Simple printing

Cut-potato printing is fascinating and so simple as to be well within the capabilities of this age group.

Let your child wash the potato. The pattern-cutting needs a sharp knife, so this is a job for Mother. On the cut face of the half-potato, make your pattern, cutting the potato away for half an inch and leaving the design standing out. As a variation to crosses, stars, moons, etc., you could cut an imitation tyre mark, boot print, wheel shape, bird’s claw or dog’s paw-things the children could see in snow or mud.

Use saucers of powdered color mixed with water and a little flour as thickening. Show the child how to hold the saucer steady while dipping in the potato and wiping off the excess paint on the saucer edge, also how to hold down the paper while printing and lifting off the potato again-helpful little hints on technique. The novelty of repetitive designs soon has children completely engrossed. For the larger potato, cut notches in the top to make a handle.