Category: Homestead

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Piñon Gnats in Southwest Colorado

Learn about biting Piñon Gnats in Southwest Colorado. Find out out what they are and how to deal with them with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Why I Wear a Mesh Hat and Smell Like Cookies in June 🍪

Deep in the piñon forests of Southwest Colorado, there is a short season when the sun shines, the garden blooms, and the air bites back. Each year, without fail, between Memorial Day and the Fourth of July, the piñon gnats arrive.

They are not just annoying. They are tiny vampires with wings. You will not hear them. You will barely see them. You will just feel the sting. Then the bruise.

And if you hold still for more than a few seconds, they start to swarm. It feels like a dark, buzzing cloud has gathered just for you, relentlessly divebombing your head.

Even local veterinarians and service providers avoid our neighborhood during gnat season. They know what is waiting.

In June, my neighborhood looks like a beekeeping convention. Everyone wears mesh veils, wide-brimmed hats, and long sleeves. Not because we are tending hives, but because the bugs are tending to us.

Last summer, I made it worse. I painted the barn red. I am not a tidy painter. So when I go outside in full mesh bug gear, I do not look like a gardener. I look like someone with something to hide. It gives CSI: Homestead Edition.

Painting in a mesh hat can be a little awkward. But it is better than being eaten up by a swarm of biting bugs! Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Gnat Behavior: When Are Piñon Gnats Active?

Textbooks say most biting midges are active at dawn and dusk, but not here. Piñon gnats prefer the full sun and dry heat of the day.

If I am quick, I can water the garden before 9 a.m. After that, it is over. They are awake, aggressive, and waiting.

And if you hold still for more than two seconds? Forget it. They swarm. You can feel them gathering in a black cloud around your face, ready to bite. That is when you stop watering and start running.

Quick Facts: What Are Piñon Gnats? You may have heard them called "no-see-ums," "biting midges," "punkies," or even "five-o'clock gnats," depending on where you live.

Quick Facts: What Are Piñon Gnats?

You may have heard them called “no-see-ums,” “biting midges,” “punkies,” or even “five-o’clock gnats,” depending on where you live. The name “no-see-um” is no joke. These biting midges are so small you often do not see them at all. By the time you realize they are there, they have already bitten you and vanished like tiny flying phantoms. And the vicious little beasts don’t even spare the dogs; if you’ve got blood, they’re all over you.

No-See-Ums love to nibble at dog's ears. Best to keep them inside as much as you can during the season. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels
This dog’s ears are covered in no-see-ums. Back inside we go!

What makes their bite so sneaky is how they do it. Piñon gnats do not pierce the skin like mosquitoes. Instead, they use tiny scissor-like mouthparts to slice into your skin. Then they lap up the blood. It is a brutal method for something so small, and you feel it almost instantly.

  • Piñon gnats are tiny biting midges (1 to 3 millimeters long).
  • Female gnats bite to draw blood for egg production.
  • The bite feels like a quick sting, not a poke.
  • The mark left is flat and bruised, not swollen or itchy.
  • They thrive in piñon-juniper woodlands.
  • They are most active in the heat of the day.

The Favorite Target: Why They Bite Eyelids

Some people get bites around their ankles. Not me. These bugs go straight for my eyelids. The thinnest, most sensitive skin on my body, and apparently their favorite. One even let me catch her in the act. I got a picture. Just a tiny black dot with bad intentions.

Piñon Gnats love to bite eyelids. These tiny little flies leave bruised spots behind. Read how to stop them with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Piñon gnat bites do not swell. They do not itch. They leave small, dark bruises that sting briefly and hang around for days. It looks like I lost a fight with my eyeliner.

A Piñon Gnat bit my eyelid. See the purple bruising? Much different than a mosquito bite. Learn more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Piñon Gnat Survival Strategies: What Helps (Sort Of)

Let me be honest: nothing works perfectly against these bugs. I have tried everything I can think of, and most of it barely makes a difference.

I have tried it all.

  • Mosquito repellents (candles, sprays, and salves): Nothing works. Not against piñon gnats.
  • Vanilla extract: Smells like cookies and seems to repel the smaller ones. I dab it under my eyes, but be careful. Real vanilla contains alcohol and will burn if it gets too close to your eyes. I keep McCormick Vanilla Extract on hand for both baking and gnats. (Amazon Affiliate Link)
  • Sunglasses and wide-brimmed hat: These tiny biters have no problem getting under sunglasses and they enjoy biting up your hairline, too.
  • Mesh bug hat: The only thing that truly works. It is not stylish, but it gets the job done. Here is the mesh bug hat I use, and it comes in different colors! (Amazon Affiliate Link)

July 5: My Real Independence Day

I love the outdoors, my garden, and my chickens. But during piñon gnat season, I become an anxious houseplant.

I stay inside. I blink through mesh. I smell like a cookie. And I wait.

Because every year, like clockwork, they disappear the day after the fireworks fade. July 5 is my real Independence Day. That is when I can walk outside barefaced and finally feel free. 🎆

Until then, I will be under the silly hat or hiding inside.

Piñon Gnats are mean little bugs that love to bite your face. Wearing a mesh hat is the only way I've found to stop them. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Now, It’s Time to Relax 📺🧶💞

If you are stuck inside like me, it might be the perfect moment to pick up a new cozy skill. These are some of my favorite indoor knitting and craft projects. No mesh hat required.

🧶 Learn to Knit: Free Beginner Lessons: This step-by-step knitting course was made for true beginners. Each lesson includes photos and explanations so you can learn to knit with confidence.

🧣 Beginner Scarf Knitting Pattern: Practice your first stitches while making something useful. This garter stitch scarf pattern is relaxing and includes printable instructions in three sizes.

🛏️ Rice Stitch Blanket Pattern: Knit a textured afghan using simple knit and purl stitches. This blanket pattern includes two stitch variations, both with cozy results.

🌲 Cozy Lifestyle Inspiration: Warm up your home life with recipes, simple living ideas, and peaceful routines that bring calm to your day.

🎨 Cabin Crafts: Explore cozy crafts to keep you busy and entertained.

📍 Social Media: Find lots of inspiration collected in one place. Let’s connect!

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Knit Wasp Nest Decoy

A Free Knitting Pattern from Liz Chandler 🐝

So, I have a problem with wasps. Well, not really a problem; they are great helpers in the garden eating all the aphids. But, when they try to turn my sacred porch space into their new nursery, I get annoyed (or worse, stung). To keep these little stinkers out of my space I’ve designed a knit wasp nest decoy that should be weather-proof.

Last year, I tried the classic “paper bag trick” to keep wasps from nesting near the house. You know the one: crumple a brown paper sack to look like a wasp nest, hang it up, and hope for the best. It worked really well… until it rained. Then it just looked like sad trash blowing in the wind.

A wasp nest decoy made of brown paper works, but doesn't last. Try my knitting pattern to make a more weather-proof knit wasp nest decoy.

This year, I’m declaring war. I’ve been stung too many times, and I’m done playing nice. So I grabbed some UV-resistant paracord and knit myself a proper wasp nest decoy. I stuffed it with a gray trash bag for structure. Now, it’s tough enough for summer storms, realistic enough to fool territorial insects, and, let’s be honest, a lot more fun to make.

Wait… Do Fake Nests Actually Work?

Yes… for the right bugs.

Most hornets, paper wasps, and yellowjackets are extremely territorial. If they see another nest in the area, they usually back off and go find a less “claimed” spot, often hundreds of feet away.

To the wasps? This is an intruder’s home base.
To me? It’s a cozy little hot air balloon decoration with a purpose.

These wasps are great for the garden but terrible for porch living. Keep them from building a nest in unwanted places with a hand knit wasp nest decoy designed by Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

And unlike the paper version, this one:

  • Holds its shape through wind and rain
  • Won’t disintegrate in a week
  • Actually looks like the real thing (but without the buzz and bite)

If you get nests popping up on your home, put up a decoy. It may be just enough to make the wasp change their mind about their spot. Or, you might have to knock these little nests down (if you can’t do it safely yourself, contact a professional). Placing the decoy can make the wasps think whatever lives in the fake hive ruined their nest.

A paper wasp nest begins as a small grey honeycomb like structure.

What It Won’t Do

This won’t repel:

  • Ants
  • Mosquitoes
  • Bees (they’re unbothered by wasps)
  • Termites or ground dwellers

But if your porch or eaves are regular nesting sites for hornets or wasps, this might be just the nudge they need to build elsewhere.

Knit wasp nest decoy hanging on the porch. Get the free pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Where to Hang It

  • Under eaves
  • Porch rafters
  • Barns, sheds, or garages
  • Any spot that’s been a favorite for wasps in the past

Choose a place that’s visible to flying insects but slightly sheltered. Early in the season is best. It is easier to deter wasps before nests are started.

How to Knit this Wasp Nest Decoy Pattern

This quick knit is worked in the round and shaped to mimic the tapered, layered form of a real wasp nest. It’s practical, weirdly charming, and deeply satisfying, especially if you’ve ever flailed around with a broom trying to knock a real one down.

Use a UV resistant nylon paracord for this project to keep it sun and water resistant. I chose a gray color, but light brown also works for this decoy. Then, stuff with a plastic bag to keep it’s shape.

Materials to Knit a Wasp Nest Decoy

Knitting Needles

Double Point Needles (DPNs)

Or Long Circular Needles

Yarn

One 100 Foot Hank of Paracord* (shown Paracord Planet Paracord color Diamonds), in your choice of color.

* Length estimated with Paracord Planet Paracord; other materials may vary. Does not include gauge swatch.

Tools

Gauge 

8 stitches x 10 rows = 4 x 4 inches in Stockinette Stitch on No. 10 (6.0 mm) needles.

Abbreviations

k = knit
p = purl
** = repeat the pattern between the asterisks
M1L = make one left [Pick up the strand between the stitch just worked and the next stitch from front to back with the left needle and knit into the back of it.]
k2tog = knit two together

Paracord and US No. 10 knitting needles will get you started on making your own wasp decoy. Get the free pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Instructions: Wasp Nest Decoy

(measures 6 inches [15.24 cm] tall by 5 inches [12.7 cm] wide)

This project is knit from the top down. Use the Long-Tail Cast On method. Knit in the round. For Double Point Needles, follow DPN instructions written in italics. For circular needles, follow Magic Loop instructions written in bold. If desired, use a stitch marker to keep track of the beginning/ends of your rows/rounds by placing it between the last and first stitch of each row/round.

[Using DPNs or long circular needles] Row 1: Cast on 6 stitches. Divide onto 3 DPNs (2 on each DPN). Or separate stitches on long circular needles for Magic Loop (3 on each side). (6 stitches)

Row 2: Join the round (taking care not to twist stitches) and k 6. (6 stitches)

Row 3: *k, M1L* x 6. (12 stitches)

Row 4: k 12. (12 stitches)

Row 5: *k, M1L* x 12. (24 stitches)

Row 6: k 24. (24 stitches)

Row 7: *k, M1L* x 24. (48 stitches)

Rows 8 – 11: k 48. (48 stitches)

Row 12: *k 2, k2tog* x 12. (36 stitches)

Row 13: k 36. (36 stitches)

Row 14: *k, k2tog* x 12. (24 stitches)

Rows 15 – 17: k 24. (24 stitches)

Row 18: *k, k2tog* x 12. (12 stitches)

Row 19: k2tog x 6. (6 stitches)

Turn wrong-side (purl-side) out.

Cut yarn and draw through remaining 6 stitches.

Bring the yarn tail from the bottom of the project through to the inside up towards the top. Tie both yarn tails together to create a loop that can be used to hang the decoy.

Stuff the decoy with a plastic bag or your desired weatherproof filling.

Printable version of this free knitting pattern

Printable Free Wasp Nest Decoy Knitting Pattern PDF by Liz @PurlsAndPixels

Learn to knit a weatherproof wasp decoy with Liz Chandler's free pattern at PurlsAndPixels.

⚠️ Quick Disclaimer:

This project is a preventive trick, not a full-on wasp removal plan. It may deter hornets, paper wasps, or yellowjackets, especially if used early in the season before nests are built. But if you’ve already got an active infestation, please don’t try to knit your way out of it.
Call a pest control professional to handle the sting-y stuff safely.

Enjoy your relaxing porch time by keeping yellowjackets from building their own nests. Use a decoy knit yourself with a pattern from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Liz Chandler of PurlsAndPixels.

This pattern is for personal use, gifting, and charitable donation of completed items. You may also sell handmade items created using this pattern. Do not copy this pattern and distribute it. If you’d like to share the pattern, refer your friends to my website, purlsandpixels.com so they may obtain a copy.

If you find any errors or have any questions, email purlsandpixels@gmail.com and I will do my best to help.

I’d love to see your finished work! Tag your photos with @PurlsAndPixels on Twitter or Instagram.

☕ Quick & Easy Coffee Cup Cozy: Fun to Knit and Use

🧣Chunky Knit Scarf Pattern: Simple, Quick, and Beautiful

🙏 Gratitude Blanket Pattern: Cozy Comfort for Every Home

🛁 Double-Thick Cotton Washcloth Pattern: Knits Up in No Time

🥾 Quick & Easy Boot Cuffs Knitting Pattern: Cute & Cozy

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Colorado’s False Spring

Learn why Colorado's false spring means you need to wait to plant your garden. Don't let the weather fool you. Read Liz Chandler's gardening tips at PurlsAndPixels.

Hold your Tomatoes, Folks; It’s Not Time to Plant Outside Yet! 🌱❄️

If you’re anything like me, the first warm breeze of Spring makes you itch to get your hands in the dirt. The snow melts, the sun peeks out, and for a moment, it feels like Mother Nature is giving you a green light. Spoiler alert: she’s not. She’s messing with you. Welcome to Colorado’s infamous false spring.

Colorado's false spring can trick you into planting and irrigating a bit too soon... then you get ice coated plants, fences, and trees. Read Liz Chandler's gardening tips at PurlsAndPixels.

What Is a False Spring?

A false spring is that tricky period when warm temperatures arrive early, coaxing plants (and gardeners) out of hibernation; only for a late freeze or snowstorm to swoop in and cause damage. In Colorado, it’s not just a possibility; it’s basically tradition.

We can have 70+°F days in April and still get hit with a blizzard in May. I’ve seen lilacs blooming one day and encased in ice the next. I’ve also seen far too many eager gardeners lose entire crops of tomatoes, squash, and peppers because they planted during this sunny bait and switch.

Yesterday, May 13 was a beautiful 73 degree afternoon. Then the weather app dropped a freeze alert for the next few days. False spring is real.

So When Can I Plant Outside?

The golden rule of all gardening? Wait to plant outside until after your average last frost date. That applies everywhere, but in Colorado, it’s non-negotiable. Especially in the high mountain desert, dry winds, wild temperature swings, and random snowstorms are the norm. That could mean waiting to plant outside until much later than you might expect. In Colorado, for example:

  • Lower elevations (Denver, Pueblo): around May 15
  • Mountain towns (above 7,000 feet or so): usually June 1 or later

I know. It’s painful to wait. But trust me: planting too early isn’t just risky; it’s wasteful. Your starts might survive a frost with row covers, but they won’t thrive. Cold-stunted plants = lower yields and more heartbreak.

⬆️ Not sure of your frost date? Check your local zone here.

Even the trees can be fooled by Colorado's false spring. Even if the fruit trees are blossoming, we can still get a late snow and freeze the buds. Read Liz Chandler's gardening tips at PurlsAndPixels.

What Can You Do Instead?

You don’t have to sit on your hands. Here’s what I do during false spring:

About Those Hoses & Sprinklers

Around here, plenty of home gardeners and ranchers are already watering during the day: sometimes we have to with our dry climate. While ranchers’ irrigation setups can usually handle a bit of freezing, your garden hose and outdoor spigot probably can’t. If you’re watering this time of year, make sure to unhook your hoses and sprinklers at night. A quick dip below freezing is all it takes to crack a faucet or split a hose. It’s one of those little habits that can save you a big headache when real spring finally sticks around.

Irrigation sprinklers often freeze up in the early months of spring. Don't plant outside durring false spring - your garden plants can't tolerate the cold. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Tools I Actually Use (and Love)

Living pretty far from the hardware store, I get a lot of my gardening gear on Amazon. Find a full list of my favorite gardening finds on Amazon (affiliate link):

Shop Liz Chandler's garden tool recommendations like a kitchen top planter, seed kit, or digging tools with these affiliate links.

PSA: Don’t Let the Internet Rush You Planting Too Soon

Every spring, the internet lights up with planting pics, lush gardens, and early harvests from warmer places. Don’t let it fool you into jumping the gun. Just because someone else is posting bean sprouts doesn’t mean it’s planting time here. Use this season to plan, prep, and get inspired. When the nature is ready, you’ll be more than ready to start humming along.

Your full summer garden is just around the corner, flowers, hummingbirds, and all. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Don’t be Fooled by Some Beautiful Spring Weather

If you’re gardening in Colorado, the best thing you can grow in early spring is patience (and maybe some spinach). False spring is beautiful but brutal. So take a breath, sip your coffee, and wait it out.

Then, when the real spring arrives? You’ll be ready; and your plants will thank you.

Snow falling on tulips is a frequent sight in Colorado. False spring tricks plants into blooming, then drops a surprise cold snap, nearly every year. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

🪴 Growing an Indoor Herb Garden

🌱 Planning to Garden This Year? Start Here! 

🌿 Building Your Backyard Garden from Scratch

🥕 Harvesting Carrots: When and How to Pick Your Crop

🌱 Starting Seedlings: A New Year’s Guide

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What to Feed Baby Chicks in a Pinch

Run out of chick starter? Learn what I feed my chicks in a pinch and get my emergency baby chick feed recipe 💞 Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Homemade Emergency Chick Feed from Kitchen Staples🥚

If you have been following along, you already know I just hatched a healthy bunch of chicks. Fifteen out of twenty-four eggs made it, and they are thriving. They are about two weeks old now, and we are well past the yolk sac phase. But this morning, I hit a snag: I ran out of chick starter feed.

Living in a rural area, I cannot exactly dash out for feed at six a.m., so I had to improvise. Here is what I fed my baby chicks using pantry staples. Spoiler alert: they loved it.

Sometimes you run out of chicken feed. Here is what I do….

Emergency Chick Feed Recipe for Baby Chicks 🐥

Ingredients:

  • 1 dozen hard-boiled eggs (including shells)
  • Generous shake of ground cinnamon
  • A few pinches of red pepper flakes
  • A generous pour of dry oats

Instructions:

  1. Boil the eggs until solid, then peel and keep the shells. These are a great source of calcium.
  2. Mash the entire egg, including the shell, with a potato masher until it no longer resembles an egg. The goal is zero recognition. No confusing breakfast for relatives.
  3. Stir in cinnamon and red pepper flakes.
  4. Add dry oatmeal to soak up moisture and provide texture.

This batch made enough for two full feedings for my brooder of hungry chicks.

Keep refrigerated between feedings and use within 24 hours to maintain freshness and prevent spoilage.

Use sparingly and not as a replacement for real chick feed (affiliate link).

Emergency chick feed recipe from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels. Feed sparingly and not as a regular replacement for real chick feed.

Bonus: Adult Chickens Love It Too 🐔

I also give a version of this mash as an occasional treat to my adult chickens. I throw in leftover greens, cooked vegetables, and other healthy kitchen scraps to bulk it up. They go wild for it, and it is a great way to reduce waste while giving them something nutritious and fun to scratch through.

Red Pepper Flakes and Cinnamon? But, Can Chicks Eat Spices? 🌶️

Yes, chickens can eat spicy things, for a very surprising reason. Chickens do not have receptors for capsaicin, the spicy compound found in chili peppers. That means red pepper flakes will not bother them at all. In fact, hot peppers and cinnamon can help deter pests and may even support digestive health. Cinnamon is thought to offer mild immune support and reduce mold growth, making it a handy pantry addition.

Ground cinnamon is a healthy addition to chicken snacks and work in emergency backup chick starter feed. Recipe from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Crushed red pepper flakes are a healthy addition to chicken snacks and work in emergency backup chick starter feed. Recipe from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Add Apple Cider Vinegar to Their Water 🍎

When using a homemade chick feed, it is helpful to add a splash of raw apple cider vinegar (about one tablespoon per quart of water) to their waterer. This may support gut health, boost immunity, and help keep the water clean. However, avoid using it daily. Three to four times a week is plenty.

Why This Works in a Pinch

⚠️ This is not a long-term feeding solution, but it checks the boxes when you are in a bind:

  • Protein: Eggs provide high-quality protein that is essential for early chick development.
  • Calcium: Crushed shells offer calcium to support bone strength. Be sure they are finely mashed to avoid egg-eating habits later on.
  • Spices: Cinnamon and red pepper flakes are natural additives that may help control bacteria and parasites.
  • Oats: Gentle on digestion and good for fiber.
Out of chick starter? Learn what I feed my chicks in a pinch if I can't get to town right away. Get the recipe from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

How Long Is This Safe for Baby Chicks?

This homemade mix can sustain your chicks for up to one or two days. That should be enough time to pick up a proper chick starter feed. Return them to their regular balanced ration as soon as possible.

Rural Living Tip 🏔️

If you can, keep an extra bag of chick starter on hand. But if you run out, do not panic. A dozen eggs and a few pantry basics can help you bridge the gap. Just do not make it your go-to method.

Quick Note from the Coop 🐣

This mix worked well for my chicks, but every flock is different. If something does not sit right with your little fluffballs, please trust your gut and do what feels safest. This is just a stopgap meal shared from one chicken mama to another. This is not veterinary advice.

Out of chick starter? Learn what I feed my chicks in a pinch if I can't get to town right away. Get the recipe from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Did You Enjoy Learning What I Feed Baby Chicks in a Pinch?

Browse more tips, homestead resources, and beginner-friendly gear recommendations right here on the blog.

🐔 The Joy and Practicality of Raising Backyard Chickens

🐥 Where I Keep Baby Chicks

🐤 When to Move Chicks Outside

🪹 What I Did When My Hens Stopped Laying in the Coop

🐻 Keeping Bears Out of the Chicken Coop

📺 Follow PurlsAndPixels on YouTube for More of my Cozy Videos

🧺 Shop my Favorite Chicken Keeping Essentials on Amazon (affliate link)

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DIY Chicken Coop Dust Mask Alternative: Use a Kid’s Worn-Out Shirt for Sustainable Homestead Cleaning

Learn how an old, worn-out kid's shirt can make a excellent dust mask substitute in a pinch. Tip from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels on homestead chicken coop cleaning.

Because sometimes the best gear is already in your laundry pile. 👕

Cleaning the chicken coop is not glamorous, but it is part of the homestead routine. It goes right alongside gathering eggs and keeping an eye on that one suspicious rooster. If you have ever stepped into the coop on a dry day, you know how quickly dust can rise and coat everything, including your lungs. I always wear a dust mask, but this time I was in a pinch and needed an alternative.

This week, I needed a dust mask and did not have one. In search of an alternative, I scoured the house to find something to substitute. What I found was a pile of old kid clothes destined for the rag bag.

Enter: the humble, worn-out toddler tee. This old kid’s shirt made a great dust mask substitute. (And please don’t mind my oh-so-glamorous hairstyle – I am about to clean a chicken coop after all. 💅)

🧼 How to Make a Dust Mask from a Kid’s Shirt

This kid’s shirt dust mask is definitely not Pinterest-perfect. This is real life and ready-to-go. No sewing necessary.

Here is what I did:

  1. Grabbed one of my son’s outgrown cotton T-shirts (bonus points for stains).
  2. Pulled it over my head like a scarf, then up over my nose and mouth.
  3. Tucked the collar over my ears for a snug fit. (No ear loops? No problem.)

And just like that, I had an instant dust barrier. I added a pair of sunglasses to keep the dust out of my eyes, which made the whole setup feel almost intentional. Sure, it is not OSHA-approved, but it kept the coop dander out of my face and let me breathe much easier.

Disclaimer: This setup is no N95, and I doubt it keeps out germs. But for the dusty chore I was doing, it was certainly better than nothing.

👕 Why This Works

  • Cotton is breathable yet still filters most of the floating feathers, fluff, and straw particles.
  • T-shirts are stretchy, so they provide a comfortable fit without pinching.
  • It is reusable. Hose it off, toss it in the laundry, and use it again.
Homestead tip: a worn out toddler shirt works as a dust mask in a pinch. 👕🐣 #homesteadlife

🐣 Bonus Tip

This method also works well when stirring compost, mowing dry fields, or handling dusty hay.

If you are looking for ways to clean your chicken coop without store-bought masks or expensive gear, this easy DIY hack can help you breathe easier and save money.

🌾 Real Homesteading Is About Resourcefulness

You do not need expensive equipment to do the job well. Often, all you need is something clean-ish, soft, and stretchy.

Homestead cleaning hack using kid's shirt and sunglasses a tip from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

And those stained, worn-out shirts that are too rough for Goodwill donations? They are perfect for this task.

Read More

Enjoy homesteading and gardening tips like this dust mask alternative? Explore more small farm content:

🌱 10 Tips for Starting Your Homestead: Simple Steps to Turn Your Dream into Reality

🧰 5 Simple Tips to Keep Your Homestead Running Smoothly (Even When Life Feels Chaotic)

🌸 Defeating Bindweed: A Gardener’s Battle

🥕 Harvesting Carrots

🏡 Cozy Lifestyle Basics: Mountain Living Edition

🧺 Shop Liz’s Favorite Homestead Supplies on Amazon (affiliate link)

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Rustic Living Tips
Learn to Knit

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Homestead Planning

Get homestead planning tips from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels. Download your free planner today!

How to Set Realistic Goals for Your Homestead (and Actually Reach Them) 💪

Homesteading is full of dreams: lush gardens, happy animals, cozy handmade goods, and a pantry stocked for winter. But getting from “dream” to “done” takes more than just hope. It takes planning clear, realistic homesteading goals that actually fit your life.

If you have been feeling overwhelmed, behind, or even a little defeated on your homesteading journey, you are not alone. Setting good goals can make the difference between a homestead that fuels you and one that drains you. (Ask me how I know.) Here is how to do it right.

Want a little extra help? Grab the free Homestead Goal Planner Printable (PDF) to map out your goals as you read!

Freshly picked food is a great reason to start a homestead. Plan yours with the free homestead planning guide from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

1. Start with Your “Why”

Every good homestead goal starts with a reason. Are you trying to eat healthier? Save money? Sell extra produce for a little side income from your homestead? Spent more time in nature?

Knowing your “why” will help you pick homesteading goals that matter to you, not just what everyone else is doing.

What is your homesteading motivation? Use that to help set your goals. Mine is being in nature more. Set your goals with the free homestead planner from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

2. Choose One Focus at a Time

It is tempting to want it all at once: chickens, bees, gardens, goats, fruit trees, sourdough bread, and homemade soap. (One year, I tried all of it at once… and let’s just say, the weeds were the only ones thriving.)

Pick one major homesteading project to focus on first. Maybe this year is the year of “learn to raise chickens” or “build the garden beds.” Let everything else wait until you have mastered your first goal.

Start step-by-step and you'll have a big basket of eggs from your backyard chickens. Get the free homestead planning guide from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

3. Break Big Dreams into Tiny Steps

Big dreams are great. But “grow all our own food” is too big to tackle all at once. Instead, break it down:

  • Build one 4 x 8 foot garden bed
  • Plant 3 easy crops (like lettuce, radishes, and green beans)
  • Learn basic composting skills

Small steps keep the momentum going. Every little win counts when building your homestead.

Little seeds take time to sprout, but it is worth it to help avoid pests on your indoor herb garden.

4. Plan for Setbacks (Because They Will Happen)

Gardens fail. Chickens get sick. Unexpected bills pop up. Homesteading life happens.

The key is to expect bumps in the road. When they come, adjust. (The year I finally planted tomatoes, we had a surprise June frost. You just have to laugh and try again.) A goal delayed is not a goal denied. Stay flexible, and you will stay on track over the long haul.

When setting homesteading goals, plan for mistakes and failures. Nothing is perfect, but that doesn't mean you can't build your dream homestead. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

5. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

Homesteading is not about having a magazine-perfect property. It is about building a life that feels good to you.

Celebrate each step: the first egg, the first tomato, the first day you sit on the porch with a cup of tea from herbs you grew yourself. These wins are what homestead success looks like. (And the world has never ended over crooked rows of carrots.)

Planning your homestead can include raising chickens, eggs, and more. Get your free printable homestead goal planner from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Why Setting Homestead Goals Leads to Long-Term Success

Setting realistic homesteading goals is one of the best ways to grow a successful, fulfilling homestead. Focus on what matters most, break it down into manageable steps, and celebrate every win, big or small.

Your homesteading journey will be messy, muddy, and yours. Start small. Stay steady. Trust yourself. And when you need more practical tips for starting a homestead, managing daily challenges, or keeping your dream alive even when life gets chaotic, I am here to help. 🏡

Free Homesteading Goal Planner

Free Homesteading Goal Planner PDF from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.
Free Homesteading Goal Planner PDF from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

🌿 Don’t forget to download your free Homestead Goal Planner Printable (PDF) to get started!

Get the free Homestead Goal Planner from Liz Chandler at PurlsAndPixels and start planning your perfect homestead.

Read More

🌱 10 Tips for Starting Your Homestead: Simple Steps to Turn Your Dream into Reality

🧰 5 Simple Tips to Keep Your Homestead Running Smoothly (Even When Life Feels Chaotic)

🌸 Defeating Bindweed: A Gardener’s Battle

🥕 Harvesting Carrots

🏡 Cozy Lifestyle Basics: Mountain Living Edition

👕 DIY Chicken Coop Dust Mask Alternative: Use a Kid’s Worn-Out Shirt for Sustainable Homestead Cleaning

Homestead Living Essentials

Home & Garden DIY
Rustic Living Tips
Learn to Knit

✨ Never Miss a Homestead Story 

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Hatching Chicken Eggs

Learn about hatching chicken eggs into baby chicks with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

From Almost Tossed to Tiny Miracles: My First Hatch 🐣

This was not the plan.
It was not even a plan.

I had gone out of town for a few days to celebrate my son’s birthday. When we returned, the hens had been busy: there were eggs everywhere. Not a few… a lot. Some were tucked in corners. Some were still warm. Most were definitely not what you would call “clean.”

Overflowing nest boxes led me to hatch chicken eggs. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

And I almost just tossed them all.

But something about that pile of potential made me pause.

On a whim, equal parts curiosity and defiance, I pulled out 24 of the best-looking eggs and my son and I set up the incubator. We didn’t share what we were doing. I was not sure it would work, and I did not want to get anyone’s hopes up or make them sad if nothing happened.

Setting up an incubator is easy as pie. Then you get to hatch baby chickens in your house! Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Backyard Chicken Breeds and the One Proud Rooster

These were not carefully collected hatching chicken eggs from a breeder. They came from my own eclectic backyard flock, which includes Ayam Cemani, Faverolles, Jersey Giant, Rhode Island Red, and a few mystery hens. The eggs were all completely unique. Some were big, some small, and a few were speckled. There was even one shaped like a football.

Hatching backyard chicken eggs is so exciting. Read about Liz Chandler's experience at PurlsAndPixels.

As for the father, that part was easy. My Jersey Giant rooster is the only guy on the scene: big, bold, and proud of it. He struts like a bodyguard and crows like he is announcing royalty. I am certain every single chick in that incubator is half giant, even if the mamas come from all corners of the feathered world.

Liz Chandler's chicken flock.

I picked the eggs based on shell quality and vibes. That was it.

And then we waited.

A few days later, I candled the eggs for the first time and could hardly believe my eyes… all 24 showed signs of life! Each one was fertilized, and most of them were moving. It felt like the kind of beginner’s luck you shouldn’t question. I was stunned, thrilled, and just a little intimidated by the idea that I might actually be preparing for hatching the chicken eggs into two dozen chicks.

To see if a baby is inside, you candle the chicken egg by placing it on a light. If a baby has started to develop, you'll see little veins, as shown here. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Day 18 Wiggles and a Tiny Powerhouse Chick 🐥

Most chicks hatch at day 21. But, around day 18, one little egg started rocking. Then came the peep. Then the pip.

The tiniest chicken egg in the bunch hatched first. And not just first: it popped out, fluffed up, and immediately started helping its sibling hatch. Like a tiny, damp nurse chick, it gave the other egg a few swift, determined kicks as if to say, “I am not going to be out here alone,” until chick number two emerged.

I thought I would be assisting these babies.

It turns out, they had each other’s backs.

Time to hatch! Happy birthday little baby chickens. 🐣

Newborn Chick Rituals: Egg Cuddles 💛

One of the sweetest, most unexpected things I noticed?
As soon as they hatch, every chick picks an egg to cuddle and dry out on.
Not necessarily their own, just whichever shell they bonded with. It is like they choose a comforting pebble in the chaos, nuzzling into it and falling asleep, wet wings hugging their little egg buddy as if it had already hatched. I’m sure they can hear the faint peeping and movement inside the soon to hatch shells.

It is instinctive. It is soft. And it is one of the most beautiful and adorable things I have ever seen.

Newly hatched baby chicks cuddle the eggs that have pipped while they are still in the incubator. Learn more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

Seven Chicks, Plus a Coffee Break Surprise

By the time I went to bed, two chicks were dry and wreaking havoc in the incubator. I moved them to the brooder so they would not smother their unhatched siblings.

Now that the chicks are dry and fluffy, it’s time to move from incubator to brooder! 🐥

By morning?

Seven.

Seven real, squirmy, perfect little chicks. 🐣

Most of them are black: my baby ravens. I have always wanted to tame a raven, so seeing these tiny black fluffballs peep and wobble their way into the world felt like a dream come true. They might not caw or perch dramatically on my shoulder, but for now, they are my miniature, feathery versions, and I adore them.

One has a blonde streak on her belly and way too much personality already. Another hatched so loudly she scared me half to death, peeping like a car alarm the moment she broke free. Others were quiet, cuddly, and content to nap on top of unhatched eggs while whispering motivational fluff into the shells.

This batch of eggs, fathered by a Jersey Giant rooster is an adorable little flock. Read more with Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

And then… coffee happened.

One hatched while I stepped away to make coffee. Surprise! I came back to find a new chick where there had been an egg just moments earlier. Now eight fluffballs sit where eggs once were. One tiny overachiever kicked off her eggshell while I was making coffee. ☕

A surprise baby chick came from hatching chicken eggs out of the backyard coop! Find out more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

What I Learned From My First Hatch

This hatch was not pristine. The eggs were not washed. The humidity dipped. At least one chick emerged to kicks in the face from it’s impatient sibling.

But it still worked.

It reminded me that sometimes, we do not need ideal conditions. We just need to believe in unlikely beginnings, even if it starts as a pile of forgotten eggs after a birthday weekend.

What is Next for My Backyard Chicks?

More eggs are still in the incubator. I do not know how many more will chicken eggs will be hatching, and I am okay with that. The eight already here are plenty to love.

They eat, sleep, peep, and flop under the brooder plate like tiny potatoes with opinions.
They cuddle unhatched eggs like baby blankets and peep at me like I owe them snacks.

A good boy always protects his babies. 🐶 🐣 💕

If you have been sitting on an idea, a maybe, a what-if… try it.

You never know when a quiet egg will turn into the loudest little peep in the brooder.

Thinking about starting your own backyard flock or hatching eggs for the first time?

Browse my tips, homestead resources, and beginner-friendly gear recommendations right here on the blog.

🐔 The Joy and Practicality of Raising Backyard Chickens

🐥 Where I Keep Baby Chicks

🐤 When to Move Chicks Outside

🪹 What I Did When My Hens Stopped Laying in the Coop

🐻 Keeping Bears Out of the Chicken Coop

📺 Follow PurlsAndPixels on YouTube for More of my Cozy Videos

🧺 Shop my Favorite Chicken Keeping Essentials on Amazon (affliate link)

Don’t Miss a Peep

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How to Sell Handmade Items

Learn about selling handmade knits, crochet, jewelry, and art with tips from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

How to Sell Your Knits, Crochet, and Handmade Items Online or at Craft Fairs (Without Losing Your Mind or Your Profit) 🧺

Thinking about selling your handmade hats, scarves, dishcloths, or other cozy creations? Whether you knit, crochet, weave, or dabble in all things fiber, there is a way to turn your skills into extra income (without totally burning out). If you’re wondering how to start a handmade business or sell your crochet and knitting projects online, you’re not alone. This guide will walk you through how to sell handmade items on Etsy, at craft fairs, and more. It is not about becoming the next craft empire (unless you want to); it is about finding the sweet spot between joy and income.

If you sell handmade items online, be sure you invest in good packaging. It makes a real difference to your customers. Find more tips from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels.

I have sold finished pieces, taught classes, and now I mostly stick to designing patterns and running my own cozy little corner of the internet. I stepped back from selling handmade items full-time because the returns, yarn costs, and time crunch made it tricky. That does not mean you cannot do it, and do it well. With a few smart strategies and realistic expectations, you absolutely can turn your fiber skills into a sustainable side hustle (or more).

Here is what I wish I had known when I started.

What Actually Sells (and Why It Matters) 🧶

What handmade knit and crochet items sell best?

The truth? Not every handmade item is worth selling. Focus on things that are:

  • Small and quick to make (such as hats, dishcloths, and headbands)
  • Useful or giftable
  • Seasonal (such as chunky scarves in fall and cotton washcloths in spring)

Pro tip: Check Etsy, craft fair booths, or social media for bestsellers in your niche. Do not copy, but take notes on what gets attention.

When starting to sell handmade items, research quick makes that you can stock up on like hats, mittens, or even handcrafted jewelry. Read more from Liz Chandler @PurlsAndPixels

Where to Sell Your Fiber Art 🛍️

There are several places to sell handmade items online and in person (including Etsy, craft fairs, and social media marketplaces).

Selling Online

  • Etsy: Great for reaching a global audience. Take time to learn about tags, keywords, and product photography. Visit Etsy to read more about selling online there.
  • Facebook and Instagram: Work best if you already post your makes regularly. Learn more about selling on Facebook and Instagram in their guide.
  • Your Own Website: You are in control of your sales and returns on your own site. Especially if you already have a following, this can be your highest-margin option.
  • Amazon Handmade: Use caution here. While it offers broad visibility, the return policy can be risky for handmade sellers. I once had a hat returned with a jazz CD as a marketing ploy from a musician, and another time, someone returned worn earrings in the wrong box. I was out the fees and could not resell either. On the other hand, it’s great for reaching a global audience if you’re up for the high return rate. 

Selling In Person

  • Craft Fairs: Local and fun, but physically demanding. Invest in a few cute signs and an easy setup.
  • Local Boutiques: Try consignment or wholesale (make sure you read the fine print).
Craft fairs are a fun place to sell handmade items. Make sure you price your items fairly based on your time and materials used. Sometimes, the price will be higher than customers like, but don't shortchange yourself.

Pricing Without Guilt 💸

Do not shortchange yourself just to make a sale. Here is what to consider:

  • Yarn and material cost
  • Hours spent making it
  • Your skill level
  • Market demand

A simple formula: (Materials + Hours Worked × Fair Hourly Rate) × 2 = Retail Price

And yes, your time is worth more than minimum wage.

Returns, Refunds, and Boundary Setting 🚫

Have clear policies and stick to them. Things to include:

  • No refunds on worn or custom items
  • Clear shipping and handling timeframes
  • How to handle lost or damaged packages

If someone pushes back, remember: being kind does not mean being a doormat.

5. How to Stand Out in a Crowded Market 🌟

A few easy ways to shine:

  • Take bright, clean photos (natural light is your friend)
  • Write descriptions like you are talking to a friend
  • Add a thank-you note, care tag, or freebie with each order
  • Use your unique story (your voice matters)

Is Selling Handmade Items a Good Idea?

Selling your handmade work is not for everyone, and that is okay. However, if you feel passionately, go for it! Start small, price fairly, and lead with kindness (to your customers and to yourself).

You are not just selling stitches. You are offering comfort, beauty, and creativity in every piece. And that is always worth something.

Designs You Can Sell

P.S. All of my patterns include a license to sell the handmade items you create from them (no extra fees or hoops to jump through). So if you are ready to start stitching for profit, you are welcome to use my designs! Get my Knitting Guide or Knitting the Simple Things (both books include 15 designs in all the sizes) or find all my digital pattern downloads on my knitting patterns page.

Liz Chandler's Knitting Guide: Learn to Knit with Practical Patterns.

If you’re looking for knitting patterns to sell at craft fairs or online shops, I’ve got you covered. Looking for some beginner-friendly patterns that are perfect for selling? Take a peek at my Knitting Patterns Collection. Simple projects like washcloths, hats, and scarves are great sellers, and they are even better when you make them your own. Try using your favorite yarn colors, add a few pom poms, some embroidery, or a fun tag to stand out. Your creativity is your secret weapon!

Here are five of my top knitting patterns that are especially popular for selling:

🧼 Double-Thick Washcloth Pattern – Quick, practical, and always a favorite at craft fairs. Bonus points if you are also a handmade soap maker (it’s the perfect bundle)!

🧣 Chunky Scarf Knitting Pattern – Quick to knit, extra cozy, and perfect for winter markets.

🧢 Basic Knit Hat Pattern – A wardrobe staple that’s perfect for custom orders.

🐣 Simple Baby Hat Pattern – Great for gifts and baby shower booths.

🧤 Fingerless Gloves Pattern – Stylish and useful, with room to personalize.

Feel free to use your favorite yarns and experiment with color combos. Add pom poms, embroidery, or even a little sparkle. Your handmade items should reflect your personality and style!

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