How to Press and Preserve Leaves

Making a leaf collection is a fun, inexpensive hobby for all ages. Some people press and preserve leaves simply for decorative purposes, while others use their collection as a tool for identifying different species of trees. Whether you’re a decorator or a naturalist, or a little of both, the easy steps explained below will get you well on your way to your own colorful collection of leaves.

Things You'll Need

• Cardboard or newspaper
• Heavy boards or plywood
• Cords or strapping material (or heavy books or bricks)

Instructions

1. Collect leaves that are still supple. If they’re dry and brittle, they will break when you try to press them.

2. Make a leaf press by arranging your leaves between layers of absorbent cardboard or sheets of unfolded newspaper. Make sure the leaves don't overlap or touch. Then place a heavy board or piece of plywood on the top and bottom of the stacked layers and tie them tightly together with a cord, heavy string or other strap. Alternatively, you could place heavy books or bricks on the top of the stack.

3. Store your bound collection in a warm, dry location for approximately 10 days. Tighten any straps frequently to ensure maximum moisture release. This in turn will result in flatter leaves to display.

4. Display your newly pressed leaves in a scrapbook, photo album or specially made showcase. One way to ensure your leaves are well protected from air and moisture is to place them on a piece of stiff paper like card stock or display board and cover with clear contact paper. Press the contact paper down carefully from top to bottom, making sure you press out all air bubbles.

Tips & Warnings

• Make your collection more complete by taking a photograph of the tree each leaf came from. Include that photograph on the leaf's display page. You can include a twig from the tree as well. Label each specimen.

Resources

• Tree Identification Guide from Arbor Day Foundation