Leaf skeleton art - an Autumn project

Published on Mon Nov 9, 2020 by David J Colbran

Finding leaf skeletons in the woods out and about is fairly rare. I have a couple but thought I'd have a go and making some of my own.

Actually fairly simple. This was what I did. Dissolved one tablespoon of baking soda and one tablespoon of bicarbonate soda in a pan of water. Popped the leaves in and then boiled it and reduced to a simmer for about an hour and a half. Then carefully removed the leaves and gently used a small brush to remove the pulpy bits before setting to one side to completely dry.

I tried out several types of leaves - the best results were from waxy, shiny leaves. These are from a magnolia in Calderstones Park, not far from where I live.

Author: David J Colbran