a tiny field guide

Collecting + Cleaning Leaves

You might find yourself looking for leaves everywhere once you start.

Look for fallen leaves in places that are regularly maintained — sidewalks, road medians, parking lots, parks, or your own yard.

Leave wild places wild. Please don’t collect from natural habitats where fallen leaves are able to go through their natural cycle of decomposition.

Choose some of the nicest, cleanest fallen leaves you find.

See bugs or mold?
Leave that leaf where it is.

Brush off any dirt or give your leaves a gentle wash.

Lay them on a towel or outside in the sun and let them dry completely.

Once they’re dry, they’re ready to be hole-punched and turned into confetti.