How to Preserve Leaves

Use waxed paper to keep beautiful fall leaves supple.

Leaves are a beautiful addition to fall floral arrangements, wreaths and crafts. You can even use them on greeting cards, in scrapbooks or to decorate a gift. But you need the leaves to stay soft and supple and not dry up or flake away. Use everyday items to preserve leaves for use in all your favorite crafts. This method will also preserve grasses and flowers.

Things You'll Need

• Waxed paper
• Hand towels
• Iron
• Ironing board

Instructions

1. Lay a hand towel on your ironing board. Next place a piece of waxed paper on the towel. Then place leaves on the waxed paper making sure they do not overlap. Cover the leaves with another piece of waxed paper and lay another towel on top.

2. Turn the iron on to the hottest steam setting. Press the towel using the "Steam" function on your iron. Make sure you press the entire towel so you press all the leaves.

3. Remove the top towel once it has cooled. Then peel the waxed paper off the leaves. The leaves are now covered with wax and they will last a long time without crumbling or curling.

References

• Backyard Biology: Preserving Leaves
• Flower Press: Pressing Flowers and Preserving Nature With Waxed Paper