How to Make Rose Petal Beads

Rose petal beads can be used to make a rosary.

Rose petals have been used for centuries to create beautiful, fragrant beads for rosaries and necklaces. Only the most fragrant varieties of roses are used for these beads. The traditional cooking method for making rose petal beads can take 10 to 14 days, followed by another two weeks to dry them. Rose petal beads are said to retain their fragrance. When they are worn, the body's warmth causes them to release their scent.

Things You'll Need

• Rose petals
• Water
• Food blender
• Cast iron skillet
• Pins
• Cardboard

Instructions

1. Pick rose petals in the morning after the dew has dried. Place them in a blender with enough water to just cover them. Puree the mixture.

2. Pour the puree into a cast iron skillet and bring it to a simmer. Allow the mixture to cool completely, then bring it to a simmer again.

3. Process the mixture in the blender once a day until it reaches the consistency of clay.

4. Shape it into beads about twice the size you want the finished beads to be. The beads will shrink as they dry.

5. Pierce through the center of each bead with a pin. Stick the pin in a piece of cardboard. Don't allow the beads to touch the cardboard of each other.

6. Allow the beads to dry for about two weeks before using. Turn the beads on the pins every day to keep them from sticking to the pins and to ensure that the holes stay open.

Tips & Warnings

• The reaction between rose petals and iron give the beads their dark, matte finish.

• Do not allow rose petal beads to get wet. It may cause them to soften and fall apart.

References

• Choosing Voluntary Simplicity: How to Make Rose Petal Beads