How To Preserve The Color Of Your Dried Fall Leaves For Decor That Really Pops

If you've already gone through the work of collecting and drying fall leaves, you know how disappointing it can be when their fiery reds and golden yellows fade into dull browns too quickly. Whether you're using them for small crafts or a stunning fall centerpiece that will elevate your space, preserving the color of your dried leaves makes a big difference. It keeps your fall decor looking vibrant and can help the leaves stay strong and sturdy well into the season. The good news is you don't need anything especially complicated or expensive to help preserve the color. A few basic supplies are all it takes; glycerine, beeswax, or even plain wax paper can be used to coat and protect the leaves.

These simple methods help lock in the pigments so your leaves don't lose their charm, even after weeks indoors. Each process is simple and easy to do, making it a fun project for anyone who loves a little seasonal crafting. Whether you want a centerpiece that lasts through Thanksgiving, cute fall leaf placemats, or just a handful of leaves pressed into a frame, these preservation tricks make it easy to explore all the creative ways to use fall leaves in your decor.

There are a few different ways to keep your leaves looking bright once they've been dried. The simplest and most accessible method is to place them between two sheets of wax paper and press them with a hot iron. All you have to do is put down a tea towel, arrange your leaves between two sheets of wax paper and put another tea towel on top. Using low-to-medium heat, iron over the tea towel to seal the wax paper layers together. After it cools, cut out the wax paper-sealed leaf.

For longer-lasting and border-free results, try the glycerine method. Mix one part liquid glycerine with two parts water, submerge the leaves, and let them soak for three to five days. This softens the leaves and helps them hold their rich tones without becoming brittle. Another option is to dip the leaves in melted beeswax (using a Crock Pot or double boiler method) and then hanging them to dry. This creates a subtle sheen while keeping the colors bold and slightly translucent, perfect for hanging decor or window displays.

Each method works by sealing in moisture, coating the leaf surface, or replacing the moisture, which prevents pigments from breaking down. If you don't want to work with wax or dipping your leaves, another easy method is to laminate your dried leaves between plastic, if you have a laminator lying around. With just a little effort, you'll have preserved leaves that bring warmth and color into your space well beyond the fall season. Instead of using plastic Dollar Tree foliage to create a cozy fall planter, you can use the leaves you've just preserved.