Make a leaf imprint in plaster! It’s a great nature craft!
You will need:
– Plaster of Paris: https://amzn.to/2EkA1hC
– A leaf with deep veining – take a walk in nature to find it
– Disposable metal baking sheet: https://amzn.to/2LXPpXI
– Acrylic paint: https://amzn.to/2JYE3zQ
– Masking tape: https://amzn.to/2JPsfjD
– Vaseline (optional): https://amzn.to/2HtlEJO
– Wire: https://amzn.to/2YEl9T2
Here is the video tutorial:
Directions:
1. Make your mold. Cut the disposable cookie sheet to the size you want. It should cut easily with scissors. Cut corners to be able to fold sides up. Tape the corners with masking tape, so plaster won’t run out.
2. Put Vaseline on the inside of the mold (optional). It’s to help the plaster release, but I’ve tried it without and it works just as well.
3. Put the leaf down in the bottom of the mold, with the vein side up.
4. Prepare your plaster and pour it in your mold and let it set. The plaster I used required a 30 minute set up time. While still wet, bend a piece of wire and place it in the back of the tile. A portion of the wire should be sticking out because that is what you will be hanging
5. Remove the tape from the corners of the mold and fold down edges.
6. Take plaster out and carefully pull leaf off.
7. Allow to dry.
8. Paint the plaster tile with different shades of green and wipe off any excess.
9. Take a darker color, like a burnt umber, and paint over everything. With a damp paper towel, wipe off the paint. You only want to leave enough to fill in the crevices.
10. Allow to dry.
11. If you want to further protect it, use a varnish. I put a satin varnish on it.
That’s it! Thanks for stopping by! Happy Crafting!
Mona