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margaret-ellis

Cornstarch Bioplastic for Pressed Flowers

A calming and mindful project to create biodegradable sheets for preserving pressed flowers, using simple pantry ingredients.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 4 hours
Servings: 1 sheet
Course: Crafting
Cuisine: Crafting
Calories: 50
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 cup lukewarm water
  • 1 teaspoon white vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon coconut oil or light vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon glycerin optional
  • Parchment paper or silicone baking mat
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Weights or books for flattening
  • Clean dry pressed flowers or petals
  • Small craft scissors

Method
 

  1. Gather your ingredients and tools on a quiet surface.
  2. Mix 2 tablespoons cornstarch with 1 cup water in the saucepan, stirring until mostly smooth.
  3. Add 1 teaspoon vinegar and 1 teaspoon oil to the mixture. Stir gently.
  4. Heat the pan over medium-low heat, stirring continuously.
  5. Watch the mixture thicken into a translucent paste (5 to 8 minutes).
  6. Remove the pan from heat when the paste is thick and stretchable.
  7. Prepare your work surface with parchment paper or silicone mat.
  8. Pour the warm paste into a small mound and spread it into an even layer.
  9. Arrange your pressed flowers gently on the warm sheet.
  10. Cover with another layer of parchment and place a weight on top.
  11. Leave to cool and set for at least 2 to 4 hours, or overnight.
  12. Peel the sheet from the parchment and trim if necessary.
  13. Smooth edges with fine sandpaper if desired.

Notes

Glycerin and coconut oil are optional; use as needed for desired texture. Ensure petals are dry and well-pressed to avoid mold.