A single potpourri classically consists of several layers of fragrance. There is the main scent which is what makes a potpourri smell primarily spicy, fresh, floral or more specifically like roses or oranges, for example.
The next scents are the blenders which "ground" the potpourri. These back up the main scent and can consist of this such as wood shavings, dried berries, spices, fruit peel or a few drops of an essential oil that will compliment the main scent. Some oils that make good blenders are frankincense, myrrh, light musk, synthetic ambergris or lemon oils.
Finally, there are the fixatives which preserve the scent of the potpourri. While they do not lend their own scent to the mix, they keep the potpourri smelling fresh and new. The most commonly used fixative is orris root, which is the powdered root of a particular Iris variety. Powdered orris root is widely available.
Using a mixture of herbs, flowers, woods, oils and spices from the same family of scent is a good place to start. You can bulk up your potpourri with pretty unscented objects like pine cones, dried flowers and even sea shells. If your potpourri gets dusty from sitting around, place the potpourri in a muslin sack and shake it for a bit, Add a couple of drops of essential oil, give it a few more shakes and it is as good as new.
The following recipe is Mr. Massey's favorite potpourri. Mr. Massey is half founder of Caswell and Massey, well-known supplier of scented bath supplies and scents. Caswell and Massey also have mail order where potpourri supplies and oils can be ordered.
Mr. Massey's Favorite Potpourri
To 4 ounces each of coriander, orris root, and rose petals, add 2 ounces of mace, 1/4 ounce each of cloves, table salt, oils or lavender, cinnamon, clove and rose. Include 1/2 ounce tincture of musk.
Ingredients:
