Autumn Leaf Decoration: Nature Craft

Children (and adults) enjoy collecting autumn leaves. Wandering around neighborhoods or trails shares any number of splendid fall leaves. We collect them on the nature table and use felt leaves for garlands. Then I wondered if we could create something lovely using real leaves.

The real leaf garlands brought gorgeous color into our classrooms. The concept for them is incredibly simple.

Step one was usually a question. Could we sew leaves? And that prompted lots of ideas for yes or no. Then I shared that we could make decorations for the window (or anywhere- we love the light through colorful leaves). We created a plan to collect leaves on a walk around the playground. We have guidance not to pick leaves off of plants or trees. Only choose leaves on the ground.

I might share that the leaf needs to be soft because if it’s crunchy or brittle, it can fall apart when you sew through it. If you are creating these with children of your own, you may want to let them discover this on their own- like what happens when you try to sew a dry leaf? In a classroom, that meant quite a messy project.

We use crochet thread (size 3) which doesn’t tangle very easily. We cut a length of red or amber thread (any color would be fine). We use tapestry needles with very blunt tips or embroidery needles with large eyes for older students. We thread the needle and bring both ends even to tie a slip knot. This way, the needle cannot be pulled off of the thread by accident.

Sewing the leaves is a very simple process of pushing the needle through one leaf. Pull that leaf where you like it on the thread. The leaves tend to stay where you slide them on the thread since they’re light. Then add another leaf. By having thread go through a leaf once, the leaves “lean” one way or the other and look like they’re tumbling down in the window. Once you reach near the end, snip the needle free of the thread and tie a slip knot or double knot to hang anywhere.

The leaves will dry out eventually (which can be a science observation in itself- how long does it take for them to dry out?). You can take them down and outside to crunch them into mulch to return to the soil. The thread can be used for another project if you like.

I have read about preserving leaves with beeswax, which you could research if you want a display to last longer. I did find it lovely to see how nature is astonishing and fleeting all at the same time.

If you are making these with a class, or group of children, it’s helpful to thread the needles and tie the first knot ahead of time.

The walk to discover leaves, the sewing of leaves, and the enjoyment of leaves catching the light means that this activity combines nature and fine motor skills. I would often invite children to sew a second garland to take home because they enjoyed it so much.

Autumn is such a lovely season.

We hope you’re inspired to create a few garlands for your own space to celebrate the season.

Another idea- identify the trees from their leaves. Look them up online or use a leaf identification book to learn more about the trees in your neighborhood.

Happy autumn! 🍂🍁🍂

Autumn in the Forest

Hurrah for autumn! The fairies, gnomes, and critters are so excited for the changing season. They decorate with colorful garlands of russet and burgundy. Dance in the falling leaves. Snack on crisp apples and pumpkin pie. We love so many things about autumn!

We are often asked what is in each book celebrating the season. Of course, we invite crafters to bring their own creative vision to each project. Its easy to make any fairy (or mermaid or gnome) into a fall theme using colors of autumn, from burnt umber to bright orange.

Of course, you could also purchase both books which will give you all the crafts :)

Autumn in Forest Fairy Crafts

• Witch, Wizard, and Warlock

• Pumpkin Fairy

• Zombies

• Cat Treasure Keeper (customize with colors)

• Owl Pocket Treasure Keeper

Autumn in Magical Forest Fairy Crafts Through the Seasons

• Autumn Gnome

• Autumn Fairies with Leaf Wings

• Chubby Cat Stuffy

• Chubby Fox Stuffy

• Autumn Leaf Garland

Click here for a FREE tutorial for Moody Pumpkins

Moody Pumpkins are a fun fall activity that also invites conversations about moods, and how we look when happy or sad or mad. These conversations can feel obvious to adults, yet creating a way to show different expressions can be super helpful for young children. We’re happy to share the activity with all of you. And they’re fun decorations!

We wish everyone a fun and creative autumn! And, if you’re on the opposite end of the world, happy spring! We have you covered with plenty of spring crafts too :)

We look forward to crunching through leaves while watching colors blaze on our favorite trees. We look forward to harvest treats and adventures. And we look forward to collecting our gratitudes as the season gets underway.

Thank you for sharing the journey with us!


* post does contain affiliate links. Should you choose to purchase our books, a small amount returns to the forest while your price remains the same. Thank you!