Episode 117 - The Ultimate Potato Show
Segment #3 - Burlap
Activity - Wire and Burlap Bonsai Tree

HERE'S WHAT YOU'LL NEED:

• 1/4 yard by 36-inch wide brown burlap
• Wheat paste from hardware or home store
• Water
• Wire that will hold its shape (or fat pipe cleaners)
• Measuring cups
• Small terra cotta pot 2/3 filled with modeling clay
• Scissors
• Bucket or bowl
• Green poly sponge (not cellulose type)
• Glue

LET'S GET STARTED:

1. Take a long piece of wire, wind and form into the shape of a trunk and branches of a small bonsai tree. (If using pipe cleaners, double them up first and then make the shape).
2. Push trunk of tree into clay in terra cotta pot.
3. Cut burlap into small strips, 1/2-inch wide and 6-inches long.
4. Mix wheat paste with water according to directions on the box using less water than directions require. (Consistency should be like oatmeal).
5. Dip the burlap strips into the wheat paste, making sure they are totally covered. Slide fingers along strip to remove excess paste.
6. Wrap strips around the trunk section of wire tree. Wrap several layers so that the trunk will be thicker than the branches. As you wrap the trunk, continue to branches covering all of the wire. Try to form tips on the ends of the branches.
7. Let dry. Stray threads of burlap sticking out add to the natural look.
8. Pinch off small sections of sponge and glue onto branches to create "leaves".
9. Place potted tree in a tray of sand with rocks to create a mini indoor Zen garden.

OTHER ACTIVITIES FROM THIS EPISODE:

Potato Paper
Potato Paper
Potato Paper Plastic Bottle Lamp
Microwave Potato Chips
Microwave Potato Chips
Burlap
Wire and Burlap Bonsai Tree
Burlap Tree Wall Hanging
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Garlic Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Garlic