Creative Crafts Using Rosemary: Soaps, Candles, and Fragrance Oils

Rosemary Soap

Rosemary's decorative appeal matches its culinary value. Dry stems to create beautiful botanical soaps. Hang stems upside down in a dark, ventilated space for 10 days, or use a microwave with silica gel or paper towels for faster drying. Once dry, embed the stems in a melt-and-pour glycerin soap base. Fill a mold halfway with melted glycerin, layer the dried rosemary, then top with more glycerin. A spritz of rubbing alcohol removes air bubbles. Let harden for 24 hours before unmolding.

Decorative Candle

Adorn candles with dried rosemary for a natural, aromatic touch. Dry stems as described above. Melt paraffin wax in the microwave, brush onto the candle's sides, and press or roll the candle over the rosemary stems. Brush more wax over the stems to seal. Work in sections until the design suits you.

Fragrance Oil

Create a luxurious rosemary-infused oil. Strip 3 cups of fresh leaves from stems and place between wax paper. Bruise with a rolling pin to release oils. Add to a glass jar with 8 oz. of carrier oil (safflower or sweet almond). Seal and place on a sunny windowsill for three weeks, shaking daily. Strain through cheesecloth, replace oil, and repeat with three more cups of bruised leaves for another three weeks. Continue until desired fragrance strength is reached. Store in dark glass for up to one year.