There seems to be a universal appeal when it comes to projects with leaves! Young or old, male or female…. who doesn’t like leaves?? This project is quick and easy, hard to mess up, and offers a “wow factor” as the vein impressions make these ceramic leaves look incredibly realistic!
So, go out and gather some leaves while you still can. Big ones (like these) are fun, but any size will work. Put them in a plastic bag and spritz with water every few days and they should keep in your fridge for at least a couple of weeks. (As with most of my clay projects, you can substitute a good air dry clay, acrylic paint, and Mod Podge if you don’t have a kiln!)
1. Collect leaves in a plastic bag, spritz with water, and store in the fridge for up to 2+ weeks.
2. Roll out a slab of clay between stacked paint sticks or rulers to about 3/8″ thick.
3. Press a leaf into the clay, vein side down, and roll again to get a clear impression.
4. Remove the leaf and trim around it using a needle tool, fettling knife – or paper clip! Leave extra clay around the stem.
5. Place your leaf on a board to dry. Pinch the extra clay around the stem to make it thick and flat.
6. Strengthen the stem by attaching it to the side of your leaf. Score and slip, then press to join stem and leaf together.
7. Scrunch newspaper into a long strip and place under the edges of your leaf to give it some form.
8. Let dry and bisque fire. Paint veins with a dark glaze, sponge off extra and put transparent glaze(s) on top or in between veins.
9. Fire leaves again, then after cooling, open the kiln to find a colorful display!
There seems to be a universal appeal when it comes to projects with leaves! Young or old, male or female…. who doesn’t like leaves?? This project is quick and easy, hard to mess up, and offers a “wow factor” as the vein impressions make these ceramic leaves look incredibly realistic!
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