HOW TO TAKE IMPRESSIONS OF PLANTS.
Take fine paper and oil it well with lard or sweet oil; let it stand a few moments to soak through, then remove the superfluous oil with a piece of paper, and hang it in the air to dry. When the oil is well dried in, take a lighted candle and move the paper slowly over it in a horizontal direction so as to touch the flame, till it is perfectly black. When you wish to take impressions of plants, lay your plant carefully on the oiled paper, and a piece of clean paper over it, and rub it with your finger equally in all parts for about half a minute; then take up your plant, being careful not to disturb the order of the leaves, and place it on the paper on which you wish to have the impression; cover it with a piece of blotting-paper and rub it with your finger for a short time, and you will have an impression equal to a fine engraving. The same piece of black paper will serve to take off a great number of impressions, so that when you have once gone through the process of blacking it, you may make several impressions in a very short time.
It is well for beginners to try with single leaves before attempting whole plants. After you have gained some experience you will find little difficulty in making a beautiful bouquet of leaves, which will be a very acceptable Christmas or birthday gift for mother or an older sister or friend.
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