Fall leaves can be preserved for use in decorating and other projects. You will have the best results with undamaged leaves that are picked directly from the tree, rather than those that have already fallen.
Here are a few methods:
Remove the leaves, and let them continue air-drying for a day or two. Spray with an acrylic sealer.
Place the leaves between single layers of paper towel. Using an iron set at medium heat with no steam, dry the leaves by pressing for at least 10 minutes. Then turn the leaves over, change the paper and press the other side for about five minutes. Keep the iron moving to prevent scorching.
Next, turn the iron's setting to high, and sandwich the leaves between sheets of waxed paper, waxed side to the leaf. Cover with another layer of paper to protect the iron. Press for about a minute, until the leaves adhere and are coated with wax.
While the leaf still is warm, peel off the paper. The leaves will be left with a thin coating of wax to preserve their color.
GERMAN HOLIDAY MARKET
Artisans will make and sell their products, which include dolls and doll clothing, baskets, woodenware, jewelry, woven rugs, quilted hangings, baked goods, candy and pet supplies.
Craftsmen and local merchants have contributed articles for a Chinese auction. The museum's gift shop will be stocked with gift items, including afghans, candles and pottery.
Registration forms will be available for the museum's annual gingerbread baking contest. Judging for cash prizes in adult and junior categories will take place Dec. 9.
Proceeds will benefit Historic Harmony.
Details: (724) 452-7341 or (888) 821-4822.
ARCHITECTURAL SALVAGE SALE
Among the stock are doors, porch parts, brackets, shutters and panels from 1880 to 1940 and assorted items from the Wick Lumber home building inventory, 1920 to 1940.
Small quantities of vintage building materials and hardware will be available. Select lumber for various building projects (pressure-treated plywood, trim material) can be seen by appointment.
Details: (724) 321-7896.
ANTIQUE CLOCKS
7 p.m. Tuesday at Schmidt's Springhouse Antiques, on Route 66 five miles north of the intersection with Route 22.
Smeltzer has been collecting, repairing and restoring antique clocks for more than 25 years. His focus is American-made clocks from the early 1800s to the early 1900s. He is an active member of the National Association of Watch and Clock Collections.
Details: (724) 325-2577.
HOLIDAY PLANT TIPS
The speaker is Beverly Visneski of the club. The meeting is free and open to the public.
The club also is sponsoring its annual fund-raiser from 11:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Saturday at Churchill Valley Country Club, Beulah Road, Penn Hills. For a $21 donation, patrons will be served lunch and see a vintage hat fashion show. There will be door prizes.
FREE CROSS-STITCH DESIGNS
Counted cross-stitch graphs for the Heart of Freedom - a heart with a stars-and-stripes motif - and the Flag of Freedom can be downloaded from the site. They can be stitched and fashioned into pins, bookmarks or ornaments.
Lough invites stitchers to share the graphs, but she asks that the designs not be used for profit.
Details: www.posycollection.com .
