I love all things that you can make by hand, especially if it’s from my own backyard. Paper printing is a great introduction to the art of “Eco-Printing.” In this tutorial I will show you how to make a Botanically Printed Card using plants & paper.
Watercolor or printmaking paper (I buy big sheets and cut them down to size)
Large steamer pot
Plant materials
Clips
Resist for clamping (Ceramic tiles, mason jar lids, dog food lids, cut plywood, etc.)
Place your bundle in the steamer over the pot and have the heat high enough to create a steam bath for your bundle. Steam the bundle for 2-3 hours. Check the water level often and replenish as needed to keep a nice steam going. Let the bundle cool completely before you open it.
The paper will still be wet and can tear so go slowly. Don’t worry—even if the plant matter sticks, it will flake off once the paper is dry. If you do get a tear, stitch it with thread and add some unexpected beauty & style to your card.
Paper will curl when drying. Place a few heavy books on top of your paper as it dries.
Book suggestions:
ECO-COLOUR by India Flint (all of her books are a must-have)
HAND BOOK OF NATURAL PLANT DYES by Sasha Duerr
ECO-Ebook (free)
