Fall leaves have such marvelous deep colors. I love to decorate with leaves. They quickly dry out though, and turn brown and brittle. Here’s a way to make them last for a long time. You will need a hammer or rock, a large empty jar or vase, hot water, and glycerin. You can usually find glycerin at the drug store near the lotions. It’s only a few dollars for a small bottle.
Gather leaves that are in the height of their color. It’s fun to take a walk around the yard or a park. Let your children pick up leaves and small leafy branches that have fallen from trees. Tell the types of leaves they are collecting. If you don’t know, then you can all learn together from a tree guidebook. Kids will also be interested to know that leaves use chlorophyll to make food from sunlight. Chlorophyll is green and that’s why summer leaves are green. When the trees began to rest for winter the green fades and lets the other leaf pigments show through.
At home, lay old newspaper on a step or an old board. Spread out your leaves on the paper. Pound the end of the leaf steam or branch with a hammer or rock. This lets the stems absorb more water.
In your jar, stir together one part glycerin to three parts hot water. One easy way to do this is to empty out the glycerin bottle then fill it up three times with hot water. Stick the branches and leaves in the glycerin and water mixture. The leaves will soak up the water and glycerin over time.
In about a week you’ll have fall leaves that have retained those marvelous reds, oranges, and yellows. Plus the leaves will have become soft and pliable instead of brittle.
Also See:
Seasonal Decorating – Getting Your Home Ready For Fall – Part 1