Insulated Lunch Tote Tutorial Over at Sawdust and Paper Scraps

I'm really excited to be guest posting over at Sawdust and Paper Scraps. Sandra is doing a Handmade Christmas in July series you should definitely check out!

Here's a tute I'll be sharing for an insulated lunch tote. I originally made this to tote around my kids drinks and snacks, but started taking my own lunch to work in it instead. It's way too cute to just use for the kids. And the best part, it's machine washable!


Go check out the tute here.

From Farm to Fridge - Pickle Recipe

We've been busy picking lots of veggies at our local CSA.

And also been busy making pickles. My kids love to help and love eating all kinds of pickled veggies.

I'm sure there are lots of recipes out there....here's what you need to do it our way.

2 cups water
1 cup white vinegar
3 tablespoons of salt
about 3 cloves of sliced garlic (more or less to your taste)
fresh dill, chopped
fresh chives, chopped

various jars
your veggies to be pickled, chopped as you like.

We do cucumber spears and slices. We've also enjoyed pickling pea pods and carrots. I've added some pepper flakes and other herbs in the past. It's fun to play around with different combinations. I really want to try cooked beets with a little sugar and mint....stay tuned for that.


Add your salt to the water vinegar mixture and mix until the salt dissolves.



Add your herbs and garlic.

Put your veggies in jars and pour the brine/herb mix on top.

Refrigerate for at least 24 hours and enjoy.

Another Beach Robe and a Tip

I have to confess, I'm a little addicted to making these beach robes! I made another for a gift for a friend....

My daughter's robe has been through the wash a few times and I noticed the last time she put it on that the bias tape was coming loose in places. Most likely due to my less than stellar sewing skills. So, when I made this most recent one, I decided to use a wide zig zag stitch for the bias tape.

I think it will be a little more secure, and I think it looks really nice as well.

Especially on the tie, where I like to add some fabric, so a little extra bulk.

Give it a try. Tell me what you think!