Pomander made using a 5" styrofoam ball and roughly 50 blooms.
I always thought that pomanders were oranges decorated with ribbons and cloves, (a nice project for Tu B'Shevat, stick around!) but as it turns out, floral covered spheres such as this one are also referred to as pomanders. Regardless of what they're called, there's something about these balls that is so gorgeous when done with real flowers and whimsically beautiful when done with artificial flowers, as seen above.
So when I saw a deal on really cheap artificial flowers, I scooped them up for this project, not realizing that I'd need at least 50 for a 5" diameter ball! Lucky for me there were still some left when I went back. Pomanders made with all one type of flower are the most elegant, but if you're looking for something a little more lively and playful, you can try making them with a mix of colors and flower types. And if you use a combination of large and small flowers, you may be able to get away with using fewer.
Pomander made using a roughly 4"styrofoam ball and about 30 blooms.
Pomanders are often used as wedding decorations, topped with gorgeous satin ribbon loops and hung from chairs, and a miniature one would be just adorable as an accessory for flower girls! In the home, they can also be a nice decorative touch in a bedroom, or hang a few together in a corner that needs some attention!
Even a few pomanders scattered on a table, together with some candles, could be beautiful and dramatic, or why not place some in a large bowl when you're in need of a centerpiece? The nice thing about making something from artificial flowers is you can pack it away and always have it on hand when you need it!So while you're at it, make a whole bunch in different sizes, you'll find lots of ways to use them for your next occasion or everyday!
Supplies:
- styrofoam balls
- hot glue gun
- artificial flowers
- craft wire
- something long and sharp (a metal skewer, coat hanger etc.)
- satin ribbon (optional)
How To:
- Using your long sharp object, make two holes running through the entire ball, about 1/4" apart.
- Thread a piece of wire through one hole, and then down the other, leaving a loop.Twist the two ends of the wire together securely and trim excess.
- Remove artificial flowers from their stems and attach to ball with hot glue. Depending on the look you are going for, glue the flowers closely together or more loosely arranged, but be sure no part of the ball is showing.
- Be sure not to cover your wire loop, you'll need this for hanging!
- If you'll be hanging your ball, attach ribbon to the loop. A beautiful large bow, together with a loop from satin ribbon can be quite elegant for wedding decor. Consider using wired ribbon for a bow that will maintain it's shape.
- There are many ways to hang the balls from the ceiling (or a tree for outdoor entertaining!), either with clear fishing line or with a string of beads, crystals, or even fake pearls spaced out along the string. A group of balls hung at different heights looks fabulous, try it!
When your friends ask you about these wonderful pomanders, you can casually and modestly say "oh I made them... " And on the inside be proud of yourself for taking the time to do something to nurture your creative soul!
