How Do You Clean Pine Cones For Holiday Crafts?
With the Holiday season quickly approaching, you can save money on craft projects by cleaning your own pine cones vs purchasing them. Hand select your own pine cones, choosing ones with good color, shape, and no rotting spots. Shake pine cones well to remove dirt, grass, and bugs. Place pine cones in a basin or sink filled with very warm water and 1 cup of Vinegar. Let soak for about 20 to 30 minutes. Rinse pine cones in clean water, wearing rubber or disposable gloves. (Wearing the gloves keeps sap from getting on skin). Make sure all the sap and bugs are removed. Repeat steps 2 and 3 if necessary. Place rinsed pine cones on an old newspaper to dry for 3 to 5 days. As the pine cones dry, they will open up. When dry, decorate as you wish with paint, glitter, etc. or leave them natural.
