How to Create Art with Fall Leaves

More: How to make a leaf print

Instant leaf prints

Bring nature’s magic indoors with this simple project: Just gather a few of your favorite fall leaves or flowers, flatten them under a book, then copy them with a color photocopier.

Glue prints to canvas-covered boards (about $2 in art supply stores). Glue a small inexpensive wood frame to the back to act as hanger; it also sets off your print from the wall.

Step 1: Flatten each leaf slightly under a heavy book. Copy with a color photocopier (cover leaf with white paper to minimize shadows). Enlarge image to desired size.

Step 2: Select a canvas board smaller than the leaf copy. Dampen board surface by brushing with water and blotting off excess with a cloth or paper towel. While board is still damp, brush on a light, even coat of Mod Podge. Be sure to cover corners.

While glue is still wet, slowly and gently apply print, working from one side of the board to the other. Use a clean cloth or paper towel to rub down the print as you go. When the print covers the entire board, continue to press and rub to smooth the surface.

(Tip: If you want to try again with another print, wash off the glue and paper from the board before the glue sets, and start with another color copy.)

Allow to dry thoroughly (ideally overnight under a heavy book) before using a craft knife to trim excess paper flush with the face of the board.

Using white glue, affix the small frame to the center of the back to serve as a hanger.

• Fall leaves
• Heavy book
• Color photocopier
• Sheet of white paper
• Canvas-covered art boards (often used for paintings); 8 by 10 in. or smaller usually works well
• Soft, flat paintbrush
• Cloths or paper towels
• Mod Podge or other decoupage glue (available at most art-supply stores); choose a matte formula
• Craft knife
• White glue
• Small unfinished-wood craft frames (to use as hangers)