DIY Placemats Inspired by Nature

Fallen leaves and feasts are two highlights of the fall and winter seasons. Combine these joys in simple one-of-a-kind placemats you can make yourself.

A standard 11- by 17-inch sheet of paper is the perfect size for a DIY printed placemat. Here’s how to turn one into a nature-inspired backdrop for your next tablescape.


1. Gather your supplies. Select beautiful leaves, fronds and branches with distinctive shapes and textures.

Optional: Gather a few extras to keep unpainted and use as other embellishments for your place settings.


You’ll also need:
Sheets of 11- by 17-inch or A3 paper in a light color of your choice. I used a soft white paper, thick enough to absorb paint and hold its shape on the table.A tube of water-soluble paint. I used black gouache, but any color that will contrast your paper would be fine.A brush and a plate or shallow bowl for diluting your paint with a bit of water as needed. Masking tape in a color that complements your other materials.


2. Prepare the mixture of gouache and water. Dilute the paint slightly if needed to cover your leaves and needles evenly. (Try a few test prints on a sheet of scrap paper.)


3. Start printing. Paint one side of each branch or leaf.


Carefully but firmly, press the painted side of your leaf or branch onto the paper. Then lift it straight off the page to prevent smearing. Use all or part of the plant — it’s up to you!


4. Repeat the process several times. Paint, print, paint and so on, until you are pleased with your design.


Mix and match leaves, branches and twigs as you like.


If you’re using finer or more delicate fronds and twigs, place them on a sheet of newspaper before you coat them with paint.


Then place them on your paper and apply pressure as described above. Don’t worry if the print isn’t an exact copy of the leaf; abstract surprises are part of the fun.





5. Choose the one that best suits you or use them all. Every person will have a different favorite.


6. Set the table. A brightly colored tablecloth will highlight your white placemats.

Tip: Save a few special twigs to embellish your place setting.


For a fun twist, fasten your cutlery to the placemat with masking tape in a complementary color.


A paper placemat can slide on the table during the meal, so use a dab of tape on a corner or two to keep it in place.

Your turn: Show us your clever place settings in the Comments!

More:
3 Recipes for Foraged Holiday Decor
DIY: Make a Sweet Gift of Future Blooms

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