How to Preserve Leaves at Home for Crafting
How to preserve leaves at home, use in crafts or picture framing.
To Preserve Leaves:
Place the leaves in a pan and cover them with dry, hot sand. Allow this to cool. Remove the leaves and smooth them with a hot iron. Dip them in colorless varnish and let them dry.
To Make Novelties from Leaves:
Paint large leaves with aluminum or bronze paint. Dip them into a clear plastic paint to set them firmly.
Once the leaves have been preserved, they can be used in various crafts and picture framing projects to add a touch of nature’s beauty to your home décor. Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:
Leaf Pressed Art:
Press the preserved leaves between heavy books or in a dedicated leaf press for a few weeks. Once dry, carefully remove them and arrange them in an aesthetically pleasing manner on a piece of decorative paper or canvas. Secure the leaves in place using adhesive or a thin layer of Mod Podge. Frame your leaf pressed art and hang it as a unique wall decoration.
Leaf Mobile:
Create a whimsical leaf mobile by attaching preserved leaves to strings of varying lengths. You can add beads, feathers, or other small decorative items to the end of each string for additional flair. Hang this nature-inspired mobile near a window or in a corner of a room to catch the light and create a mesmerizing display.
Leaf Coasters:
Enhance your tabletops by transforming preserved leaves into stylish coasters. Start by selecting flat leaves of similar size and shape. Apply a thin coat of clear resin or epoxy to the top surface of each leaf, following the product instructions for drying time. Once cured, attach small felt or cork circles to the bottom of each leaf to prevent scratches on your furniture.
Leaf Embroidery:
If you enjoy embroidery or sewing, you can incorporate preserved leaves into your projects. Choose a fabric, like canvas or cotton, and sketch a design or pattern inspired by the leaf shape. Cut out the preserved leaf and carefully sew it onto the fabric, following the leaf outline. Embellish your leaf embroidery with additional stitches, beads, or sequins.
Leaf Picture Frame:
Upgrade a plain picture frame by adorning it with preserved leaves. Start by applying a layer of decoupage glue to the frame surface. Carefully arrange the preserved leaves on the frame, overlapping them slightly. Press the leaves down gently to ensure they adhere well to the frame. Once dry, seal the leaves and protect them by applying a coat of clear varnish or Mod Podge over the entire frame surface.
Leaf Wreath:
Create a unique and festive wreath using preserved leaves. Start by attaching a foam or wire wreath form to a sturdy base. Next, attach preserved leaves to the wreath form using hot glue or floral wire. Arrange the leaves in a uniform pattern or create a more organic and scattered design. Add additional embellishments such as berries, pine cones, or bows to enhance the wreath. Hang it on your front door or use it as a centerpiece for your table.
Leaf Candle Holders:
Add a touch of elegance to your candle display by incorporating preserved leaves. Start by selecting glass candle holders of various sizes. Apply a thin coat of clear adhesive or Mod Podge to the outside surface of the glass holder. Carefully press preserved leaves onto the adhesive, ensuring they adhere well. Allow the adhesive to dry completely before placing a candle inside the holder. The candlelight will illuminate the beauty of the preserved leaves, creating a warm and inviting ambiance.
Leaf Garland:
Bring the outdoors inside by creating a leaf garland. Start by selecting a variety of preserved leaves in different colors and sizes. Attach each leaf to a long piece of twine or ribbon using hot glue or small clothespins. Space the leaves evenly along the garland, or create a more random and organic arrangement. Hang the garland along a mantel, staircase, or across a doorway to add a touch of nature to your space.
Leaf Stencils:
Use preserved leaves as stencils to create unique patterns and designs on various surfaces. Place a preserved leaf onto a piece of paper, fabric, or wood and secure it in place using painter’s tape or adhesive spray. Apply paint, ink, or spray to the surface, carefully covering the area around the leaf stencil. Remove the leaf stencil and let the paint or ink dry completely. Repeat with different leaves and colors to create a beautiful and organic pattern.
Leaf Table Runner:
Add a natural and earthy touch to your dining table by creating a leaf table runner. Start by selecting a long piece of burlap or fabric in a color that complements your table setting. Arrange preserved leaves along the length of the fabric, either in a symmetrical or random pattern. Attach the leaves to the fabric using fabric adhesive or by sewing them in place. Place the leaf table runner down the center of your table to create a stunning and unique centerpiece.
Remember, when creating crafts or framing with preserved leaves, it is essential to store them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent any further decay. With a little creativity and the beauty of preserved leaves, you can add an organic touch to your home décor while cherishing the wonders of nature.
