A Pile of Painted Paper Leaves

This month, I’ve been feeling stuck and depressed despite the glory of this season, and so I decided to make some painted leaves to be included inside greeting cards. (I get a kick out of little surprises – one of the few things sparking joy these days.)

I also deeply appreciate the unique design of oak leaves. Each one is a masterpiece! 

This little project approaches leaves as traceable stencils and involves the meditative and therapeutic process of painting paper. 

It’s soothing. It’s seasonal. It’s great for a variety of ages. Little ones can choose leaves and paint paper. Older ones can trace and cut leaves. 

These painted paper leaves are great gifts, decorations, bookmarks, or gift tags. 

All you need is

-thick paper (like cardstock or watercolor paper)

-paints (watercolors, acrylic, crayons, markers, etc)

-opaque white ink

-pencil

-small, thin paint brush

-scissors

Okay, it’s been a minute since I made a movie, and I surprised myself in making this little crafting moment for you yesterday. I was not entirely camera ready, and was experimenting with video with my phone and using editing software on it. So, please forgive the rough edges. Enjoy!