How to Convert Corn Husk Into Packaging Material

Convert corn husks into an artistic packaging material for a variety of products. Corn husks are a natural renewable resource that is biodegradable. They can be inexpensively purchased in large bags or gathered for free during your own corn harvest. Corn husks have been used around the world as a cheap way to package foods that will be eaten right away. Add an old world touch to your packaging design by incorporating dried corn husks.

Things You'll Need

• Airtight glass or plastic container
• Sharp scissors

Instructions

1. Dry green corn husks for up to two weeks by placing them in a single layer in the hot sun. Husks must be put away at night so they are not soaked by the morning dew. Skip this drying process by purchasing already dried corn husks from your local grocer or craft store.

2. Store your dried corn husks in a sealed glass or plastic airtight container until you are ready to use them for packaging.

3. Cut a corn husk into strips that are approximately an eighth of an inch wide with a pair of sharp scissors.

4. Place the item that is to be packaged in the center of a single corn husk or on a cross pattern of two stacked husks.

5. Pull the corn husk or husks up around the sides of the item and tie them at the top with one of the narrowly cut husk strips. A simple knot works fine, but a bow or loop adds an artistic flourish.

6. Place the corn husk wrapped item into a glass or plastic airtight container for extended storage.

Tips & Warnings

• Corn husk leaves do not provide protection from bacteria and insects during storage.

References

• FAO Corporate Document Repository: Packaging
• Sacred Spiral: Drying Corn Husks