Welcome to Our Homeschool Crafts Curriculum: Heritage Crafts

Course Sample for Heritage Crafts, Our Homeschool Crafts Course

Cornhusk Doll

Lesson 1: Preparing Your Cornhusks

Please note: all craft projects should be supervised by an adult and all safety cautions given on the products must be followed.

Supplies:

• 2 packages of cornhusks (You can purchase these from any store that carries Hispanic/Mexican food.)
• Dye in an assortment of colors (we found ours in the craft store)
• Pan for dying
• An old saucepan for preparing the dye
• Gloves

Boil 3 cups of water. While the water is started, get out the cornhusks and separate them so they are not stuck together. Place them in a disposable metal pan.

Once the water boils, pour the dye into the water. Mix the dye so it dissolves.

Pour the dye over the cornhusks and let them sit until you have the desired color (anywhere from 20 minutes to 45 minutes).

Squeeze the excess dye and liquid from the cornhusks (be sure to use gloves!) and place the cornhusks in the sun to dry. This can be done inside or outside, but if you do it inside, you’ll want to protect the floor from the dye, which will stain.

Repeat these steps with each color that you choose for your dolls. The drying can take some time, but be sure the cornhusks are dry. They can mold if you put them away too early.