Get Cozy & Get Crafty

Caroline Sandkamp

This winter season, stay cozy and creative with these fun do it yourself activities that you can create by yourself or with friends.

There’s nothing better than a nice hot chocolate, tea, or coffee when the weather outside is below freezing temperatures. Spice up your mug game by creating your own! Grab a plain mug from a thrift or craft store and paint away. Make your mugs festive or do your own style, either way your new mugs will be a great addition to your collection. Growing up, my mom would make ice lanterns every winter. The lanterns were so simple and fun to make because you can really put your own twist on it. To make the lanterns, fill one large bucket with water and add berries, tree sprigs, or food coloring to design the lanterns however you’d like. Then, place a small bucket, also filled with water, inside the large bucket to create a mold for your candles. Place it outside to freeze overnight, and in the morning pull the small bucket out of the mold to reveal your new ice lanterns! Place candles in them and set them outside for some festive winter ambiance. My winter season would not be complete without plenty of candles burning at all times. My favorite candles are the ones I have made myself! To make your own candle, melt wax on the stove and add in any scents you like. I really enjoy tree scents in the winter. Next pour your wax into a container with a wick inside. I like to reuse containers from candles that were previously burned through. Use sticks to hold your wick up straight while the candle cools. Once the candle has completely cooled down, trim the wick to the desired height. If you are giving the candle as a gift, you could even decorate the jar or put a heartfelt message on the lid!