J. Cole Leaves
- Are they real leaves?
- Will my leaf look like the picture?
- They look so fragile. Will they break?
- What if I change my mind and want to return it?
- What is electroplating?
- How long does it take to make a leaf?
- What is skeletonizing?
- How do you get the colors?
- What process do you use?
- How can I purchase your leaf products?
- If you are in the Arizona area...
Are They Real Leaves?
Yes, they are real leaves.Will My Leaf Look Like the Picture?
It will be similar but not look exactly like the picture. No two leaves are ever exactly alike so no one will ever have a leaf exactly like yours.They Look So Fragile. Will They Break?
Each leaf is encased in copper for strength and is virtually a piece of metal now. However, yes, like most anything, they could break. I don’t recommend driving a truck over them but, if not abused, your leaf will probably out last either of us.What if I change my mind and want to return it?
If for any reason you aren’t happy with your purchase, you may return your undamaged leaf within 30 days for a full purchase price refund.What is electroplating?
Non-conducting materials, such as leaves, are first covered with a conducting material such as graphite. They are then placed in a solution (bath) of a salt of the coating copper, and are connected to a negative electric terminal. Another conductor is then connected to a positive electric terminal. When a low voltage current is passed through the solution, the metal is deposited on the leaves.Although it might sound simple enough (perhaps to Einstein) it is not recommended as a garage hobby because of the chemicals used, and the possibly toxic residues.
How long does it take to make a leaf?
From harvesting to finished product, it probably takes close to two weeks, the longest process being that of skeletonizing or lacing out the leaf.What is skeletonizing?
Skeletonizing, or filigreeing, refers to reducing the leaf down to its skeleton structure. Not all leaves will skeletonize due to their veining structure. By soaking them for days in water, boiling them for a shorter period of time, or lightly sand blasting them, the pulp can be removed revealing the network of webbing below the green of the leaf. (Check the internet for “skeletonizing” methods.) Some leaves will skeletonize and become more lace-like than others (Cottonwoods and Oaks). Some appear to be less lacey but, if viewed more closely, the webbing becomes more apparent (Maple and Japanese Maples). I work only with the leaf varieties that will skeletonize. Note: Leaves that are extremely skeletonized tend to have less color.
How do you get the colors?
The colors come from the copper, influenced by the weather, humidity, amount of copper on the leaf, laciness of the leaf and whether or not I’m paying attention.What process do you use?
THAT is my crafting niche and what makes my leaves different from the competition. Sorry!How Can I Purchase Your Leaves?
You can purchase many of my leaf products directly through this web site from the various product pages listed at the left. There is also a downloadable PDF order form that you can fill out and mail to me.
Where Else Can I Purchase Your Leaves?
I participate in 15-20 craft shows during the year, usually in N. Calif. Please check my show schedule for a show location near you. Leaves are also sold by my sister in the Arizona area.