According to Allure, "The trend toward using natural ingredients was pioneered by perfumer and author Mandy Aftel."

Well, guess what? Last week I had the pleasure of meeting with the famed perfumer in her Berkeley, CA studio. We covered everything from beautifully stanky scents to trends in the industry to advice on selecting fragrances. And when I asked her if she had any do-it-yourself ideas for holiday gifting, she definitely delivered.

In her book, Scents & Sensibilities: Creating Solid Perfumes for Well-Being (approximately $5), Aftel provides a "recipe" for creating your own solid perfume. While the talented perfume maker sells her Single Solids, Double Solids, and the ultra-luxe One-of-a-Kind Antique Cases on her website, you can create these thoughtful and easy gifts for your friends and loved ones on your own. Learn how to make these sweet smelling compacts when you read more.

How-To Make 'Em

  • In a beaker or small bowl, combine 1 teaspoon of jojoba oil with 20 drops of essential oil. Example: 7 drops of ylang ylang and 13 drops of grapefruit (see more of Aftel's combos below). She recommends Whole Foods or your local health food store as a go-to place for inexpensive oils.
  • Melt 1/2 teaspoon of grated beeswax over heat (she used a hot plate).
  • Mix oils and wax together, then pour into a small container. Aftel recommends using antique cases, small tins, or lip balm jars — basically anything that closes with a latch, is not too deep, and is rounded in shape for easier finger scoopage. Your solid will set in about 10 minutes.

Great Essential Oil Combos

  • Clary sage and rosewood.
  • Patchouli with either rose, ylang ylang, or frankincense.
  • Plain ol' vanilla extract will work, too — imitation not allowed.

Photo courtesy of Mandy Aftel

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