PlantMaker Studio
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Bringing PlantMaker Home
Welcome to the PlantMaker Studio...online! While we can't be together in the PlantMaker Studio at the Arboretum, join us to make a plant and nature exploration tool kit! It's FREE, just like when you visit the Learning Center on Saturdays and Sundays at the Arboretum.
This spring and summer, we'll be working on projects that you can do where you live with materials you already have on hand. Join Reba each week for a new project that will help you learn a little bit more about the plants that live around you.
This Week's Project
Make Your Own Herbarium
Now that your plant press has been hard at work for a few weeks, it's time to get creative (or scientific with your plants).
Supplies:
Pressed plants
Paper
Glue (white school glue is recommended)
Pen/pencil
Paint brush (optional)
Past Projects
Plant Watercolors
This week, plants become the project! Turn you garden or kitchen plants into watercolor paints with the help of some hot water.
Supplies:
Natural materials for color (some examples):
Flower petals
Leaves (grass, spinach, etc.)
Turmeric
Blueberries
Tea or coffee
Spoon
Bowl(s) or Jar(s)
Hot water
Paper & brush for painting
Coffee filter, cheesecloth, or similar (optional)
Mortar and pestle (optional)
Easy Clipboard
This project is a simple solution to a problem I have been having. It's difficult to find a flat place to draw or write in my nature notebook while I'm outside! I am looking forward to using this clipboard with my watercolor paints next week too.
Supplies:
Cardboard
Scissors
Binder clip(s), paper clip(s), or rubber band(s)
Decorating supplies (optional)
Plant Press
A plant press helps to dry plants and save them for many years, if you're patient in letting them dry! Collect some cardboard and newspaper, and you will be ready to make this project!
Supplies:
Newspaper or other thin, absorbent paper
Cardboard
Book(s) or other heavy weights
Two (2) boards (optional)
Belt(s) (optional)
Plants to press!
Origami Envelopes
Use these folded envelopes to store plants like scientists do or have fun sending messages or treasures!
Supplies:
Paper (at least 5" x 5")
Printer paper, origami paper, and recycled magazine pages will all work well
Nature Weaving Frame
Collect and create as you explore nature where you are!
Supplies:
3+ sticks (approximately 12" long)
String
Scissors
Close Looking Frame
Are you looking for a new way to see nature? This frame will help you make observations and think like a scientist.
Supplies:
Cereal box or other large piece of boxboard or cardboard
Scissors
Pen/pencil
Ruler or straight edge
Decorating materials (optional)
Adult supervision
Homemade Nature Notebook
Artist, scientist, or gardener? A nature notebook is a great way to keep track of your observations and ideas. We'll make an easy notebook to get your nature kit started.
Supplies:
5+ sheets of paper for pages (printer paper works well)
1 sheet of cover paper (construction paper works well)
Thread, yarn, or other string
Glue (a glue stick works well)
Optional supplies:
Sewing needle
Bone folder OR popsicle stick
Paper awl