There are a few simple rules for pomanders: It is easier to insert the cloves if you prick the fruit with a fork first, and for the pomander to keep well, the cloves should be placed fairly close together. (Parents note: Don't worry about the fruit keeping well if your child is intent upon his design.) If you want to hang the pomander, leave a blank band around the fruit the width of the ribbon you will be using. This makes a handy groove to hold it in place.

When you've finished putting the cloves into the fruit, cure the pomander with the spices. Mix the spices in a large shallow dish. The amount needed depends upon how many pomanders you are curing. Roll the pomanders around in the spice mixture until they are well coated, then leave them in the dish until they harden. This may take from 2 weeks to a month, depending on the type of fruit used.