Pine cones smell amazing and look so festive when placed in baskets, large glass vases, or used to create wreaths. However, when collecting pine cones they are usually covered in pine pitch and often have bugs in between the pine cone petals.

How do I prepare pine cones so that they are ready for crafting and bug free?

1. For pitch-free hands use gardening gloves to select your pine cones. Look for pine cones that are symmetrical in shape, have all their petals, and are a good size to decorate with.

2. Once you have collected the pine cones spray them with bug spray and place them in an airtight bag for 1 to 2 days. I use a large kitchen trash bag, that I tie at the top and leave on my back porch for a few days.

3. After a few days bring the pine cones inside and clean them in my sink. Fill the sink with warm to hot water and dish soap. Leave the pine cones to soak for 30 minutes. Rinse away soap and debris. Then place the pine cones to dry on newspaper.

4. Once the pine cones are completely dry you can then seal them with a spray varnish.

5. Pine cones are now pitch and bug free and ready for crafting!