Beginning with two to three cups of loose, fresh, clean rose petals (or 1/2 to 3/4 cup of dried), add them to a large saucepan.

Add enough water to just cover the rose petals. Too much water will yield a weaker product.

Bring the water to a simmer, not a boil.

Cover with a lid to trap any moisture inside, then simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the color of the petals has gone out of them.

Remove from the heat and let the water cool to room temperature. If preserving longer than 2 weeks, add vodka at this step.

Strain from the saucepan into a glass jar or bottle using a funnel.

Begin with two to three cups of loose, fresh, clean rose petals (or 1/2 to 3/4 cup of dried).

Place a small bowl into the center of your saucepan, then add the rose petals around it.

Cover the petals with water, but do not exceed the top of the glass bowl.

Cover with your lid upside-down. This allows the condensation to build, then be directed to the center of the lid, down the handle, and into the bowl at the bottom.

Heat the water to a simmer, not a boil.

Place ice cubes on the lid to foster condensation, and as the ice melts, keep adding more.

Simmer for approximately 30 minutes or until the color of the petals has gone out of them.

Remove from heat and cool to room temperature. If desired, add vodka at this step.

Strain and pour into your jar or bottle using a funnel.