Since I was a child I have made pomanders, and have always admired their simple beauty. In addition, the fact they smell dreamy along with being so decorative is a bonus I never take for granted. Over the years I have honed my skills, and come up with some decorative spins on this traditional idea.

Still, I return to the basics often, as it reminds me of the holidays of my childhood, and those family members who are no longer around to share in the present ones.To make your own you will need very few items, just a bunch of oranges, a rubber band, wooden skewer, and cloves. Even before you get started the scent will begin to fill the air.

Place the rubber band around the orange to use as a guide for your rows. Use the skewer to poke holes along rubber band. Then insert the cloves one by one into the line of holes. Repeat. There are tons of decorative things you can do once they are complete, but I like to make a pyramid on a plate, over a bed of greenery.