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Natural Awakenings Milwaukee Magazine

The Greener Guide to Preserving Fall Leaves and Making Family Memories

Sep 30, 2024 12:00AM ● By Patti Beres
As autumn unfurls its vibrant display, a cherished family tradition beckons—preserving the beauty of fallen leaves with beeswax. This simple activity combines time in nature with family bonding. Each leaf is a treasure waiting to be found and captures the essence of the season while creating enduring memories.

DIY Leaf Preservation Project


Collecting Leaves: Set off on a leisurely stroll to gather fallen leaves. Choose a variety of shapes and vibrant colors that catch the eye. Enjoy sharing stories about your favorites.

Preparing the Beeswax: At home, gently heat beeswax in a crock pot reserved for crafting. The golden wax will act as the preservative.

Dipping and Drying: Carefully dip each leaf by the stem into the melted wax, ensuring a complete coat. Lift and briefly let drip and cool, then gently lay on waxed paper to dry. The beeswax seals in the stunning colors and imparts a natural gloss.

These beeswax-dipped treasures transform into enchanting decorations and thoughtful gifts, perfect for enhancing any festive setting. They also serve as eco-friendly fire starters for evening bonfires, where families gather to share stories and s’mores under the stars. This sustainable craft connects us with nature and brings the simple pleasures of the season into our homes.

Patti Beres is the owner of Be Green Pro LLC, in Delafield. For more information, call 262-361-4034 or visit BeGreen.pro.