How to Make Rose Potpourri
The use of potpourri dates back to biblical times, when desert tribes carried packets of dried, scented flowers in their clothes to ward off insects at night. It did not gain its name however until about the 17th century in France, when people gathered herbs and flowers which were left to ferment in pots (hence the French name pot-pourri or “rotten pot”) for a time, before adding spices to create a pleasing fragrance. Potpourri also became very popular among kings and queens such as Louis XIV and Isabella of Spain. One of the most beloved kinds of potpourri has always been that which is made from roses. Since nearly the beginning of time it seems roses have been revered and adored, as even a cursory glance at art, literature, poetry and even history (the famous and romantic meeting of Cleopatra and Mark Anthony in a room knee deep in fresh petals for instance) will attest to. There is perhaps not a single person in the world who does not delight in roses, and miss them greatly when they fade in winter. The sweet bliss created by the fragrance alone however can be yours all year long, simply by following these simple steps to create your very own rose potpourri.
What you need:
Rose petals (be sure to take them once the rose is fully bloomed but before it begins to die and brown out);
A cookie sheet:
Herbs of your choice (prime candidates are lavender, sandlewood or oak moss);
Spices of your choice (try cloves, cinnamon, nutmeg or even dried orange peels);
Essential oils of your choice;
and a glass jar.
What you do:
1)Place the rose petals in lightly (do not pack, press or pile) in a single layer on the cookie sheet and allow one week for them to dry.
2) Collect the rose petals, one litre at a time. For each litre of petals add one tablespoon of your chosen herbs.
3) Sprinkle with spice.
4) Add three or four drops of essential oil.
5) Place the mix in the jar and seal, allowing it to set for two weeks and shaking the jar once a day every day.
Now you have real rose potpourri! Place it in a glass bowl to add a breath of joy to any room, or visit your local Edmonton fabric shop and make a sachet by taking a small amount of potpourri and wrapping it in a square of chiffon or linen or lace, or an embroidered handkerchief, tying it with ribbon. Affix a tiny strand of beads or seashells for an added flare, and place the sachets in your drawers. You can also add potpourri to homemade pillows or pomanders. Whatever you do with your potpourri, you will be sure to delight your loved ones with these lovely treasures.
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