Tips for keeping away bugs and other pests (or even just general debris) from your food while dining outdoors are always welcome. While we have covered everything from bags filled with water to blown glass Anti-Fly Spheres, I recently came across an easy DIY, courtesy of design blogger Erin of House of Earnest, that would be a good solution as well. Best of all, all the items needed are probably things you already have at home.

Erin explains:

On weeknight summer evenings, after a long day of work, sometimes my husband and I just sit outside with a glass of wine and some snacks instead of a full dinner.

I love dining al fresco, but hate spending the whole time shoo-ing away bugs from my food instead being in the moment.

I thought of using a washed terracotta pot as a cloche, not just because it's functional, but also because it's pretty. A simple piece of rope knotted through the bottom hole acts as a handle. And guess what? Terracotta will retain the heat of a hot dish, or keep a cool dip from warming up and drying out. Double awesome.

Find the full instructions at House of Earnest.

(Images: Erin)