How to Preserve Leaves With Glycerin

Preserving leaves with glycerin will create pliable leaves that look and feel like natural leaves. If treated properly they will last for years and can be added to seasonal decorations in your home. Preserving with glycerin takes a little longer than traditional waxing methods, but the results are worth the added wait.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Glycerin
• Water
• Vase/jar
• Flat pan
• Leaves

Vase Method

1. Select leaves that you wish to preserve. This method relies on the leaf's natural process of absorbing water into the stem and is best used in midsummer when plants are actively growing.

2. Fill a vase or jar with a solution of one part glycerin and two parts water.

3. Place the stems of the leaves in the glycerin and water mixture and allow the leaf to draw the water into the stem naturally.

4. Watch for slight changes in the coloration of the leaf. The leaf will change gradually as the solution is pulled into all areas of the leaf. When the leaf reaches a uniform color, the process is complete.

5. Remove the leaves from the glycerin and water solution and wipe with a soft cloth to remove any excess moisture on the leaf. Use in floral arrangements or store in box for future use.

Submersion Method

6. Select leaves you would like to preserve. This method works best for leaves that are no longer actively growing and for leaves that already reached their peak in autumn color.

7. Mix a solution of one part of glycerin to two parts of water.

8. Layer leaves in the bottom of a flat pan. Pour the glycerin and water solution over the leaves. Be sure they are completely covered.

9. Weigh the leaves down, if they float to the top. A plate will work well for this.

10. Let the leaves set for 3 to 6 days and remove from the water.

11. Dry the leaves throughly with a paper towel or soft cloth.

12. Use in floral arrangements or for holiday decorations.

Tips & Warnings

• The vase method allows the addition of food coloring to alter the color of the leaves. Try adding a few drops of red food coloring to flowering plum to create glossy red leaves.
• Pick autumn leaves just before they reach their peak for best results with the vase method. Leaves that have reached full autumn color are better suited for the submersion method.
• The vase method may cause alterations in leaf coloration. Some trees like beech and crabapple need to be preserved early in the growing season to retain their natural color. Experiment with a few leaves to find those that preserve well and retain the color you desire.