Orange pomanders are a timeless tradition that combines natural beauty with a warm, festive scent. These decorative orbs studded with cloves make excellent ornaments, centerpieces, or gifts. Plus, they’re fun to make with the whole family!
Follow these easy steps to create orange pomanders and cheer your home with holiday cheer.
You’ll need:
- Fresh oranges (any size)
- Whole cloves
- Ribbon (optional for hanging or decorating)
- A toothpick or skewer (to make holes for cloves)
To make:
- Select fresh, firm oranges. Avoid overripe or soft ones, as they may not hold up during the process.
- Decide on a design for your pomander. You can create spirals, lines, shapes, or a fully studded orange.
- Use a toothpick or skewer to pre-poke holes in the orange skin where you’d like to place the cloves. This makes inserting them easier and prevents sore fingers.
- Push whole cloves into the pre-made holes. Continue until your design is complete.
- Cover the entire orange with cloves for a richly scented pomander, leaving little to no space between them.
- Tie a decorative ribbon around the orange for hanging or as a festive touch if you plan to display it in a bowl or centerpiece.
- To cure, place your pomander in a dry, well-ventilated area for a few days. This helps the orange dry out and prevents mold. Turn the pomander occasionally to ensure even drying.
Creative Ideas for Using Your Orange Pomanders:
- Ornaments: Attach a ribbon loop and hang them on your Christmas tree.
- Centerpieces: Arrange several pomanders with greenery, pinecones, or candles in a bowl or platter.
- Gifts: Wrap a few pomanders in cellophane with a festive ribbon for a thoughtful holiday gift.
- Air Fresheners: Place pomanders in closets or drawers for a natural, long-lasting scent.
You can find more holiday recipes and crafts on our farm blog!
