Eco Print Basics: Autumn Leaves on Paper

Today I show how to make eco prints on paper using Autumn leaves. It is easy, fun, inexpensive, and satisfying: what could be better than making art supplies from nature? From choosing your paper to gathering the best leaves for crisp prints, it’s covered in the lesson so pull up a cup of tea and join me as we learn how to eco print on paper using Autumn leaves.
If you would like to see a written post with these instructions, it’s on my website:
bookandpaperarts.com/ecoprint...
You can find the online classes here. Please note - the price that is on the courses at present IS the half-price cost, 50% off of their original prices. These courses will end on 25 November but you can download the video lessons and keep them as long as you like:
kelly-s-school-b1d1.thinkific...
Questions? Please let me know in the comments or feel free to email at: [e-mail]

[@BookandPaperArts]

You can find my online classes here. Please note - the price that is on the courses at present IS the half-price cost, 50% off of their original prices. These courses will end on 25 November but you can download the video lessons and keep them as long as you like: kelly-s-school-b1d1.thinkific.com/collections

[@theresapalmer7892]

Oh my, what beautiful prints. You're opening statement. This is not paint put on leaves to print. Got my attention. Learning how to pick leaves that are ready to give up their color, awesome tips. TY for thus lesson.

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi Theresa. I actually figured out the hard way that some leaves give better prints than others. The first batch we make is sometimes wonky so I was hoping this would shorten the learning curve for first-time leaf steamers. (Hmmm. First Time Leaf Steamers would be a good name for a '70s rock band.)😺

[@armandaberlin2156]

lol. Even the 'bad' ones were gorgeous!

[@linnerlu]

Oh my gosh! I somehow just found you, watched several of your videos, and am now a new subscriber. I love your calm, easy descriptions, your results, and your voice!

[@BookandPaperArts]

Why thank you, Linda, and welcome. It makes me smile to think that I have a calm voice. I do have an excitable side, but usually only if cute kittens or old paper is involved. So glad you touched base! Kelly

[@fionaharvey2720]

Kelly I just followed your instructions and the results are great! I used water colour paper and a mixture of leaves but found the maple gave the best results! So pleased so I’m going to do more, even though the kitchen was like a sauna, no only joking! Thank you ☘️☘️☘️☘️

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi Fiona and thanks for touching base. Yes, I know that kitchen sauna and actually like the smell of steeping leaves, like a cross between soil and tea. What's not to like? I am so glad they turned out and keep me posted on that second batch.

[@lisaking7168]

❤❤❤GORGEOUS 😍

[@CatherineSunnysideJournals]

Kelly these turned out SO beautifully! I am definitely going to finally give eco dying a try now. Thank you for the inspiration.

[@kathleenogilvie617]

Here's to making your weekend a whole lot better.😂 thank you Kelly for the inspirations you share. I was going to dye paper today, maybe I will eco-dye instead. Here (central Alberta, Canada) the weather app is suggesting snow overnight. If I am going to try my hand at eco printing today is probably the day to go gather damp-ish leaves. My your weekend be warm and happy.

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi Kathleen. I missed this so I hope I am in time to add that if you collect the leaves before you are ready to use them (snow-wise and otherwise) you can put them in a plastic bag and pop them in the freezer. They will keep until you are ready. I hope you make gorgeous pages. And have a creative week.

[@lynnboyd33]

Kelly, you are a wonderful instructor! So clear and detail oriented. I really liked how you explained what leaves to look for. I've never heard that one from other instructors. Personally, I feel even your "not so great pages" are just as primo, if not better, for seeing your handwriting, etc., if you go that route! Amazing video my friend!

[@lynnemantle895]

Oh wow I had never heard of this before.... I am converted cannot wait to try. Thank you

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi Lynne. It is addictive. I am making another batch this week to stock up for the year. It also works on fabric - not as sharp a contrast but still pretty. Let me know how it goes!

[@suzannedavies7996]

Beautiful prints. Such a thorough tutorial. Thank you. I’m looking forward to giving this a go.

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thank you, Suzanne. Keep me posted on how they turn out!

[@aprilwood1244]

These are absolutely gorgeous! Thank you for sharing!

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi April, you are very welcome. It is possible to make eco prints from spring and summer plants but for the life of me I haven't learned how yet so I just stick to Autumn leaves. 😺

[@barrylytle5118]

Gorgeous! Gorgeous! Gorgeous! Thank you for sharing this beautiful process! Love this! 💙💚💙

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thanks bunches, Barry. I make a batch every year to keep me going until the next Autumn. You should try it. Unbundling is addictive.

[@ZsuzsaKarolySmith]

I've already admired these on Instagram! Thanks for the tips and tricks! Your prints look amazing - I love that grunge about them!

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thank you, Zsuzsa. It is always a gamble, that charcoal grey edge but when it works it really works!

[@linddykal6512]

Thank you I’m making these now. I’m going to make an artist’s book with the pair with a Japanese stab binding

[@BookandPaperArts]

Lindy, that sounds charming. Keep me posted on the results and happy steaming. Kelly

[@dakielty]

Great tutorial

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thank you, Dorothy. And I don't know where Raccoon Alley is but it sounds like the sort of place I need to visit. 😺

[@kathyfenton9268]

Thank you for your timing! It is almost as if you read my mind. A few days ago, I found a box of old dried pressed leaves. I've collected them for years and decided to try to do something with them rather than throw them away. Obviously, using very old leaves breaks one of the first rules of eco-printing. But, what the heck, why not give it a go. I also had quite a time getting alum here in Portugal. I had to order it from Spain 😳Finally, I made 3 batches using your methodology and I am VERY pleased with the results! Today, I went out and collected a bag of fallen leaves (mostly sweetgum) and have everything soaking for tomorrow. Can't wait 😊

[@BookandPaperArts]

Wow wow wow, those worked? Thanks for sharing because I had no idea, but then again I've never tried so thank you, Kathy, for being the guinea pig. What's the deal with alum over here, huh? I have to order online and feel vaguely sneaky about it while in Mississippi it is in every darn Piggly Wiggly.

[@kathyfenton9268]

Ditto on the alum! I had to order from Amazon in Spain. The poor Spanish delivery man couldn't find my house in rural Portugal until the third try! Needless to say, I am bringing back a supply from the US next time I am there. I wanted to update you on my results. I made another round of prints using freshly collected fallen leaves and the difference is dramatic. Old leaves produce much lighter, less consistent and more subtle prints. I have a side by side photo that I can't figure out how to post - maybe it isn't possible. I'll send it to you. Your methodology produces much more vibrant results but I find beauty from the old leaves as well 😊

[@roksannastephens4375]

Beautiful eco prints!! Your demo and info was the best I've ever seen. Ty! I think them wrapped, tied, and stain-dyed are a lovely piece of art on their own!! Even the not AA+ ones are gorgeous! Can't to see the next video with making a journal. Ty for the directions too. Happy weekend !!

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi there, Roksana. Thank you so much. I am already planning another batch as unbundling is so addictive. Bundles are like little art mummies and they make me so happy. Let me know if you give it a try. Kelly

[@cherewharry]

I have my paper soaking for my first go at eco printing. In the Texas Gulf Coast area, don’t get fall color until wintertime. That last page you showed may not be A++, but it is beautiful. It reminds me of some of the photos we see from outer space. Thanks for your thorough and encouraging instructions.

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hiya Chere. I went to school on the Gulf Coast (and will be there next week!) and believe me I get it - no seasons. There are other plants you can make eco prints with including flowers, I just don't do it myself. Have a look online and you find tons of info, in case you want to try something else. How did your batch turn out?

[@cherewharry]

@@BookandPaperArts I am very satisfied for a first batch. Not as dramatic as yours, but some really nice images and strong impressions. I really enjoyed the whole process, very sensory, and the serendipitous element was the wonderful tea fragrance filling up the room and lingering in the paper. You must be coming to visit family. I hope the weather is good. Thanks, Kelly.

[@diedrastevenson300]

The leaves always do their best...respect!

[@BookandPaperArts]

Amen. I actually love this technique because of the way it gives life to a leaf as it is leaving the world and it is such a beautiful, tactile way of keeping it preserved. So don't diss the leaves, right?😉

[@heatherm2125]

They turned out lovely! I’m going to visit my local Goodwill to look for an old stock pot so I can try this!

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi Heather. I usually find one when I look and that way you can have a cheap pot that you can dedicate only to working with plants (and then you can be all fancy about it with your friends who don't have dedicated plant pots!😉).

[@susanrichard5884]

Thanks so much for this encouraging and well presented video. I've no iron, but will try pressing damp steamed papers under some of my many books.😊

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi Susan. Quite right as this is actually a project where the pages look great anyway you do them. Flatten them as best you can and get started making stuff!

[@lynnboyd33]

Kelly, Literally just started this vid. These are ALL extraordinary!! Beautiful job my friend!

[@JuanettesCraftingCorner]

What a fantastic video. Thank you so much for sharing it and your information.

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thanks for touching base, Juanette. It is truly my pleasure and this tutorial has been on my to-do list for about three years!

[@sherilynmedin7061]

Absolutely fabulous. Thank you.

[@BookandPaperArts]

Why thank you, Sherilyn. I hope you make some gorgeous prints of your own. Keep me posted! Kelly

[@malinaplass]

They look great. I ‘ll give it a try. Have to look for an old iron pan. Thank you 😊

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi Malina. It is almost time for rummage sales and jumble sales and they often have big pots very cheap. Happy hunting!

[@karenm9169]

This was a wonderful and fun project. Thank you for sharing.

[@user-fi2sr7ry3o]

These are gorgeous. Thank you so much!

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thank you, Joy. You can use other plants and flowers, I just like leaves.

[@alexandraalmeida3661]

Those prints are absolutely AMAZING! I even liked the ones you showed last and said they were a bit imperfect, maybe because I do love imperfect things. I never tried this, but I do leaf and flower prints in white fabric. I soak the fabric in simple water and then I make bundles with the leafs and the flowers. I choose the ones that have just fallen from the trees. Specially with camellias (there will be many in November), I get the most amazing (for me, at least) prints. You don’t see any flower or leaf shape, but I get a kind of abstract shapes that I love for my stitching. Anyway, I must try this. I have to buy a pot in my secondhand shop 😉💙♥️💗🧡🖤💚💜❤️💛🌸🌿🌼🌱

[@BookandPaperArts]

Do camelias give any colour or is it more the shape and sense of a petal? I have made leaf prints on fabric, too. The results are not as dramatic but quite pretty.

[@alexandraalmeida3661]

@@BookandPaperArts Camellias give a deep yellow colour. But they must be pink, the white ones don’t give much colour, and they have to be picked up almost immediately after falling. As I put lots and lots together (I have small public park here that has camellia trees) in bundles, I get deep yellow shapes, like an abstract painting 💛💛💛

[@alexandraalmeida3661]

@@BookandPaperArts I sent you some photos on Instagram 💛💛💛

[@kristinelagerstrom7888]

Thank you Kelly! I have been looking for an easy to follow tutorial on eco dying paper. Perfect timing!!! (It's autumn in Spokane!)

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hiya, Kristine, this makes me happy. I actually rushed it up - we don't have a whole lot of leaves on the ground yet - in case they were almost finished in other parts of the world. Keep me posted on how it works!

[@denisecope]

Thank you so much for your generous teaching. These are so beautiful. I like the soft and blurry Bs best of all.

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi Denise and thank you for these lovely words. You weren't the only one to like the blurry Bs. Just goes to show. 🌷🌼🌻

[@augusta8901]

Excellent in every way.

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thank you, Augusta. That is truly nice to hear!

[@robertakeirn1870]

Great tutorial, thank you! Going for a Fall hike, here in Western New York (the leaves are ablaze!), one of my favorite things and can’t wait to collect some beautiful leaves! ❤️Gilly

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi Gilly. Hiking in western New York sounds sublime. I lived in New England for years and the foliage season was so intense and almost like church or something. It must be the same there. Are you in the Hudson Valley?

[@robertakeirn1870]

@@BookandPaperArts Western New York is West of Syracuse and the finger lakes, so Buffalo/Rochester area. I live near the Southern rim of Lake Ontario, so we get some great Fall colors (and lake effect snow). It’s a beautiful area.

[@BookandPaperArts]

Yowza, that sounds lovely. I live near the sea but I really miss mountains. Enjoy!@@robertakeirn1870

[@robertakeirn1870]

I just complete my first eco-dye adventure. I can’t that you enough, what a wonderful experience! I have raved about your tutorial wherever I am allowed. I wish I could attach a picture here. Just fantastic, thank you!!!! 🖤

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hey, Gilly, this truly makes me happy. I am about to make my second batch this week to make sure I have enough to last the year. Please feel free to email me photos of your results if you have the time or inclination. Also, thanks for getting the word out there! Kelly@@robertakeirn1870

[@sheilamillard3354]

Wow these are magical! Love them Thankyou!

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thank you, Sheila. I hope it shortens the learning curve if you want to try them.

[@fionaharvey2720]

Wow how fabulous I loved this video and I can’t wait to try it! I’m so glad I found you as I want to make a cover for a book! ☘️☘️☘️

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thanks bunches, Fiona. I hope you make gorgeous prints. These DO make fun and dramatic covers.

[@reginaeid1568]

Best prints and tutorial I’ve seen. You give the “why it’s done this way” information that really helps with learning. I understand the process so much better now, ty ❤

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thanks bunches, Regina. This one has been on my to-do list for about three or more autumns but sometimes those weeks just slip right away. I rushed this one a little (leaves only just turning here) to see if I could get as many leaf-falling-regions included as possible. I am so glad it worked!

[@corneillececil9437]

Hi, I was wondering if you have ever 'painted' your imperfect prints with rust water. I have seen miraculous recovery of such prints by simply painting over those prints again with old rust water 😊

[@BookandPaperArts]

Wow, this sounds so intriguing. I am not sure what you mean but am off to look it up now. If you have a link or two I would love to see them: [e-mail] But if not, no worries, I am a good looker-upper.😺

[@karismith3144]

I absolutely love everything about you! So happy i found you! I have no clue how i have made it this far without u!

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thank you, Kari. This is such a lovely message and it really makes me happy to read this. Kelly

[@melanieanderson1886]

Fabulous video! Great information!!!

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thanks bunches, Melanie. Hope you make gorgeous prints and pages!

[@exquisitememorybooks]

Kelly, I love the way you explain things. And the results are beyond awesome!

[@BookandPaperArts]

Merci, Inna. J'essaie tenir les choses simple and facile. J'espere vous essayer faire les pages avec des feuilles. Ces sont tres belles and marrant.

[@exquisitememorybooks]

@@BookandPaperArts J’avoue que j’ai toujours trouvé l’ecoprinting un peu intimidant… J’ai déjà tout acheté - le bon papier, le mordant, une casserole, mais je n’ai jamais osé essayer. Je suis en voyage en ce moment. Dès que je rentre chez moi, je vais essayer. Merci encore du fond du cœur - vous êtes un trésor !

[@sandybe11]

The papers are so lovely! Thanks for the roll it up technique I think I can handle better. I’ve been wanting to try, so great tutorial 🌻

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thanks, Sandy. I was hoping this would encourage a few folks to leap and give it a try. Keep me posted on how it goes!

[@MrsBednar]

amazing. Always Love everything you do!

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thank you, dear Margaret. 🌷🌼🌻

[@Bluebirdray]

That was exciting. Love how they turned out.

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thank you. Unbundling is one of my favourite things in the world. It's always a surprise.

[@beckycollett917]

These are fabulous- WOW!

[@sherrycooksley5196]

Wow great results!!❤

[@BookandPaperArts]

Thanks bunches, Sherry. I do so love unbundling. 😺

[@karentoms4510]

That was a great tutorial. Well presented. ❤

[@BookandPaperArts]

Why thank you, Karen. I had meant it to be an online class but then I made the decision to scupper online classes and instead I cut out any filler and just got it up here in a shortened form where it can do some good. 😎

[@sandrawheeler2295]

I was super excited to watch your eco print video. I've had moderate success using other methods but, as always, you've given some very clear, concise instructions for better results. Can't wait to try my next batch!!! One question, Kelly...when you steam the packages, do you cover the pot with a lid? Oh, another question...how can you bear to wait sixteen hours to open the packages?? 😂 Thanks so much! 🥰❤

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hiya Sandra. I understand. I found the technique intimidating until I went into it for myself and found what worked and what didn't in a real life set-up, by trial and error. Now I have it down pat I really wanted to show it so others don't have to reinvent the wheel to get started. So, yes, cover the pot well and keep the steam in except to check, turn bundles, and add liquid. As for waiting, it is probably the hardest part of the process but, as you can see, it is soooooo satisfying that I've learned it's worth the wait. Let me know how it goes! Do you have leaves this time of year? You can eco print with other plants but I just don't do it well.

[@sandrawheeler2295]

@@BookandPaperArtsThank you so much! We do have a tropical version of autumn here in Far North Qld and I did find myself analysing leaves on my walk this morning 😂 Your enthusiasm is contagious and I can't wait to get started 🥰

[@melanieanderson1886]

I have had so much fun playing with this technique. I had pressed a bunch of leaves in the fall and the results have been fabulous and so easy. You said in the video that you posted another video about making a journal with the long papers you printed but I can't find it. Could you point me in the right direction please?

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi Melanie. Thanks for touching base. I haven't made a rull book yet but I did make a cover using this one. See what you think! Kelly kzbin.info/www/bejne/o2jZfZSVbsd9Zq8

[@historyunderfootnyc]

I have used this process to make onion-skin dyed paper and never thought to use autumn leaves. The leaves are just starting to change here in NYC and I am going to be on the lookout for fallen leaves to use. Can't wait. Thanks for the idea and great tips. Do you leave the cover off when steaming/simmering?

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi there. I also make onion skin paper prints and onion skin ink (I love, love that stuff). Yes, do leave the lid on while steaming, just check now and then to make sure you have enough liquid. Keep me posted on how they turn out!

[@birgitbonde6677]

Absolutely beautiful! I have tried with Alun and greener leaves with far from the best result. I Will try with Autumn leaves and adding rust water to my stainless steel pot. Could I alternate between paper and cotton fabric in my rolls?

[@BookandPaperArts]

Oh yes, Birgit. In fact, I have done this technique with cotton napkins and even a cotton nightgown! Keep me posted on how it works. Kelly

[@annaengberg]

Thank you so much for this fabulous tutorial! Now, I feel as I can try this too. And, I have an iron pot that I can't use for cooking... 😊 Your results are breathtaking! O loved them all. One question... Do you use the lid half over the pot when it's steaming, or without?

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi Anna. I actually leave the lid on pretty tight, just checking now and then to make sure there is enough liquid. That keeps the steam really strong and more intense. Keep me posted on how yours turn out!

[@annaengberg]

@@BookandPaperArts, thank you so much for the answer! I'll tell you how it turns out, when I get there. 😊

[@katiehanrahan5293]

These are gorgeous!! Can’t wait to try this! Question: do you cover the pot when you are steaming the bundles? Thanks.

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi Katie. Sorry, I am getting this question a lot so oops. Yes, cover the pot while steaming and then I like to keep the lid on for a couple of hours after I've turned off the heat to let it "steep". Let me know how it goes!

[@katiehanrahan5293]

@@BookandPaperArts Thanks, Kelly. That’s what I figured, but wanted to check with you to be sure. I need to go find a pot for steaming. Right now in Northeast Ohio, finding leaves won’t be a problem!

[@BookandPaperArts]

Keep me posted on how they turn out, Katie. 😺@@katiehanrahan5293

[@katiehanrahan5293]

@@BookandPaperArts Will do!

[@montana62fish]

Beautiful. How much alum goes in the pre soak and also the steam pot?

[@BookandPaperArts]

I don't measure exactly but more or less one tablespoon per half gallon. Start with some warm water to help it dissolve. If you want to read a bit more, here is a post. I hope you make beautiful prints! bookandpaperarts.com/ecoprinting-with-autumn-leaves/

[@linddykal6512]

Does this work with flowers too or just leaves?

[@BookandPaperArts]

Hi Lindy. It does work with flowers. If you search online you will find so many articles that can direct you to the flowers that give the best results. I hope you make gorgeous prints!

[@cherylmacedo5521]

🤎🤎🤎