Hammering plants on paper is an easy entry into using materials from the garden as pigments. Because the materials are not heated or diluted, the colors are especially vivid. Select fresh, well-hydrated plant materials, and keep them cool and damp until you're ready to use them.

Age range: Toddler through adult

Materials: Sturdy drawing or watercolor paper; freshly-picked leaves and/or flowers; hammer or mallet (if working with young children, wooden "crab" mallets are an inexpensive option); sturdy, durable working surface (if your table or desk is not suitable, consider a freshly-swept smooth-finished concrete slab or 1x10 pine boards cut to working lengths)

Some of our favorites: Red Dye amaranth flowers, sunflowers and leaves, broccoli and tomato leaves

Process: Arrange leaves or flowers on a piece of paper, and sandwich them under a second piece of paper. Hammer. This technique works well for abstract and impressionistic styles.

Anthotypes are a primitive photography method first introduced in the 1800's. For more information, including samples created with a wide variety of materials, we recommend https://www.alternativephotography.com/anthotypes-anthotype-process/

Age range: Middle school through adult

Materials: Watercolor paper; colorful plant parts; mortar and pestle, juicer, or blender; large paintbrush; positive images such as dry leaves, paper cutouts, or found objects; glass (not UV protective) if using objects that may blow away; sunny place

We have had particularly good results from broccoli and tomato leaves processed through a juicer. Beet juice is heat sensitive as well as light sensitive and produces disappointing results.

Process: Extract juice from plant materials. Paint onto watercolor paper using a large (2 or 3 inch) brush to cover paper. Let dry in a dark place. When ready to expose, compose an image on the paper using desired materials. Cover with a piece of glass if needed to prevent blowing. Expose to full sun until exposed background is faded to the desired level. Time required varies according to season and plant material used. Finished images are not lightfast.