Introduction

As autumn comes around, the vibrant hues of fall leaves beckon us to explore nature's artistry. Collecting these leaves can lead to beautiful and unique crafts. In this blog post, we'll delve into the world of pressed leaves and share some creative ideas on how to repurpose those gorgeous fall finds.

The Microfleur Max is the perfect tool for preserving all this color which can then be used in crafts, art, DIY projects, etc. 

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Pick the best looking leaves from the trees. Place them in the Microfleur at the center of all the layers. Then close up the Microfleur and put the clips in place. Put it in your microwave for about 10-15 seconds (drying times vary depending on the strength of your microwave). The leaves will have a papery feel when finished. 

The Art of Leaf Collecting

When collecting leaves, it’s vital to choose the right ones. While you can pick them up from the ground, there’s a certain magic that comes from selecting them straight from the tree when they’re still fresh and vibrant. Opting for leaves that haven't turned crispy yet ensures that they retain their beautiful colors and are easier to work with.

How to Press Leaves

Pressing leaves is a simple yet rewarding process. To begin, gather your leaves and place them in the Microfleur at the center of all the layers. It’s important not to overlap them—spacing is key to ensuring they dry properly without sticking together. 

Once your leaves are positioned correctly, you can utilize a microwave for fast drying! Then close up the Microfleur and put the clips in place. Put it in your microwave for about 10-15 seconds (drying times vary depending on the strength of your microwave). The general guideline is to give them short bursts of heat, checking their progress after each session. Depending on the strength of your microwave, you might need around 30 seconds or so. If they feel crispy and brittle, you’ll want to adjust the time downwards. The leaves will have a papery feel when finished.

Creative Ways to Use Pressed Leaves

Pressed leaves can be used in a multitude of crafts. Here are a few ideas to get your creativity flowing:

Bookmarks

Create beautiful bookmarks by layering pressed leaves on cardstock or laminating them for durability. These make delightful gifts or personal keepsakes.

Magnets

Use bigger leaves to create unique refrigerator magnets. Simply glue the pressed leaves onto a magnet backing for an eye-catching kitchen accessory.

Wall Art

Consider framing a collection of pressed leaves to form a stunning piece of wall art. You can arrange them by color to create a delightful autumnal display—think of it as your very own indoor rainbow of fall foliage!

Greeting Cards

Add a touch of nature to your handmade greeting cards by incorporating pressed leaves. They can bring a personal, heartfelt element to any message, especially during the fall and holiday seasons.

Protecting Your Creations

Once pressed, the leaves can be used in a project or craft right away or can be stored in an airtight bag.  

After pressing and designing your crafts, it's essential to protect them. Coating your pressed leaves with Mod Podge (such as Mod Podge Waterbase Sealer) can help maintain their integrity and keep them flexible. This also guards against potential breaking, especially for intricate shapes created with punches.

Conclusion

With just a little time and creativity, you can transform simple fall leaves into stunning works of art. So get out there, collect those leaves, and let your imagination lead the way! Whether it's bookmarks, wall art, or other delightful pieces, the possibilities are endless.

Happy crafting!