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Painted leaves on paper

Fall Leaf Painting Craft: Fun Activity for Kids in 5 Simple Steps!

Fall and all that encompass this season are upon us- the feel of crisper air, the taste of pumpkin, the scent of warm apple cider, and the beautiful colors of the changing leaves. Additionally, we are here to give you a simple and fun craft that will get your children outside, exploring nature, and expressing their creativity- fall leaf painting! What's more, the best part is that you most likely have all of these items at home already and you can do it in 5 simple steps!

Fall Leaf Painting 

What You'll Need:

- A collection of beautiful fall leaves (a great excuse for a nature walk!)

- Washable paints in your favorite fall colors

- Paintbrushes or sponge brushes

- Large sheets of paper or a canvas

- An old shirt or apron to keep those clothes paint-free

Hand holding up leaf

Step-by-Step Guide:

1. Nature Walk Adventure:

Start by taking your kids on a mini adventure right in your neighborhood or a nearby park. While you are outside, encourage them to gather a variety of leaves in different shapes and sizes. This gets the kiddos excited about the craft and helps them appreciate the beauty of nature!

Little girl tossing leaves in air

2. Set Up Your Craft Station: 

Once you’re back home with your leafy treasures, you can set up a cozy craft station. Then, lay out all your supplies and cover the area with newspaper or an old tablecloth to make cleanup a breeze.

leaves, paint, paintbrushes, and paper

3. Get Creative with Paints:

When your crafting area is ready to go, pour a small amount of each paint color onto a palette or paper plate. Then let your little artists choose their favorite colors and load up their brushes for their fall leaf painting craft exploration!

4. Paint Those Leaves: 

Finally, after the colors have been chosen, you can show your children how to gently paint one side of a leaf. Try encouraging them to experiment with different colors and patterns. This is a great time to talk about the different shapes and veins of the leaves and how they can use these features in their artwork.

Paintbrush painting red paint on a leaf

5. Create your masterpiece: 

1. Use the leaves as a stamp! Once the leaf is painted, press it onto the paper or canvas, with the paint side down. Next, gently press all over the leaf to transfer the paint. Then, lift the leaf carefully to reveal a beautiful, colorful print! Repeat this process with different leaves and colors to create a stunning fall leaf painting masterpiece.

2. Glue the painted leaves on a piece of paper!

Painted leaves on paper

3. Use the leaves as a stencil and paint around the edges! 

Paint around the outside of where a leaf was on paper

Tip:

Find a special place to display your child's masterpiece! The fall leaf painting craft can add a touch of autumn magic to your home and serve as a wonderful reminder of the fun day spent together.

 

Why We Love This Craft:

- Nature Connection:

It’s a fantastic way to get kids outside and teach them about the changing seasons.

- Sensory Experience: 

The textures of the leaves and the feel of the paintbrushes provide a rich sensory experience.

- Creativity Unleashed: 

There are no rules—just pure creative expression. Each piece is unique and reflects your child’s imagination.

- Memories Made: 

Most importantly, it’s about spending quality time together, laughing, creating, and making memories that will last a lifetime.

 

Your Turn!

We hope you and your little ones enjoy this fall leaf painting craft as much as we do!

For a chance to be featured, share your beautiful creations with us on social media using #PlaygroundPressKids. Happy leaf painting!