Sunday, October 27, 2013

B.L.T Pizza - Delish!

One of my favorites - although, I don't indulge in it too often - is BLT Pizza! I know many people that thought it sounded so unappealing but after  trying it me forcing it on them, they decided it was surprisingly delicious!



Usually the part that doesn't sit will with some is the fact that there is a bit of miracle whip (or mayo) or it. Really though, that's what pulls it all together and they realize that after sampling it! Really!

Just start with a nice, fresh pizza dough, or make your own. I prefer to use the fresh dough balls from Portland Pie Company . Top it with your favorite, or homemade sauce and add plenty of shredded or fresh mozzarella cheese. Then sprinkle generously with cooked, chopped bacon. I know, I know...mayo AND bacon? Hey, I said it was delish, not heart healthy!




 Bake it at 425 degrees for about 15 - 20 minutes - adjust bake time depending on how crispy and well-done you like your pizza pie. After it's finished baking, remove from the oven and let it set for just a couple minutes. Top with some squirts of mayo (or miracle whip, my preference), fresh diced plum tomatoes and fresh chopped lettuce. If you prefer, you could use fresh spinach or arugula instead!



To make it a bit easier, I put the miracle whip in a small squeeze bottle  - it tends to make a more even application instead of too big globs.

Indulge! Yes, it is probably a bit calorie dense, but show me a pizza that isn't! Besides, it does have some fresh veggies on it and everything in moderation. There I've justified it for you, now go make some!



Saturday, October 26, 2013

I've Fallen for Felted Wool Acorns

Aren't these felted wool acorns adorable!? While they are not my original idea, and really all that new of a concept, they are pretty darn cute, inexpensive, easy and timeless. Win, win, win!




There are two ways you can do this:
1.you can make the felted wool balls yourself and collect your own acorn caps....OR...
2.you can buy the wool balls and acorn caps from someone else and just assemble them.

I did a combination of the two. I collected my acorn caps and purchased the wool balls. You would think it would take quite a while to collect the caps but I was surprised how quickly they added up. Before I knew it I had about 300 - I hope my neighbor appreciates my cleaning up his yard for him!

Since I already have a few projects in the works, I figured I would purchase the wool balls from someone else, this time. Plus I was just dying to make acorns and I wanted to be quick about this project.

Assuming that you are using pre-made wool balls, there are really just a couple steps and a few supplies needed.

Supplies:

Felted wool balls - the 2cm (20mm) ones are about the right size for your average acorn caps.
Hot Glue Gun
Glue Sticks
Acorn Caps
Handbehg Felts

Basically, you'll be putting a small amount of glue inside the acorn cap - enough to secure the wool ball well but not so much that it oozes out when you press the ball to the cap - use your best judgement.

You'll want to hold them in place for a few moments, just until the glue sets - it's won't take long at all!

Voila! That's it! Really, that's all you need to do - I told you it was an easy craft!

Of course, if you are using raw wool roving to make your own felted balls, then, yes, the process will be a bit longer - still quite easy, though!

there are a number of places you can purchase wool roving, felted wool balls, acorn caps and other supplies. Handbehg Felts has a nice assortment of colors and supplies in their Etsy shop .
Handbehg Felts




There are always folks on Etsy and eBay selling acorn caps. The ones I collected are your standard traditional style but I purchased some "hairy" or "fringed" ones from a lady on Etsy. This style comes from the Sawtooth Pak, I believe, and they are typically more southern. I'm pretty sure there are none in our Maine weather zone.

Right now, 'Honey Gone Nuts' on Etsy has some listings for purchase - and good prices, too! Click here to see!


Honey Gone Nuts - Etsy


If you're not really into crafting but are looking for a quick and easy project that will impress your other non-crafty friends, this could be it. I put 200 of these babies together one night while watching one of my favorite shows - Shark Tank.

Here's a photo of my finished ones -







Maybe, if time allows at some point, I'll make myself up one of these babies - a felted wool ball rug! Cool, huh!?

                                                               
felted wool ball rug - Etsy



 As always, let me know if you have any questions or comments - I would love to hear your thoughts!

                                         
Best Wishes for Happy Crafting,
Jennifer