Every time Sukkot rolls around, I like to look for new ways to decorate the sukkah. This year, I’ve been experimenting with leaf printing and having so much fun. Leaf printing is actually a lot easier than it sounds. You simply apply paint to leaves, place the leaves on top of paper or fabric, and then transfer the paint onto the surface. It’s a stylish way to create placemats, table runners and artwork for the walls of the sukkah. You can also use this technique throughout the year to make beautiful greeting cards and stationery.
What you’ll need:
Leaves
Acrylic paint in various
colors
Paper plate
Paint roller or brush
Paper or fabric
Paper towels
Brayer or rolling pin
1. Collect your leaves. Look for leaves that are pliable and will lie flat. Rinse them in water and let them dry.
2. Pour some acrylic paint on a paper plate. Use one or two colors to start — and you don’t have to choose green. Apply the paint on a roller or brush.
3. Place the leaf on a newspaper and roll the paint over it. Select the side of the leaf that has the most texture, i.e., the side with the veins.
4. Position the leaf with the paint face down on your paper or fabric. Cover the leaf with a paper towel. Then press down on the leaf with a brayer or rolling pin. You can also use your fingers.
5. Lift the leaf off the surface to reveal your transferred leaf print. Don’t worry about mistakes. Imperfections make the artwork even better.
6. As you continue to print with other leaves, add different paint colors to your paper plate. The mixture adds beautiful depth to the colors.
Jonathan Fong is the author of “Flowers That Wow” and “Parties That Wow,” and host of “Style With a Smile” on YouTube. You can see more of his do-it-yourself projects at his website.
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