Summer is in full swing in North Carolina, which means the weather is hot and humid and gardens are exploding. I am particularly thankful for the large trees in our backyard, which give us lots of shade and allow brief moments outdoors to soak up some of the much-needed Vitamin D while working in the garden. We are still under a Safer At Home order here, so any moment in time outside of our house is greatly appreciated.
While browsing Pinterest, I found several ideas (like this and that) of how to create a bowl, using a leaf from my backyard as the template. Being a sentimental sort, I immediately loved the idea. Here is my step-by-step to create an Easy Clay Leaf Bowl to hold your Tchotchkes.
Select a leaf for your template. My first bowl is modeled from a leaf from a sweet gum tree in our backyard.
Cut a slice of the modeling clay and roll to the desired thickness (my first bowl is about 1/8-inch thick, while the second is about ¼-inch). Press your leaf form into the top of the clay, then use your knife to cut out the leaf.
Don’t limit yourself to tree leaves! The second bowl is modeled from our purple-podded pole bean plant.
Line a small bowl with plastic wrap, and lay your clay leaf inside. Allow to dry for at least 24 hours, following package instructions.
Spray paint each bowl in a well-ventilated area. When this paint is dry, use the Mod Podge sealer for a final coat. I selected the sealer version that is dishwasher safe, because everything in my house (save the nice kitchen knives) will be washed in the dishwasher! Mama don’t play with germs.
I am keeping this craft idea in my back pocket for future gift-giving occasions. I love the idea of creating a keepsake for a family from a favorite tree or plant. In fact, if you have to move away from your favorite tree someday, this might be just the thing to invoke good memories and hold your keys. This craft is super easy, quick and inexpensive. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did!
Jackie Baird Richardson is an interior designer, editor at The WON and avid junker. Watch for her design tips and occasional crafting ideas, bringing the outdoors indoors. View all posts by Jackie Richardson
