How to Make Festive Orange Pomanders

December 5, 2024

pomander at Eagle House Eccleshall, Staffordshire

Looking for a festive craft that’s as beautiful as it is fragrant? Traditional orange pomanders are a timeless holiday decoration that fill your home with the warm, spicy aromas of citrus and cloves. These handmade treasures are perfect for hanging on your Christmas tree, displaying in a bowl as a centrepiece, or giving as thoughtful gifts to loved ones. Best of all, this eco-friendly craft uses natural materials to create stunning, sustainable decorations.

At Eagle House Eccleshall, we love celebrating the charm of Christmas. Nestled in the heart of Staffordshire, our luxury, award-winning accommodation is the ideal place to escape during the festive season. Whether you choose the independence of The Eagles Nest self-catering apartment or the comfort of one of our luxury B&B rooms, you’ll find the magic of Christmas all around—from Eccleshall’s beautifully decorated high street to its cosy pubs and picturesque countryside walks.

What You’ll Need

Fresh oranges (medium-sized work best)
Whole cloves
A skewer or toothpick (to pre-poke holes)
Ribbon (optional, for hanging)
An airing cupboard or warm, dry space

How to Make Orange Pomanders

Plan Your Design: Decide on a pattern for your pomander. Stripes, swirls, or a fully clove-covered orange are all beautiful options.
Pre-Poke Holes: Use a skewer or toothpick to carefully pierce holes into the orange skin. This makes it easier to insert the cloves and prevents sore fingers!
Add the Cloves: Push the cloves into the pre-poked holes, arranging them in your chosen pattern.
Dry the Pomanders: Place your completed pomanders in the airing cupboard or a warm, dry space for 1–2 weeks. Turn them occasionally to ensure even drying.
Optional Ribbon: Once dry, tie a festive ribbon around your pomander if you’d like to hang it as a decoration.

This simple craft is a wonderful way to embrace sustainability and add a touch of handmade charm to your holiday celebrations.

Why We Love Pomanders

Pomanders are more than just decorations—they’re a fragrant reminder of the holiday season. As they dry, the combination of orange and cloves releases a beautiful scent that fills your home with warmth and cheer. They also make thoughtful gifts for friends and family, adding a personal, homemade touch to your Christmas giving.

Top Tips

Mix It Up: Experiment with adding other spices like star anise or cinnamon sticks for an even more aromatic pomander.
Go Rustic: Pair your pomanders with pinecones, greenery, and fairy lights for a charming, rustic Christmas centrepiece.

Celebrate Christmas at Eagle House

Christmas in Staffordshire is magical, and Eagle House Eccleshall is the perfect place to soak it all in. Stay in our luxurious, award-winning bed and breakfast rooms or enjoy the flexibility of The Eagles Nest self-catering apartment, and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere.

Explore Eccleshall’s enchanting high street, decked out with twinkling lights, and pop into its boutique shops for unique Christmas gifts. Afterward, relax in one of the town’s cosy pubs or take a winter walk through the rolling Staffordshire countryside.

Book Your Festive Escape Today

Make this Christmas unforgettable. Book your stay at Eagle House Eccleshall today and experience the charm of Staffordshire at its most magical. Visit our booking page to secure your spot and start planning your perfect holiday getaway.