If you've never tried a lotion bar before, you're in for a treat. These little wonders are made from natural butters, oils, and waxes that melt into your skin with body heat, sealing in moisture without the fuss of pumps or preservatives. And best of all? They’re incredibly easy to make at home.

The yellow blossoms are more than just cheerful—they’re edible and packed with antioxidants. Rich in vitamins A and C, and offering anti-inflammatory benefits, dandelion flowers are gentle allies for wellness.

As spring breathes new life into our gardens and wild spaces, it also brings buzzing insects and the perfect time to start crafting herbal remedies. Instead of reaching for store-bought repellents and medicines filled with chemicals, why not make your own? Today, I’m sharing two simple and effective DIY projects: a natural bug repellent and a basic herbal tincture to support wellness throughout the season.

There’s something truly magical about crafting your own skincare remedies, especially when they come straight from nature’s apothecary. This Golden Bloom Balm is a rich, nourishing salve infused with the healing properties of calendula, rosehip seed, tamanu, and lavender—each chosen for their skin-loving benefits. Whether you're soothing dry hands, calming irritation, or simply giving your skin a little extra love, this balm is the perfect companion for a simple living lifestyle.

There’s something truly magical about crafting your own skincare remedies, especially when they come straight from nature’s apothecary. This Golden Bloom Balm is a rich, nourishing salve infused with the healing properties of calendula, rosehip seed, tamanu, and lavender—each chosen for their skin-loving benefits. Whether you're soothing dry hands, calming irritation, or simply giving your skin a little extra love, this balm is the perfect companion for a simple living lifestyle.

There’s nothing quite like the smell of fresh-baked bread cooling on the counter. Whether it’s a warm loaf of sourdough, a soft sandwich bread, or a rustic country loaf, homemade bread always feels like a little slice of simple living. But once that bread has cooled and you’ve sliced into it, the next challenge arises — how to store it.

For years, I wrapped my bread in plastic wrap, slipped it into plastic storage bags, or tucked it away in a plastic container. But as I’ve slowly moved toward reducing my reliance on plastic, I knew there had to be a better way. Enter: cloth bread bags — a simple, sustainable solution that keeps your bread fresh without the waste.

In this post, I’ll share with you why cloth bread bags are a game-changer, how to use them, and, best of all — how to make your own!

At Rustic Roots & Simple Living, we cherish the art of breathing new life into pre-loved items. One of our favorite endeavors is transforming thrifted jeans into personalized fashion statements using charming printed patches crafted from scrap materials. This sustainable practice not only reduces waste but also allows for unique, creative expression.

Living a simple, homemade lifestyle means embracing the beauty of natural, handcrafted products. This week, I’m sharing two wonderful DIYs that embody that philosophy: Homemade Apple Cider Vinegar and a Nourishing Facial Serum. These recipes are simple, effective, and packed with benefits for your health, home, and skincare routine.

I was sitting in my favorite chair, drinking a tea blend that I created, feeling pretty good about the sustainable swaps I have been making around the house. But then the little voice in my head said, "Don't pat yourself on the back too hard." I purchase many things that are strictly used once and then thrown away. I went to my pantry and looked inside. That little annoying voice was right. I have switched many items to storage in glass jars, but I had plastic wrap, plastic ware, baggies, and plastic cups lurking in there.

In today’s fast-paced world, it’s easy to reach for disposable items like plastic wrap or aluminum foil to cover leftovers or store food. But if you’re striving for a more sustainable, rustic, and simple lifestyle, making your own cloth bowl covers is a wonderful step toward reducing waste and adding a touch of handmade charm to your kitchen. Not only are these covers eco-friendly, but they’re also reusable, washable, and surprisingly easy to make. Let’s dive into how you can create your own cloth bowl covers!

This weekend was a perfect balance of creativity, productivity, and cherished moments with one of my favorite tiny humans. The house is still carrying the lingering scents of warm spices, citrus, and floral notes—a true testament to the busy hands and full heart that shaped these past two days.

I started experimenting with herbal infused oils because I was trying to find uses for all the essential oil bottles I end up with from soap making. Making infused oils turned out to be a great way to put those leftover oils to good use while creating something practical and beautiful.

Today, as I was making sourdough, I found myself reflecting on the things in my life that bring me joy and comfort. I don’t plan my blog posts out ahead of time—I simply write about whatever I’m doing or thinking about in the moment. And there’s something about kneading dough that always puts me in a reflective mood.

This weekend, I set out to finally put away the Christmas decorations and the tree. Normally, I do this on January 1st, but after building our house and skipping a tree for two years, I felt like I deserved a little extra time to enjoy the season. Once everything was packed up and the house cleaned, I thought I’d feel accomplished—but instead, I felt restless.

As I sit here watching the snow blow sideways, I can’t help but think about how challenging winter must be for our feathered friends. With icy winds and scarce food sources, it’s a tough season to endure. While we bundle up inside, the birds are out there braving the elements, searching for nourishment wherever they can find it. That’s why I love making suet this time of year—a simple, nourishing treat to help them get through the cold months. It’s not just about providing food; it’s about offering a little kindness to the wildlife that brings so much beauty to our world, even in the heart of winter. Let’s dive into how we can lend a hand to our backyard birds and keep them thriving all season long.

When it comes to handmade gifts, there’s something truly special about presenting loved ones with items that are both practical and heartfelt. Homemade spice blends and loose leaf teas fit the bill perfectly—they’re versatile, easy to make, and can be tailored to suit the recipient’s tastes. Pair them with recycled jars, and you’ve created a gift that’s not only thoughtful but also environmentally friendly.

As the holiday season approaches, finding meaningful, handmade gifts can bring warmth and joy to both the giver and the receiver. Pressed flower bookmarks are not only beautiful but also an easy and thoughtful project that highlights the natural charm of wildflowers and herbs. Whether you're gifting them to a book lover or adding them as a personal touch to a holiday card, these bookmarks are sure to delight!

The holiday season is the perfect time to share handmade gifts that come from the heart. A thoughtful, homemade present not only saves money but also shows your loved ones how much you care. One of my favorite gifts to make during December is Homemade Hot Cocoa Mix in a Jar. It’s simple, customizable, and always appreciated on chilly winter days.

As the seasons shift and the chill of fall and winter fills the air, there’s no better way to make your home feel warm and inviting than with a simmer pot. These fragrant concoctions simmer on the stove, releasing natural aromas that evoke a sense of coziness, nostalgia, and calm. Simmer pots are an easy, chemical-free way to freshen your home, using ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen.

If you've been looking for a natural way to unwind at the end of the day, homemade magnesium butter might just be your new favorite ritual. Not only does it nourish and soften the skin, but it also delivers the calming benefits of magnesium directly through the soles of your feet. Let’s dive into why this is such a beneficial practice and how you can make your own magnesium butter at home.