Every autumn, trees shower the ground with leaves in shades of gold, rust and deep red. Most of them end up swept into a pile and thrown away, but a few can find a second life inside your home. Whether it’s chinar leaves from Kashmir, peepal leaves from your neighbourhood or maple leaves from a hill station, they’re free, they’re pretty, and they’re surprisingly easy to turn into decor. You don’t need any craft skills, just a few simple supplies and a bit of patience. Here are five ideas to try.
Pressed leaves can also add a pretty touch to small things. Stick a tiny leaf onto a piece of card to make a gift tag, or write a guest’s name on a leaf with a gold or white pen to use as a place card at the dinner table. They’re perfect for festive gifts, and they give your table a natural, handmade feel. Keep a few extra pressed leaves in a book so you always have some on hand. A few simple tips will help: pick dry leaves, avoid any that are damp or mouldy, and make sure they’re completely dry before you use them. With a bit of care, your decor can last for weeks, and it’s a lovely way to bring the season’s colours indoors.
For your front door or a wall, make a wreath from a simple wire or cane base. Attach the leaves in overlapping layers using glue or thin wire, working around the ring so there are no gaps, and tuck in a few small twigs or dried flowers for texture. To help the leaves last longer, spray them with a clear acrylic sealer. It looks stunning for the festive season, and it costs next to nothing.