Sewing Up Christmas Tree Needles Makes Scents For You And Your Dog

By Phran Novelli

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - What will you do with your Christmas tree, wreaths, sprays or other greenery displays after the holidays?

You can recycle trees in many communities. Or you can put your tree in a far corner of your yard for birds to enjoy as winter cover. And if you remove the needles first, you can use those scented needles to fill little pillows, block drafts or pad pet beds and help them smell good.

Balsam fir needles - of which many wreaths are made - seem to be the most aromatic, and the needles come off easily when dry. Put the wreath or tree in a big clean plastic bag and shake the needles so they drop down into the bag. Then, pour needles into a zippered pet bed, fill a small pillow cover or sew a small sachet.

To block drafts along windows or doors, sew a long tube of fabric, fill it with needles through a funnel and close both ends.

Super simple ways to upcycle your holiday greens and keep your pets and home cozier - and fresher - all year.