Make Scentsational Rose Beads

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Rose petals are added, along with water, to the blender, to make a pulp that can be shaped into beads.
Rose petals are added, along with water, to the blender, to make a pulp that can be shaped into beads.
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A necklace made from the roses of a bridal bouquet, a theatrical debut, or a gift from a loved one, turns the fragile petals into  treasured keepsake.
A necklace made from the roses of a bridal bouquet, a theatrical debut, or a gift from a loved one, turns the fragile petals into  treasured keepsake.
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After the pulp has cooled, beads are rolled and pierced with a needle. (These beads are fairly large.)
After the pulp has cooled, beads are rolled and pierced with a needle. (These beads are fairly large.)
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The Apothecary Rose, Rosa gallica officinalis, is one of the prized fragrant varieties of Gallica roses used for rose oil.
The Apothecary Rose, Rosa gallica officinalis, is one of the prized fragrant varieties of Gallica roses used for rose oil.

Centuries ago, when knighthood was in flower, noblewomen made fragrant beads of petals plucked from castle rose gardens. Strung together into rosaries (from the Latin rosarium, meaning “garland of roses” or “rose garden”), the beads assisted the devout in saying their prayers. Indeed, many believed that the lovely perfume, released into the air as the beads were handled and worn, wafted to heaven and disposed God to listen kindly to all entreaties.

Today, religious rosaries are commonly composed of different materials. Yet necklaces made of rose beads still deserve attention, because they make charming, unusual personal gifts and unique craft items. What’s more, the scented chains are quite easy to fashion if the basic material–a goodly quantity of rose petals–is available.

Supplies to Make Rose Beads

To make these naturally aromatic necklaces, you’ll need a few simple tools: an electric blender or a ceramic mortar and pestle, a saucepan (preferably glass, enameled, or–to make black beads–cast iron), a wooden spoon, and a No. 1 or 2 knitting needle or a similar sharp, pointed object with which to make a hole through each bead. For materials, you’ll need nylon monofilament line and several quarts of rose petals. You may also choose to use some rose oil to strengthen the scent, and a clasp to finish off your necklace.

Making the Rose Bead Pulp

  • Published on Jul 1, 1983
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