photo by jc westbrook
Ever cringe when you see your old nylon or natural bristle pastry or basting brush? They always look horrible. The first tip shares an idea for a modern replacement. You won’t have stray bristles in your food, and it can go directly into your dishwasher after you’re done using it.

SILICONE PASTRY BRUSH: If you don’t have one, consider getting one. After using a number of pastry brushes …

photo by postcool
The first tip is a creative way to wrap and give a gift. You could easily replace crepe paper with yarn. These work well for Secret Santa gifts for co-workers or to have on hand for any emergency last-minute gifts. You can embellish the outside with a jingle bell, silk flower or gift tag that tells the recipient to unwind the ball. Or hang from your Christmas tree, …

photo by roguesunmedia
Tracking your spending is a good way to see weaknesses in your budget. Tracking is useful for weight loss, too. The first tip shares one way to do your tracking.
How do you track your spending?
TRACKING: I picked up a journal-type calendar for 75 percent off on clearance. It cost me $4, and it’s the Polestar Family Calendar, with a spiral lie-flat binding. It’s got the dates and …

photo by Charles Williams
The first tip is a great way to get the most out of your jar candles. It’s much easier than popping the wax out, melting the candles in a double boiler, and pouring into tart molds or adding a new wick.
CANDLE WARMER: Get a candle warmer for less than $10. I use them when the candle wax is almost gone and can no longer light the …