Pleated Paper Leaf Wreath

SUPPLIES & TOOLS:

• Color Cardstock Sheets
• 12" Embroidery Hoop
• Markers
• Scissors
• Hot Glue Gun & Glue Gun Sticks
• Tape

DIRECTIONS:

1. Cut paper sheets into quarters, approximately 4 1/4"x 5 1/2".
2. For larger leaves, increase the width of the paper rectangles.
3. Use markers to add shading & color variation to the colored paper.
4. Start with a marker close to the color of the paper & gradually increase to darker shades.
5. Shade the center of the paper rectangle to create an ombre effect from the center of the leaf.
6. Cut the rectangle into a rounded triangle shape, like a hill or "U."
7. The bottom straight side should be the full width of the paper, and the top rounded point should be about 1 1/2"-2" wide.
8. For oak- or maple-style leaves, cut scalloped notches into the sides of the shape, leaving the top & bottom untouched.
9. Accordion-fold the paper along the width edge.
10. The first fold should be back toward the non-shaded side of the paper.
11. Fold in half along the long straight edge.
12. Positioning a marker or scissor blade in the center of the paper can help with folding the paper directly in half if the paper is thicker.
13. Place glue along the first folded edge of the straight side & glue together, forming the leaf.
14. Allow glue to dry.
15. Make an assortment of leaves in different colors & sizes.
16. If using a glue stick for this project, glue a small rectangle tab onto the back of the leaves to give a larger gluing surface for the wreath assembly.
17. Arrange finished leaves on the front of the hoop.
18. Once leaves are placed as desired, take a photo to reference as you glue.
19. Glue leaves to the hoop & to each other using hot glue or glue stick.
20. Add curly paper strips to add variation in texture & fill small gaps.
21. Once glue has dried, the wreath is ready to be hung.

JOANN HACKS:

• Extra leaves can be used for all sorts of different projects.
• Try making a garland, napkin ring or place cards to decorate for the season.