Making Layered Paper Leaves

The best way to complete a set of flowers is to fill the negative space between the flowers with floral foliage. Making layered paper leaves is one way to do this! The colors that are used can either be the same colors that have been used in the paper flowers or upgrade the leaves to metallics, textured neutrals or glitter cardstock. Using glitter cardstock makes the set richer and more sophisticated. Below are a few ways to make your leaves more intricate and how to adhere various layers.

Supplies:

Scotch Super 77 Multipurpose Spray Adhesive OR Dimensional Foam Squares

GRAPE - American Crafts Pow! Glitter Paper (top)

GRAPE - American Crafts Glitter Cardstock (middle)

GRAPE – American Crafts 12x12 Smooth Cardstock (bottom)

Cutting Machine: If you are using a cutting machine, you can find various SVGs or PNGs of skeleton leaves on Etsy. The leaves used in the following images can be found on Kaycreationsxo Etsy shop.

Scissors/Exacto knife: If you are cutting out your leaves with scissors, print out leaf templates onto cardstock to create your stencils. You may need an exacto knife to cut out the positive and negative spaces. Trace the shapes onto the back of the glitter paper and then cut.

I've made lots and lots of flowers and have a few tips to share when it comes to making leaves that are sturdy and elegant. There are two ways I achieve this look...

Option 1: Attach the layers of the leaf with Scotch Multi-purpose Adhesive. Be sure to use this product in a well ventilated area and place scrap cardboard or paper underneath to protect your working surface.

Using this type of adhesive avoids glue spillage and smudges.

Option 2: Add more dimension to your leaf using 3d Foam Squares. The foam squares are sticky on both sides and can be cut to smaller sizes to fit in narrow spaces.

I know making paper leaves often seems like an afterthought thought when making a set of flowers, but they can really add to the project when you spend a few extra minutes on them. 

-Kathleen