BIO FABRICATION¶
FLOWERS TO COMPOST¶
Before starting with making bio materials, I would like to understand the techniques used for optimizing the soil-enriching potential of flowers when utilized in composting.I learned that mixing their petals with leaves is important as it enhances the decomposition process. The combination of petals and leaves provides a balanced carbon-to-nitrogen ratio, making them nutrient-rich composts.
GELATIN BASED¶
I first experimented with gelatin and starch since they are rich in nitrogen,phosphorus and potassium, the major nutrients found in soil fertilizers.
GELATIN WITH POTATO STARCH¶
RECIPE
Gelatin | Potato Starch | Water | Glycerine | White Vinegar |
---|---|---|---|---|
50g | 50g | 100g | 100g | 15g |
How to:
-
Warm up the water in a pot on your stove.
-
Add your plasticiser, the glycerine will bond with the gelatin.
-
Add the gelatin.
-
Dissolve starch in cold water,mix with vinegar and add to the pot.
-
Mix gently the ingredients until they form a smooth mix.
-
Simmer for 10-15 minutes (80C max)
-
Prepare the surface and molds.
-
Once your mixture has thickened, almost like a syrup, pour on your chosen surface. Once start pouring, try to cast slowly without inglobating air.
TOOLS
- Pots
- Spoon, Tongs, Wisk
- Molds
GELATIN WITH CHICKPEA STARCH¶
RECIPE
Gelatin | Chickpea Starch | Water | Glycerine | White Vinegar |
---|---|---|---|---|
50g | 50g | 100g | 100g | 15g |
How to:
-
Warm up the water in a pot on your stove.
-
Add your plasticiser, the glycerine will bond with the gelatin.
-
Add the gelatin.
-
Dissolve starch in cold water,mix with vinegar and add to the pot.
-
Mix gently the ingredients until they form a smooth mix.
-
Simmer for 10-15 minutes (80C max)
-
Prepare the surface and molds.
-
Once your mixture has thickened, almost like a syrup, pour on your chosen surface. Once start pouring, try to cast slowly without inglobating air.
TOOLS
- Pots
- Spoon, Tongs, Wisk
- Molds
PAPER¶
Some flower shops use non-biodegradable materials, such as floral foam or plastic wraps. The improper disposal of these materials adds to plastic pollution, impacting ecosystems and marine life.
MAKING PAPER FROM PLANT FIBERS¶
In this video, Cory Morrison demonstrates how to make paper from grass, which helps me with making paper from flower waste.
MATERIALS NEEDED:
- Plant fibers
- Blender or food processor
- Fine mesh screen or mold and deckle
- A container large enough for your mold and deckle
- Sponge
- Cloth or felt
- Heavy books or a press
MAKING A MOULD AND DECKLE¶
In this video, Cory Morrison demonstrates how to make a mold and deckle.
DIY MOULD AND DECKLE WITH PHOTO FRAMES
MATERIALS NEEDED:
- Photo frames
- A piece of fine mesh
- Stapler and staples