Leaf Sculpture Tutorial

You will be surprised how quick and fun this project is.  It has a definate wow factor!  Hopefully this tutorial has the information you need, however, feel free to contact me over at greendoodle if you have any questions.

step 1 supplies: plastic sheeting, sand, mortar (we used TradeCraft Pre-mixed Sanded High Strength Mortar Type. S) which is construction grade mortar cement and NOT what you put under your floors).

step 2:  don't forget gloves!

step 3: lay plastic on ground and mound sand on plastic, cover with plastic 

step 4: choose a leaf with deep veins (rhubard is excellent)

step 5: lay leaf on plastic covered sand mound and mold to desired shape

step 6:  keep mounding and patting 

step 7:  mix mortar and water to "thick icing consistency"

step 8: mix, mix, mix, mix - and then mix a little more

step 9: begin building a mortar cake at stem, patting air bubbles out

step 10: continue adding mortar to mound letting it flow outward.  Do NOT cover edge of leaf

step 11:  pat, pat, pat, pat air bubbles

step 12: leave it alone for 3 days to cure

step 11 1/2:  (oops)  leave a trademark stamp on the back.  Doodle, write your name...be creative. 

step 13: after mortar is sufficiently cured, gently remove leaf  

You did it!  Now go place your leaf in your garden and enjoy!