Autumn leaf craft projects

Autumn is the most colorful season in many parts of the US. While the trees are ablaze in color, take this chance to preserve some leaves or use them in your favorite art projects. There are lots of DIY craft projects on the web, but unfortunately many of them seem to call for expensive and/or toxic ingredients from the craft store. The craft ideas below should all have eco-friendly substitutes. Here's a recipe for homemade spray starch.

• Collect and press leaves following this photo flipbook and instructions.

• Make homemade soap using pressed leaves.

• Fold roses out of colored leaves; here's an illustration.

• Make a wreath using layered leaves over a core (ones of the same variety and size work best).

• Create delicate skeleton leaves by brushing away the soft part of the leaf.

• Homemade paper uses paper scraps and any leaves or flowers you put in the mix.

• Decoupage gourds and apply autumn leaves for patterns.

Also check out these adorable acorn craft ideas.