To Make Rosery beads
The info below is copied from the website of the late Mark Whitelaw. Use a cast iron skillet according to a local lady who makes rosary beads.
TO MAKE ROSE BEADS FOR A ROSARY Gather the Roses on a dry day and chop the petals
very finely. Put them in a saucepan and barely cover with water. Heat for about an hour
but do not boil. Repeat this process for the three days and if necessary add more water.
The deep black beads made from rose petals are made this rich colour by warming in a
rusty pan. It is important never to let the mixture boil but each day to warm it to a
moderate heat. Make the beads by working the pulp with the fingers into balls. When
thoroughly well worked and fairly dry press on to a bodkin to make the holes in the
centres of the beads. Until they are perfectly dry the beads have to be moved frequently
on the bodkin or they will be difficult to remove without breaking them. Held for a few
moments in a warm hand these beads give out a pleasing fragrance.*

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