Crafting with Nature

December 6, 2011 at 1:59 pm
by Suzonne Stirling

When it comes to seasonal decor, nature is usually my first choice. But that doesn’t mean I can’t get crafty with it. So this weekend I took some of my fall decorating elements and helped them make the transition into winter.   I started with basics – pinecones, oak leaves, acorns, and acorn caps. I added paint and some glitter to the mix, then accented everything with of-the-moment greenery. Voila! It’s winter. Just like that.

Here’s how I did it:

 

 

Materials: (See resource list for specific brand information)

Pinecones
Leaves (see resources below)
Acorns (bodies separated from caps)
White florist spray (matte finish) or flat white spray paint
Chrome spray paint
Coarse, clear glitter
Fine, clear glitter
Glittering glue or other thick white glue
Small flat paintbrush
Quick-setting gel glue


Directions:

1. Pinecones: Lightly coat pinecones with florist spray or spray paint; set aside to dry. When dry, apply glittering glue to the pinecone tips (just use the tip of the bottle) and dip into the coarse, clear glitter.

2. Leaves: Spray leaves with chrome spray paint on one side; set aside to dry. When dry, turn leaves over and repeat on the other side.

3. Acorns: Arrange acorn bodies top side down (so they’re resting on their flat tops) and coat with florist spray or spray paint; set aside to dry. When dry, apply glittering glue to the acorn body, then smooth it out with the small, flat paintbrush. Roll the acorn in the fine, clear glitter and place the acorn top side down to dry. When the glittering glue is dry, apply quick-setting gel glue in the acorn cap and press onto the body.


Resources:

I use preserved oak leaves from Save-On-Crafts. I store them in plastic baggies and they’re good year after year. If you can’t find acorns in your area, they’re readily available online from sources such as Acorno Acorns. All other supplies can be found at craft stores like Michaels.  I use Design Masters matte white florist spray and Krylon chrome spray paint (to get a truly shiny silver leaf, use a chrome finish). I use Martha Stewart Crafts glittering glue (the fine tip applicator means I don’t need to use a brush when applying it to the pinecone tips) and my favorite quick-setting gel glue is Beacon 3-in-1 adhesive, found in most craft stores.

 

Then the real fun begins – arranging everything!  Add greenery and ornaments for a centerpiece or tabletop display, tuck bowls into forgotten spaces, or put it under glass. Use a few pieces or a lot. You really can’t go wrong.

 

 

 

 

 

For another display idea using these materials, visit me at Urban Comfort.

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