How to Make an Orange Pomander with Cloves
Creating an orange pomander with cloves is a festive, aromatic craft that’s perfect for the holiday season. These natural decorations not only look beautiful but fill your home with a warm and spicy fragrance. Plus, making them is simple, fun, and a wonderful activity to do with family or friends.
A Brief History of Orange Pomanders
Orange pomanders have a rich history dating back to medieval Europe. Originally, pomanders were used as a way to ward off bad odors and believed to protect against illness.
These fragrant decorations symbolized wealth and health since oranges and spices were luxurious commodities at the time. Over the years, the practice of making orange pomanders became associated with Christmas and other winter holidays, as the warm, spicy scent evokes a feeling of seasonal joy and coziness.
Today, making orange pomanders is a cherished tradition, blending history with modern craft and offering a way to connect with the past while creating something beautiful and meaningful.
What You’ll Need
To make an orange pomander, you’ll need:
- Fresh oranges (choose ones with firm skin)
- Whole cloves
- Ribbon (optional) for hanging or decoration
- Toothpick or Skewer for pre-punching holes
How to Make an Orange Pomander
1. Design your Pattern
Decide on the design you want for your pomander. You can create stripes, swirls, polka dots, or a more intricate geometric pattern.
2. Add a Hanging Ribbon (optional)
If you’re adding ribbon, wrap it around the orange in a crisscross pattern and tie it at the top, leaving room to make a loop to hang it from.
3. Poke Holes for the Cloves
Use a toothpick or skewer to pre-punch holes into the orange skin along your chosen design. This step makes it easier to insert the cloves and helps preserve the orange longer by preventing too much pressure on the fruit.
4. Insert the Cloves
Push whole cloves into the pre-made holes. Continue until your design is complete. You can space the cloves close together for a bold look or spread them out for a simpler design.
How to Display Your Pomanders
Orange pomanders are versatile decorations that can be displayed in various ways:
- Table Centerpiece: Arrange them in a bowl with evergreen sprigs and pinecones for a holiday centerpiece.
- Hanging Ornaments: Attach a ribbon loop to hang them on your Christmas tree or in windows.
- Garland: String several pomanders together to create a fragrant garland. Maybe try mandarins for a garland with smaller elements.
How Long Do Orange Pomanders Last?
Pomanders can last several weeks if properly dried. To extend their life, store them in a cool, dry place. Over time, they will naturally harden and shrink but retain their delightful fragrance.
Sustainability Tip
Making orange pomanders is an eco-friendly craft. Once the pomanders are past their prime, you can compost them. The cloves and orange peel break down easily, adding nutrients to your soil.
A Simple Tradition with Timeless Charm
Learning how to make an orange pomander with cloves is more than just crafting – it’s about creating traditions. Whether you make them with family, use them to decorate your home, or give them as gifts, these fragrant ornaments are a timeless way to celebrate the holiday season.
Try this simple project and enjoy the warmth, beauty, and nostalgia it brings!
Looking for other orange crafts for the holidays? Try drying orange slices and or drying whole oranges!
