Pounding leaves on fabric is an old Cherokee Indian technique,
used for decorating wearing apparel. It was resurrected by quilter,
Iris Aycock of Alabama.
The Fabric is first prepared by soaking in an alum and soda ash
solution to prepare the fibers to accept the dye that is in the leaves.
Once the fabric is dried, a fresh leaf is laid out on the fabric, then taped
down with a masking tape. The leaf is then pounded with a hammer until
the chlorophyll in the leaf leaves an impression in the fabric. The fabric
is then "fixed" and dried. In the process of fixing the image, it usually
turns a nutmeg brown color.
Red Bud
Sweet Gum Leaves
Christmas Ferns
Tulip Poplar Leaves
Cottonwood
Sassafras
