This evening on Blog Talk Radio - Circa Arte we talked about many things, among them, The Pause for A Cause group for this evening Honor with Art a group dedicated to the cause of missing and exploited children. Be sure to check out their website and various projects.
We also talked about the "stuff" that mixed media artists tend to accumulate. I found this cool leaf skeleton in my yard, and dragged it into the house, and then began to wonder if there was a way you could make them yourself. I know you can buy them at the craft stores. But how would you make them, from your own leaves. Well, of course an internet search was in order, and here is what I found. A great set of instructions. Now, we just need to wait for spring and summer, which here in St. Louis , feels like they might, actually, finally show up. There are still clumps of snow in the shade, but the sun has been out and while it's not quite short sleeve season, it's getting close. Check out below how to make a leaf skeleton, pay attention to precautions and have fun!
How to Make Skeleton Leaves
Skeleton leaves are perfect accents for all craft projects. This article briefly describes how simple it can be to make them.
We also talked about the "stuff" that mixed media artists tend to accumulate. I found this cool leaf skeleton in my yard, and dragged it into the house, and then began to wonder if there was a way you could make them yourself. I know you can buy them at the craft stores. But how would you make them, from your own leaves. Well, of course an internet search was in order, and here is what I found. A great set of instructions. Now, we just need to wait for spring and summer, which here in St. Louis , feels like they might, actually, finally show up. There are still clumps of snow in the shade, but the sun has been out and while it's not quite short sleeve season, it's getting close. Check out below how to make a leaf skeleton, pay attention to precautions and have fun!
How to Make Skeleton Leaves
Skeleton leaves are perfect accents for all craft projects. This article briefly describes how simple it can be to make them.
Steps
- Take long leaves and press them between old telephone books. They should remain here in a dry, undisturbed place for several weeks.
- Make a solution of washing soda, and carefully lay the pressed leaves into the solution.
- When the flesh becomes pulpy, take the leaves out of the washing solution and rinse them carefully in cold water.
- Gently brush away the pulp with a toothbrush.
Tips
- The skeleton of a magnolia leaf is a beautiful example of a decorative or ornamental skeleton.
- Magnolia leaves or maple leaves are a good place to start for beginners.
Warnings
- Washing soda is caustic (alkaline pH of 11). While it does not produce toxic fumes, it is important to use proper protection when handling; the best thing to do is to wear gloves.
- Don't let kids do this without proper adult supervision. It does make a great science project, so just be prepared to help them and ensure that they are wearing gloves when handling the washing soda solution.
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