If you have ever taken a stroll on a fall day, you will notice the colorful leaves that surround you. This year, capture that color when you preserve your own fall leaves. Preserving fall leaves can be easy and fun, and it is a great way to enjoy the colors all year long whether you display them in a scrapbook or crafting. Take a look below at how to preserve fall leaves yourself. It is so simple!
How to Preserve Fall Leaves
Suplies needed:
- Leaves
- Glycerin
- Water
- Measuring cup
- Two identical metal cake pans
- Paper towels
When looking for leaves, try to pick them fresh and be sure they are free from disease. Look for leaves that are flat, bright in color, and healthy. You don’t want to preserve leaves with bumps, tears, or discoloration. As far as glycerin, you can find this item at your local craft or drugstore.
Directions:
1.Begin by creating a mixture of one part glycerin and two parts water. A good start is to mix ½ cup glycerin to 1 cup of water.
2. Blot your leaves with a paper towel. Flatten them out and make sure they are dry.
3. Lay the leaves down in your first cake pan. Make sure they are nice and flat.
4. Pour the water and glycerin solution over the leaves. Pour slowly, making sure it submerges the leaves entirely. You may need to gently press on the leaves to keep them saturated and submerged.
5. Now, place the second pan on top of the leaves. This will help apply some weight. You can add some water to the pan in order for it to really press down on the leaves.
6. Let the leaves sit for several days. Three days is standard and seems to work well. Remove the leaves and place them between two paper towels. Press to dry.
Your leaves will be coated in the solution, and still be soft. You will notice how well they retain their color, and how easy they are to ply and craft with. Unlike drying leaves, this method of using glycerin is better because you don’t have to worry about crumbling and cracking.
Give this method of preserving fall leaves a try. It is a great way to preserve the beauty of fall!
Leave a Reply