Need some new summer decor, but don’t want to spend a lot of money? Create this DIY paper mache monstera leaf art—it creates the perfect tropical, summer vibes. And the gold-leaf paint makes the monstera leaf art look super chic. If I do say so myself. The process is simple enough that you could get your kids involved too. A summer craft perfect for the whole family. And a final craft you’ll be happy to display, which (let’s be honest) isn’t always the case.
Materials
- Faux Monstera Leaf (available at local craft stores and Target)
- Flour
- Water
- Newspaper, cut into strips
- White paint
- Gilding Paint in Classic Gold (available at Michael’s and other craft stores)
Instructions
Prepare your monstera leaf for paper mache. Cut off stem of monstera leaf and wipe clean.
Create paper mache paste. Mix together 1 part water to 1 part flour. Start with about 1/2 cup of each, you can always make more as you go.
Paper mache your monstera leaf. Using strips of newspaper, dip the strips into the paper mache paste and place on your monstera leaf. Cover both the front and back of your leaf. Let your leaf dry and then apply a second coat of paper mache. You’ll know your leaf is dry when it feels like room temperature. Don’t apply if it’s still cool or damp to touch. (You may need three coats.)
Paint your monstera leaf. Once your leaf is dry, you can assess if you need a third layer of paper mache. If not, it’s ready to paint. I suggest painting it white first before applying the gilding paint. Once the white paint is dry, apply the gold gilding paint following the instructions on the packaging.
Display your tropical leaf art on a side table, dresser or shelf. You can also hang it on the wall. It looks lovely styled with other gold objects like gold mercury glass votives. I also paired mine with blue glass and some bright pink gladiolus.
I liked the gold and blue combination so much I extended it to other areas of my house. I love making sure my decor flows throughout my home. I accomplished an easy coffee table look by combining a collection of blue and gold votives with a gold tray holding a blue glass full of succulent stems and a vintage candy dish with sea shells.
