DIY ideas that serve as fun holiday projects to enjoy with family and friends, but also great gifts to give and receive! Crafting Legal Excellence
2024 HOLIDAY E-BOOK
2024 HOLIDAY E-BOOK Crafting Legal Excellence
At Morse, we're longtime fans of finding creative solutions , so it should come as no surprise that we love these creative DIY gift options that can serve as festive activities to work on with friends and family (or to indulge in on your own!) And while we believe the best gifts are thoughtful gestures that often come from your own two hands, when it comes to your legal needs don't do it yourself . Let us assist you! We've been finding creative solutions to legal issues for more than 30 years . We think there’s something for everyone in our e-book, but if you’re not the crafty type feel free to share it with someone you know will enjoy it. Use the icons below to share, print, email, or download! Spread the holiday cheer!
PROJECTS 1
9
SARAN WRAP BALL
HOMEMADE VANILLA EXTRACT
11 10 12 13
3 2 4 5
CHOCOLATE STRAWBERRY PANCAKE MIX
HOLIDAY DOG COOKIES
HOT CHOCOLATE STIRRING STICKS
DIY IRISH CREAM
DIY COOKIE MASON JARS
DIY BIRD FEEDER
LIP BALM LOCKET
PEPPERMINT HOT COCOA MIX
6 8 7 PERSONALIZED BEDSIDE TABLE SNOWMAN BATH BOMBS HOMEMADE LIMONCELLO
14 16 15 SUGAR SCRUB SAND ART RED WINE INFUSED SALT HOMEMADE PLAYDOUGH
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
2 rolls of saran wrap (the cheap kind is fine, maybe even holiday- colored?!)
2 dice (for game play) Several small treasures
HOW TO DO IT
Roll out a length of saran wrap and begin by adding your best treasures (think lottery tickets or gift cards). 1. Roll the items in saran wrap to begin making a ball shape and cut the wrap after each 1-2 items. (Easier edit: Keep wrapping WITHOUT cutting). 2. To make the ball round, rotate the ball while rolling, wrapping in different directions as you go. 3. Continue to add items until all have been rolled into the ball. Adding extra lengths of saran wrap along the way will make the game harder! 4. TO PLAY: Seat participants in a circle. One person begins with the ball, while the person to their left holds the dice. The person with the ball unwraps as much as they can while the person to the left tries to roll doubles. When that person rolls doubles, the dice and the ball get passed to the left. Everything that falls out during that person’s turn, is theirs. The game ends when the last prize falls out.
This has become a Christmas Eve tradition in my family! Whether you substitute it for your usual gift-giving or add it to your holiday routine, everyone will come away with a variety of treasures (some silly, some serious!). We often include lottery tickets, candy, ornaments, nuts, hand warmers, cocoa packets, post-it notes, floss, gift cards, ChapStick, hand lotion, jerky, and more! Jaclyn Braga Saran Wrap Ball
DIRECTOR OF MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
2 c. whole wheat flour (you can substitute with regular flour for a whiter dough) 2 c. rolled oat flour 2 eggs 2 tbsp. melted coconut oil 1 c. unsweetened applesauce 1 tbsp. vanilla extract Food coloring
As a relentless dog rescue advocate and general animal lover, I have always included my furry family members in holiday celebrations. Some aspects they enjoy (cookies, leftovers, snuggles by the fire), and others they don’t (the obligatory photos in reindeer antlers and sweaters or Halloween costumes). I knew they would love these homemade dog cookies, so I made plenty for them and plenty to share with family and friends who have furry Holiday Dog Cookies
HOW TO DO IT
Preheat oven to 350 º 1. Combine all ingredients in food processor or stand mixer. Add flour as necessary until dough is no longer sticky and is ready to roll out. 2. For different colored dough, divide into separate bowls and add natural food coloring. 3. Keep dough covered to prevent drying between batches. You can rehydrate dough with a little coconut oil as needed. 4. Roll and cut dough into desired shapes. I patted them into a silicone mold to make them smaller and thicker. 5. Bake at 350 º for 20 minutes and let cool. 6.
pals. Bonus: my grandchildren were able to help me make and package them, adding to the festivity!
Lisa Warren MANAGING PARTNER, PATENT ATTORNEY
Note: This dough refrigerates up to a week and freezes for 3 months.
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
3 c. semi-sweet mini chocolate chips 4 oz. 60% cocoa baking bar (broken into small pieces) 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk
½ c. heavy cream Mini marshmallows Crushed candy canes Popsicle sticks ADDITIONAL SUPPLIES:
15 square silicone molds 1.5x1.5x1.5" per square (I used 3), piping bags, and clear plastic bags with twist ties. Makes ~45 hot chocolate sticks (22 servings)
This is the perfect DIY project because I love gifting “a cup of cheer” (hot chocolate is great on a cold winter night) and also because it can be combined with “some corn for popping” for a sweet and salty duo! One serving equals two chocolate squares for a 10-12 oz. mug. Add whole milk to a microwave safe mug, and microwave on high for 2-2.5 min. Then, stir in two hot chocolate sticks and enjoy! Paige Zacharakis LITIGATION ATTORNEY Hot Chocolate Stirring Sticks
HOW TO DO IT
Place silicon molds on a rimmed baking sheet. 1. In a medium saucepan, add condensed milk and heavy cream and heat on medium for 3-4 min. until it reaches 120-130 º . 2. Add chocolate and let it sit, undisturbed, for 3-4 min. 3. Whisk mixture until it makes a smooth chocolate sauce. 4. Transfer chocolate mixture into piping bag (or large re-sealable bag with the corner cut) and pipe into the silicone mold until ¾ full. 5. Place one stick into each square and top with marshmallows or crushed candy cane. 6. Place tray into freezer for at least 3 hours or overnight. 7.
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
(ingredients are per jar) Mason Jar (Quart Size) 1 ½ c. all-purpose flour ½ tsp. baking soda 1 tsp. baking powder 2 pinches of salt
⅓ c. light brown sugar ½ c. granulated sugar 1 c. M&Ms or chocolate chips Holiday-themed fabric for top of mason jar (optional) Paper and ribbon for labels
Cookie Making Instructions (to be put on the label): In a large mixing bowl, mix ½ cup of melted butter, 1 large egg plus 1 egg yolk, and 1 tsp. of vanilla extract. Add the contents of mason jar into mixing bowl and stir until combined. Place small rounded cookie balls on an ungreased baking sheet or pan lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350 º for about 8-10 mins. (or until golden). Let the cookies cool for 5-10 mins. on a wire rack. Enjoy with friends and family (or yourself – you’ve earned it)! Elizabeth Resteghini CORPORATE ATTORNEY DIY Cookie Mason Jars
HOW TO DO IT
TO ASSEMBLE THE JAR (PACK INGREDIENTS TIGHTLY): Layer into the bottom of a mason jar the flour, sugar, baking soda, baking powder, and salt. 1. 2. Next, layer in the brown sugar. Then, layer in the M&Ms /chocolate chips. 3. Seal with a lid and decorate with fabric on top. 4. Add a fun label that includes directions for making cookies. 5.
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
2 tbsp. beeswax pellets 1 tbsp. coconut oil (use refined if you don’t want a coconut smell mixed in with your fragrance) 5 drops of cinnamon leaf essential oil (don’t use cinnamon BARK oil on your skin, so make sure it’s cinnamon LEAF) ADDITIONAL SUPPLIES: Craft locket, chain, and jump ring to make a long necklace (or buy one pre-made) Double boiler or glass heat-proof bowl and saucepan Pourable container with a spout
Lip Balm Locket
HOW TO DO IT
Add beeswax and coconut oil to a glass heat-proof bowl or double boiler. 1. Place your bowl or double boiler over water at medium boil, melting contents and stirring every so often. 2. While that melts, open your locket and prop it up with tape so that one side is flat and level. Once your oil and wax is melted, take off heat and cool slightly. 3. Add cinnamon essential oil and stir. Pour your mixture into a container that has a spout. 4. Pour mixture into half of the locket and allow to cool completely and solidify. Repeat on other side. 5. If the mixture in your pourable container solidified before you got to pouring the second half, just remelt. Once you balm solidifies, your locket is ready to wear! 6.
My daughter and I have always loved to do projects together, and this one was easy to fit into our busy schedules. We went with matching pendants, but you can customize the container and the flavors.
Amanda Schreyer MARKETING, MEDIA & ENTERTAINMENT ATTORNEY
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
1 piece of unfinished furniture ( e.g., chair, little table, stool, etc.) Acrylic paint Decoupage paper Decoupage “glue” (such as “Decou-Page” by Americana, which is a combination glue, sealer, and finish or Modge Podge) Water-based clear polyurethane sealer (if not using a combination product) Paint brush and foam brush OPTIONAL SUPPLIES: Mosaic pieces ( e.g., stone, glass, ceramic, etc.) and glue
The summer after college, I worked as an actor in a summer stock theater in Vermont. I lived with a talented artist and her two children. Every surface of every wall was covered with art (often made by her or the children) and nearly every item in the house was painted - even the broom! I was inspired by the sense of fun, creativity, and joie de vivre in her home. I feel that every time I make something, and I hope that you do, too! Personalized Bedside Table
HOW TO DO IT
NB – Before embarking, befriend the people who work at your local arts and crafts store and tell them what you have in mind. They will give you great advice. I love PlayTime in Arlington, MA! Paint your piece of furniture with acrylic paint and let dry completely. 1. 2.Rip or cut your decoupage paper. Apply paper on your furniture with decoupage glue. I like using a foam brush to smooth out the paper. 3. After paper is affixed, apply a water-based clear polyurethane sealer. (If using a combination product such as Decou-Page by Americana, apply a final coat of that product.) 4. 5.Let dry completely. If desired, glue mosaic pieces for further decoration. 6.
Faith Kasparian PRIVACY & DATA SECURITY ATTORNEY
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
8 medium - large organic lemons 4 c. 95% high proof alcohol - such as vodka 5 c. water
2.5 lbs. white sugar Glass jar or bottle Strainer/colander Time!
HOW TO DO IT
It may take some patience but this is an easy and delicious way to sip on something refreshing to feel like you’re on a boat in Italy this winter! Enjoy! Homemade Limoncello
Wash lemons and peel the yellow part of skin, making sure not to extract too much of the white part. 1. Place the peels in a large glass jar or bottle and add alcohol. 2. Close lid securely and place in a dark place. Infuse for 25 days. 3. After 25 days use strainer/colander to strain into bowl. 4. Heat water on stove at medium heat. When you see small bubbles starting to appear (but not boiling), add sugar. 5. Stir the mixture until sugar melts, then turn off heat. Continue to stir for 3-5 minutes. 6. When water is warm, add lemon infused alcohol and stir for 2 more minutes. 7. Allow it to cool to room temperature, then using a funnel carefully ladle the limoncello into glass bottles. 8. Cover and place in the fridge to cool for a few hours, then it’s ready to serve! 9.
Kayla Castellucci MARKETING & BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT SPECIALIST
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
1 c. baking soda ½ c. citric acid ½ c. Epsom salt ½ c. cornstarch 3 tbsp. coconut oil, melted
10-20 drops fragrance or essential oil 2 tbsp. water or witch hazel, in spray bottle ½ tsp. activated charcoal powder ½ tsp. orange mica powder ¼ tsp. rubbing alcohol Bath bomb molds or plastic ornaments
My kids had an absolute blast creating these! From mixing the ingredients, adding colors and scent, to shaping the snowmen, their creativity truly came alive. They loved adding little details and making each snowman unique and full of personality. The best part was watching their creations fizz and dissolve in the bath, filling the air with delightful scents and lots of giggles. It was a fun, hands- on activity that combined crafting, science, and festive cheer – a perfect way to spend a rainy morning together! Snowman Bath Bombs
HOW TO DO IT
In a large bowl, mix baking soda, salt, citric acid, and cornstarch; stir until combined. 1. Melt coconut oil and stir in fragrance or essential oils. 2.
3.
Carefully combine the wet and dry ingredients. Be careful not to add too much liquid at once or the citric acid reaction will bubble! Squeeze the mixture to test if it will stick together. If not, spray with 1-2 spritzes of water or witch hazel, mix well, and test again. Repeat until you reach the desired consistency.
Joe Hunt CORPORATE & TAX ATTORNEY
Fill half of the mold with mixture, pressing down to fill completely. Fill the other half of the mold, and press both halves tightly together. Allow to dry 24 hrs before unmolding. 4. To make the snowman faces, mix a small amount of charcoal powder with rubbing alcohol at a 2:1 ratio. Use a paintbrush to carefully add black “coal” dots. Repeat the process with orange mica to create a carrot nose. 5.
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
6 whole vanilla beans 1 c. vodka 8 oz. jar with lid
HOW TO DO IT
Cut the vanilla beans in half lengthwise with scissors or a knife. Leave a bit intact at the end if desired. Cut the beans down to fit the height of your jar if necessary. 1. Put the beans in an 8 oz. jar. Cover with the vodka. Tighten the lid and give it a good shake. 2.
Homemade Vanilla Extract
3.
Place in a cool, dark place and let sit for at least 2 months. The longer the vanilla sits, the stronger the flavor will be. While it's sitting, give the jar a shake every week, or as often as you can remember.
I chose to share this recipe because I like to use it in baking and in cocktails. A couple of drops in pancake batter really brings out the flavor.
Mike Cavaretta LICENSING & COMMERCIAL CONTRACTS ATTORNEY
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
FOR THE MIX: 1 ½ c. all-purpose flour ¼ c. sugar 1 ½ tsp. baking powder
½ tsp. baking soda ¼ tsp. kosher salt ½ c. chopped freeze-dried strawberries ½ c. chocolate chips ½ c. sweetened shredded coconut
½ c. chopped walnuts ½ c. buttermilk powder FOR THE PANCAKES: 1 jar Pancake Mix 1 egg
Chocolate Strawberry Pancake Mix
1 ¼ c. water 1 tsp. vanilla 2 tbsp. butter
One of my favorite holiday traditions is a big Christmas morning breakfast. When our extended family can’t all be together, I like to stir up some of these Chocolate Strawberry Pancake Mix in a jar to send out as gifts, and then on Christmas morning everyone can make the same breakfast and feel like we are celebrating together. I’m always sure to make extra for teachers and hostess gifts, Judy Truglia DIRECTOR OF ADMINISTRATION & FACILITIES as an easy way to spread the yummy cheer!
HOW TO DO IT
TO ASSEMBLE THE JAR:
Whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, and salt. 1. In a 1-quart jar, layer flour mixture, strawberries, chocolate chips, coconut, walnuts, and buttermilk powder. 2. TO MAKE THE PANCAKES: Whisk 1 egg, 1 ¼ cups water, and 1 1. tsp. vanilla in a large bowl. Add Pancake Mix and stir with wooden spoon until combined. Heat a griddle over medium heat and coat with 2 tbsp. butter. Scoop ¼ cupfuls of pancake batter onto hot griddle and cook until golden brown, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Serve with butter and maple syrup.
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
1 ⅔ c. Irish whiskey ⅕ c. Coffee Liqueur or ½ tsp. instant coffee (optional) 1 tsp. Unsweetened cocoa powder 1 c. Heavy whipping cream 1 14 oz. can sweetened condensed milk ½ tsp. almond extract
HOW TO DO IT
DIY Irish Cream
1.
Blend (or whisk in a large bowl with pouring spout): cream, whiskey, and coffee liqueur (if using). When using the blender, be sure to only use the pulse setting or
This DIY Irish Cream is a super simple recipe and the hardest part may be getting it into the bottles or taste testing too much along the way. When I was a kid my mom used to make these as hostess gifts for holiday parties. Although she would always make me a kid friendly batch, I was desperate to try the grownup version…especially because I knew I wasn’t allowed to! You can keep these in the fridge over the holidays for a last minute gift or a treat to enjoy with company – or alone! Cheers! Justin Emery COMMERCIAL CONTRACTS ATTORNEY
blend on low for short bursts because you don’t want the mixture to turn into whip cream. Add the remaining ingredients to the mixture and blend or whisk to combine. 2. 3. Funnel into bottles or mason jars. 4. Refrigerate and enjoy! SERVING SUGGESTIONS: Make any coffee “Irish”, boozy milkshakes, pour over ice cream, or on the rocks!
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
5 pcs. of 4mm thick acrylic: (2) 12cm x 5cm, (2) 22cm x 15cm, (1) 23cm x 15cm Gorilla Contact Adhesive Clear Cutting mat Acetone (nail polish remover) Stanley knife Metal ruler Workbench and clamps Marker pen Drill and drill bits
HOW TO DO IT
I am a huge animal lover and enjoy feeding the birds, especially in the winter when they have a tougher time finding insects. I was surprised at how easy this was! The glue is easy to apply and bonds the acrylic quickly. It’s literally a case of sticking it together and letting it dry! Don’t be worried if it looks complex – you can do this. Laurie Barron SENIOR STAFF ACCOUNTANT DIY Bird Feeder
Cut one 22cm x 15cm piece in half to make the sloped roof: Draw a diagonal line that crosses the mid- point of the 22cm x 15cm acrylic piece by measuring 13cm up one of the long edges, 9cm up the other long edge, and drawing a line from one point to the other. 1. Line up a metal ruler with this line and clamp both the ruler and the acrylic to your workbench. Use a Stanley knife to score the line. When the line is almost all the way through, snap the acrylic in half. Smooth raw edges with a metal file. 2. Glue the base (22cm x 15cm) and the two short sides (12cm x 5cm). First, wipe with acetone to remove any dirt. Let dry for a few seconds. 3. Apply adhesive to both surfaces to 4.
be joined. Press the two acrylic pieces together. Position them
correctly, then hold in place for two mins, maintaining pressure. Wipe any excess adhesive with a dry cloth. Leave to dry for 24 hrs. Repeat for all other acrylic pieces, until you’ve constructed your bird feeder.
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
1 c. unsweetened cocoa powder 1 c. powdered milk 1 c. milk chocolate chips ¾ c. chopped hard peppermint candies 1 c. mini marshmallows 1 qt. jar
What better way to stay warm in the winter than with a big cup of hot cocoa? Hot chocolate has always been a staple sweet treat in my family, especially after days full of skiing, sledding, or just being out in the snow. This mix is even better than your traditional hot cocoa, with a tasty peppermint twist - plus it's even more fun to make! Neve Thompson SOCIAL MEDIA AND COMMUNICATIONS COORDINATOR Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix
HOW TO DO IT
TO ASSEMBLE THE JAR: In a 1-quart jar, layer cocoa powder, powdered milk, chocolate chips, peppermint candies, and mini marshmallows. TO MAKE THE HOT COCOA: Whisk the Peppermint Hot Cocoa Mix with 4 cups cold water in a medium saucepan. Cook over medium-low heat, whisking, until warm and smooth and the candies and marshmallows are melted, 6 to 8 minutes (do not let the mixture boil). Ladle into mugs. Makes 6 to 8 servings.
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
Granulated white sugar Coconut oil Gel food colors
Optional: Your choice of essential oils for scenting (Favorites include Chamomile, Lavender, Tea Tree) Airtight containers for storing, such as Mason Jars
HOW TO DO IT
Sugar Scrub Sand Art
Combine 3 parts sugar with 1 part coconut oil (with a few drops of essential oil, if desired) 1. If you want the scrub to be a bit creamier, mix in extra coconut oil. 2. Add as much or as little essential oil as you’d like to scent the scrub. It won’t hinder the outcome of the consistency. 3. Once you’ve made the base scrub, you can start coloring it. Spoon in gel food coloring and mix with your hands. The more colors you make the more diverse your sand art! 4. Experiment with creating light and dark colors by adjusting the amount of food color. You can also mix and match colors to get additional shades. 5. Once you’ve made all your colors, layer them into a glass container. Firmly press each color into place before moving onto the next one. 6. Use sugar scrubs as you would with any exfoliator. 7.
My kids love any hands on activity, and if it’s something that they can continue to use for days or weeks after making it, all the better. The layering of different colors of sugar sand and adding in different scents allows for personalization of the scrub. I recommend using a good jar for storing the scrub once made so it lasts longer! Erin Bryan PATENT ATTORNEY
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
1 c. all-purpose flour 1 c. water ½ c. salt 2 tbsp. cream of tartar 1 tbsp. vegetable oil Optional mix-ins: 1 tbsp. glitter ½ tsp. peppermint extract + a few drops of food coloring
Making homemade playdough with my kids is a fun, hands-on activity perfect for a rainy (or snowy) day. It's super easy to customize with different colors, scents, and textures, making each batch unique. Plus, it’s affordable and made from common ingredients most have on hand at home already! Amanda Thibodeau EMPLOYMENT ATTORNEY Homemade Playdough
HOW TO DO IT
1.
Mix the flour, water, salt, cream of tartar, and vegetable oil in a large saucepan and cook, stirring constantly, for 4-5 minutes until the dough is thick and no longer sticky.
Allow to cool 5 minutes before playing. 2. Optional: Add glitter OR peppermint extract and food coloring to the cooled dough and fold until fully incorporated. 3. 4. Store in an airtight container.
morse.law
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
1 Bottle red wine (not the most expensive, but also not cooking wine) A full-bodied wine with a high alcohol content will give your salt a bright color. If you want it to be a lighter pink color, choose a medium- bodied wine with about 6% alcohol. 1 – 1 ½ c. of Coarse Sicilian Sea Salt or Kosher Salt
HOW TO DO IT
Hands down, this savory flavor enhancer is one of my favorite kitchen items. Use it as a rub to elevate your BBQ or as a finishing touch in salads. Any full-bodied, tannic red wines will do and, while I love using coarse salt, you can use finer salt as well. Cheers! Scott Bleier CORPORATE ATTORNEY Red Wine Infused Salt
1.
Simmer wine for 20-30 mins on a medium flame to reduce to near syrupy liquid. Watch closely; consistency changes quickly near the end. Reduction times vary. Don’t worry if you need a few extra minutes.
Let the wine reduction cool completely. 2. Add the reduction to the salt, stirring in gently, a bit at a time until fully absorbed. (You can always add more salt if it appears too watery.) 3. Spread salt mixture onto a plate or baking sheet to let dry. Smooth out all clumps so that it can dry thoroughly. 4. If it’s sunny weather, place baking sheet in the sun to let air dry for a day. Or, simply leave the baking sheet in the oven (turned off) until dry. 5. If the salt doesn’t go completely dry, you can still use it. Place in an air tight jar. Gift and enjoy! 6.
morse.law
WISHING YOU A JOYFUL HOLIDAY SEASON AND A PROSPEROUS NEW YEAR! Your friends at Morse
Be sure to share, print, email, or download! Spread the holiday cheer!
morse.law
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20Powered by FlippingBook