Nightmare

Author unknown

Pin Cushions
Dried lavender flowers were once used in pin cushions because the oil in
the flowers prevented needles and pins from rusting. The simplest way to
make a pin cushion is to take two round pieces of felt, about the size
of a roll of masking tape, and sew the edges together, leaving an
opening. Overstuff with lavender flowers and filler. Sew shut.


Lavender Sticks
The dried stems of lavender may be used as incense. Bind dried sticks
together with a fresh lavender stem and allow it to further dry. Light
one end and place in a fire proof dish. Lavender sticks were once burned
in the homes of sick people, believing that the lavender fumes would
disinfect the air. The stems were also tossed into fires to scent the
home. Dried lavender stems may also be placed between stored bedsheets
and towels to keep them smelling fresh.


Lavender Gift Card
On a sturdy table, place fresh lavender on sheet of blotting paper.
Cover with another sheet of paper and place a couple of heavy books on
top. After several weeks, the lavender will be flat and dry. Buy precut
cards or postcards at any craftstore or make your own. Glue the lavender
and ribbon, if you choose, on to the cards. Cover with wax paper and set
a couple of books on top. Let sit for a day. Uncover and use spray mount
to keep everything in place.


Potpourri
To make lavender potpourri you will need a fixative to absorb the scent
of the lavender and to make it last longer. Powdered orris root is a
fixative but many people are allergic to it so please make certain you
and your loved ones have no problems with it before using. Mix one
tablespoon powdered orris root with one cup of dried flowers ( you may
also add some dried lavender leaves which are almost as fragrant as the
flowers) and blend with your hands. Seal the mixture in a jar and place
it in a warm, dark, dry place to cure for six weeks.
. Just crush it now and again to release more scent.


Lavender Sachets
Cut cotton fabric eight inches long and three inches wide. Fold length
in half, wrong sides facing out. Sew both long sides, 1/4 seams, leaving
top open. Turn right side out. Fold top edges in one inch and iron in
a crease. Fill bag a little over half with lavender potpourri. Gather
top and tie with ribbon. If the lavender scent ever seems to fade, give
the sachet a little squeeze and the lavender will release more scent.


Hanging Bags
Cut a square piece of cheesecloth, any size you want, and fill the
center with lavender potpourri. Gather up edges and tie with ribbon.
These can be used to hang in closets or cars. You can also sew
drawstring pouches to fill with muslin lavender pillows. These are
easier to hang in closets, on hangers


Herb Pillows
Herb pillows can be made into any size and have numerous uses. Always
use cotton fabric and it is wise to make an inner case to fill with the
lavender potpourri and then use a pretty floral, solid, or calico fabric
for the cover. This will prevent the lavender from leaking out. Make
different sizes for putting under sofa cushions, chair cushions, in
linen closets, at the head of the mattress between the mattress and the
fitted sheet, etc..


Drawer Liners
Sew together two tightly woven fabrics, nine by eleven inches, leaving
an opening. Fill lightly with lavender potpourri so that when the liner
is flat, the lavender covers the inside surface. You do not want your
liner to bulk like a pillow. Sew opening shut and make a cover.


Pillows and Soft Toys
Stuff pillows and soft toys with a little bit of lavender potpourri to
scent them.