In fall, an inner clock in trees recognizes the shortening of days. It makes a substance that seals off leaf stems from twigs. which causes the chlorophyll in the leaves to break down. When this happens, yellows and oranges begin to show through in the leaves. One way to prolong this beautiful display of color is to collect, press, and use autumn leaves in craft projects. First place the leaves in a thick book between two sheets of paper towels for 24-48 hours.
Younger children can then cover the leaves with clear adhesive paper.
Older children, with adult supervision, can put leaves between two sheets of waxed paper and press them with an iron set on low heat. This melts the wax and seals the leaves between the sheets of paper. Use a pillowcase to keep your iron and board wax-free. Punch a hole at the top center of the leaf arrangement and thread a ribbon through it for hanging. Hang the finished sun catcher in a window that receives sunlight.