Bioplastic Ornaments
Create beautiful, eco-friendly bioplastic ornaments using simple materials while promoting sustainability.
Ingredients
Bioplastic Dough Ingredients
- 1 cup cornstarch Used as the main base for the bioplastic.
- 1 cup water Solvent to dissolve the cornstarch.
- ½ cup vegetable glycerin Provides flexibility to the ornaments.
- as desired drops food coloring Optional for adding color to the ornaments.
- as desired drops essential oils Optional for adding fragrance.
Equipment
- 1 piece baking sheet For baking the ornaments.
- 1 sheet parchment paper To line the baking sheet.
- 1 piece rolling pin For flattening the dough.
- 1 piece oven or microwave For drying the ornaments.
Instructions
Making the Bioplastic Dough
- In a saucepan, mix cornstarch, water, and vegetable glycerin.
- Place the saucepan on low heat and stir continuously until the mixture thickens and forms a dough-like consistency (about 5-7 minutes).
- If desired, add a few drops of food coloring or essential oils for added color and scent, and mix until fully incorporated.
Shaping Your Ornaments
- Place parchment paper on your baking sheet.
- Using a rolling pin, flatten the dough to about 1/4 inch thick on the parchment paper.
- Use cookie cutters to create your desired ornament shapes.
- Poke a hole at the top of each ornament for hanging using a straw or skewer.
Drying Process
- For oven drying: Preheat oven to the lowest setting (around 200°F/90°C) and bake for about 1-2 hours until hard.
- For microwave drying: Place in the microwave on high for 30-second intervals until fully dry.
- Let the ornaments cool completely before decorating.
Decorating Your Ornaments
- Use acrylic paints, glitter, or other embellishments to personalize your ornaments.
- Thread string or ribbon through the holes and hang your creations.
Notes
Experiment with different food colorings and textures by adding dried flowers or leaves. Personalize ornaments with names to give as gifts.