Skeleton Leaf Tray

I’ve long been enamored with leaf motifs, so when I heard about skeleton leaves I did some research and found an online source that has a great selection of colors and various sizes.  In my continuing quest to add some color to our cabin, I decided to embellish a simple white tray with the leaves.

Supplies I used:

1. Wood tray, approximately 21″ x 14″
2. Skeleton leaves in sizes from 1.5″ to 4″
3. Sharp craft knife
4. Small scissors
5. Clear glue
6. Cream colored paint and brush
7. Green craft paper
8. Modge Podge

I gave the tray a quick coat of cream colored paint using a cross hatch pattern for some texture. After letting the paint dry, I started gluing the leaves around the sides of the tray, making sure the bottom of the leaf was on the inside and bent slightly inward as shown.  Using the craft knife, I cut the bottoms off so they were flush with the sides. When I got to the handles, I didn’t do anything differently, but after drying I used a combination of the scissors and craft knife to cut out the leaves from the handle’s opening.

Once the outside leaves were glued on, I turned my attention to the inside of the tray. I began by cutting four ‘stems’ from the green paper, each around 7″ long. I placed a small leaf in each corner and then glued the ‘stem’ to the bottom of the leaf. I continued adding leaves, sometimes overlapping them.  When I was satisfied with the design, I let the glue dry and put two coats of Modge Podge on, drying between coats.

Unlike my beaded placemat project, this one was quick, and the total cost, including the tray, was around $45.00.  The biggest cost item was the tray, but if you already have one, you’re in luck.  Or you could do something similar on a plain wooden box or any number of pieces.

I also finished up our kitchen island project this weekend and I’m excited to show you that later on in the week!

Partying At

Life On Lakeshore Drive

Cozy Little House