Easy Nature Crafts – Number 3 – Popcorn Garland for Birds.

Hello, I’m back with another super quick and simple craft idea, that is plastic free and also provides food for the birds. 

Of course, using popcorn as Christmas decoration isn’t anything new, it has been done for decades. Whilst it may not be the shiniest or the glitziest, it is very effective and it has the benefit of being plastic free. It has been tradition in America to adorn trees with popcorn garlands since the 50s and 60s, when trees were decorated outside and the garlands made for any visiting wildlife.

So here we go – here’s how to make a popcorn garland…

What you will need:

• 50g Popping corn kernels – not pre-made packets and certainly not salty/sweet or flavoured popcorn. Of course the amount you need depends on how long you want your garland to be.
• 1 tbsp Vegetable Oil.
• Pan with lid.
• Bowl.
• Needle and thread – preferably cotton or other natural fibre (not plastic!).
• A tree or hedge.
• Optional –  fresh Cranberries.

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Add your oil to the pan and turn the hob onto a medium heat.

Add the kernels and give the pan a shake to cover them in oil.

Put the lid on the pan.

Wait for the kernels to start popping, occasionally shaking the pan.

Once the majority have popped, remove them and pop in a bowl.

Replace the un-popped kernels back into the pan and wait to pop – careful not to burn them though.

Allow to cool.

Thread a needle with your chosen thread or string – make sure the knot at the end of your thread is strong and large – to avoid the popcorn falling off the end.

Thread with the popcorn and intersperse with fresh cranberries, to make nice patterns. This will also make it more nutritious for any birds and other wildlife who take a fancy to it. 

Once it is at your desired length, tie a strong knot at the end.

Trim the end.

Attach to branches or drape over a hedge.

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Et voila! There is your finished garland. Not only are these biodegradable, but they give a fun activity for the festive season, and you can also snack on them as you go! These garlands are not just for outside – oh no! You can easy hang them on you Christmas Tree inside, or over a mantelpiece or picture frame etc. 

Even if you don’t celebrate Christmas, they are a great addition to party decorations e.g. for birthdays. You could even paint or dye them for that extra retro finish!

So there you go, a third easy craft to complete. Let me know if you take part in any of them!

Charlotte

xoxo