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Here is a tutorial on how to thatch with cattail leaves. Here I am creating an awning to build a sort of sun-shelter for the driveway using natural materials. This is the process used by primitive/aboriginal peoples with an abundance of grasses or tall leaves to create walls, screens, and semi-permanent shelters
1). Harvest cattails just as the very tips are turning yellow, mid to late Summer. Lay them out to dry in the sun, or in a cool dry place. In the sun takes about 3 days with consistent daily temperatures and sun exposure. Indoors takes about 2 weeks. Cattails change color as they lose their chlorophyll as they dry. They change more quickly in sunlight.
2). Notice how I used the lower parts of the leaves to bundle the portions of cattails to dry. The lower part of the cattail leaf seems to be the stringiest and toughest part of the plant, and makes good cordage.
3). While the cattail leaves are drying, create your frame. I fashioned this one out of bought pieces. A more rustic frame can of course be created with naturally harvested materials. I have portioned out and cut the cattail leaves I will use to 2/3 the height of the frame, maybe a little more.