How to Make Autumn Leaf Cornstarch Impressions

Take your family for a nature walk on a beautiful autumn day and see how many beautiful Autumn leaves you can collect. Choose the prettiest leaves and preserve the lovely shapes by making autumn leaf cornstarch impressions. It's a great way for kids to learn to enjoy the wonders of the natural world that surrounds them.

Things You'll Need

• 1 1/2 cup cornstarch
• 2 cups baking soda
• 2 cups water
• Wooden spoon
• Saucepan
• Waxed paper
• Autumn leaves
• Pizza cutter or sharp knife

Instructions

1. Place the cornstarch, baking soda and water in a large saucepan and cook it over medium heat, stirring occasionally with a wooden spoon, until the mixture begins to thicken.

2. Remove the saucepan from the heat and allow the mixture to cool.

3. Lay a sheet of waxed paper on a flat surface, and spread the cornstarch mixture over the top. Lay a second sheet of waxed paper over the top of the cornstarch.

4. Roll the cornstarch with a rolling pin or press it with your hands.

5. Remove the top sheet of waxed paper.

6. Press the leaves firmly into the cornstarch mixture. Carefully remove the autumn leaves and enjoy the impressions left behind.

7. Cut around the autumn leaf impression with a sharp knife. Let them dry and use them as table decorations or give them away as favors for your Thanksgiving dinner guests.

Tips & Warnings

• You can also make cornstarch impressions with other items found in nature such as twigs, grasses, seeds, nuts or flowers.