PROJECT: Create a Leaf Pendant or Charm Using PMC Slip.

Tools required:

1. Small paintbrush
2. Workboard
3. PMC Slip.

How to

1. Select a suitable leaf - it should be fairly sturdy, and non hairy. The deeper the viens, the better.  Don't go for too large a leaf, as it may become too fragile as you work, curling and cracking and slip. Don't forget a pointy leaf will create a pointy, and possible sharp, charm. You're going to use the back of the leaf where the veins are more pronounced, so feel the underside leaf for a nice texture. Don't worry about little holes made by insects as this will add extra "charm".

2. Take the ready mixed PMC Slip, or mix your own in a mixing pot or egg-cup. To do this, combine a small amount of paste with a few drops of distilled water, and mix to the consistency of nail varnish. Then apply a layer of paste to the underside of the leaf with a small paintbrush - you don't have to use an expensive brush, a childrens one will be fine, just make sure you remove any loose hairs before you start.

3. Give the paste enough time to dry naturally. Move the board somewhere out of the way where little fingers and drafts won't knock it onto the floor.

4. Apply additional layers of paste and repeat the drying process until you have made up at least 5 layers of paste. If the leaf doesn't feel heavy enough then repeat the process a few more times.

5. Make a hanging bail by rolling and cutting out a small rectangle of PMC3. Wrap this rectangle around an oiled wooden skewer, leaving a flat edge. Remove from the skewer, leave to dry and attach this to the back of the pendant, using a little more paste as slip as "glue".

6. When you fire the leaf it will burn away. Simply fire the the pendant with a torch until it goes orange color and hold at this temperature for about 3 minutes, as usual. Or, of course you can use a kiln. If you torch fire, as the leaf burns away, it will create more smoke than usual - but
this is normal.

7. Once cool, use a wire brush to give it a little shine followed by the PMC polishing papers to make it really shiny!

UPDATE

As requested, here is a picture of a leaf pendant made using this technique.  This particular leaf is from a geranium (widely available).  Ivy leaves work well too as do ginko (not common though).