#DIY Paw Print Menorah for #Hanukkah

Holiday season is finally upon us!  I always get so excited when I start hearing Christmas carols in the stores and seeing menorahs in the windows.  I love all winter holidays, really.  Each holiday is a reason for me to celebrate with friends and family, and let's face it - more food!  With Hanukkah right around the corner, I was inspired to get my paws dirty (literally) and get crafty and create my very own Hanukkah menorah out of salt dough! It is a super fun way to include your pet in the holiday celebrations and make a beautiful keepsake.

Materials (enough to make three small menorahs or one large one)

4 c. All purpose flour
1 c. Salt
1 1/2 c. Warm (not hot) water
Food coloring (color of your choice)
Dog treats or other items to imprint shape of your choice
Parchment paper
Hanukkah candle
Glitter (optional)

Instructions

1.  Preheat oven to 325 degrees.  In a large bowl, combine flour, salt, and glitter.  Stir to combine.

2.  Mix the food coloring into the water [note: it takes A LOT of food coloring to create a deep color.  Keep this in mind].  Pour the food coloring-water mixture into the flour and salt.  Mix well until a dough forms.  The dough should be slightly tacky but not sticky.  Add more flour if needed.

3.  On a piece of parchment paper, roll the dough into a ball and then flatten until about 1/2" thick.  You can use a rolling pin to get a smoother finish.

4.  Press your dog's paws into the center of the circle, one right next to the other.  Make sure to apply a little pressure to ensure that the print is visible.  Wash your dog's paws immediately after finishing the print.

5.  Using a Hanukkah candle, create 9 holes around the paw prints.  Do not press the candle all the way through the dough.

6.  Use the dog treats like a stamp to create additional decorative designs on your menorah.

7.  Transfer parchment paper with menorah onto a baking sheet.  Bake for 1 hour and then turn off the oven.  Leave the menorah in the oven (turned off) over night or until hardened.

8.  Wrap in cellophane to give as a gift to a pet lover in your life or display with your other menorahs to celebrate Hanukkah this year!

9.  Happy Hanukkah!