Handmade Holidays

[DrBuddha]

I recommend not using vodka but Everclear, unless you like a vodka-y taste. Everclear lets the lemons come out more. But, yes, it is still pretty intensely alcoholic. I like to take shots (the most delicious shots ever) or mix it with any citrus drink or cola.

I couldn't find the old thread, but here is the recipe I have used since last year (and I have it started for this year, I'm so excited!)
750 ml Everclear
10-15 large lemons (either get organic or wash them really well, we are using the rinds!)
1.5 liters water
2.5 lbs sugar
a microplane zester (i put this in the recipe because it makes your life easier and happier. They are like $10.)
3-5 jars/bottles

Zest or peel the yellow part of the rind, not the white pith underneath. That would make your liquor bitter. Combine with Everclear and leave undisturbed for at least 10 days, up to three weeks. Strain. Combine water and sugar, simmer about 15 minutes to make a syrup. Cool, then combine with the now-lemon-y alcohol. Bottle.

So easy!
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The more things change...

[ginger]

Mmm, limoncello. I wasn't planning on making any, but I'm looking out the window at this lemon tree covered in fruit... and thinking, well, maybe I should!

My current crafting plans:
* scarf for Grandpa - 95% done (I just need to check the length on my Dad to make sure before I bind off. I have been waiting on this step for... 6 weeks.)
* scarf for my almost-sister - 85% done (saving to work on over Thanksgiving in front of the rest of my family... since it's the only non-relative craft I have going)
* scarf for my mother - 15% done

Embroidery projects - I have all the materials but haven't started:
* grocery bag for my sister
* dishcloth for my grandmother

* cookies for friends

I am crafting more things for Xmas than I ever have, and I started on time... but I am a little worried about finishing up, given my Many Papers due and the drama that's going on.
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The secret ingredient is 'whimsy'.
http://jessajune.blogspot.com/

[IrmaVep]

[Lilly-Lu]

I thought I would do a little update to say how my projects were coming along. I am about halfway finsihed my sister's scarf...it's a lace scarf and really long, so it is taking a bit of time.

I have decided to do a crayon roll for my niece (from a pattern linked to the Sew Mama blog)...still haven't picked out the fabric; however, I think it will be a combo of recycled fabrics and one fancy new fabric from my local quilt shop (they have gumdrop material!). The roll holds sixteen crayons...

I have also decided to do placemats using another pattern linked to the Sew Mama blog...I just bought the fabric today...it's just really gorgeous....dark brown and aqua in three different patterns. I will probably wash the fabric and cut it out this weekend.

I bought a big skein of Fleece Artist for a scarf for my mother; however, she is a knitter and I kinda think she'd love to knit with the yarn herself. So, I guess it's not technically handmade...

It is so neat reading everyone's ideas and progress...definitely getting a lot of ideas!

[IrmaVep]

[Lilly-Lu]

[sobriquet]

[givemeclever]

Two shots of the Ev and you are out for the count
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how could it hurt you, if it looks so good?

[IrmaVep]

[midnightsky1686]

I've been making clove covered oranges (well, tangerines and satsumas, small ones preferably) for holiday decorations and the yummy smell they give around the house, but I haven't really been crafting otherwise yet for family or friends, and probably won't, with the exception of for my mom.
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Midnightsky Fibers- great knitting patterns!
knitting blog

[Lilly-Lu]

IrmaVep - Your pattern is really nice...a comparison would be neat. I love that tutorial roundup...such a good idea, often I want to make something handmade but can't think of anything appropriate. My sis just got a new apartment and is settliing in so I think it is a good idea.

The fabric was, like, twenty dollars less than what I thought it would be (12 dollars at a quilt shop). If my sewing goes good, I may make a set for my sis in law and brother

Midnightsky1686 - the pics of your project look cool...I may take a page from your book and do some myself!

[meexie]

There's an editorial posted on Whip Up that begins with "The angst that is involved in gift giving in the holiday season is not diminished by taking the handmade option." Thoughtful piece, quite relevant to this thread.
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"I hate that they're giving tea a bad name. Tea is a peaceful, gentle drink." - Teahugger

[DrBuddha]