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Materials

  • Black construction paper or cardstock, 1 sheet (A4 or 9 × 12 inches)
  • Fresh or dried leaves, 8–12 pieces (varied sizes and shapes)
  • Oil pastels or soft crayons, assorted bright colors (6–10 colors)
  • Scrap paper, 1 sheet (to protect work surface)
  • Masking tape (optional), 2–3 small pieces
  • Paper towel or soft cloth, 1 piece

Instructions

  • Place a sheet of scrap paper on the table to protect the surface underneath.
  • Arrange several leaves on top of the black paper, vein-side facing up for clearer texture.
  • Secure the leaves lightly with small pieces of masking tape if they tend to shift.
  • Hold an oil pastel on its side and gently rub over the paper where the leaf is placed.
  • Continue rubbing until the leaf shape and vein details become clearly visible.
  • Switch colors and repeat with different leaves, overlapping slightly for a fuller design.
  • Wipe pastel residue from hands and let the artwork rest before handling or displaying.