Corn-Husk Dolls

By Carole Van Osdol

The pioneers learned how to make corn-husk dolls from the Indians, and the craft was handed down to us by the pioneers. To make corn-husk dolls, you will need: corn husks stripped from freshly picked corn, large towel, oblong cake pan, glue, string or wire, clothespin, corn silk (optional), and colored pencils or watercolors.

Instructions

1. Place fresh corn husks in sun to bleach and dry out completely.

2. Cover work area with towel. Soak dried corn husks in pan of warm water for ten minutes so that they will bend easily without cracking.

3. HEAD Take four husks from water, stack on top of each other at different angles, then fold in middle. About 1″ (2.5 cm) below fold, tie tightly with string, forming rounded bulge for head. Tie narrow strip of husk over string.

   Corn-Husk Dolls

4. ARMS Roll several husks together lengthwise, and trim to 6″ (15 cm) in length. Tie string near each end to form hands, and cover with strips of husk. Separate husks just below neck string.

   Arms

5. BODY Make two stacks of three husks, overlap 2″ (5 cm) and fold over center of arms, push up firmly between separated husks to neck, and tie waistline with string. Cover string with piece of husk.

   Body

6. SKIRT Trim husks around bottom to make layered skirt. Skirt may be shaped by stuffing crumpled paper under it and allowing it to dry.

   Skirt

7. FINISHING TOUCHES Glue on corn-silk hair, if desired. Leftover husks may be cut and glued to doll as apron, bonnet, or scarf. Use colored pencils or watercolors to add eyes and other facial features. Bring hands together in front of doll and hold together with clothespin until dry. A flower could be placed in her hands.

Illustrated by Shauna Mooney