Leaf Garland: DIY with DLD
Nothing says fall more than freshly fallen, brightly-hued, autumn leaves. However, it seems there beauty is short lived here in Utah. Such a shame! I hate to admit but I have a serious problem with hoarding fallen leaves. I always tell myself that I am going to do something with them but weeks go by and all too soon they are a crinkly mess. If only I could preserve them longer.While browsing the inter-web, I came across a tutorial from Martha Stewart about dipping your fall leaves in wax to preserve their color and beauty. How perfect! But here at DLD we strive to bring you fresh ideas so simply showing you the same tutorial from Martha wouldn't be our style. So, I spruced it up a throughout and added additional elements like glamorous glittered leaves. Check out our updated tutorial!
- Fresh Fall Leaves
- Twine or Bakers twine
- Mini Cloths Pins
- Glitter
- Bleached Beeswax
In a shallow fry pan, add chopped pieces of the beeswax. Should take only a few minutes for the was to melt completely. Once the wax has melted, begin by dipping each leaf into the wax ensuring you completely cover both side.
Once both side have been covered fully in wax, hold the leaf above the pan and let any excess wax drip off.
Lay the leaf flat on a clean surface to continue to dry and harden. The wax will coat the leafs and keep them from shriveling and loosing their vibrancy.
If you'd like to jazz it up a bit , add some glitter to the leaves during the drying process. You'll want to make sure you do this quickly as the wax sets up fast.
Finish by taking mini cloths pins and attaching them to some fun bakers twine for a unique, accent garland for your mantle.
The finished product is so great! You have a vibrant, colorful garland that will last all season long!
