FO Handmade Style Bench

Anna's Handmade Style book has become one of my favorites, and this bench has been on my list since I got the book.

I collected the materials early last year, and then I kept putting off the actual making. The actual making time took just a few hours, so I'm not sure why I waited!

Especially because the cats have been using it nonstop since I finished.

Elliott helped me sand and apply the foam, and we both agreed we can do even better on the next upholstery project. Taking the time to cut the foam level on the sides is worth it!

I used a variety of Ellen Luckett-Baker Garden prints, which are cotton-linen blend (and have also been interfaced). I have had them for years, and am glad they will be enjoyed in bench form (bonus: gray cat hair blends nicely).

Oh, wow. After checking etsy to share the source for the legs, I bought them in September of 2015. I bought the legs from this shop, and the quality is excellent.

As usual, Anna's instructions are clear and concise.

The bench lives in my sewing room, in front of the window (a perfect cat nap spot).

A simple handmade gift

I was just joking with E last night about my never-ending to-do list. Like most crafters, I want to make ALL of the things.

My brain knows that I never will, but the heart wants what it wants.

With Christmas just two weeks away, the to-do list is especially long. But I finally made a batch of gifts that I know will be repeated next year.

I made three quick scrubs today, resulting in twelve small gifts.

I bought a twelve-pack of 4-ounce Ball jars, printed some free labels, and spent a little over an hour in the kitchen. Not bad!

Here's a basic recipe that you can modify, based on your preferences.

1 cup sea salt, brown sugar or white sugar
3 T coconut or grapeseed oil
6-10 drops essential oil

That's it! I used lavender (and some chopped rosemary) with sea salt, cinnamon with brown sugar (but I think I'll try orange next time) and peppermint with white sugar.

I really appreciate anything handmade, and I can't wait to try these scrubs for myself. And of course, I can't wait to give them!