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Cornstarch Bioplastic for Pressed Flowers

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Create beautiful keepsakes with cornstarch bioplastic and pressed flowers—a simple, hands-on craft for kids that requires just a few pantry items.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 part cornstarch
  • 2 parts water
  • 1 teaspoon of vegetable oil per cup of cornstarch
  • A few drops of vinegar or lemon juice (optional)
  • Dried flowers or pressed petals
  • Nonstick baking paper or silicone mat
  • Small saucepan
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Bowl for cooling and kneading
  • Rolling pin or small jar (optional)
  • Cookie cutters or sharp craft blade (optional)
  • Fine-tipped scissors
  • Soft cloth or sponge
  • Airtight container or parchment for storage

Instructions

  1. Measure and combine cornstarch and water in a saucepan. Add vegetable oil and vinegar or lemon juice if using. Stir until smooth.
  2. Stir with a wooden spoon so lumps disappear; the mix should look milky and even.
  3. Place the saucepan over low heat, stirring continuously until the mixture thickens and becomes clear.
  4. Watch for the mix to turn glossy and pull away from the sides; this usually takes a few minutes.
  5. Once thickened, remove from heat and allow to cool slightly before kneading the warm dough in a bowl lined with baking paper.
  6. Cool until it is warm and comfortable to touch, not hot; knead until smooth and elastic.
  7. Flatten the dough between two sheets of baking paper to a thickness of 1-2 millimeters.
  8. Use a rolling pin or a small jar and keep the paper on both sides to prevent sticking.
  9. Press dried petals or leaves into the bioplastic, ensuring not to move them after contact.
  10. Seal the top with another sheet and cut shapes if desired using cookie cutters or a craft blade while the material is still warm.
  11. Leave the pieces to cool and firm at room temperature, flipping occasionally for even drying.
  12. Once dry, smooth the edges with a damp sponge or cloth. Store flat between paper sheets.

Notes

Cleanup is easy as the dough comes off nonstick paper and tools can be wiped clean with a damp cloth.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://www.diymadeeasy.com/cornstarch-bioplastic-pressed-flowers-recipe/