How to make DIY scented pine cones

Pine cones are the ultimate festive decorative display. They're intricate, pretty and a beautiful example of nature's work. Plus, you can probably get your hands on them for free.

But while we love the natural scent of pine cones, they don't last all that long. And let's be honest, the car-freshener smell is gag-worthy. So, we've come up with the perfect project to proudly display some beautiful smelling pine cones. They'll look great in a bowl on your coffee table and they're going breathe some festivity into your home -- quite literally.

Materials
Pine cones
Bowl with water
Baking sheet (and oven)
Tin foil
Plastic bag
Your favorite essential oils

Directions
1. Soak in water

After you've plucked some pine cones from the trees, or picked them up from the store, you need to soak them. Place them in a bowl then pour water on top and let them sit there for about an hour.

By soaking them you help loosen any dirt or tree sap, and you get them ready to dry out so that they last longer.

Now that they've soaked, you need to dry them up. Wipe them off with a towel then place them on a baking sheet with some parchment paper or tin foil underneath. By drying the pine cone out, you're ensuring it will last as long as possible.

Now you're going to toss your pine cones in a plastic bag and add your favorite essential oils. We love the original pine smell mixed with cinnamon and peppermint -- it's festive for the holidays and obviously fitting for a pine cone. Shake the bag well, but gently, so that all the pine cones are covered in the scent. Let sit for one week.

After properly soaking up all that beautiful smell, your pine cones are ready to be displayed and make your home smell wonderful.

What a great idea, right? Don't forget to share this easy diy with your friends on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest!