Introduction
As the leaves start to fall, many of us get excited to bring the beauty of autumn indoors. One way to do this is by preserving fall leaves with wax paper. This simple process will allow you to enjoy the colors and textures of fall long after the season has ended.
Materials Needed
Before you get started, you will need a few materials. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Fall leaves
- Wax paper
- Iron
- Thin towel or parchment paper
- Scissors
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Collecting the Leaves
The first step in preserving fall leaves is to collect them. Take a walk through your backyard or a nearby park and gather a variety of leaves in different colors and sizes. Make sure to choose leaves that are not too dry or brittle.
Step 2: Preparing the Wax Paper
Cut a piece of wax paper to a size slightly larger than the leaves you want to preserve. Lay the wax paper flat on an ironing board or table.
Step 3: Placing the Leaves
Arrange the leaves on the wax paper, making sure they do not overlap. Leave some space between each leaf so that they have room to expand.
Step 4: Covering with Wax Paper
Cut another piece of wax paper to the same size as the first piece. Place it on top of the leaves, making sure the edges align with the bottom layer of wax paper.
Step 5: Ironing the Wax Paper
Place a thin towel or parchment paper on top of the wax paper to protect the iron. Use a low heat setting and gently iron over the top layer of wax paper, moving the iron in a circular motion. Be careful not to let the iron touch the leaves.
Step 6: Checking the Leaves
After ironing for about 30 seconds, check to see if the wax has melted and the two pieces of wax paper have fused together. If not, continue to iron for a few more seconds.
Step 7: Cooling and Trimming
Once the wax paper has cooled, carefully peel it off the leaves. Use scissors to trim the excess wax paper around the leaves.
Step 8: Displaying the Leaves
Now that your leaves are preserved, you can display them in a variety of ways. You can use them to make a fall wreath, create a centerpiece for your table, or simply hang them up in a window.
Tips for Success
- Choose leaves that are not too dry or brittle.
- Be careful not to let the iron touch the leaves.
- Use a thin towel or parchment paper to protect the iron.
- Iron for about 30 seconds and check to see if the wax has melted.
- Trim the excess wax paper around the leaves with scissors.
Conclusion
Preserving fall leaves with wax paper is a fun and easy way to bring the beauty of autumn indoors. With just a few materials and some simple steps, you can enjoy the colors and textures of fall for months to come. So, grab some leaves and get started on this fun DIY project today!