Dyed Cork Gingerbread Ornament

Step 1:

1. Cut cork square large enough to fit gingerbread man shape. Use cookie cutter or template as a size gauge. Note: Thin cork sheets can be used, but will have to be backed with chipboard or layered for a sturdier ornament. By using the 1/4" thick cork tiles, your finished ornament is sturdy enough for use with just one layer.

2. Wearing craft gloves, mix and measure 2 teaspoons Dark Brown dye with 2 cups of very hot water (140º F); pour into a shallow pan.

3. Immerse cork into hot dye, let set approximately 5 minutes; turn over and let back side set for approximately 5 minutes.

4. Remove cork from dye, place on paper towels to dry.

5. To dye rick-rack for scarf: Cut 6 ½” piece of rick rack. Wearing craft gloves, measure and mix 1 teaspoon Teal dye with 1 cup of very hot water. Immerse rick rack in dye solution and let set approximately 20 minutes. Remove from dye, place on paper towel and let dry. Or, place it on paper towels and dry it in the microwave for 30 – 45 seconds. Over heating will cause scorching of rick-rack.

6. Trace gingerbread man shape onto dry cork square. Cut out with sharp craft scissors.

7. Use Crop-A-Dile tool to punch hole in center top of head.

8. Glue 2 small black buttons to face for eyes.

9. Glue 3 tiny red buttons on front of cookie man, as shown.

10. Cut 4 small strips of white rick-rack and glue approximately ½” from end of arms and legs for faux frosting.

11. To make a mouth, cut a small ¾” piece of white yarn and glue under his eyes.

12. Wrap dyed rick-rack scarf around neck and glue to gingerbread man. Leave ends of rick-rack free.

13. To make hanger: Fold metallic cord in half and insert loop through hole in gingerbread man. Put ends through loop. Tie cut ends in a bow to hang.