beautiful items with my hands. I’m always looking for new techniques and materials to experiment with, and my creativity and attention to detail are evident in every project I undertake.

    Here on this blog I share my experiences and insights on motherhood, homeschooling, entrepreneurship, and creativity with my readers. Writing is a therapeutic outlet for me, and I love being able to connect with others who share similar interests and experiences.

    Overall, I’m proud of the life I’ve built for myself and my family. I’m committed to following my passions and turning my dreams into a reality. I hope to inspire others to do the same and live a life filled with purpose and fulfillment.