A Guide to Fall Leaf Preservation
A Guide to Fall Leaf Preservation
Those who love fall may have a special appreciation for the beauty of leaves. They crunch pleasingly beneath those boots you reserve strictly for this time of year. They carpet sidewalks and driveways with a rich medley of cozy hues ranging from mustard to orange to red.
It’s easy to understand why leaves play such an integral role in making the season so special. A passion for leaves has been almost ingrained in people since childhood when activities like raking with parents and jumping in the mounds were commonplace. Today, you’re more likely to admire them from afar, but you might also consider preserving them so you can enjoy their beauty year-round.
Preserving leaves isn’t a far-flung concept that’s difficult to implement. Nor do you necessarily need to be crafty or have a flair for creativity to accomplish it. The bottom line: If you appreciate what Mother Nature brings to the world during fall and want to keep some of that magic in your living space throughout the year, it’s well worth learning these simple methods of leaf preservation.
Collecting Your Leaves
The first step is to make sure that your leaves are worth preserving in the first place. Beautiful as they may look, it’s also true that not just any leaf will do. It’s imperative to select those that are in good condition. “Imperfect” leaves may look worse for wear after you’ve preserved them, something you want to avoid if you plan to put your leaves on display.
For best results, go hunting for your leaves on a sunny day. The ground should be dry, so you won’t have only soggy leaves at your disposal. Examine each leaf carefully and have fun selecting different varieties from different trees found in a range of colors to make the most of your leaf preservation project.
Pressing Your Leaves
One of the easiest ways to preserve leaves is to press them in wax paper. All you need are a couple of sheets of paper, along with an iron set to a high temperature. Place a leaf on one sheet and cover it with the other. Then press your iron on top, ironing it on the high setting. Turn the papers over and repeat the process. Check the leaf to make sure that the wax transfers properly to the leaves. Allow your leaves to cool completely before handling them.
Alternatively, you can take your cue from a childhood project you may have completed in grade school. Simply put your leaf between a couple of sheets of wax paper, then put a stack of heavy books directly on top. Let it be for a week, then check on it to ensure that it is fully dried. Pressing is an easy and simple way to keep the color fresh and the leaves dry.
Soaking Your Leaves
Another option is to “bathe” your leaves in glycerin. The beauty of this option is that the leaves tend to stay fairly flexible, yet you’ll enjoy the benefits of full preservation. The process is effective because the glycerin essentially replaces the moisture built up on the leaves. That helps the leaves stay stable, preserving their appearance, their shape, and their texture all at once.
For this process, you’ll need to gather glycerin, water, two disposable plates, a heavy weight (like a stone or book), and your leaves of choice. Begin by combining two parts of water with one part of glycerin. A cup should be suitable for this project.
Pour this mixture onto one disposable plate and set a leaf or two in the solution. Make sure the leaves are completely submerged, then set the other plate on top. Put your weight of choice, like a heavy stone or a book, directly on top of the plate. That will ensure that your leaves remain completely submerged.
Allow the leaves to stay in the solution for up to six days. At this point, you can remove the weight and check on their condition. Use a paper towel to gently dab them dry. When ready, they’ll have a soft texture and a malleable feel that makes them easy to handle.
Microwaving Your Leaves
If you’d like to try a straightforward method or are simply in a rush to preserve your leaves, you might consider popping them in the microwave. For this method, all you’ll need are your leaves, acrylic spray, and paper towels.
Begin by setting the leaves directly on top of your paper towel. Set another paper towel directly on top, ensuring that they are completely covered. Place this “sandwich” in the microwave and set the device to heat for 30 seconds to start. Check on the leaves at the halfway point to ensure that they aren’t too hot. If there are any stems present, pluck them away.
You won’t have to heat them for nearly as long if they are already on the dry side. If they appear curled along the edges, you’ll need to heat them just a little bit more. Microwave in short spurts, as there’s a fire risk involved if they’re heated for too long. You may also scorch the leaves, leaving them charry and black.
Once they’re done, allow them to rest for a couple of days. Finish this process by using the acrylic spray to set them. It will create an airtight barrier that protects their integrity and keeps them in the same condition.
Using Your Preserved Leaves
Upon successful completion of preserving your leaves, a world of decorating opportunities awaits you. You can use your new fall accents to dress up your mantle for the season and give your living room a classic autumnal touch. You can even nestle them in a bowl and create a colorful homemade potpourri for side tables and entry tables.
Preserved leaves also make great additions to centerpieces. Set them alongside pumpkins spray-painted in white, silver, or gold for a striking touch that’s sure to catch the eye. If you’re giving presents at this time of the year, add a leaf or two to the gift wrap. And if you happen to be extra creative, you might even coat your preserved leaves in shimmery glitter to lend them a bejeweled appearance.
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The options for both preserving and using leaves are endless — and there are dozens of ways to make them an integral part of your décor and make your home just a little bit more festive as the year comes to an end. What better way to celebrate one of the most beautiful seasons of the year?
