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Clove-studded oranges make lovely fragrant holiday decor

It Smells Like the Holidays!

Clove-studded oranges make lovely fragrant holiday decorThis fragrance always makes me smile! So many memories made with my kids and grandkids making these simple little balls! Take a few minutes and give it a go… You will be so glad you did.

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; this is helpful for children because the cloves can hurt their little hands (and ours).
Be creative and arrange the cloves in diamonds, circles, or other patterns. As the orange dries, it will release a delicate, spicy fragrance.

For a stronger aroma, cover the entire orange with cloves, and then roll it in a mixture of spices such as: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon, 1 teaspoon ground cloves, 1 tablespoon ground nutmeg, 1 tablespoon allspice, 1/4 cup powdered orris root. Leave the orange in the mix for a week, turning once a day.
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 red ribbon around your pomander for a festive look!

How to Make It Last
If you want your pomanders to last, store in a paper bag for a few weeks. Use lots of cloves which are a natural preserving agent. The cloves will draw out the juices and they’ll shrink in size. Dusting with cinnamon helps, too, as cinnamon functions as an anti-fungal.

Ideas for Using Pomanders
Create a centerpiece for your next holiday meal.
Give to friends, teachers, and neighbors in a plastic bag with a red ribbon!
Use small oranges (or other small citrus) to create a fragrant ornament for the Christmas tree.
Once dried, hang pomanders in your closet or add to your drawers like a sachet.

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