How-To Instructions

Choose a variety of fresh leaves or treat dry leaves with glycerine (available at crafts stores) to make them pliable. If you can't find the shapes you want, preserved leaves are often available at craft stores.

Step 1

1. Trace your leaves -- smooth side down -- onto 1/4-inch foam-core board. Maple, oak, and ash are good choices for leaf shapes.

Step 2

2. Cut out the leaf shapes with a crafts knife. Change knife blades often to keep the edges of the foam-core board smooth.

Step 3

3. Use double stick tape to fasten each leaf to its foam-core board shape. Place the smooth, non-veined side of the leaf against the board.

Step 4

4. Paint the leaves with a thin coat of paint -- too much paint will muddy the veins and details. Wash leaf as needed to remove drying paint.

Step 5

5. Press the wet leaf to the wall or fabric, taking care not to twist or slide it. Carefully pull it away and repeat the process.

Step 6

6. When paint is dry, fill any blank areas with a second hue. Apply lightly and randomly with a brush or sponge for a natural effect.