Tried and Tested Tip Number 32 [Autumnal Doodle Leaves]

I love the countryside. I may not be such a big fan of insects and creepy crawlies, but I really enjoy collecting leaves, branches, shells, and other goodies! I have been really admiring some of the artwork I have seen on the internet over recent years that take these natural creations and work with them to create pieces of art - even if sometimes they are temporary.

I recently found this beautiful autumnal leaf lying on the grass. It had turned brown, but was still fresh enough to not crumble under my touch. Since I had my favourite white (Gelly Roll) and black (Pilot Hi-Tecpoint) pens with me I decided to draw on it right then and there! I treated the leaf just like a page in my sketchbook, but worked with the shape of the leaf to make a complimentary pattern. At the end of the day, if you're drawing on a leaf and you don't like how it turns out, you can just pick up another leaf! I love that you can see the veins and markings still, but with another design laid over the top.

I think this is a really good practise for people to learn to experiment with different mediums and test their boundaries, but also very feasible to do with children. What else can you find to draw on?! There are no consequences if it goes wrong, so you can have fun and experiment whilst enjoying nature. And if you love what you create, they can be turned into a mobile, a garland, or other decorations.

Beach in a Jar

I recently wanted a gift for a friend, which would bring the beach to her house. Thanks to my husband's hotdog obsession, I have quite a collection of these large simple jars, and they seemed ideal to fill with beachy finds.

I simply filled the jar part way with sand, which can be tipped out and played with or left inside. I collected some stones and shells from my local beaches too - these can also be played with, or arranged in the jar to create a beachy scene. The jar can be arranged upright or on it's side, and extra feathers and driftwood and anything else can be added as it is collected!

As well as bringing the beach to people who may not get out very much, these would make a great memory jar for a beach holiday, and a way to present all the little finds that beaches just seem to present to hands!