DIY Pomander Balls // Deck the Halls {Christmas craft}

Show of hands, who's done decorating for Christmas? If you're like me than you've just begun, haha. In the spirit of holiday crafting, I'm so excited to introduce you to today's guest poster, my kindred spirit, Dana. When I need my eco-conscious questions answered, she's my go-to. Everyone needs a Dana in their lives. She agreed to share an easy, low-waste DIY holiday craft for orange and clove pomander balls!

A little Pomander history

Pomander Balls date back to the 1300’s; popularized in Europe around the late Middle Ages, pomanders were used for protection against infection, pestilence and disease. Festive, right? 😆 Thankfully we can enjoy them without worrying about the Plague.

This modern take on the pomander is made by studding an orange or other citrus fruit  with whole dried cloves. They only last a few days if you keep them fresh, but you can let them cure dry which will extend their usefulness for many years.

These orange & clove pomanders are not only exceptional holiday decorations, but they are purposeful in perfuming and freshening the air. They would make a beautifully presented hostess gift or handmade present too.

How to Make Orange and Clove Pomander Balls

Take firm oranges and stud them with whole cloves. That’s it!

You can also use a toothpick to make pre-made holes and a rubber band for straight lines.

As the orange dries, it will release a delicate, spicy fragrance and the cloves act as wicks to allow the moisture to escape. The more cloves you use, the more effective it will be.  

Once you cover the entire orange with cloves there are a few dry-curing options:

    * 1. roll it in a mixture of spices such as: 

1 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1 teaspoon ground cloves 

1 tablespoon ground nutmeg 

1 tablespoon allspice

 ¼ cup powdered orris root.  

Note: if orris root is hard to find or expensive, it’s okay to leave it out- though it is helpful in keeping mold at bay.  

Fully coat the Pomanders and leave them in the mix in a cool dry place turning once a day for 2-6 weeks.  If mold happens, it’s time to throw it out.

    *2. You can place it in a dehydrator or the oven at a low temperature (around 150 degrees) for two to three hours — the bonus to this is that it makes your house smell spectacular!

    * 3. If you have a cool enough, dark enough space (think garage, basement, cellar or an East-facing room) hang drying sometimes will be enough.  Just check them daily after 4-6 weeks.  

Note: Pomanders will be "done" cure-drying once the skin is hardened and wrinkled and sounds hollow when gently tapped.

To hang your pomander, run a long wire through the orange; make a knot at the bottom and a loop at the top for hanging. Or, you can tie ribbon around your pomander for a festive look!

If you’ve taken the steps to dry cure them (see options above) you can then use your pomanders in drawers to keep clothing and linens fresh, pleasant-smelling and moth-free well after the holidays are over.

Thanks again to my beautiful friend Dana for sharing this tutorial!

Are you going to join me in making a pomander this holiday?