Ana’s Cottage Cookbook

Simple recipes from a Slower Time

Recipes

Follow Me on Instagram

ana_explorando

View Instagram post by ana_explorando

Nov 13

Open post by ana_explorando with ID 17915622759235388

There’s something truly special about taking the time to make something with your own hands. Handmade decorations carry a kind of nostalgia, they can be passed down through generations along with the traditions of creating them together, reminding us of the true reason for the season. ✨

For me, paper chains are pure childhood nostalgia, a core memory of making them at my grandma’s house to decorate for the holidays. 🎄

How to Make Paper Chains ✂️✨
1. Cut paper into strips, I used 1½ inch wide by 10 inches long, but you can choose the width you like.
2. Take one strip, form a loop, and glue or tape the ends.
3. Thread the next strip through the loop, then secure its ends.
Repeat until your chain is as long as you like!
Hang on your tree, mantel, or anywhere for a cozy holiday touch. 🧶

Materials used: ✂️

- Paper (scrap, thrifted, or new)
- Scissors
- Hot Glue gun or tape
- Optional: string or ribbon for hanging ...

757 8

ana_explorando

View Instagram post by ana_explorando

Nov 12

Open post by ana_explorando with ID 18065978480570371

3 Ways to Personalize Your Ornaments,
Part 1: Handmade Fabric Ornaments.
Cozy Touches for a Nostalgic Christmas 🎄

I had some leftover fabric scraps and wanted to add a personal, handmade touch to my Christmas ornaments this year. ✂️
This is the first one; simple, cozy, and full of nostalgia.
I’ll be sharing the other little details I added in Part 2 of this mini series.
(Psst… there’s a little sneak peek at the end of the reel 🫢)

How to make it.

1. Cut small fabric pieces
(Use old fabric scraps, vintage linens, or ribbon ends)
2. Brush Mod Podge on the ornament
(A plain round ornament works best)
3. Press fabric pieces around the ornament
(Slightly overlap for a patchwork look)
4. Seal with a light coat of Mod Podge
(Let dry completely)
Done! A cozy, handmade ornament full of nostalgia.🧶

✂️Materials Used:
Fabric scraps (any colors or patterns you love)
Plain ornaments (plastic, glass, or foam)
Mod Podge or hot glue
Small brush
Scissors
Ribbon or twine for hanging ...

2797 42

ana_explorando

View Instagram post by ana_explorando

Nov 10

Open post by ana_explorando with ID 17957877126008379

Simple Joys of Christmas Making 🎄
A simple and cozy Christmas craft you can make with just paper, glue, and string. 🧵
I was so excited to finally use this vintage wallpaper I thrifted last year. I cut the pieces about 10x7 inches, but you can use scrapbook paper, old book pages, or even handwritten notes for a lovely vintage look.
Try smaller sizes too for tiny stars!

How to make it:
1. Fold a sheet of paper back and forth like an accordion.
2. Fold it in half and tie with twine.
3. Cut the tips of each side at an angle.
4. Glue both sides together to form a circle.
5. Add a string to hang and enjoy your handmade star! ⭐️
They’re perfect for decorating your Christmas tree, making garlands, or hanging from the ceiling.
A sweet and simple way to bring a homemade touch to your Christmas décor.
Let me know if you make them. I’d love to see how you style yours. 🎄

Love,
Ana 💙 ...