How to Get a Leaf-Stamp Effect in Painting

Create the look of leaves on your wall with a real leaf stamp.

If you would like to get the effect of a real leaf print on your wall, then use a real leave as a stamp. You will want to use leaves of different shapes and sizes. It helps if your leaves are as sturdy as possible, so using dry leaves that do not crumble easily is your best bet. Collect a few on a walk through the woods or through your neighborhood on a fall day. You also can substitute real leaves for fake leaves, which you can purchase at a craft store.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic gloves
• Acrylic paint
• Paper plates
• Sponge brushes
• Leaves (real or fake)

Instructions

1. Put on plastic gloves. Leaf painting can get messy.

2. Squeeze a quarter-sized amount of acrylic paint onto a paper plate.

3. Dip your sponge brush into the paint.

4. Place the leaf in the palm of your non-writing hand and paint the front of it.

5. Hand your leaf to a partner, who will then carefully turn it over onto the wall -- or onto a piece of paper to test the effect -- and gently press the leaf into the surface. Hold it there for about 10 seconds, then gently lift the leaf off the surface from stem to the tip.

References

• Making Stuff: Drying & Preserving FS and Leaves