About Sachets
Potpourri sachets come in many shapes, styles and fragrances. Typically they are perceived as being a feminine object. Sachets are often associated with lavender filled silk and lace pouches, which are tucked neatly into the lingerie drawer. Not all are so delicate. Some are fashioned from coarse fabric and decorated with silk flowers and other embellishments.
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Identification
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The term sachet is a French word that means a small bag or sac. One type of sachet is a small fabric bag that is filled with potpourri. The sachet is used to add a scent to an enclosed environment. The sachet pouch can be made from a variety of fabrics and trimmed in lace, ribbons or some other material. Dried flower petals, herbs or spices can be used as the fragrant stuffing.
Benefits
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Sachets provide crafters an opportunity to create interesting fabric pouches. They are relatively easy to make, thus appealing to crafters of varying skills. Sachets can be used to freshen the smell of many enclosed spaces, such as luggage, linen closets, and drawers. They allow us to capture the scent of dried roses, lavender and other pleasant fragrances that grow in our gardens.
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History
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The mid- to late-fifteenth century began an era that has been referred to as the "Age of Exploration and Discovery." European explorers set out to discover what was on the other side of the ocean. Citizens from the upper class wore elaborate and layered garments. Unfortunately, daily bathing was not part of their routine. Heavy perfume or powder was worn to mask heavy body odor. Fragrant spices were often stored with the clothing to ward off the lingering stench of stale perspiration. Since the oils from raw spices could stain clothing, spices were then covered in sacs of silk or linen.
Warning
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Sachet poisoning can occur when the contents of the sachet pouch is accidentally ingested. Symptoms of sachet poisoning include eye or throat irritation, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea and vomiting. If the ingredients of a sachet is swallowed, it is advised to call poison control, and be prepared to give the person's age, weight, and describe what, when and how much was swallowed.
Types
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The term sachet can be applied to other miniature bags that are stuffed like plump little pillows. Small disposable bags filled with single servings of shampoo or condiments are called sachets. In cooking, a sachet is a cheesecloth bag that has been stuffed with herbs or vegetables and then used to infuse flavor into soup stock. The culinary sachet allows the flavors to enhance the stock, while enabling the cook to remove it when it is no longer needed.
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