Picked this tip up recently, I think it was in a Tamiya publication, large scale leaves are made easy with this how-to tip.

For 1/15th, 1/16th, 1/18th range of scales try one of these handy leaf punches that the scrapbook collectors use. This particular punch made by Fiskars not only gives you various types of leaves on the same punch but will also punch two at a time in the smaller sizes.

The shape in the middle is for trimming material to make corner pieces for the scrapbook pages. I found this was useful in producing random looking “portions” of leaves for additional ground cover.

I found numerous single style punches that only do one type of leaf at a time. I also found punches that would be appropriate for larger scales. Unfortunately I found nothing small enough for 1/35th!

If someone knows of a punch that will work for 1/35th please give me a yell. These can be found at any well stock arts and craft store.

Rick

You can use any type of leaf to start with, but don't start with leaves that have already dried out. Better to use leaves that are still a little moist and easier to start with the tips first.

You need to work with the pieces a little bit to insert them into the punch, leaves don't go in the thing as easy as paper products do. Once you've used up the easy pieces (the tips) just break the leaf down into chunks and work with the smaller pieces untill you run out of useful material.

...from the bottom. When looking from the bottom you can line up the vains in the leaf to be punched, looks really good when they dry out.

Badda-bing! A little piece of nature.

Bamm! Two at a time plus a side of acorn.

Finished product, as the leaves dry they will curl a little and turn in their various natural dried colors. Once finished with drying, the leaves are stored in a small glass bottle and are ready for future projects.

Rick

This is so fricking cool.

Thanks for the tip. Too bad they don't come in 1/35th or other model scales.

Way cool Rick. Where would you get one of those contraptions? Michaels?

Isn't that neat? Yup, the Michaels here had several types starting at this size and going up. Still lookin' for one smaller. I'm going to start checking on the 'net next.

Rick

very good!, just proves that with a little thought, there`s a way round every obstacle!!. cheers, steve.