Reposting this as we work on our succah decor, which includes this lovely tree of life, made from an olive tree branch. The succah needs to be finished basically tonight, so gotta run!
The tree of life is a universal Jewish symbol, and this year it is center stage in our succah, as a DIY tree of life nature craft! I'll admit, I didn't plan this at all, though husband had requested something new for the succah, for which my reply was a groan, NOW? Meaning a day or two before Succot, with so many things to do? Generally I do create at the last minute, but this year I had thought about just being ready days ahead, ha ha ha. And I am so grateful that I was open to letting the creativity sneak in as I just love this tree of life craft, and it is perfect in our succah! And I'll let you in on another secret, after this one, I made an even bigger and more colorful one, that I'll share with you next week, no time for that now, and I need to get one of my sons to climb up on the ladder and hang it in any case. This DIY tree of life nature craft is perfect for fall or winter or any season really, as there is something about a crafted tree, using a real tree branch that is just downright charming! Now, you will have to start taking nature walks and looking around for the perfect dead branches calling out to you, but that is part of the wonderful process! Okay, let's learn how to make a tree of life with golden leaves!
You'll Need:
- a dead tree branch free of dirt and insects (hopefully), find something intricate and interesting
- gold card stock
- spray paint or acrylic craft paint
- hot glue
- wire or fish line for hanging, or what ever works for you
How To:
- Clean branch and paint, I used up a few can of spray paint, outdoors of course, (yippee to using up stuff!) that were white and peachy colored
- Cut leaves, I cut mine from an accordion folded leaves, and so recommend first accordian folding your paper and then cutting the leaves using the fold as the center of the leaf, mostly.
- Now fire up the glue gun and attach those leaves, that are a range of sizes and follow the natural direction of the branch
- Enjoy, and if you are like me you'll be back out in nature looking for more branches!