Fall place mat / window picture

This
craft is easiest if you have access to a laminator, but can also be done,
with patience, with a supply of contact paper (clear sticky-back plastic).
It is a super way for kids to choose, compare and arrange contrasting
leaves and preserve them for a while.
First you will need a frame. Find
a piece of card or paper in autumn colours and cut it so that it is just
slightly smaller than your laminating pocket, or the same width as your
contact paper. Mark and then cut out a rectangle from the inside so that
you are left with a frame. Instructions for laminator:
Open
your laminating pocket and place the frame correctly inside. Choose a
selection of autumn leaves and arrange carefully within the frame. If you
are making a window picture you must leave some gaps between the leaves
for the sun to shine through - but if you leave too much clear space you
will have bubbles in the finished product. When you are satisfied with the
result, close the pocket and run it through the laminating machine. Trim
the edges if necessary. Instructions for contact paper:
Contact
paper is notoriously difficult to handle, so take a deep breath before you
start! Decide on the finished size of your place mat / picture and cut two
pieces of contact paper to size. Peel the backing off the first piece and
carefully lay your frame on top of it to steady it. Now arrange your
leaves. When you are happy with the arrangement, peel the backing off
the second piece of contact paper and lay it over the frame and leaves so
that they are sealed between the two. Smooth down to fix.
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