- 1). Go on a nature walk, taking several baggies along with you. Make it a family outing and take your kids or grand kids along, too. Collect interesting nature items to toss in your potpourri mix. Some good choices include acorns and other tree nuts, bark, interesting twigs and pine cones.
- 2). Set several paper towels on a microwave-safe plate. Place orange peels on the paper towels. Cover the orange peels with three or four layers of paper towels. Microwave at fifty percent for five minutes, rotating half-way through if your microwave does not have a carousel. Remove peels and store in a cool, dry place for two to three days, until completely dry.
- 3). Place cinnamon, nutmeg and cloves inside a sturdy paper bag. Use the hammer to smash the ingredients into small pieces. Breaking the spices up will also release fragrant oils.
- 4). Measure 10 cups of natural materials, 2 cups of the spices and all of the orange peels into a large bowl. Mix all ingredients thoroughly, but gently. Use your hands or two large spoons.
- 5). Store mixture in one or more lidded containers for at least two weeks. Shake the mixture gently once every day. To use, pour potpourri into a bowl and display in your desired location.
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