Falling For Crafts: Autumn DIY Leaf Projects
Trust me when I say there is so much more to do with leaves than just waiting for them to hit a certain stage of crispness and stepping on them. Before they hit that just right crisp stage, you can accomplish so many fun crafts! These crafts could be done with kids, as a fun craft night with friends, or done all by yourself as a nice relaxing fall activity.
1. Leaf Print Art
For a fun art project and potential learning opportunity try leaf print art. All you need is a selection of leaves, acrylic paint, and some thick paper or canvas. Paint one side of the leaf and press it onto the paper to create a beautiful natural print. Frame your artwork for a simple yet eye-catching piece of fall decor. When it’s dry you can label or just point out the different parts of the leaf. AKA the vein, midrib, margins, petiole, and more!
2. Leaf Lanterns
Add a warm ambient glow to your fall evenings by making leaf lanterns. You’ll need a glass jar (an old sauce container perhaps), Mod Podge, and some colorful leaves. Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the jar, carefully stick the leaves onto the surface, and then coat them with another layer of glue. Once dry, place a tea light or LED candle inside to enjoy the soft, warm light that filters through the autumn colors.
3. Pressed Leaf Bookmarks
For a craft that combines creativity with functionality, make pressed leaf bookmarks. Collect small, flat leaves and press them between wax paper or laminate them with clear contact paper. Trim them into bookmark shapes, and enjoy a touch of autumn every time you sit down with your favorite book.
4. Leaf Garland
Garlands are a versatile decoration, and making one with leaves is a perfect way to celebrate fall indoors. String together a variety of leaves using twine or fishing line, then hang the garland over your fireplace, on a window, or along a wall. To preserve the leaves, press them between heavy books for a few days before assembling your garland. Use a whole punch to get an easy hole to string the twine through, and then save the cute outs for confetti to glue on the Leaf Print Art!
5. Leaf Bowl
Create a leaf bowl for a unique decorative piece using air-dry clay or papier-mâché techniques. Shape the material into a shallow bowl, and press leaves into the sides to leave detailed impressions. Once it dries, paint the bowl with fall colors or metallics to add a touch of elegance.
6. Leaf Crown
This is a fun and whimsical craft for children (or adults!) to embrace the season. Collect pliable branches and leaves, then weave them together to create a nature-inspired crown. It’s perfect for outdoor play or family photo shoots in a scenic autumn setting.
With just a few materials and some creativity, you can transform ordinary leaves into beautiful, functional, and festive crafts. From lanterns to garlands, these projects are simple enough for beginners but offer plenty of room for creativity. This fall, take advantage of the natural beauty of leaves to bring a little bit of the season into your home. Whether you're making them solo or with family, these DIY leaf crafts will surely warm up your autumn days. Happy Crafting!