Meet Tatty Gnome

I love terrariums! This year I wanted to turn my terrarium into a project that my son and I could both enjoy. By adding a few miniatures (available at your local craft store), your terrarium can transform into a magical fantasyland. It's so much fun to assemble and can be a constant source of entertainment when mini items are added or swapped out!

Here's how to turn an ordinary terrarium into a magical gnome home:


Items needed:
Terrarium ( see Building a Miniature Ecosystem)
Moss- for a grass look
Miniatures (gnome, birds, fences, mushrooms..etc)
Small birdhouse
River rocks
Bark
Sticks
Hot glue gun

1) Cut bark and sticks to use as shingles and trim for the birdhouse.
2) Paint birdhouse brown or green for a natural look- or bright colors for a more eclectic look.
3) Add bark shingles and stick trim using a hot glue gun.
4) Assemble gnome and house within the terrarium.
5) Set scene using additional miniatures (vegetable garden, tea party etc.)
6) Mist or water regularly as directed for the terrarium plants.
7) Swap out scene periodically for additional fun!

The way to a girl's heart.......samples!

It's no secret that I LOVE SOAP. When I buy soap I have a routine:

1) close eyes... feel, smell, feel, smell
2) open eyes ...feel, smell, feel, smell

I'm sure you're thinking....weirdo! Think of picking out soap as a wine tasting. While descriptions and recommendations are helpful, they don't always hit the nail on the head. Soap smells and feels different to each individual user. Since it plays an intimate roll in our lives, let's get to know it a little better first! This can be hard when buying online. Until your PC can provide smellinet, try one of these sample packs now offered at PeaPod Crafts!

• Classy Clean Collection: ($12) - 12 mini sized soaps (approx. 1oz each)
• Sudsy Sampler Pack: ($6) - 6 mini sized soaps (approx. 1oz each)
• Bubbly Box Set: ($20) - 4 full sized soaps (approx. 4oz each) plus 4 mini sized soaps (**shipping on BBS is a flat rate of $4.95)

Visit http://www.peapodcrafts.etsy.com/ (or see side panel) to order.