Thinking Valentine's Day #1

⎨Thinking Valentine's Day #1⎬

⎨This post, now updated, was published for the first time on this blog in January 2012⎬

Valentine's Day is just around the corner, so I decided to post a few quick mini craft projects and creative ideas I hope you'll like!

When it's mid January, I start itching for Spring, and love having forced bulbs and primroses potted all around my home. The other day my Mom gave me two hyacinths, I removed them from their ugly plastic containers and arranged them in upcycled jam jars. I added a few creative touches, like a "love" label and wooden hearts... aren't they cute?

Found this old gardening book last week at the antique market, and had to bring it home with me. Every keen gardener needs a very vintage gardening book, right?:)

I thought you may want to make these too, to treat yourself or to give. You can make them with your kids too, they'll love them!

Materials needed:

- forced bulbs

- jam jars (I used Bonne Maman because they have a wide opening that allows the bulb to be inserted without any damage)

- jute ribbon

- bakers twine (or ribbon, any kind)

- hearts (any type)

- lollipop sticks

- hot glue gun

- chalkboard paint (or black paint)

- scissors

- paint brush

Instructions:

1. Wrap the jam jar in jute ribbon and secure with baker's twine (or ribbon). You can add a heart if you want.

2. Remove the bulb from the plastic pot (with the soil, exactly as it is), and put it delicately in the jar, without damaging the root ball. Leave a bit of space at the bottom of the jar for drainage.

3. Paint the lollipop stick with chalkboard paint, attach the heart with a dab of hot glue, and write the word 'love' on it.

4. Add water and place indoors in a bright corner of your home (preferably not in direct sunlight).

...Voilà!!

Thanks to my Mom for modeling for me with our beautiful blue hyacynths in full bloom!!

Aren't they gorgeous!?

Monica xoxo