Pomander Ball's & Festive Ornaments

The holiday season is a time when our homes become places of warmth and connection, offering a welcome contrast to winter’s cold and quiet. It’s in these moments of togetherness that we often turn to simple traditions to bring meaning and joy to the season. One of my favorites is crafting pomander balls—a timeless practice that fills the air with the rich, familiar scents of orange, clove, and cinnamon. 

This tradition dates back centuries, when pomander balls were not just decorative but also protective, believed to purify the air and invite blessings. Oranges, with their vibrant color and bright, uplifting fragrance, symbolize abundance and warmth. Cloves, earthy and aromatic, are steeped in the lore of protection and prosperity. And cinnamon, with its sweet and spicy warmth, adds a comforting sense of vitality to the mix.

Making pomanders is both a creative and meditative act. Studding cloves into an orange connects you to the roots of this ritual while offering a chance to slow down and savor the moment. As the citrus and spices mingle, they release a fragrance that feels grounding and festive, filling your home with a sense of seasonal renewal.

This simple tradition is a wonderful way to bring the essence of the holidays into your space. Whether you hang them as decorations, place them in bowls, or give them as gifts, pomander balls offer more than their scent—they carry the spirit of the season. It’s a pleasant reminder that small, intentional acts can make the darkest days feel a little brighter.

In our family, we’ve adapted this tradition by making homemade ornaments with dried orange slices, accented with cinnamon or paprika for extra fragrance and a pop of warm color. This year, I’ve added dried rose hips to the mix, bringing a subtle softness and a heart-opening element to these decorations. Each holiday season, I create gift baskets, and these ornaments have become a consistent staple, adding a touch of beauty and sensory magic to every basket. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to share the warmth and spirit of the season.

What You’ll Need:

• Fresh oranges (or other citrus like lemons or limes)
• Whole cloves
• Ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice (optional, for rolling or dusting)
• Toothpick or small skewer (to pre-poke holes if needed)
• Ribbon or twine (optional, for hanging or decorating)
• Paper towels or gloves (to protect your hands from citrus oils if desired)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Your Workspace
   Lay down a towel or parchment paper to catch any mess, and gather your materials within easy reach.
2. Choose a Design
   Decide how you want to arrange the cloves on your orange. You can create patterns like stripes, spirals, or even cover the entire orange for a classic look.
3. Pre-Poke Holes (optional)
   Use a toothpick or skewer to gently poke small holes in the orange’s skin. This makes it easier to insert the cloves and helps avoid breaking them.
4. Insert Cloves
   Push whole cloves into the pre-poked holes or directly into the orange’s skin. Space them evenly or cluster them creatively depending on your chosen design.
5. Add Spice Dusting (optional)
   Roll the finished pomander ball in a mixture of ground cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice for added fragrance and to help preserve it as it dries.
6. Finish and Display
   If desired, tie a ribbon or twine around your pomander ball for hanging or decoration. Place it in a bowl, on your tree, or in a centerpiece for a fragrant seasonal accent.

Tips for Success:

• Longevity: Pomanders will dry naturally over time. To prevent mold, ensure there’s enough airflow around them. You can also place them in a warm, dry spot to speed up the process.
• Decorative Ideas: Mix dried pomanders with greenery, pinecones, or candles for a festive display.
• Gifting: Wrap finished pomanders in small gift bags or boxes for a handmade, aromatic holiday gift.