Preserving Leaves - Melted Wax Method

There are several ways to preserve leaves. One way to savor autumns fleeting color palette would be to dip the leaves in melted wax. The best results for preserving leaves for purpose of color reference are to gather and wax while the leaves are at their most brilliant hues. The deep purples, rich russets and shimmering reds of autumn. Leaves still on the tree will likely be your best color specimens. While leaves on the ground may be easiest to find, those might be bruised, brittle and faded. Those leaves conveniently amassed in your towering leaf pile may be damp and moldy.

Since you will be dipping the leaves into hot melted bees wax or paraffin, gather leaves with some stem still attached. Try gathering 2 of each leaf, front and back side, for better leaf identification. You can then draw an accurate leaf carefully and leisurely from direct observation. Compare your results to the actual leaf specimen. Later, add the waxed leaves directly into your sketchbook or nature journal.

Waxed leaves are not just for fall. Leaves collected and waxed year round are great for artistic investigation and documentation.

Preserving Leaves in Melted Wax

Supplies:

• Leaves with steam attached
• Wax
• Double Boiler

Directions:

• Melt beeswax or paraffin in a double boiler just until the wax turns liquid. Do not walk away throughout this melting process and never leave unattended.
   
• Holding by the steam, carefully dip leaf in and out of the wax.
   
• Shake excess wax off of the leaf.
   
• Suspend leaf steam from a paperclip or clothesline to drip dry.
   
• Or place into the refrigerator to set and harden.

Another method to preserve leaves, and one which does not involve hot liquids, would be to dip the leaves in liquid floor wax. You might want to try that kid-friendly version by clicking here: How To Preserve Autumn Leaves in Liquid Wax

-Cynthia Padilla

Cynthia Padilla-Come along as we learn and improve drawing skills through direct observation.  Explore the traditional dry media applications of graphite pencil, colored pencil, pen and ink, charcoal, and pastels.  I am a national instructor of drawing and sketching through the traditions of Plein Air Field Sketching, the Botanical Arts and Naturalist Illustration.