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Scented Pinecones

Gold, frankincense, and myrrh turn pinecones into gifts fit for a king. Toss them onto hot coals to give the room a rich aroma.

Try this fireplace-friendly project.

• 2- x 2-inch pinecones (about 24)
• Frankincense powder (1/4 cup, approximately 2 ounces)
• Myrrh powder (1/2 cup, approximately 4 ounces)
• Gold glitter (1/4 cup)
• White crafts glue
• Cellophane bags (available from florist or crafts supply store)
• Shallow container, such as a shoebox lid
• Gold filigree ribbon
• Newspapers

1. Prepare the pinecones. Rinse pinecones with water. Lay cones on an old cookie sheet and place in a 300-degree-F. oven for 1 hour. Spread cones out on layers of newspaper and set aside to complete drying. (They'll close tightly when wet and be fully open when dry.)

2. Add scent and glitter. Blend frankincense, myrrh, and glitter in a shallow container. Dab glue on tips of pinecone petals and on bottom of cone. Roll cone in mixture of powder and glitter. Set cones aside to dry.

3. Package for gifts. Put a handful of dried cones in each cellophane bag. Tie bag shut with gold filigree ribbon. Attach a label with a holiday greeting and instructions for using the pinecones.

Directions for use: Remove one or two cones from cellophane wrap and toss onto hot embers. Or set the cones in a dish for a subtly fragrant decoration.