How to Make Seed Embedded Plantable Paper

If you like gardening and you enjoy giving homemade gifts to your friends and loved ones, this is a craft you are sure to enjoy. The next time you are trying to come up with a special gift for someone, give them a homemade card that they can plant! It is a wonderful way to use paper that might otherwise end up in a landfill, too.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Sponge
• Terry cloth or microfiber towel
• Strainer
• Cup or bowl to set strainer in
• Blender
• Large spoon or spatula
• Flannel or felt
• Recyclable paper
• Flower seeds

1. Collect a large pile of recyclable paper and tear it into very small pieces. Place the pieces in the blender jar. Fill the blender jar one-half to one-third full.

2. Pour warm water into the blender jar over the pieces of paper. Fill the blender to the top line with warm water. Turn the blender on low for about 10 seconds. Increase the speed (or use the "Blend" button) for about 30 seconds or until no visible paper flakes remain.

3. Sprinkle one-half to a teaspoon of flower seeds into the mixture and stir well (do not blend). Set the strainer on the cup or bowl and pour the mixture into the strainer. Use the spoon or spatula to press the mixture against the strainer and squeeze out more water.

4. Lay the piece of flannel or felt onto a flat surface and dump the mixture onto the fabric. Use the spoon or spatula to spread it out on the fabric into the shape you want. Spread it as thin as you can so that it will dry quicker.

5. Use the sponge to flatten the mixture and absorb more of the water from the paper mixture. Press firmly with the terry cloth or microfiber towel to absorb still more water.

6. Allow the paper to dry on the top and then turn it over. Allow the other side to dry completely. Use the paper to make a note card or postcard. Include instructions for your recipient, letting them know that they can plant the paper directly into the ground or soil in a pot.

Tips & Warnings

• Some good paper choices include: unprinted computer paper, newspaper, cardboard egg cartons, toilet paper, paper grocery bags, junk mail, tissue paper, napkins or paper towels, leftover pieces of construction paper or phone book pages.

• This paper would be nice for wedding invitations or shower favors.

Resources

• Inexpensive Flower Seeds