There is nothing like the scent of balsam at Christmas. It seems like the iconic aroma of the holiday season. It's easy to make these cute sachets for gift giving or to add scent to your own home. The scent lasts for years.
I asked the local Christmas tree dealer if I could take a bag full of fallen balsam needles. Of course, he did not mind one bit. Here is how to make these simple holiday sachets:
First, you need to dry out the needles. Place a layer of balsam needles on a cookie sheet and set in an oven heated to 200 degrees F. Bake the needles for ten minutes, then turn off the heat. Allow the needles to remain in the warm over, turning occasionally to ensure even dryness. Let them sit in the oven overnight, or repeat the procedure until the needles are fully dry. The whole house will smell like Christmas!
Cut fabric scraps into small squares. I like to use material that has a vintage look. To add that aged look to newer fabric, steep the squares in a tea bath.
Sew three sides of the fabric squares. Turn so the rough seam edges are inside the fabric packet, like you would if you were making a pillow. Stuff with the dried balsam needles. Make sure the needles are totally dry.
Neatly hand sew the open edge closed. You can add a ribbon at one end for hanging.
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