How to Make Skeleton Leaves

Skeleton leaves are perfect accents for all craft projects. This article briefly describes how simple it can be to make them.

1. Take long leaves and press them between old telephone books. They should remain here in a dry, undisturbed place for several weeks.
   
   
2. Make a solution of washing soda, and carefully lay the pressed leaves into the solution.
   
   
3. When the flesh becomes pulpy, take the leaves out of the washing solution and rinse them carefully in cold water.
   
   
4. Gently brush away the pulp with a toothbrush.
   
   

• Magnolia leaves or maple leaves are a good place to start for beginners.

• Don't let kids do this without proper adult supervision. It does make a great science project, so just be prepared to help them and ensure that they are wearing gloves when handling the washing soda solution.
• Washing soda is caustic (alkaline pH of 11). While it does not produce toxic fumes, it is important to use proper protection when handling; the best thing to do is to wear gloves.