Slice up the length of each vanilla bean, leaving the bean attached at one end.

Place vanilla beans into a well-sealing glass bottle or jar that is large enough to hold the amount of vanilla you want to make.

Pour vodka over beans, using a funnel if necessary. Shake vigorously.

Store in a dark, room temperature place for several months, shaking vigorously once to twice per week.

When vanilla is done, you will still be able to smell the vodka, but it will also smell strongly of vanilla. Use vanilla directly from this container, without removing beans or decant into smaller bottles to give as gifts. If the beans remain in the vanilla, it can be topped off with small amounts of vodka occasionally for a few months. Stop adding vodka when the vanilla's potency decreases.