How do you preserve leaves?
After collecting fresh leaves I preserve them by pressing them to dry them out completely. This process varies depending on the leaf, but typically around 3-4 weeks.
Once fully dried I put on a couple of layers of gesso before painting.
Will the leaf decay?
As they are dried fully before painting, this is not a problem. Once I have finished painting a leaf and it is fully dry, I coat the back with varnish to fully protect it from air and moisture. I then frame the leaves so they are protected and ready to display.
Are the pumpkin seeds preserved?
As with the leaves, I dry out the seeds then prepare them with gesso before painting and varnishing.
Are the tea bags used?
Yes! After use, (I am a massive herbal tea drinker!) I dry out the tea bags, scrape out the leaves then iron them flat ready to paint on. In the spirit of sustainability all the tea leaves are given to a friend to use in their garden!
Are your wood canvases upcycled?
Yes! My husband makes all my wood canvases from up-cycled pallets. And my log slices are from reused logs that we collect or are given.
How do you support sustainability?
I reuse as much as possible, from the items I paint on to the frames and packaging I use. One of my favourite pastimes is visiting charity shops or carboot sales to search for things to paint on or frames to upcycle. I save all my boxes and packaging to reuse when posting my art so don't be surprised if you get a branded box in the post!
