If you want your home to smell warm and welcoming, DIY potpourri is an easy and fun option. You can mix up your favorite scents to match any mood or season. Plus, homemade potpourri makes a thoughtful, budget-friendly gift.
The best part? You control everything that goes into it. There are no hidden chemicals or artificial scents, just natural ingredients you can feel good about using.
Here are 10 specific DIY potpourri blends, complete with ingredients, simple instructions, and detailed descriptions to inspire you. I’ve also included some packaging ideas to make your creations gift-ready.
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1. Cinnamon Orange Spice DIY Potpourri
You know that cozy, warm smell that makes you think of fall? This potpourri blend nails it. Dried orange slices mix with cinnamon sticks, cloves, and just a pinch of nutmeg to bring those spicy, sweet vibes to your home. It’s like the holidays in a bowl. Star anise? Totally optional, but it adds that little something extra to impress your guests.
The best part? It’s super easy to make. Dry a few orange slices in the oven, grab your spices, and toss it all together. Throw it in a mason jar with some twine, and you have got a cute gift—or just keep it for yourself! No judgment here.
Ingredients:
- 2 oranges, thinly sliced and dried
- 4 cinnamon sticks, broken into pieces
- 2 tablespoons whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
- 1 star anise (optional)
Instructions:
- Dry the orange slices by baking them on a lined tray at 200°F for about 2 hours. Flip halfway through. Let them cool completely.
- Combine the dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg in a bowl. Add star anise for an extra touch.
- Mix everything together gently.
Packaging Tip: Use a mason jar and tie a twine bow around the lid. Add a small handwritten tag that says “Cinnamon Orange Spice Potpourri.”
2. Lavender and Vanilla Dream
This one is like a spa day for your nose. Lavender buds, chamomile, and a little rosemary come together with a sweet vanilla bean to create a scent that’s equal parts calming and luxurious. It’s perfect for your bedroom, bathroom, or anywhere you need a little relaxation boost.
It is super easy to make! Just mix up the ingredients, cut the vanilla bean into tiny pieces, and if you’re feeling fancy, add a couple of drops of vanilla oil. Scoop it into little muslin bags, and you’ve got the perfect drawer freshener or nightstand decor. Simple, pretty, and oh-so soothing.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried lavender buds
- 2 tablespoons dried chamomile flowers
- 1 vanilla bean, sliced lengthwise
- 1 tablespoon dried rosemary
- 3 drops vanilla essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix the lavender, chamomile, and rosemary in a bowl.
- Cut the vanilla bean open and scrape a small amount into the mix. Slice the pod into tiny pieces and add it, too.
- Add a few drops of vanilla essential oil for a stronger scent.
Packaging Tip: Put the DIY potpourri in small muslin bags. They’re perfect for tucking into drawers or placing on a nightstand.
3. Citrus Fresh
Need a pick-me-up? This potpourri is sunshine in a bowl. Dried lemon, lime, and orange slices give you that zesty, clean scent that instantly brightens a room. Toss in a little eucalyptus and mint, and it’s like a burst of fresh air. Perfect for kitchens, bathrooms, or anywhere you want things to smell light and happy.
And yes, it’s as simple to make as it sounds. Dry your citrus slices in the oven, mix in the mint and eucalyptus, and you’re done. Package it up in a clear bag with a ribbon, and it doubles as a cute, cheerful gift.
Ingredients:
- 1 lemon, sliced and dried
- 1 lime, sliced and dried
- 1 orange, sliced and dried
- 2 tablespoons dried eucalyptus leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried mint leaves
Instructions:
- Dry the citrus slices in the oven at 200°F for about 2 hours. Flip halfway through, then cool completely.
- Mix the dried citrus slices, eucalyptus leaves, and mint in a bowl.
Packaging Tip: Use a clear cellophane bag to showcase the pretty colors. Tie it closed with a green ribbon.
4. Cozy Apple Pie DIY Potpourri
If you want your home to smell like you’ve been baking all day (without the effort), this is your blend. Dried apple slices, cinnamon sticks, cranberries, and cloves give you that warm, baked-apple goodness everyone loves. A little sprinkle of nutmeg seals the deal.
This one’s perfect for fall but honestly works anytime you want that sweet, comforting vibe. Dry the apples, mix in the spices, and display it in a pretty bowl. Or scoop it into kraft paper bags for an easy, homemade gift. It’s sweet, simple, and smells amazing.
Ingredients:
- 2 apples, thinly sliced and dried
- 3 cinnamon sticks, broken into pieces
- 1 tablespoon dried cranberries
- 1 tablespoon whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions for DIY Potpourri:
- Dry the apple slices in the oven at 200°F for about 2 hours. Let them cool.
- Combine the dried apples, cinnamon sticks, cranberries, cloves, and nutmeg in a bowl.
Packaging Tip: Fill a kraft paper bag and seal it with a cute sticker or stamp that says “Cozy Apple Pie.”
5. Rose Petal Romance
This one smells like pure elegance. Dried rose petals take center stage, offering a soft, delicate fragrance, while hibiscus flowers add depth. A hint of lavender balances the floral notes for a blend that feels both relaxing and luxurious. It’s the perfect choice for bedrooms or bathrooms, adding a touch of romance to any space.
The ingredients are easy to find, and the result is stunning. You can scoop the potpourri into a pretty glass jar or even sprinkle it into a warm bath for a spa-like treat. Whether for yourself or as a gift, this blend is as beautiful as it is fragrant.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried rose petals
- 1/4 cup dried hibiscus flowers
- 1 teaspoon dried lavender
- 3 drops rose essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Mix the rose petals, hibiscus, and lavender in a bowl.
- Add a few drops of rose essential oil if you want a stronger scent.
Packaging Tip: Fill a glass jar and wrap a pink ribbon around it. Attach a small tag for an extra touch.
6. Woodsy Pine and Cedar DIY Potpourri
If you love the smell of a fresh forest, this blend is for you. Dried pine needles and cedar chips create an earthy, woodsy aroma, while a touch of rosemary keeps it fresh. Adding a small pinecone gives it that extra rustic charm.
This potpourri is perfect for winter or any time you want to bring the outdoors in. Package it in a burlap bag for a simple, rustic look, or display it in a decorative bowl on your coffee table.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons dried pine needles
- 2 tablespoons dried cedar chips
- 1 small pinecone
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 drops pine essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Combine the dried pine needles, cedar chips, rosemary, and pinecone in a bowl.
- Add a couple of drops of pine essential oil for an extra boost.
Packaging Tip: Use a burlap bag to give it a rustic feel. Tie it closed with twine.
7. Holiday Peppermint
Fresh and minty, this blend is Christmas in a jar. Crushed peppermint candy pairs beautifully with dried mint and eucalyptus leaves for a scent that’s festive and refreshing. Add a drop or two of peppermint essential oil for extra zing.
It’s an excellent choice for holiday gifts or seasonal décor. Package it in a mason jar with a red-and-white ribbon for a cheerful touch, or sprinkle it in a bowl for a burst of holiday cheer.
Ingredients:
- 1/2 cup crushed peppermint candy
- 2 tablespoons dried mint leaves
- 1 tablespoon dried eucalyptus leaves
- 2 drops peppermint essential oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Crush the peppermint candy into small pieces.
- Combine the candy, dried mint, eucalyptus leaves, and peppermint oil in a bowl.
Packaging Tip: Place the mix in clear mason jars. Add a red-and-white striped ribbon.
8. Herbal Garden Mix
This blend smells like a fresh herb garden in full bloom. Basil, thyme, sage, and rosemary create a clean, earthy aroma, while dried lemon slices add a bright, citrusy twist. It’s subtle yet refreshing, perfect for kitchens or dining rooms.
You can display this potpourri in a tin container for a farmhouse look or sprinkle it into sachets to tuck into drawers. The natural greens and citrus make it both functional and beautiful.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons dried basil
- 2 tablespoons dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon dried sage
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 2 dried lemon slices
Instructions:
- Mix the basil, thyme, sage, and rosemary in a bowl.
- Add the dried lemon slices for a fresh twist.
Packaging Tip: Use a small tin container. Add a handwritten tag that says “Herbal Garden.”
9. Ginger Spice Delight DIY Potpourri
Sweet and spicy, this blend is like your favorite fall baking scents in a jar. Dried ginger root pairs perfectly with cinnamon sticks, orange peel, and a dusting of nutmeg for a warm, inviting aroma.
This mix works beautifully in kitchens or as seasonal décor. Package it in a mason jar with a gold ribbon for an elegant touch, or display it in a bowl on your counter for a cozy vibe.
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons dried ginger root pieces
- 3 cinnamon sticks, broken into pieces
- 1 tablespoon dried orange peel
- 1 teaspoon nutmeg
Instructions:
- Combine the dried ginger, cinnamon sticks, orange peel, and nutmeg in a bowl.
Packaging Tip: Fill a mason jar and tie a gold ribbon around the lid for a classy look.
10. Sweet Vanilla Chai
Inspired by everyone’s favorite chai tea, this potpourri combines warm spices with sweet vanilla for a cozy, inviting scent. Cinnamon sticks, cloves, and cardamom pods provide a bold, spicy base, while vanilla bean adds just the right amount of sweetness.
It’s a perfect choice for bedrooms or living rooms where you want a relaxing yet uplifting aroma. Package it in a decorative jar with a beige ribbon, and it’s gift-ready for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- 1 vanilla bean, sliced lengthwise
- 2 tablespoons whole cloves
- 1 teaspoon cardamom pods
- 2 cinnamon sticks, broken into pieces
Instructions:
- Cut the vanilla bean open and scrape a little into the mix. Slice the pod into tiny pieces and add it.
- Combine the vanilla, cloves, cardamom pods, and cinnamon in a bowl.
Packaging Tip: Use a small jar with a warm beige ribbon. Add a tag that says “Sweet Vanilla Chai Potpourri.”
Tips for Making the Most of Your DIY Potpourri
- Drying Ingredients: Fresh items like fruit slices and flowers need to dry completely to avoid mold. The oven method works best.
- Storing Potpourri: Store your mixes in airtight containers when not in use. This helps preserve their scent.
- Refreshing Scents: Add a couple drops of essential oil when the smell starts to fade.
DIY potpourri is an easy way to bring natural, beautiful scents into your home. It’s fun to make, smells amazing, and doubles as a thoughtful gift for friends or family. With these 10 blends, you’ll have a potpourri for every season and occasion.
