How to Preserve a Cattail Weaving

Cattail leaves create delicate weavings that can be preserved using common household items.

Cattails are popular items for use as dried decorations and in creating woven rugs and baskets. Most commonly, the leaves from the cattail plant and not the main, iconic stalk are used in weavings. According to the Wicker Woman, cattails are generally collected and dried during the summer months, when cattails are known for growing and flourishing. Protecting the weavings made from these plant specimens just takes a little time and care.

Things You'll Need

• Glycerin
• Large bowl
• Soft, clean cloth
• White school glue

Instructions

1. Preserve the fibers of a cattail weaving using a solution of glycerin. This substance is easily procured at drug stores. Mix two parts water with one part glycerin in a large bowl.

2. Dip the tip of the clean cloth into the glycerin mixture and apply evenly across the surface of the weaving. Apply a few coats of the glycerin mixture, ensuring that all surfaces are covered. Allow the mixture to soak over a few hours.

3. Repeat this process whenever the cattail weaving seems to be drying out. Glycerin will create a soft, flexible coating over the cattail weaving.

4. Apply a solution of nine parts water to one part white school glue. Mix the solution in a large bowl and dip the clean cloth into the mixture. Apply the mixture to the entire surface of the cattail weaving and allow the mixture to dry. This method of preservation will seal out any contaminants and create a clean barrier over the weaving.

Tips & Warnings

• Test a small area of the cattail weaving with either of these solutions before applying them to any surfaces.

References

• The Wicker Woman: How to Gather Cattail Leaves
• ACES: Drying and Preserving Flowers and Plant Materials for Decorative Use
• Bay Weekly: Cattails Bring Autumn Into Your Home

Resources

• Native Tech: Uses for Cattail