Give your Cowgirl something special this Christmas!

October 9, 2014 - posted by Rose Marion

Whether your gal loves horses more than she loves you (!) or she just loves remembering the days she spent growing up on a farm as she looks through the pages of Western Horseman, you’ll find her the perfect gift this year at Smith & Edwards.

Marty Thompson would know, he’s been our Western department buyer for over 2 decades and he’s seen what lights up a lady’s eyes in his department…

She’ll love jewelry by Montana Silversmiths

This western-inspired jewelry is a gift she’ll treasure and love to wear.

These are two of our Montana Silversmiths bestselling sets: Pistols and “Girls with Guns”…

Give a Sparkle with Rock 47 Jewelry

This fun line of jewelry is from Rock 47 by Wrangler. Lots of color and silver at a great price.

Bex Sunglasses

Whether she’s a barrel racer or you want to get matching pairs for your and your sweetie, your gal will love you for getting her a pair of Bex.

These polarized sunglasses are built for protecting you from the sun when you’re on your horse. Lightweight and comfortable, Bex will keep harsh glaring rays and dust out of your eyes.

Country Sayins Signs

Country sayings on wooden signs - fun Western gift idea!

(click to read the signs better)

Not all these signs have real country sayings on them, but they do make us laugh. Great for your mudroom, tack room, or garage too!

Rustic Magnets, Steak Brands, and House Numbers

Rustic Ironwerks makes these darling metal items to decorate your fridge and front porch with.

Here’s our address in rustic numbers…

You’ll find rustic home numbers and wall hooks here online.

Plus these steak brands are so fun – they let you label your steaks with your initials, or brand Rare, Medium, or Well done. Get her a set of steak brands and you can use it when you barbecue!

Steak brands and Western magnets make great gifts… get yours here.

Mini and Regular steak brands - Western Gifts

There are both regular and mini steak brands to play with!

Wild Rags

100% silk scarves are a must-have for Western riders, and they are perfect gifts for both gents and gals.

You can never have too many scarves, and they have so many uses. Besides looking pretty, they also keep you warm in the winter, cool in the summer (wicking sweat), and can keep dust out of your nose… even repair a cinch or strain water if you need it out on the trail. Handy little things that are lightweight and so pretty. Browse silk scarves here.

If you don’t know how, here’s how to tie a silk scarf like a buckaroo!

Stoecklein Calendars and Datebooks

These are breathtaking pictures that will take you right back to the pasture in golden sunlight. Stunning pictures by David Stoecklein fill the pages of these calendars and datebooks – these make amazing gifts. You can also use the datebook as a journal.

Western Music

If your gal loves guitar and songs sung round the campfire, you can’t go wrong with a Western music CD.

Far from what country’s on the radio these days, you’ll find authentic buckaroo and cowboy music in our CDs – we even have many of them online to browse!

If you’re looking to get started, local Ogden artist Brenn Hill is a great musician to try out. And you’ll find lots more musicians including Michael Martin Murphey and Waddie Mitchell. Check out Western music online here!

Saddles and Tack

Well, if you can’t figure out what else suits her, get her a saddle! She’ll love ya for it, promise. There’s a huge selection of saddles at Smith & Edwards and we also have a great layaway program.

Get her that much closer to a great fit on her horse. Marty has lots of saddles and we also make a large catalog of trail riding and packing bags as well as headstalls, cinches, and other tack. Bring her in or surprise her with some quality leather goods made right here at Smith & Edwards.

Get it delivered!

We’ll ship your gifts to any US address or get it ready for free in-store pickup… just let us know what you’d like! And just think how far ahead you’ll be… save December for relaxing with the ones you love, not last-minute shopping! Select gifts above are available online are shown in green.

Special this week only: Free Leather Keychain!

That’s right, you’re going to find amazing gifts for your sweetie at Smith & Edwards – we know it! So when you order something from our Western department this week, October 9 – 17, you’ll get a free leather keychain in your order!

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How to Tie a Wild Rag (Video)

October 7, 2014 - posted by Rose Marion

You found the gorgeous silk scarves called wild rags and now you want to wear one all the time!

Cowboys, ranch hands, and buckaroos wear these silk scarves because they wick away sweat in the summer, keeping them cool. They also keep heat in, in the winter!

And they can be used for just about anything on the back of a horse: mend a stirrup leather, tie a hat down, or even filter water in a pinch. No wonder a cowboy always has a silk scarf around his neck!

Well how the heck do you tie it? Well, there are 2 great ways to tie a Western wild rag or cowboy scarf. Our Western guy Marty and his sons Wells and Pace will show you how to do it.

Tying a Buckaroo Knot

First, you can tie a wild rag in a buckaroo knot, also called a square knot:

Here’s how to do that: (See the video below for a detailed explanation.)

To start, fold your scarf in half diagonally, so it’s a long triangle. Put the scarf around the back of your neck, holding the ends of the scarf out in your hands.

Hold 2 fingers of your left hand out. Take your right hand and wrap the wild rag around your left fingers once. Then, with your other fingers, hold it there.

Reach back under and grab the other side of the scarf. Come over the front and split the wrap, right over the top of your fingers.

Then come up underneath by your chin and reach back through to grab that tail of the wild rag.

Now that you have that end, go through the loop that’s over your fingers, going through the same direction your fingers are going. Reach through and pull that tail tight.

Straighten the square out by pulling each end. There you have your square knot!

Thanks Wells and Marty for showing us how to tie a wild rag in a square knot!

Tying a Simple Knot

Pace looking sharp in his silk scarf decorated with different brands

Or, if you want a snugger fit with less fiddling, here’s how to tie a silk scarf in a basic knot.

Take your silk scarf and fold it in half, into a triangle.
Put the scarf around your neck, with the big edge of the triangle going around your neck and the middle point on your chest.
Cross the two points that are lying on your back behind your neck, and then bring them back over your shoulders.
To finish, just tie the two ends under your chin in a granny knot. To tie a granny knot, simply tie an overhand knot, then tie an overhand knot again.

There you are!

Do you have another way of tying your wild rag, or want us to do more videos? Leave a comment below and let us know!

Click the scarves below to explore the wild rags for sale at Smith & Edwards:

And know that you know how to tie a wild rag, send us a picture of you wearing yours to info@smithandedwards.com or post it to our Facebook page!

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Just in: Pumpkins by the Pound!

October 3, 2014 - posted by Rose Marion

Get your Jack o’Lantern at Smith & Edwards

October’s here and Halloween is right around the corner! Thanks to our local farmers, you can get your pumpkins at Smith & Edwards for just 22 cents a pound!

You’ll find fun pumpkins right at the front of Smith & Edwards this October!

These pumpkins are locally-grown and from our friends at Pettingill’s. If you come by Smith & Edwards, make sure to hit the fruit stands up Highway 89, there’s still tons of fresh, local produce along the “Fruit Highway”!

Special Pumpkin Spice Savings!

If you love all things pumpkin spice, stop in: the McCall’s Candle of the Month is Pumpkin Spice! These candles are in the center of the store, past the kitchen goodies near Sporting Goods. What does that mean? It means the 26oz and 16oz Pumpkin Spice candles are 25% off all month at Smith & Edwards! This promotion is good through October 31st, 2014.

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Fun Halloween Mason Jar Ideas!

September 27, 2014 - posted by Rose Marion

The people in our Housewares department are ALWAYS full of ideas! That’s why when I saw they are doing a weekly Mason jar idea I HAD to share it with you!


Place tea lights or battery-operated candles in mason jars for fun decorations.	Use tissue paper to create fun Jack o’Lantern faces like ghosts and Frankenstein, then use Mod Podge or glue to glue them to mason jars!

They used a limited edition, green Mason jar to create these fun decorations, but you can use clear ones, too!

You can use Mod Podge or glue to attach tissue paper to the glass jars – OR, you can even use a Sharpie marker to draw on the glass. They glow better when you use tissue paper, we found!

Everyone in Housewares contributed to this Halloween mason jars idea, and Ashley and Melissa put them together.

Nice going, Melissa and Ashley!

Want more Mason Jar ideas?

There are a million and a half fun things to do with Mason jars BESIDES canning… if you’re looking for inspiration, check out Amy’s 7 Super Simple Mason Jar Crafts that Make Great Gifts. Doesn’t she have great ideas? I think it’s something to do with the fact that Amy was in HOUSEWARES before she came to the Web department! Hm…. I think Vickie‘s on to something in her Housewares department, if only she could bottle it…

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Northern Utah Fishing Report – September 5

September 5, 2014 - posted by Chris Jacobson

This last month has been a relatively slow one here in Northern Utah. The rain has really put a damper on the fishing. You can’t really cuss the rain though; we can use all the moisture we can get.

Some of the higher reservoirs are doing okay as far as water level goes but as for the closest reservoir to me, Willard Bay, that is not the case. It has gotten a little better with most farmers not irrigating anymore, but Willard Bay is still way low. Despite the weather being less than cooperative, fishermen have been able to get out and make the best of it.

Fishing at Willard Bay

Willard Bay has been slow with all these storms and cold fronts moving through. As the weather stabilizes for a bit though, look for the fishing to improve.

We have been getting reports that the water clarity is low, but that people are seeing fish on their fish finder screens all over the place. We have even heard of people getting in on the action of a boil or two. Although most boils are short lived. Boils are a lot of fun if you can get there just as it starts and fish it for the whole duration.

Using shad colored Rapalas are the best when fishing for boils. Trolling has produced some okay fish as well. Walleye and Wiper fishing will be great in the fall and is a great way to spend an afternoon off from work.

Other Fishing Spots to Try

There are a few other areas that I suggest you try out if you want to travel a little farther and get away from more people.

Fishing in the higher lakes and reservoirs can be great this time of year. As people go back to school and finish taking summer vacations, Bear Lake and Pineview will be great places to watch. Fishing should pick up there as fall goes on.

Also, with less pressure in the fall, the Uintah lakes should be a great place to catch a nice trout. The lakes are fished hard during the summer but as fall winds down these lakes are going to be great places to spend a weekend away.

The fall is a great time of year to get out and go fishing. Taking your family out and spending some time on the lake is something that you and your family will never forget.

A few weeks ago we had one of our cashiers, Bekah, go fishing with her family up at the Brigham City Community Pond. She had a great time and even caught a “monster”! She said even though she didn’t catch the biggest fish, it was a great time spent with her family.

Bekah and her fish at the Brigham City Community Pond!

We like to see the pictures of you guys catching fish and love it when you do wearing Smith and Edwards gear! Send us your pics of your fall catch or that monster buck that you bag this year at info@smithandedwards.com or on our Facebook page!

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Camouflage Basics & New Hunter Information

September 2, 2014 - posted by Rose Marion

Waiting for waterfowl wearing Realtree Max 4

Not everyone in Utah grows up hunting & fishing just like they do camping & swimming – I know, it’s crazy. Seems like a whole lot of people learn because their family hunts, and they bring good friends along with them. But not everyone reaches adulthood with their falls spent in duck blinds or waiting for deer – and if you didn’t grow up with it, there’s a lot to learn. Fortunately for you, we got together and talked about the basics of camo and hunting gear. Here’s all the camouflage basics you always wondered but were too afraid to ask. And further down, there are examples of what camo patterns you can use for what Utah environments. But first…

New Hunters: Utah Trial Hunting Program

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources just announced a new Trial Hunting program, that started in early August. If you’d like to bring someone along hunting, or if YOU would like to go hunting before you complete your Hunter Education course, here’s how. A licensed hunter, 21 years of age or older, takes a person 12 years of age or older along with them hunting. What a great mentorship program. All that has to be done is completing a quick online Trial Hunting Program orientation course. Here’s more information: How to sign up for the Utah Trial Hunting program

Smith & Edwards talks the Basics of Hunting Camo

So what would you take with you hunting the first time? What would you tell your buddies to get when you take them along the first time? There’s a lot of hunting-minded people here at Smith & Edwards, so they had a lot of good suggestions and considerations for hunting camo. Got some tips yourself? Let us know in the comments below!

Q. Why wear camo?

Sam, Western: Because you’re a solid color. Even though deer are colorblind, they can still see patterns.

Dave, Western: Duck hunting & waterfowl – can’t do it without it. Big game? Wear it if you have it, for bow hunting it’s important. It’s good to blend in so you don’t stick out.

Kevin, Hardware: So you can blend in with your surroundings.

Joyce, Clothing: So you’re not seen. I elk hunt and so I need to fit in with the mountainside for a sneak attack.

Tyler, Sporting Goods: It’s not just the look, but camo also helps you get in the mindset that you’re going hunting. That you’re not just out on a hike in jeans.

Q. What’s the most important hunt to wear Camo for, and what do you wear?

Sam: For deer I wear King’s Camo desert, because deer are in an open field. For elk, I wear Under Armour camo because they like to hide and stay in the trees, so I have camo with pines and green on it to match that. Everything on me is camo or brown to blend in.

Dave: Big game it’s not as important for rifle. For turkey, I get completely camo’d up: gloves, face mask.

Kevin: I do archery. You gotta get close to do archery. I hunt deer, elk, duck & waterfowl, pheasant, turkey. Turkeys can pick out the slightest detail and the slightest movement.

Bears Butt in Orange and Camo with his bull elk

Bears Butt with his bull elk last November, wearing orange and camo (click for the story!)

Bear’s Butt aka Wynn Zundel, BearsButt.com My favorite camo for turkey and muzz deer hunting is Kings Camo in Desert sage pattern. (Bears’ jacket in the photo at right is Desert King’s Camo) For duck hunting pretty much all the cat tail and bulrush patterns work.

Joyce: For late cow elk hunt, in December and January, there’s snow on the ground. I wear snow camo to stay concealed.

Q. What’s the closest you’ve gotten wearing camo?

Sam: I got within 5 yards of my doe wearing camo!

Kevin: About 5-10 feet.

Dave: I could reach out and touch a deer. Not by going out there and walking up to it, but sitting and waiting, being quiet, being camouflaged, I could reach out and touch it.

Tyler: I’ve had coyotes run up on me less than 10 yards. Also I’ve been within 10 yards with a bow hunting elk.

Love camo? Check out this Camo ammo box that Brenda in the paint department painted with Plasti Dip! You can spray wood, metal, glass & more with Plasti Dip – and it’s real rubberized plastic so this ammo box is now more waterproof in case you need it out at deer camp. Come see Plasti Dip in action next Saturday at Smith & Edwards – details here.

Q. Have you ever used snow camo for hunting in winter?

Sam: Yeah, my brother and I go hunt coyotes. I like the King’s winter patterns for that. You can get coyotes or bunnies.

Browning snow camo cap (warmer than snow on your head)

Kevin: I have a double-sided jacket, one side camo one side snow camo. I need a full set but haven’t gotten it yet. I’d use it for late season archery if there’s snow on the ground. Also ducks in the blind or on the boat if the fields are snowy. Also coyote. I know people who sit in snow fields and hunt geese with snow camo.

Joyce: Yes, for elk in the snow I wear snow camo. It’s face-stinging cold, so I wear a face mask and good waterproof gloves and boots as well. That way I can hike the mountain after elk without getting cold and wet.

Tyler: Still think about where your terrain. White camo is great when it’s snowy. Just make sure that it doesn’t have branches on it if you’re hunting in an open field, and the other way around – don’t go pure white if you’re going to be in bushes.

Q. What’s more important than camo when hunting?

Sam: Scent. If they scent ya, they can just start running the other way. You can get rid of your scent with No Scent detergents, body wash, shampoo, deodorant – there are a lot of ways you can get rid of your scent.

Kevin: Stealth. Being quiet, watching every step, every move and movement. Camo just helps you get in closer, you have to stay still. Also, location. Know where you’re going to be hunting, what the terrain is like.

Dave: Shutting up and not talking. Being down wind. Not standing out or being flashy.

Joyce: Waterproofing. For snow, keeping warm and dry is even more important than your visibility, because elk hunting, you need to already know where the elk are going to be. You need to be sitting still in your spot in the dark before dawn, then sit and wait for them. So your camo needs to be waterproof and breathable.

Tyler: Camo is a close second to being prepared and having the right equipment to make the kill. I see people that have a nice rifle but a cheap scope. You need to make sure you can make the kill. Boots is also a big part of being prepared: break them in before the season. Also have moleskin for if you get blisters, and a rangefinder if you’re in open terrain so you can get the right distance. Better optics mean you’ll be able to use your scope longer because the optics let in more light as the sun sets.

Q. What’s the best thing about your favorite camo?

Sam: I like the way camo looks, I wear it constantly at home too because I like it. It’s hard to find girls’ camo though, growing up I just wore guys’ camo. Luckily King’s makes camo for women.
Note from Joyce: Recently they’ve started making more camo for women who hunt. Now we carry Ranger, Browning, and King’s Camo in real camouflage patterns for women, in addition to the fashion pink camo.

Kevin: Comfort and durability. I mix and match my camo, the jacket doesn’t always match the pants pattern. If you keep still it’ll work for you. I’ve heard of “leafy camo,” camo that has cuts in it to give a leafy outline. I love it except it tangles in the underbrush pretty bad. Same with ghillie suits.

Dave: Get the pattern you want. That’s the most important thing. From there, the nice things to have are waterproof, breathable, and scent locked, depending on price.

Joyce: My favorite Columbia camo jacket has Omnitech inside and it’s waterproof. So it wicks off sweat, while keeping me dry and warm.

Tyler: Layerability and universal coloring. I really like the Kyptek and Sitka because these materials are light for layering. In bow hunting in August, you want to keep cool. Even later seasons, you want to avoid sweat because if a cold front comes in, you’ll freeze. Since the Salt Lake makes its own weather patterns, I go for the lightest layers possible. I like universal coloring because this Kryptek highlander jacket will work for me in the mountains and the sagebrush here in Utah. It’ll work well enough for me that I can take it anywhere it’s not snowing.

This Kryptek Highlander camo jacket is super-lightweight so you can layer and be comfortable during archery or any season.

Military surplus multicam is designed to blend in with 98% of terrain, so if you’re just starting out multicam and ATACS are good patterns and they’re what military guys trust their lives to.

Camouflage Patterns for Different Game

There’s a lot of patterns at Smith & Edwards and if it’s your first time camo shopping it can be overwhelming! But if you know what you’re going for, you’ll know what patterns to pick out. Here’s a quick guide to the basic patterns & why they’re used. Realtree and Mossyoak are your big 2 camo pattern “brands.” Here are what you need for 3 types of hunting in Utah: waterfowl, desert/sagebrush, and forest/mountain.

Duck Hunting Camouflage patterns

For hunting waterfowl, you want to look like the reeds and grass of the wetlands.

Browning shirt and pants in Browning camo in Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades pattern

Browning camo shirt and pants in Realtree Max 5 pattern

Realtree Max 5

Realtree Max 4

Sitka has a different take on waterfowl camo: their camo is designed to match how BIRDS see things from overhead – instead of human eyes.

Desert and Fields Camouflage patterns

For hunting deer in Utah, in a lot of units you need to be out in the grass and sagebrush. Here’s camo designed to look like the open spaces in Utah.

Gamehide shirt and pants in Realtree Max 1 pattern

Realtree Max 1 camo is great for sagebrush and grassy areas, in the sun…

…or in the shadows.

King’s Camo t-shirt in Desert Shadow pattern

Mountain and Forest Camouflage patterns

In the hills, where there are lots of trees and shade, you want similar camo to desert but darker and more treelike. In some you will find lots of green, like Realtree Xtra Green and Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity. These could be for deer, elk, or turkey as well, depending on your area. Here are a few picks:

Bell Ranger shirt in Realtree Xtra Green

Bell Ranger long sleeve t-shirt in Realtree Xtra Green pattern

Bell Ranger long sleeve t-shirt in Mossy Oak Break Up Infinity pattern

Bell Ranger long sleeve t-shirt in Realtree Xtra pattern

See that T-shirt and more online here: Men’s Camo Shirts on SmithandEdwards.com (and we got LOTS in the store, too!)

Realtree Xtra camo lets you hide in the trees!

You can hardly see him wearing Realtree Xtra!

Thanks to Realtree for allowing us to use the cool shots of camo in action! Let us know YOUR camo thoughts in the comments below! We want to know what works for you! Before you go – here’s a handy hunting checklist, don’t leave home without it: You’ll find loads of Camo and Hunter Orange in-store at Smith & Edwards in Farr West…. or order online:

Men’s Camo Shirts	Ladies’ Camo	Kids’ Camo
Men’s Camo Pants	Hunting Hats & Gloves

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Salt Free Water Softener: Born in Utah!

August 30, 2014 - posted by Rose Marion

I love our water softener, but there’s one thing I can’t deal with: 40-pound salt bags. That’s what the honey-do list is for right?

Some folks don’t like soft water though. Getting out of the shower, maybe you get a slimey feeling still like the soap isn’t washed off still. Or maybe you don’t like the way it tastes.

NuvoH2O is a company based out of Kaysville, Utah that has a solution to make both of us happy! A salt-free water softener that doesn’t have the taste or feel of soft water – just all the benefits.

How NuvoH2O works

The NuvoH2O takes the place of water softening machines 3-4 times its size! Water runs through the unit, coursing through the citrus cartridge. The cartridge allows limescale and other chemicals to run through your pipes and appliances without any buildup or residue – it’ll even clean out the stalactites growing in your hot water heater if you’ve got an older home without a softener.

The citrus cartridges good for 6 months, and they’re even FDA-approved.

NuvoH2O can hook right up to your existing pipes.

How to Install the Saltless Water Softener

The NuvoH2O system is only a couple feet tall on the biggest model! So it can attach right to your wall instead of taking up more room by the water heater. A bracket and installation hardware come with the system so you can put it up without having to get more stuff.

If you already have a water softener, you don’t have to call the plumber to switch it out unless you really want to. We have all the parts you need to hook it up.

Here’s how to switch it:

Turn off your main water line.
Cut pipes that are connected to your old water softener.
Remove old system.
Connect new system in-line using shark-bite fittings.

If you need more help, Blaine Taylor our Plumbing & Hardware manager would be happy to help you out! Come in or give him a call at 801-731-1120.

Check out how small this system is! This is the home edition Marcus has got his hand on.

To replace the cartridge, just unscrew the top, take out the old one, and pop the new one in. The cartridge is 37 pounds lighter than a bag of salt to dump in your typical water softener!

Where can you find one?

Smith & Edwards is one of only a handful of stores in Utah carrying the NuvoH2O system because it’s so new to the market!

Well, actually that’s half true. The fact is Nuvo’s technology has been around for 25 years in the commercial sector, softening water in businesses like restaurants. So it’s just now coming into homes and apartments.

Smith & Edwards is a GREAT place to get your NuvoH2O, too, because not only do we have all the cartridges and plumbing fixtures you need (remember, you don’t need a plumber to hook it up!) …. we also have a $100 INSTANT REBATE through September 30 so you can get a new water softener system at a great savings. All right!

Check out the NuvoH2O & buy replacement cartridges online:

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The Secret to Clean Jar Rims: a New Canning Funnel

August 23, 2014 - posted by Rose Marion

To enjoy home canned salsa and pickled beets, we have to be certain we’re canning safely in the summer. Making sure our jar rims are clean and not sticky is so important – but most canning funnels wind up still letting some syrup or jam drip over. Isn’t there a better way? A clean canning funnel?

Carefully ladling, pouring, and wiping down 89 jars of salsa could make anyone break down…. instead, Mark Gallegos woke up the next morning at 3am and designed the Bottle Mate canning funnel.

This canning funnel is available in-store and in our online Canning Equipment department!

That was 4 years ago, and now Mark’s canning funnels are our most popular funnel!

What makes this canning funnel the best for keeping rims clean?

It’s cleaner
It’s safer
It’s lightweight
Doesn’t get hot
Doesn’t wobble
Wide, sturdy handles for great gripping

If you have arthritis, Mark has found that the broad handle and sturdy plastic makes it the best funnel for his clients to use.

Made from BPA-free polypropelene, these funnels are lightweight and rest on the outside of the jar, giving you stability so you can pour or ladle salsa, corn, beets, or jam right into the funnel and jar without holding onto the funnel. The Bottle Mate funnel’s design has 2 rings: one for the funnel to go into the jar, and an outer ring to rest on the outside of the jar. This keeps your rims clean on wide mouth & regular jars!

This clean canning funnel made in Utah has 2 rings to keep your jars clean!

Mark’s design has the secret: the two-ring design allows the funnel to completely cover the rims of your canning jars, keeping them sauce- and jam-free for safe canning!

Designed by Mark in Utah and manufactured right here in Ogden, the Bottle Mate canning funnels have been featured in Edible Wasatch magazine and on Good Day Utah!

Mark loves his salsas and marinara sauce, and he’s the only one of 5 siblings who cans, so he stays busy. Phew, 89 jars? Wow!

Bottle Mate funnels are the right size and rest on the outside of canning jars. So you can leave headspace on even specialty jam jars – they won’t sink all the way down into the jar like other funnels!

Mark Gallegos and his Bottle Mate Canning Funnel

Thanks, Mark! Happy Canning!

See the Bottle Mate Canning funnel online here, and click here to see all Canning Equipment & Gadgets.

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7 Super Simple Mason Jar Crafts that Make Great Gifts

August 19, 2014 - posted by Amy Griffiths

It’s 10:00 pm and your child tells you she needs a teacher gift for school in the morning. What do you do? You start your daily chores and realize it’s your friend’s birthday, but you don’t have time or money to go to the store. What now?

With 5 kids and a busy schedule, these and many more scenarios like them seem to be what makes my world go round.

Here are 7 easy tried and true mason jar crafts that are not only simple to make, but are kid friendly, inexpensive, can be done in a jiffy, and are sure to bring smiles to the ones receiving them.

1. Candy Jars

This one is as versatile as the friends you give them to. Keep them simple with a favorite treat you know they like or go elaborate by layering them by color.We used Lemon Heads, Laffy Taffy, Zotz, and Bit O’ Honey. They work beautifully with unwrapped candy like M&Ms or Skittles!

You can finish it off simple and let the candy do the talking, or for the more artistic type, deck it out with ribbons, tulle, flowers, a homemade gift tag – whatever works for you. The sky’s the limit on these mason jar gifts!

2. Painted Vases

Painted mason jar vases are all the rage right now. There is something so warming about a nostalgic piece of America, and I love the way these were done with a vintage touch. They are great for flowers, kitchen utensils, pen organizers, or a rainy day money fund.

Since you are making them yourself you can pick out the perfect color for your special friend (after you’ve made one for yourself, of course!)

Image courtesy of Jana from Hydrangea Hill Vintage on Etsy

3. Conversation Jar

Want to encourage a more meaningful family time? These mason jar crafts aren’t only fun to make but can make such a difference for the one you are giving it to. You simply cut a bunch of questions in strips, fold them up, and put them in the jar. They are meant to encourage conversation and get to know each other a little better.

Questions may include, “If you were given $100 to spend today, what would you buy with it?” or “Name the best birthday gift you were ever given.” Don’t start to panic, I’ve made it easy on you. Here’s a link to a great site that has done all the work for you so you can just print and copy. I’m sure you’ve got some great ideas too, so feel free to add some of your own.

Some other fun themes to customize this jar idea would be: Couples questions (great wedding gift!), family history questions to ask grandma & grandpa, a teacher’s jar to use in her classroom, dinner party questions, or holiday related questions/activities.

Use your imagination or stick to the script; either way, they are going to love it!

4. The Mega Mason Jar Statement Piece

This is absolutely adorable with decoration or without. If you have a friend who loves canning, she’s going to go crazy over this extra large, 1 gallon mason jar (No, you can’t actually preserve in this jar, it’s just awesome!)

Okay, okay, so you will have to go to the store to pick this one up, but once you have it you’ll be glad you do!

For the image shown we wrapped 5.25″ mesh wire fabric we got out of the giant junk playground that is the Smith & Edwards surplus yard to give it a more vintage, rustic look. We added a bit of ribbon and a fabric flower and……voila! A statement piece worthy of attention.

Use it for flowers, fruit, favorite knick-knacks, or just let it stand alone. It really speaks for itself.

5. Toys for Boys


A jar full of building block toys, such as Legos®.	A set of jars stuffed with boy-related toys.	A gallon size decorative jar stuffed with Schleich® toys.

If you’re like me, it’s easy to whip up something for a girl – ribbons, flowers, glitter and sparkles and you’re good to go! Boy gifts I’ve always struggled with, especially when you want to make something with a little added personal touch.

Here are some ideas I actually got from my sister. She made some darling jars with Hot Wheels in them for a boutique.

People were crazy for them, and they were the first ones gone. She was asked if she would make some more, so I guess it’s not just me looking for boy ideas!

With 2 boys of my own, you can’t go wrong with Legos, marbles, and cars.

For the mega mason jar, it’s fun to create a theme they love and here we used farm animals from Schleich®. I can picture a cool jar full of batman or dinosaur items too, can you?

6. The Gift that Keeps on Giving

Someone help me, I’m a dreamer. I can’t help myself, I always have been! I believe we can make a difference in the lives of those around us one small act at a time.

That being said, I love the idea of this jar. It’s to encourage looking beyond yourself and seeing what you can do for someone else. It’s a great way to teach kids to be aware of those around them and reminds us to reach out where we can.

Here is what the poem says:

The Gift that Keeps on Giving

Is the gift I bring to you;

Just put a candy in the jar

For each random act of kindness you do.

Watch the jar start filling up

One small act at a time,

What a difference you can make

By letting your light shine.

When the candy reaches the top

Your service doesn’t end,

Pass the jar to someone new;

Share it with a friend!

Each time the recipient of the jar does a random act of kindness he/she puts a piece of candy in the jar. Watch your treats stack up as you are helping others. But it doesn’t stop there, after they fill their jar they can share it with another!

It’s the little things – a simple smile, dropping by to check on a neighbor, helping the lady with 5 little kids pick up the bag she just dropped, or giving some change to the guy in front of you who is short $1.78 for his groceries. Simple things that soften hearts, brighten days, and even give hope. This is a gift that benefits everyone!

7. Mason Jar Drinking Cup with Straw

Since we’ve been talking about simple mason jar crafts, I just couldn’t resist showing you this cute idea. Ball® recently came out with lids and straws that fit perfectly on the canning jars that make drinking more like a fun activity than a basic need (you can find them here with our canning lids). This is such a fun gift idea!

Just open package, wash before you use, pop on clean mason jar, and you’ve got an easy gift that is ready to go. If you are giving it immediately, fill it with cold lemonade, add some ice and lemons, and really get bonus points!

Take a Peek: Limited-Edition Green and Blue Mason Jars

Curious about the gorgeous blue and green jars and lids throughout this post? Talk about taking your mason jars to the next level!

Ball® is making limited edition, period-inspired colored jars and lids in classic blue and green, just like they made 100 years ago! The quality and structure is the same as their awesome canning jars we use now, but with a fabulous vintage flair. (Find them with our canning jars here)

Blue came out in 2013, green in 2014, and a final new color will be unveiled in 2015. Since they are limited editions, grab them while you can find them because they’re not going to be available forever!

Can’t you just imagine how fun your next canning projects could be in these heritage-style mason jars? Perfect for a little added touch to your gift giving – especially at Christmas!

Show us what you make!

I hope these ideas inspire some creative thoughts and give you some hope next time you’re in a jam (no pun intended!) You’ll find the supplies – jars, candy, toys, ribbon & tulle – all at Smith and Edwards. If you have any questions about any of the products shown let us know and we’ll be happy to help any way we can.

We’d also love to see the mason jar gifts you’ve made, so feel free to share (and you may even be spotlighted on a future blog!)

Pin these Mason Jar Gift Ideas for Later!

Whether you have a passion for canning or just a beginner, feel free to explore our great selection of canning jars, tools, and equipment that will make your food preservation easier than ever.

Be sure to check out our helpful canning tips, too. I learned a lot from reading that blog post!

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Western Wear Rebates & Miss Rodeo Utah Fashion Show

August 15, 2014 - posted by Rose Marion

It’s not every day I get to go to a fashion show! Misti Smith Kosoff, one of the clothing buyers here at Smith & Edwards, invited me to come take pictures at the Miss Rodeo Utah Fashion Show July 23, part of the Miss Rodeo Utah competition in Ogden. The show was a blast! It was great to see the girls shine in fabulous womens Western wear as well as fun fashions & dresses on display.

Scroll down to check out their looks plus Misti’s picks for kids’ back-to-school styles…

The Miss Rodeo Utah Fashion Show

Cassidy’s white top is a white sequined Panhandle Slim layered under a sequined cadet-style Ariat jacket… looks cute with just about anything and has a very flattering fit.

Cassidy Black and Dianna Drollette wearing Smith & Edwards at Miss Rodeo Utah 2014

Can’t keep from dancing during “Sweet Home Alabama!”

Dianna’s top is a fun Panhandle Slim top with a sequin Aztec print. This is a flattering silhouette for all body types. Aztec patterns and sequin tops are all over the women’s Western wear world right now and seem to be staying strong.
Cassidy and Dianna are both wearing Wrangler jeans. Always a Western staple, skinny jeans let you show off the fun boots that are so popular right now! Colorful jeans are still happening; pastel colored jeans will be trending for fall!

Rachel Halverson and Shianne Lowe at Miss Rodeo Utah 2014

Rachel Halverson and Shianne Lowe strike a pose

Rachel on the left is wearing a sequin Aztec print, short sleeve Panhandle Slim knit top paired with cute Wrangler Rock ’47 jeans. These Rock 47s have Aztec embroidered back flap pockets.

Shianne’s wearing a beautiful sequined black Roper dress. This dress is a sheath style that is very flattering. This short “midi” length is a fall trend. Black and 60’s inspired dresses like this are also a fall trend!

Bailey Jo Woolsey and Stephanie Jimerson

Stephanie’s wearing a Stetson brand orange Aztec embroidered long sleeve woven shirt. Orange is a big color for this fall! She’s also wearing Adikted embroidered denim jeans that fit her just perfectly.

Bailey Jo is showing off a darling Wrangler hi-low chiffon dress. It’s a halter top dress in an Aztec print. Her Wrangler denim jacket compliments just about every outfit!

Congratulations to Bailey Jo, Miss Rodeo Utah 2015!

Brandy Mortensen wearing Wrangler for Smith and Edwards at Miss Rodeo Utah

Reigning Miss Rodeo Utah 2014 Brandy Mortensen wearing Wrangler

Brandy’s wearing a Wrangler denim shirt with lace details, paired with a cute Wrangler lace skirt. Feminine and flirty!

Ladies, you made our clothes look fantastic, thank you!

I loved seeing the girls do such a great job showing off their clothes… although if I had to rock a runway, this would have been my outfit of choice:

Cassidy and her pink dress!

Here are some other fabulous dresses the Miss Rodeo Utah contestants wore:

Brandy Mortensen

Dianna Drollette

Rachel Halverson

Shianne Lowe

Stephanie Jimerson

Bailey Jo Woolsey

Which dress is your favorite?

Western Apparel for You & the Kids

Does all this talk about clothes has you in the mood to go shopping? Or on the other hand, are you trying to avoid thinking about shopping with all the back-to-school going on (can you believe there are just a couple weeks of summer left?) Maybe you’re counting the days! Take a look at these fun boys, girls, and womens Western wear-inspired clothes Misti’s chosen for the fall clothing sale going on right now:

Girls’ Belted Lace Dresses by StarRide:

Little Girls’ Embellished Shirts by Star Ride:

Girls’ Cap Sleeve Tees with Pleather and Sequined Chevron accents:Boys’ Smith’s American Denim Jeans:

Boys’ Smith’s American Long Sleeve Woven Plaid Shirts:

Juniors’ Aztec Print Cardigan by Derek Hart

Click here to view the Fall Shoe & Boot ad, now through Saturday, August 23, 2014. Those items above are on sale and that’s just a peek at the huge selection – there are also Wranglers, Cinch, Cruel Girl, Roper, and many more western wear brands for all your and your kids’ school, work, and play times!

More Ways to Save!

If you’re coming in to Smith & Edwards to pick up clothes for you & the kids, or shopping online, I want to make sure you know about 2 great rebates!

There are only a couple days left for the Wrangler Rebate!

All clothing – men’s, women’s, and kids’ – from Wrangler qualifies. Just purchase two items at $14.95 or more and you can get a $10 mail-in rebate! This promotion ends August 17, 2014, so shop online or come in to Smith & Edwards before we close Saturday night to get your $10.

Cinch WRX, Cinch, and Cruel Girl also have rebates on, now through September 15th, here are the details:

If you qualify for these online we’ll send you the rebate form in your order. (We also offer free in-store pickup!) Or, you can pick up your rebate from in the clothing department at Smith & Edwards.

And you can find more clothing on our Web Store right now: new pink camo is online! Keep checking in with us, we add more clothes every season. You can get free in-store pickup or quick shipping on clothing, boots, and Western gear you love.

What are your favorite looks? Let us know! Remember to share this post on Facebook or Twitter if you liked it :)

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