Hand-made Corn Paper (2) - Collecting dry materials from the field

This is an early spring activity. I prefer to collect corn stalks, husks, and roots after they have gone through the process of decomposition in the fall and they have been covered with snow for the entire winter. Once the snow has melted, just about the same time the crocus and tulips begin to sprout, I go out to the field with my oldest son, and I carry a black plastic garden bag.



The fields can be very dry and dusty, and we need to wear leather gloves to avoid getting splinters in our hands. Last year I was very ambitious and collected four bags full of dry material. This is when the fun begins.