It's difficult to not feel inspired when you see the fall foliage blaze in brilliant colors on northeastern trees. This craft project takes its cue from just such autumnal leaves.

Tools and Materials
Cork (4-foot roll)
Felt
Acrylic paint
Paintbrush
Utility knife
Glue
Leaf template

Cork Leaf Coasters How-To
1. Print the leaf template onto paper, then roughly cut out each leaf shape. Place the paper over the cork and use the utility knife to refine the cutting. Because the cork will curl after being rolled up, spritz it with water and iron it flat with a hot iron and a press cloth.

2. Choose autumnal colors for the cork leaves. Water down the paint (a 50-50 mixture will be fine) and then use a brush to apply. Reapply for a darker effect. Allow it to dry for 30 minutes.

3. Cut a felt piece slightly smaller than the outline of the leaf. Apply a dab of glue to the cork and place the felt on top; this will hold the felt still for sewing.

4. Sew the felt to the cork in the pattern of leaf veins using your sewing machine. Set your machine to the largest stitch size and sew veins using contrasting color thread; the cork should be facing up. Make sure you only sew forward; if you need to change direction, keep the needle in the cork, lift the foot, and turn the leaf.