Showing posts with label Simple is Pretty Shop. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Simple is Pretty Shop. Show all posts

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Wool Dryer Balls Are Back in Stock - Limited Time Only!

Check out my Etsy shop for my wool dryer balls that are now back in stock!  This is my last batch of dryer balls so make sure you stock up before they are GONE!  Perfect Christmas gifts!  Go to www.simpleisprettyshop.com


To learn about wool dryer balls, click here!

Monday, February 8, 2016

Aromatherapy Carrier Oils

Carrier oils are now available in the shop!  Check them out at my Etsy shop –> www.simpleisprettyshop.com  Use these carrier oils to dilute your essential oils for safe skin use.  See below to learn a little about my carrier oils and find out which would work best for you, or try all 4!  Full details in my Etsy Shop!

Simple is Pretty Shop Carrier Oils www.simpleisprettyshop.com

Apricot Kernel Carrier Oil

Apricot kernel carrier oil is great for all skin types. It is high in vitamin A and nourishes skin. Apricot oil has very little scent and therefore it works well with essential oils, and makes it very popular with massage therapists and aromatherapists. It absorbs easily into the skin and has a long shelf life with proper storage. Refrigeration is recommended after opening.

Apricot Kernel Carrier Oil is available in 3 sizes:

1 oz (30 ml) –> www.etsy.com/listing/267351477
2 oz (60 ml) –> www.etsy.com/listing/267463322
8 oz (236 ml) –> www.etsy.com/listing/267464402


Coconut Fractionated Carrier Oil

Coconut fractionated carrier oil does not go solid at room temperature. As a part of its processing, it is refined, clarified and deodorized but still retains all its moisturising characteristics. This oil stays clear and in a liquid form and is therefore very popular in lotions, creams, hair care products and cosmetic products.

Coconut fractionated oil produces a barrier on the skin to lock in moisture but does not clog pores. This oil has no scent and is a very popular choice for massage therapists and aromatherapists. Refrigeration is not needed and this oil has a very long shelf life.

Coconut Fractionated Carrier Oil is available in 3 sizes:

1 oz (30 ml) –> www.etsy.com/listing/267353099
2 oz (60 ml) –> www.etsy.com/listing/267361679
8 oz (236 ml) –> www.etsy.com/listing/267466872


Jojoba Carrier Oil

Jojoba carrier oil is actually not an oil at all, it is a liquid wax. It is high in vitamin E and nourishes the skin. This oil has been processed through a charcoal filter to remove color and odor, but still retains all its skin nourishing benefits. Massage therapists sometimes use small amounts if Jojoba oil in their carrier oil blends to extend their shelf life. Jojoba oil can clog pores so care should be used when adding it to carrier oils. Jojoba oil creates a barrier on the skin and leaves a satiny finish.

Jojoba oil may get cloudy if left in cool conditions. Use a warm water bath to place the closed bottle in, to return it to its normal state.

Jojoba Carrier Oil is available in 2 sizes:

1 oz (30 ml) –> www.etsy.com/listing/267361085
2 oz (60 ml) –> www.etsy.com/listing/267460440


Sweet Almond Carrier Oil

Sweet almond carrier oil is great at softening and reconditioning skin. It is high in vitamin D, proteins and Olein Glyceride Linoleic Acid. Sweet almond oil soothes dry and irritated skin, which makes it very popular with massage therapists and aromatherapists. Please note that it will leave a slight oily feeling on the skin.

It has a long shelf life with proper storage. Refrigeration after opening is recommend. Can stain sheets and fabric.

Sweet Almond Carrier Oil is available in 3 sizes:

1 oz (30 ml) –> www.etsy.com/listing/267458894
2 oz (60 ml) –> www.etsy.com/listing/267362501
8 oz (236 ml) –> www.etsy.com/listing/267362825

Tuesday, December 1, 2015

Organic Wool Dryer Ball SALE!

Check out the shop for my organic wool dryer ball stock currently on sale!  Just in time for Christmas!

Aqua Organic Wool Dryer Balls - Simple is Pretty Shop
The organic dryer balls are currently featured in my “Sale/Clearance” section in my Etsy shop.

Summer Pink Organic Wool Dryer Balls - Simple is Pretty Shop
Get them before they are gone!
For orders over $50 use code “FREESHIPPING2015” for free shipping and you will also receive a FREE GIFT with your purchase (for a limited time only)!

Sandra

Thursday, November 5, 2015

FREE Gift with Your Purchase of $50 or more!

Get your own essential oil diffuser FREE with your purchase of $50 or more from the Simple is Pretty Shop! **

White Tea Light Diffuser from Simple is Pretty Shop
Use this diffuser with a tea light to burn essential oil, fragrance oil or wax tarts. Naturally freshen your home and pair this diffuser with one of my essential oils.

Color: white (matte)

Size: Approximately 3" tall and 3" wide.

Caution: Never leave a burning candle unattended. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Keep away from flammable materials and drafts. Be sure to place diffuser on a flat, heat resistant surface. Parts of the diffuser become hot during use. **Do not let the dish burn dry**


How To Use:

Essential Oil & Fragrance Oil - Add 2 parts oil to 1 part water (Do not overfill)
Wax Tarts - Add wax tart without water (Do not overfill)

Available only while supplies last!  Get your essential oil diffuser before they run out! –> www.simpleisprettyshop.com

**candle not included

Sandra

Tuesday, November 3, 2015

Wool Dryer Ball Facts

 Natural Wool Dryer Balls from Simple is Pretty Shop
Why Use Wool Dryer Balls?

* Decrease your laundry drying time and save money on electricity bills.

* No chemicals in wool dryer balls!

* Commercial dryer sheets can be expensive and are thrown away after each use. Reuse your wool dryer balls to save money and replace your disposable dryer sheets. Wool dryer balls last for years!

* Perfect for keeping your cloth diapers soft and chemical-free. Great for sensitive skin.

* Wool dryer balls won't affect the absorbency of your towels, kitchen cloths, or cloth diapers – but commercial fabric softeners will.

* 100 percent wool dryer balls reduce static and increase the fluffiness of your clothes as the dryer load tumbles.

* Soften your clothes naturally and reduce your impact on the environment by using wool which is a renewable resource.


How Do Wool Dryer Balls Work?

* Wool dryer balls absorb moisture and provide better air circulation by rotating and separating linens and clothes. As the balls bounce around they circulate, fluff and soften your clothes while reducing wrinkles.

* As they tumble in your dryer, the dryer balls work to dry your clothes so you can save money and run your dryer for less time.


How Do I Make My Wool Dryer Balls?

I use natural and organic 100% wool yarn to make my different types of dryer balls. The weight of wool yarn I use varies from fine to medium, which creates a denser dryer ball compared to a dryer ball made with wool roving yarn. Therefore, the dryer balls I create are better for drying your laundry because they wick the moisture away from the clothes better. Roving wool also pills regularly.

I triple felt the dryer balls so they will not unravel. I use unscented homemade laundry detergent to felt the dryer balls so each ball starts off as unscented. Learn how to make your own wool dryer balls, click here.


How to Use Wool Dryer Balls:

* Toss them in the dryer with your washed laundry, and let the dryer balls go to work!

* I recommend at least 4 of my dryer balls for a normal size load of laundry, but the more the better and the faster your laundry will dry.

* Store your dryer balls in the dryer when not in use or display them in a pretty basket in your laundry room.

* If you choose a scented option, I scent the dryer balls with essential oil right before shipping so they ship "wet". Please take them out of bag and allow the dryer balls to dry overnight before their first use so the essential oils can set. The scent lasts about a week, depending on use. Later, you can re-scent with a few drops of your favorite essential oil if desired. Check out my selection of essential oils, HERE.

Learn how to easily make your own wool dryer balls, click here!

Sandra

Saturday, October 24, 2015

Lavender Info and Uses


Lavender buds are a safe and natural freshener. Lavender is also a natural insect and moth repellent.  This herb has been used throughout time to relax, comfort and sooth.  The aroma is stress relieving and calming without being overpowering.

Lavender Buds from Simple is Pretty Shop

Try making your own lavender sachets.  Lavender sachets have many uses and can be used in many areas throughout your home. Place the lavender sachets in your dresser drawers, closets, and clothes storage containers to keep your clothes and linens smelling fresh. Since, lavender is a natural insect and moth repellent they are perfect closet sachets. Use lavender sachets in children's clothes storage totes which store their seasonal or outgrown clothes. When you open the plastic totes you will smell lavender, instead of the plastic smell. Lavender sachets are perfect for placing under your pillow for a restful night's sleep. 

Wedding Favor (Lavender Filled Cotton Muslin Bag) from Simple is Pretty Shop

Lavender can be used in many ways in your wedding.  Use it as a wedding toss or sprinkle it in the middle of your table to accent your centerpieces.  Small bags filled with lavender buds make great wedding favors.  Lavender makes a great wedding toss as it is not harmful to birds.  Place the dried lavender buds in a bowl and using paper cones or handfuls they can be tossed over the newly married couple after the ceremony.  Lavender buds can also take the place of flower petals in the flower girl's basket.  Simply pour the lavender buds into a flower girl basket before she walks down the aisle.  Don't worry about the clean up, lavender is easily vacuumed up and also will give off a lovely scent as you vacuum it up. 

Lavender Filled Muslin Bags from Simple is Pretty Shop

Store your unused lavender buds in an airtight container until use to retain their freshness. I recommend storing your lavender in glass mason jars.  Keep lavender out of sunlight and away from heat, as this also helps retain the scent. The lavender scent usually lasts a few years. To refresh the lavender sachets, give them a light squeeze or shake to redistribute their natural oil.

Sandra

Saturday, August 8, 2015

Free Shipping!

Use code "FREESHIPPING2015" at checkout in both of my shops for FREE shipping (Canada, US & International)!  http://www.simpleisprettyshop.com & http://www.simpleisprettyshop.etsy.com

Use code "FREESHIPPING2015" at checkout in both of my shops for FREE shipping (Canada, US & International)!  For a limited time only!



FREE Shipping on all orders over $50 www.simpleisprettyshop.com & www.simpleisprettyshop.etsy.com


Friday, April 10, 2015

How to Fight Static in Your Clothes

If you use store bought dryer sheets which eliminate static by coating clean laundry with a film, you will notice an increase in static when changing to a natural laundry alternative.  How can you fight static naturally and without chemicals?  Try these tips!

Simple is Pretty: How to fight static in your laundry. Tips to prevent and reduce static naturally!


1) Separate your synthetic fiber clothes from your natural fiber clothes.

To reduce static, try hang drying your synthetic (artificial) fiber clothes.  Examples of synthetic fibers are polyester and acrylic.  If you are unable to hang dry these synthetic fiber clothes, try separating them from natural fiber fabrics like cotton before drying.  Usually synthetic fiber clothes need less time in the dryer than natural fibers.

Be careful not to over dry as over drying can create static cling.  Try adding a damp/almost wet wash cloth to your synthetic loads when tumble drying and the added moisture will help to distribute existing moisture and keep the clothes from over drying.  Alternatively, you can add a damp/almost wet with white vinegar cloth and it will have the same effect.

2) Use wool dryer balls and use less time to dry your clothes in the dryer.

Organic Wool Dryer Balls - Simple is Pretty Shop
With using wool dryer balls in your laundry, you can decrease your drying time.  The wool dryer balls absorb moisture and work to circulate and fluff your clothes as they dry.  If you use a timed dry setting, you will have to decrease your drying time.  When clothes are dried for less time in the dryer, they have less time to rub together and create less static electricity.

3) Use vinegar instead of fabric softener.

Try replacing your store bought fabric softener with vinegar.  Not only will you save yourself a ton of money as vinegar much less expensive than fabric softener, you will also see a reduction in static.  Don’t worry about the smell, the vinegar smell will be washed out by the time the washing machine cycle is complete.

Use Vinegar to Stop Static - Simple is Pretty
I especially recommend using vinegar instead of fabric softener for bath towels, kitchen towels and dish cloths.  The vinegar will work to soften your towels without all the chemicals of store bought fabric softener.  If you choose to use fabric softener on your towels, it will leave behind a film.   This fabric softener film will make the fibers of your towels less absorbent, which is the exact opposite effect you want to happen.

Essential Oil Starter Kit - Simple is Pretty Shop
Want to scent your laundry before hang drying it?  Try adding essential oil to vinegar in your fabric softener compartment.  For an energizing scent, try pink grapefruit essential oil.  If you would like a relaxing scent, try adding lavender essential oil.

Sandra

Wednesday, April 1, 2015

What Are Wool Dryer Balls?

In short, wool dryer balls are made of felted wool and work by absorbing moisture and providing better air circulation by rotating the clothes in your dryer.

What are wool dryer balls? - www.simpleisprettyshop.com
Wool dryer balls reduce the amount of time and electricity used to dry your laundry.  Simply place your clean laundry in the dryer, add the wool dryer balls and dry as normal.  If you use the timed dry setting, you will need to reduce your drying time as the clothes will dry faster.  I recommend at least 4 dryer balls for a normal sized load of laundry, but the more the better!  I usually use between 4-6 dryer balls for loads of laundry in my house.  My wool dryer balls will last in between 1 to 2 years.  I just recently retired my first set after using them for 2 years!

Wool dryer balls work well for all types laundry.  Try them with bath towels, cloth baby diapers, sheets and linens.  You will no longer need to use chemical filled dryer sheets or fabric softener.  If you have sensitive skin, try using wool dryer balls and cut out harmful chemicals from your laundry routine.

If you want your clean laundry to have a scent, simply place a few drops of essential oil onto your wool dryer balls.  I usually use 2-3 drops per dryer ball.  I like to use essential oils that have a dropper cap, as this makes it easier to apply the oil to the dryer ball.

Essential Oil Bottles 5ml - www.simpleisprettyshop.com
To scent wool dryer balls, I simply place the dryer ball touching the top of the opened essential oil bottle and tip them upside down together.  Then I tip them back together right side up, and remove the essential oil bottle from touching the dryer ball.  This way is less messy as the oil goes straight into to the dryer ball and does not run off.  I repeat this process in different areas of each dryer ball until each ball receives about 3 drops of essential oil.  Leave the dryer balls overnight to let the essential oils set, or wait at least one hour before using after you have re-scented them.

Essential Oil Starter Kit - www.simpleisprettyshop.com
Some of my favorite scents for laundry are lavender, pink grapefruit and lemon essential oils.  Experiment and find a scent you like or try mixing a few and create your own scent!

Sandra

Monday, March 16, 2015

Lavender Back in Stock!

Finally, the wait is over!  Lavender is back in stock in my shop!

Lavender - www.simpleisprettyshop.com
This new lavender is the highest quality lavender I have ever stocked.  This premium lavender has a lovely blue/purple color and has a beautiful, bright scent.  Perfect for use in sachets, crafts, homemade soap and bath soaks.

Currently, this dried lavender is available by the pound.  But if you only require a small amount for your craft or recipe, try my small cotton muslin bags filled with lavender.  Each bag contains 1/2 cup of premium lavender buds.  Perfect for wedding and party favors!

Lavender Filled Muslin Bags - www.simpleisprettyshop.com
I’m also happy to say that my small essential oil diffusers are back in stock this week!

White Tea Light Diffuser - www.simpleisprettyshop.com
Use this diffuser with a tea light to burn essential or fragrance oil or wax tarts. Naturally freshen your home and pair this diffuser with one of my essential oils.  For an energizing scent try sweet orange, lemon or one of my favorite essential oils –> pink grapefruit.  For a calming and relaxing scent try lavender essential oil.  If you can’t decide which essential oil to purchase, try my essential oil starter kit feature 5 of my best selling essential oils.

Sandra

Monday, March 2, 2015

Style at Home Feature!

I’m so excited to share with you that products from my Simple is Pretty Shop are featured in the Style at Home, April 2015 issue!

Style at Home April 2015 Issue www.simpleispretty.com
Style at Home is the only magazine I subscribe to, so I was elated when I was asked by them to feature my product.   Not only are my products featured, but they are featured in my favorite section (the High/Low section)!

Aqua Pin Cushion www.simpleisprettyshop.com
To me the High/Low section is the best part and I love to study the photos and learn from their staging.  I’ve spend countless hours lost in the pages of this great Canadian magazine!  Be sure to pick up a copy!

Sandra

Friday, February 13, 2015

A little update…

Happy Valentines Day!

I'll start with, I'm still alive!  I've taken a little time away from the blog to concentrate on my Etsy shop.  I've enjoyed the time away.  I admit I had a little writer's block.  I've been doing a lot of thinking as to where and how blogging will fit into my future.  I want to get back to a place where my topics are what I'm passionate about and what I'm learning and creating.  Lately, my time has been devoted to my shop, which I love.  My shop is something I spend a lot of time on and I'm loving all the aspects of exploring my new adventure.  

 
Etsy shop www.simpleisprettyshop.etsy.com

Here is what I’ve been up to… Just a few days ago, I re-shot all the photos of my essential oils for the shop using my lastest background.  This week I'm doing some revamping and bringing in a cohesive look and feel to the shop.  I'd love your opinions or suggestions.  

Baby Gift Basket from www.simpleisprettyshop.etsy.com

Over the last few months, I've worked on bringing new products into the shop.  

Essential Oil Starter Kit from www.simpleisprettyshop.etsy.com

I've expanded my essential oil line, created some gifts and gift baskets, listed new supplies, and wound a ton of dryer balls.

Natural Wool Dryer Balls from www.simpleisprettyshop.etsy.com

Currently, I'm working on a large order of dryer balls which are set to be sent to the east coast in the next month.  I'm very excited to work with this group, thank you for this opportunity!

Lavender from www.simpleisprettyshop.etsy.com


I'm also hoping to restock lavender buds very soon.  I'm just waiting for my supplier to get them in.  I'll let you know when they are back in stock!  Be sure to follow me on Facebook for updates and behind the scenes - https://www.facebook.com/SimpleisPretty!

I also have a huge accomplishment that will soon be public and I can't wait to fill you in! 

Sandra

Friday, October 10, 2014

Behind the Scenes: Shop Studio

I’ve wanted to do a post about my Etsy shop studio for a long time now.  After finally taking photos of the space, here it is!  My studio is always a work in progress because I am continually adding stock to my Etsy shop and need to move things around to get the best fit.

Here is a tour of my studio…

My Etsy Shop Studio
One of my favorite things about my studio is the space gets lots of natural light.  Working in natural light makes it enjoyable and easier to work.  My office in the old house was in the basement and I’m so thankful that in this house we had space available above ground for my studio area.

Simple is Pretty Shop Studio

Simple is Pretty Shop Studio Desk
My studio functions as my home office, sewing room, paint studio, shop stock room, inspiration and creating area.

Simple is Pretty Shop Studio China Cabinet
I use my grandmother’s old china cabinet to hold essential oils.

Simple is Pretty Shop Studio Lavender
On top of the cabinet, I keep my lavender in sealed glass jars to preserve the freshness.  I use lavender in sachets and I sell it by the pound in my shop.

Simple is Pretty Shop Studio Pom Pom Vines
Hanging above the china cabinet, I have my paper pom pom vines.  Sarah from Paperwhite Designs created them for me, and I LOVE them!  I originally got the vines to help decorate my table for my next craft show, so until then I have hung them above the cabinet until they are needed.  I love the colors she suggested, thanks Sarah!

Simple is Pretty Shop Studio Shelf Styling
I used gift wrap to line the back of the cabinet to brighten it up a bit.  I used the same process I used in the kitchen.

Simple is Pretty Shop Studio Inspiration Board
My inspiration board is in between the storage/filing cabinet and the desk.  I recovered the tack board on the desk with drop cloth earlier this year.

Simple is Pretty Shop Studio Light Box
Here is my light box and I use it photo shoots for my shop and blog.  To make your own light box, check out my tutorial here.

Simple is Pretty Shop Studio Light Box Setup

Simple is Pretty Shop Studio Serving Tray Tower
I use my DIY serving tray tower to hold my thread and other sewing items.

Simple is Pretty Shop Studio Packing Area
Don’t get me wrong.  My studio is not always this neat and tidy.  I admit I picked up and dusted to take these photos.  But I do find that I work better in a clean and organized environment and this photo shoot gave me a push to take a look at my space in a new light.

I find it easier to snap some pics and then take a look and see what is looking “off” in a space.  Photos don’t lie and if you are looking to restyle a room I always find that taking a few pics and then analyzing them helps to find out what is working for a room visually and what is not.  Don’t be afraid to move things around in a room.  If the item is not working in its new home, you can always move it back.

Here is what the studio looked like shortly after we moved in:

Simple is Pretty Shop Studio Before Photo

Simple is Pretty Shop Studio Before Photo
After a year of living with our new office furniture, I love how the space turned out.

Simple is Pretty Shop Studio After Photo
Sandra

Friday, September 12, 2014

Lavender Essential Oil is Available in the Shop!

100% Pure Lavender Essential Oil from Simple is Pretty Shop


Today, I’m introducing my new line of essential oils!  Currently, I have 4 sizes of 100% pure lavender essential oil from France available.  I hope to have new scents available in the coming weeks, be sure to check back!



You can use essential oil to scent your wool dryer balls.  Lavender has a relaxing and calming aroma, perfect for laundry use!  I use lavender essential oil on my wool dryer balls and I usually rescent my dryer balls every couple of weeks.  A 10 ml bottle holds approximately 200 drops of essential oil.  Therefore, if you have 4 dryer balls and rescent using 2 drops per ball, you will have enough essential oil to rescent your dryer balls 25 times.  If you rescent them every 2 weeks, your bottle will last you almost a whole year!  So much cheaper than expensive dryer sheets and NO harsh chemicals!

You can also use my essential oils in homemade cleaning recipes, laundry detergents, and soaps.  CANADIAN ORDERS - No customs or duties charges to worry about because my shop is in Canada!


Here are a few essential oil safety tips:

Most essential oils should not be used undiluted or “neat” directly on the skin. Unless you know it is safe to use undiluted, you should dilute essential oils with a carrier oil, such as avocado, grapeseed, or sweet almond. To test if you are sensitive to a essential oil, add 1 or 2 drops to a teaspoon of carrier oil in a small container and mix to combine. Test by placing a dab of the mixture on your wrist or the inside of your elbow and wait for 24 hours.

If you are pregnant or suffering from any medical condition, consult a health practitioner before use.  Keep essential oils out of reach of children and pets.

To check out my essential oil collection, visit my Etsy shop –> www.simpleisprettyshop.etsy.com.  For $5 off your purchase, be sure to use the coupon code "SUMMER2014", expires September 23, 2014.

Sandra