I've been searching for info on how to construct an alembic since Evolotus mentioned it in my inquiry about ideas for a lavender surplus. I found many places I can buy one...not in my budget ...and I'd like to try to actually construct it myself out of "recycled" materials. I get the principal but haven't found any construction instructions : )

I keep trying to teach my kids there's uses for all the "junk" I save and that they should take a lesson to reuse rather than discard. That's difficult in today's disposable society. I had my first pair of leather running shoes back in 1977. I washed them in the washer, air dried them and wore them for almost 10 years before the soles wore out. I replaced the arch supports several times and maybe they should have gone before then (my feet would probably agree) but when they were worn out enough to pitch, I turned them in to planters for sedum by my garden shed door. They're probably still there unless the new owners trashed them.

If anyone has knowledge in this area or access to information regarding the construction of an alembic, I'd be very appreciative if you could direct me. Or if you have other suggestions as to the extraction of essential oils from lavender, that would be great as well.

Thanks!!!

~Kim