Posted in Craft Day
Leaf prints!
OK, my kids love these; and I have to admit, I do, too! Simple, but pretty.
Gather your leaves, press them in a heavy book for at least an hour or so to flatten them out.
Select paper, cloth, or whatever you want to print on. You've got lots of options: rolls of butcher paper to make giftwrap, construction paper, note cards, t-shirts, napkins, pillowcases, aprons, tote bags.....you get the idea 
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Choose the proper paint or ink for your project- tempera paint is ok for paper, though it dries flat. I prefer acrylics, though you have to be careful to keep the paint on the project and not on your clothes, as it doesn't wash out. Ink pads can be fun, too. If you're using cloth, use fabric paint.
Now the fun begins, choose a leaf and brush paint on the side you are printing (or roll ink on with a roller); then press it down onto your printing surface. Lift it up carefully and observe your artwork! Print just one leaf, or make a design or collage effect.
Once you've printed your leaves. Let the paint dry; and then, if you like, dress it up even more with glitter, markers or paint pents, buttons, beads.....whatever your heart desires.
Have fun, you will find lots of creative ways to use this simple project if you think about it! We're starting a leaf collection for our homeschool Science project. I think a print of each type of leaf we collect will make a great addition to our notebooks.
Please share your ideas with us, too!
Blessings,
Catherine
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