Take a piece of paper measuring about four by three inches; fold it across the middle, as shown by dotted line in Fig. 1; then turn down the corners of the folded side (a b, Fig. 2). You now have Fig. 3; turn up the edge c d toward you, and fold it; turn up the other edge away from you, and fold it against the other side, which gives you Fig. 4. Bend over the points c d in either direction, also the other two corresponding points, so that the outline of the triangle is continuous. You can cut off these little corners if you like; but the boat is somewhat stronger, however, by letting them remain, and after a little experience, you will find no difficulty in disposing of them. This little hat-shaped form you now open (Fig. 5) and press together, with the points e f meeting each other, which gives you Fig. 6. Bend the point f up toward you till it meets the point g, folding on the dotted line. Turn the point e up likewise on the other side. Now you have another hat, but smaller, and with a triple crown. Treat this as before (Figs. 5 and 6). Your last shape will have two points meeting at the bottom and three at the top. Pull the two outside points at the top apart sideways (Fig. 7), and continue this till you have drawn it out to a flat shape, as in Fig. 8. Press this closely together, then open it slightly, and the boat is complete—like Fig. 9.
[Note.—To avoid taking up unnecessary space, the first two figures are drawn smaller than their actual proportion to the rest.]
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HOW TO TAKE IMPRESSIONS OF PLANTS.
Take fine paper and oil it well with lard or sweet oil; let it stand a few moments to soak through, then remove the superfluous oil with a piece of paper, and hang it in the air to dry. When the oil is well dried in, take a lighted candle and move the paper slowly over it in a horizontal direction so as to touch the flame, till it is perfectly black. When you wish to take impressions of plants, lay your plant carefully on the oiled paper, and a piece of clean paper over it, and rub it with your finger equally in all parts for about half a minute; then take up your plant, being careful not to disturb the order of the leaves, and place it on the paper on which you wish to have the impression; cover it with a piece of blotting-paper and rub it with your finger for a short time, and you will have an impression equal to a fine engraving. The same piece of black paper will serve to take off a great number of impressions, so that when you have once gone through the process of blacking it, you may make several impressions in a very short time.
It is well for beginners to try with single leaves before attempting whole plants. After you have gained some experience you will find little difficulty in making a beautiful bouquet of leaves, which will be a very acceptable Christmas or birthday gift for mother or an older sister or friend.
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