Fall Leaf Garland: An Easy Autumn Craft for Kids

A leaf garland turns a walk into a decoration. Kids hunt for the brightest leaves, then string them across the mantel or a bedroom door.

You need leaves, twine, and tape. The project takes about 30 minutes, plus a day or two if you press the leaves first.

Pick up only leaves that have already fallen. Leave the ones on the trees alone so the tree keeps growing.

Materials You'll Need

• Colorful fallen leaves
• Twine or yarn
• Clear tape or a hole punch
• Heavy books
• Scissors (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Collect fallen leaves

Look for leaves with bright color and no big tears. Small rips are fine. Carry them flat in a bag so they do not crumple, and wash hands after collecting.

Step 2: Press the leaves flat

Lay leaves between the pages of heavy books and stack more books on top. Leave them for a day or two. Pressing keeps the garland from curling later.

Step 3: Plan your pattern

Lay the pressed leaves in a row on the table. Sort them by color or shape first if kids want a pattern. Alternating red and yellow looks sharp.

Step 4: Attach leaves to the twine

Cut a length of twine for your space. Punch a hole near each leaf stem and thread the twine through, or tape the stem to the twine. Tape is easier for young kids.

Step 5: Hang the garland

Leave a few inches between leaves as you string them. Hang the garland with tape or small removable hooks. Keep it away from heaters and sunny windows so the color lasts.

Tips for Different Ages

Toddlers (2-3): Hand them leaves and let them stick on tape. An adult does the hanging.

Preschoolers (4-5): They can thread twine through punched holes with help.

Early elementary (6-8): Kids this age can plan the whole pattern and hang the garland themselves.

Older kids (9+): Let them make a longer garland for the living room, or add pinecones between the leaves.

Variations to Try

• Run extra leaves through a laminator for a garland that lasts months.
• Tie small pinecones to the twine between leaves.
• Thread wooden beads between leaves for pops of color.
• Press leftover leaves for leaf rubbing art on a rainy day.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do you keep leaves from curling?

Press them under heavy books for a day or two before stringing. An adult can also flatten curled leaves with a warm iron under a towel.

How long does a leaf garland last?

About one to two weeks indoors. Laminated leaves last for months.

Can you laminate real leaves?

Yes. Press them flat first, then run them through a laminator. Laminated leaves hold their color and will not crumble.

What is the best way to hang a garland without damaging walls?

Painter's tape or small removable hooks. Both come off clean. Avoid regular tape on painted walls since it can peel the paint.

Should I wash leaves before crafting?

A quick shake outside removes most dirt. Wash hands after handling leaves, especially with toddlers who put hands in their mouths.

Be safe and have fun!