Gilded pears become peachy decorations

Ornamental pears symbolize a warm welcome.
By CATHIE FILIAN
SCRIPPS HOWARD
For centuries artists have been inspired by the delicate shape and curves of the pear, making them a focal point in many still-life paintings. In "The Odyssey," the Greek poet laureate Homer lauds pears as a "gift of the gods." In Chinese art the pear symbolizes longevity.
Every fall, I decorate my home with gilded pears -- symbolizing a warm welcome. I line my mantel with pears and greenery, create centerpieces by filling fruit bowls with them, and hide them in unexpected places for my guests to find.
I have collected ornamental pears from all over the world and I have made many gilded pears over the years. This project is simple and the results are simply stunning. Gilded pears can be made in any color -- you can use brown, gold and green paper to create a natural looking pear or go flashy with fuchsia and lime green paper. This gilding technique also can be applied to any faux fruit.
Supplies Needed:
UPlastic pears.
UNatural fiber paper or tissue paper.
UDecoupage medium.
UFoam paintbrush.
UMedium sized paintbrush.
UInterference paint (art supply store).
UExtra fine glitter.
URibbon embellishment.
UVelvet leaves.
UHot glue.
Steps
Step 1: Tear or cut the paper into small bits -- about 2-by-2 inches
Step 2: Apply decoupage glue to the plastic fruit using a foam paintbrush. Then apply the torn paper to the plastic fruit and topcoat with decoupage glue. Use your fingers to smooth out any air bubbles. Continue with this step, overlapping the papers on the fruit until you have full coverage. Overlapping the papers adds dimension and texture.
Allow the paper and decoupage glue to dry. Once dry, you can add a second layer of torn paper by repeating Step 2.
Step 3: Apply the interference paint to the fruit: Place a small amount of paint onto a protected work surface, using a dry brush dip the brush into the paint and blot off the excess paint, using loose brush strokes apply the interference paint to the fruit. You can create dimension on the fruit by using the paint to highlight certain areas. Allow the paint to dry.
Step 4: Apply a small amount of decoupage medium to the pear and lightly sprinkle with the glitter. Tap off the excess glitter and allow the medium to dry.
Step 5: Using hot glue, attach a velvet leaf and a decorative bow to the stem of the fruit..