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preserving leaves
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Posted by Lillie1441 (My Page) on Sun, Sep 19, 04 at 0:48
I posted this on another thread but thought I'd put it in it's own subject line in case anyone was interested in preserving leaves.
To preserve leaves mix 1 part glycerine and 2 parts water.Submerge leaves in mixture in a single layer.Weigh the leaves down so that they are completly submerged in the solution.Leave them for 2 to 7 days until they have completely absorbed the solution and are soft and pliable.Remove and wipe dry with a soft cloth.Done correctly leaves should last indefinitely.Leaves done this way may be used in floral arrangements.
I think this would be the perfect way to preserve the leaves used for the cement and hypertufa objects all of you are making.This really works.A florist friend told me about this.
God bless...........Lillie
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Follow-Up Postings:
RE: preserving leaves
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Thanks, Lillie. I'd like to try this.
Question: where do you get glycerin? Is there a brand name, or is it one of those things you ask your pharmacist to produce from an apothecary jar behind the counter?? |
RE: preserving leaves
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Barbara-I see you are in the Netherlands? I have no idea what kinds of stores you have there but I purchase it in places like Wal-Mart and grocery stores.Places that carry over the counter medications.It isn't a prescription item here.In stores here it is in the area with the rubbing alcohol.I guess you would just have to look and maybe ask the pharmacist if you can't find it somewhere else.
God Bless.................Lillie |
RE: preserving leaves
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| Isn't glycerin an oily substance.I guess you would remove the leaves from cement stepping stones and just leave their impression.Could one paint some fixative over them and let them stay in the stone?What do you think?Regards Josie_2 |
RE: preserving leaves
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Thanks for that info Lillie! I've crushed stems of magnolia leaves & set in container of glycerin/water with pretty good results, but bet your method will be much better.
Josie, it's not oily; slippery, slick 'n slimey.
Suzi |
RE: preserving leaves
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| I think you might try a pharmacy. That's where I found some a long time ago. |
RE: preserving leaves
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| You would have to take them out of the stepping stone, just using them for impressions. They will absolutely deteriorate in weather. Also, if you have trouble with the glycerin separating from the water, heat both together until it's fairly hot, then let it cool. DO NOT put your leaves in hot glycerin! Glycerin is often used by veterinarians, so if you've got a friendly vet, ask if you could buy some from or thru him/her. I think I paid $16 per gallon for it last year. 'Pup |
RE: preserving leaves
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| Great idea! I just can't seem to get around to the project when the leaves are nice, this would be a way to hold it off for another day :0) |
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