Introduction: Maple Leaf Pendant (Paper)
Here is a instructable on how to make your own personalized maple leaf pendant.
Step 1: Things Required
Paper
Scissors
Glue
Tissue Paper
Paint
Metal Ring
Step 2: Printing
I have attached the blueprint of maple leaf which I used to make the pendent. It's in A4 size. Save the image, print it and carefully cut the outline using a pair of scissor. You will need at least 6 identical cut outs.
Step 3: Layering
After cutting out all the leafs stack them over one another. The thickness of your pendent will depend on the number of layers. I used 5 layers you can use more.
When you are done deciding the thickness use glue to stack them together.
Step 4: Detailing and Strengthening
Detailing
After layering you will have to cut another leaf but this time you will have to be extra careful as you will have to cut only the colored part and avoid cutting the black outline (as shown in image). When you are done cutting you will have 8 small pieces.
Now at carefully place and glue all the pieces at the bottom of all the layers making this layer as 6th layer. Now while placing and gluing there will be space left in between the pieces (small groves which you can see in the picture) which is nice. It means you have done a great job cutting them.
After gluing all the pieces start folding the body inward using the grooves making some nice crease on the outside. You dont have to fold the whole body just try making a dome like structure (refer the images). When you are done giving it the desired shape turn the body around.
Now to make the veins dip small pieces of tread in glue and place them on the outline. You can use different size/types of threads to show the variations. Let everything dry.
Strengthening
To strengthen the leaf use glue and water mixture (3/4 glue, 1/4 water) to cover the whole body with tissue paper. Cover it with at-least 3 to 4 layers. Give it enough time to dry (usually 20-30 minutes) and after every layer make sure the leaf doesn't loose it's shape.
Step 5: Painting
When the leaf is completely dried paint it white first as your base color then apply the desired color. I painted golden on white.
Sometimes it might happen that your color doesn't stick to the leaf. If this happens to you mix a little amount of glue in your paint and you will be able to paint it easily.
Use a board pin to make the hole and then use a metal wire make it a loop and pass it through the hole. This metal piece will be used to connect the pendent to the chain.
Step 6: Result
You can either put a chain and use it as a pendent or you can use it as keyring.
Thank You for reading my first instructable. Share this post if you have enjoyed it.
Share your finished product in the comment section. If you have any doubts you can ask me in the comment section or you can personal message me.
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Necklace Challenge