Pears are great just the way they are, whether fresh or fake. This shapely fruit doesn't have to be relegated to the kitchen, especially when presented differently by transforming it into a decorative item to enhance a place setting. In this project, artificial fruit which is more durable has been used, but fresh unripened fruit would work just as well.

PAINTED PEAR

You will need:

artificial fruit, masking tape, gold spray paint

Steps:

Tape the stem of the fruit with masking tape.

In a well-ventilated area, spray the fruit with two coats of paint leaving to dry between coats.

Coating with a gloss sealer is optional for a high-gloss finish.

GLITTERED PEAR

You will need:

artificial fruit, spray adhesive or craft glue, glitter, spray-on sealer

Steps:

Holding the fruit by the stem, spray with adhesive in a well-ventilated area.

Pour glitter into a bowl and with a spoon cover the pear evenly with glitter.

Tap gently to remove excess glitter and spray with sealer.

Leave to dry for a few hours.

GOLD-LEAFED PEAR

You will need:

artificial fruit, gold leaf sealer, paint brush, gold leaf sheets, soft brush

Steps:

Paint fruit with adhesive and leave to go tacky.

Gently lay one sheet at a time onto the sticky surface and smooth with fingertips.

Don't worry if the sheets crease as it adds to the texture of the final finish.

Dab with a soft brush to smooth out the surface.

Repeat the process until completely covered.

MW x