Preserve Special Items

• Preserve Leaves/Flowers: Mix one part glycerin with two parts water and heat, but do not boil. Pour into a metal or glass container. Make a fresh angle-cut to the woody stems; you also can gently crush the stems just above the cuts with a hammer to expose more of the pulp. Place the stems into the cooled solution, covering them with a few inches of the liquid. Place in a cool, dry spot with good air circulation, but not in direct sunlight. Depending on the size and type of foliage, it may take several days or up to six weeks to complete the preserving process. A good way to test if they are ready is to let one stem air dry and compare it to the stems in the glycerin after a week. The result....the leaves will be soft and pliable, allowing you to enjoy your plants for much longer.
• Dish-Saving Tip: This homemade glue fixes glass porcelain and ceramics. You will need 4 ½ teaspoons gum arabic, ¼ cup water and 7 ½ teaspoons of natural glycerin. Dissolve gum arabic in water, add the glycerin and mix well. To use, apply to both surfaces with a toothpick or popsicle stick and hold together for five minutes. Allow to dry for 24 hours before washing or using. Note: Do not save this glue; you’ll have to make a fresh batch each time.