Rayna Skiver
WriterLocation: MichiganEducation: Michigan State UniversityRayna is a journalist who loves reading, hiking, and attempting to make recipes from Pinterest.
She graduated with a degree in journalism and a minor in environment, science, and health reporting. During her undergraduate years, she wrote for the Spartan Newsroom and the environmental publication, Great Lakes Echo.
More From Rayna Skiver
10 Crochet Hat Patterns That Are Free and Perfect for Anytime of Year
Between bucket hats, beanies, and sun hats, there’s no shortage of cool crochet hat patterns. Keep reading for more design inspiration.Is Pepperoni Safe for Cats? What to Do If Your Cat Gets Into a Pizza Box
In general, cats shouldn’t eat pepperoni — too many risks are involved if not consumed in moderation.Does Bottled Water Go Bad or Expire? Here’s Everything You Need to Know
When stored properly, bottled water doesn’t go bad or expire. Don't let your water go to waste — here are a few steps you can take to keep your water clean.Here’s 5 Reasons Why Your Dog Should Never Eat Pecans, From Vomiting to Liver Damage
No, dogs cannot eat pecans. If your dog consumes pecans, it could lead to various serious health issues. Keep reading to learn more.8 Amazing Earth Day Freebies and Deals You Don’t Want to Miss Out on in 2024
For Earth Day 2024, you can get all sorts of free stuff, as well as discounts and deals from certain sustainable brands. Keep reading for more details.Learn How to Get Rid of Cicada Killer Wasps With These 3 Easy, Effective Methods
To get rid of wasps known as "cicada killers," you can try moist soil, boiling water, or boric acid. Keep reading to learn how to employ these methods.Celebrate Our Planet With These Tasty Earth Day Snacks
Celebrate Earth Day every April with tasty snacks that are not only delicious, but plant-based! Your body (and the Earth) will thank you.Yes, You Can Freeze Watermelon — Here’s a Step-by-Step Guide to Try It at Home
Freezing watermelon is a convenient way to make your produce last longer and to prevent food waste. Here's a step-by-step guide for your next summer treat.How to Get Rid of Aphids Permanently: 3 Simple Methods That Will Get the Job Done ASAP
To get rid of aphids permanently, try removing them by hand, employing other bugs, or homemade pesticides. Stick around to learn more.How to Clean Raspberries and Keep Them Bug-Free: Two Easy and Effective Methods
To get your raspberries nice and clean, white vinegar or baking soda is essential. For step-by-step instructions, keep reading.What Is Macramé? Learn About the Craft’s Basic Techniques and the Best Patterns to Try
Macramé is a type of art that’s comprised of various knots. Keep reading to learn more about the craft, how to start, and what patterns to try.Here’s a Simple Step-by-Step Guide to Washing Weighted Blankets With Glass Beads
If you wanted to wash a weighted blanket with glass beads, you have to clean it by hand. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions.How to Stop Your Dog From Counter-Surfing: 3 Methods for Pet Parents in Need
To stop dogs from counter-surfing, take proactive measures, try alternative behaviors, and stay consistent. Keep reading to learn more.How to Crochet a Triangle: A Quick Tutorial and Beginner-Friendly Project Ideas
To crochet a triangle, you usually need to understand basic stitches. For a more in-depth tutorial, as well as a few project ideas, keep reading.Want to Try Something New? Check out These 12 Fun and Free Macrame Patterns
There are tons of free macrame patterns online. Crafters can make plant hangers, baskets, shelves, curtains, wall hangings, and more.Tired of Chocolate Chip Cookies? Try One of These Unique Cookie Recipes Instead
Forget chocolate chip cookies. Plenty of far more unique recipes are online, from lemon basil sugar cookies to pistachio and cardamom thumbprints.10 Free Crochet Flower Patterns for All Skill Levels, From Beginner to Advanced
Real flowers are always appreciated, but crochet flowers last forever. Keep reading to learn how to make roses, tulips, and more.How to Increase a Stitch in Knitting: 5 Easy Methods for Complete Beginners
To increase a stitch in knitting, you can try the knit front back (kfb), which is one popular method. Keep reading to learn more about increases.What Is M1 in Knitting? Here’s Everything You Need to Know About the Term
The abbreviation “m1” is used to signify a commonly used knitting increase. Keep reading to learn more about this popular technique.10 Super Easy Beginner Crochet Projects That Every Newbie Needs to Try
Want to try a super easy beginner crochet project? Check out patterns for simple items like stars, friendship bracelets, daises, and more.Want to Make Something Simple? Check Out These 10 Easy Crochet Projects
Complex patterns are fun, but sometimes an easy crochet project is just what you need. Keep reading to learn how to make flowers, bandanas, and more.How to Weave in Ends While Knitting: 5 Easy and Effective Methods to Try
There’s more than one way to weave in your ends while knitting. Many people choose to weave the yarn through their project using a stitch.Have Some Leftover Yarn? Check Out 10 Free Stash Buster Crochet Projects
It’s common for crocheters to have a ton of leftover yarn lying around. Here are some easy stash buster crochet projects to put it to use.How to Crochet a Heart: An Easy, Step-by-Step Tutorial for Beginners
To crochet a heart, start with a magic ring and continue working in rounds. Here's a step-by-step tutorial for beginners.Is Charcoal Ash or Wood Ash Better for Plants? Everything You Need to Know
Charcoal ash isn’t terrible for plants, but wood ash is usually a better alternative. Keep reading to learn about using ash in the garden.How to Block Crochet: What It Is, Why It’s Important, and 3 of the Most Common Methods
Steaming, spraying, and wet blocking are the three most common methods. To learn how to give these crochet techniques a try, keep reading.Is Beer Good for Plants? Why It Might Not Be the Best Idea to Rely on Alcohol in the Garden
Usually, beer isn’t good for plants, but there might be a few benefits when used sparingly. Keep reading to learn all of the pros and cons.Are Coffee Grounds Good for Tomato Plants? How Your Morning Joe Can Help (or Harm) the Garden
Coffee grounds are good for tomato plants in moderation. Keep reading to learn about the pros and cons of using these leftovers in your garden.Your Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Chunky Knit Blanket: No Tools Needed
To make a chunky knit blanket, all you need is some yarn. No tools are required. Stick around for an easy, step-by-step project guide.What Is a Magic Loop? How to Master This Handy Crochet Technique in No Time
A magic loop, also known as a magic ring or circle, is a crochet technique that is typically used to start a pattern. Read on to learn more.Is Rice Water Good for Plants? This Hack Might Give Your Plants an Extra Boost
Rice water can be a great nutrient source for plants in moderation. Stick around to learn how to add these nutrients to your home garden.How to Wash Your Precious Crochet Blanket Without Ruining It: A Detailed Guide
You can wash a crochet blanket in the washing machine, but you have to be extra careful. Keep reading to learn all the necessary details.How to Crochet a Beanie: An Easy Step-by-Step Tutorial for Beginners
To crochet a beanie, all you need is a good tutorial and some basic supplies. Keep reading to learn how to make your first row and increase stitches.Kick off Your Crafting Journey With One of These Eco-Friendly Crochet Kits for Beginners
These easy crochet kits from Target, Etsy, and more, are eco-friendly and perfect for beginners. Stick around to learn more about these kits.10 Super Quick Crochet Projects That Can Be Completed in One Hour or Less
Short on time? You can crochet coasters, bookmarks, hats, and more in less than an hour. Keep reading to learn more about these quick projects.Is Crocheting Hard? Here’s Everything You Need to Know Before Giving the Craft a Try
Like most crafts, crocheting comes easily to some, but might be challenging to others. Keep reading to learn more about the basics of crochet.10 Free Christmas Crochet Patterns to Help You Get Into the Holiday Spirit
Looking for the best free Christmas crochet patterns? Keep reading to learn how to make garlands, stockings, ornaments, and more.Is It Illegal to Collect Rainwater? Why Some States Don’t Allow It
It’s not against federal law to collect rainwater. However, it’s important to note that some U.S. states have restrictions in place.Here’s Why the Roof of Your Mouth Might Hurt — and When to See a Doctor
Dry mouth, burns, canker sores, and tooth infections can all cause the roof of your mouth to hurt. Keep reading to learn more about these conditions.Spider Plants Might Not Be Toxic to Cats or Dogs, but You Should Still Be Wary
Spider plants aren’t toxic to cats or dogs. However, that doesn’t mean that the plant should become your pet’s favorite snack.How to Make a Snuffle Mat for Your Dog or Cat: 5 Fun Ideas and DIYs to Check Out
These DIY snuffle mats for dogs are simple to make and will greatly benefit your pet. You just need a towel or some fabric to start.Yes, Tofu Is Vegan — Here’s Everything You Need to Know About the Plant-Based Product
Tofu is completely vegan. This plant-based product is also vegetarian-friendly and most varieties are gluten-free. Keep reading to learn more.Don’t Know What to Do With Your Leftover Pumpkin? Check Out These 10 Fun Ideas
There’s no need to waste your leftover pumpkin. Instead, make pumpkin cream cold foam, create a sugar scrub, or add it to a simmer pot.Is Vegan Pizza a Healthier Alternative to a Classic Slice of Pepperoni or Cheese?
In general, vegan pizza is healthier than most traditional options found on menus. However, not everyone agrees on what’s considered healthy.15 Silly Greta Thunberg Memes That Every Climate Advocate Can Relate To
Greta Thunberg is a serious environmental activist, but she’s also the inspiration behind some great, unforgettable memes. Check them out here.These 8 Nutritious Lick Mat Recipes Will Keep Your Dog Happy and Healthy
Ingredients like peanut butter and pumpkin will keep your pet happy and healthy. Check out these eight nutritious lick mat recipes for dogs.Can a Cultural Tradition Excuse Animal Cruelty? Exploring the Ethics of Bullfighting
Despite how cruel bullfighting is, it’s still allowed in certain cities and countries worldwide. Sometimes even animal welfare laws can’t end it.10 Surprising Uses for Peppermint Oil, From Reducing Stress to Hair Growth
Peppermint oil can be used to get rid of pests, clean the house, treat cold symptoms, reduce stress, flavor foods, and more.10 Things You Can Do With Those Old Jeans in the Back of Your Closet
Found some old jeans in your closet? Try a few DIYs, consider upcycling, or see if you can recycle them.Sustainable Boo Basket Ideas for Your Eco-Conscious Besties
To create a sustainable boo basket, try finding a basket at the thrift store, making homemade treats, and including items that can be reused.