Leaf impression art how to#

Science Objective: To learn the basic structure of a leaf, label the various parts and understand their function. Since we’ve always done traditional leaf rubbings, I thought we’d venture out this year and experiment with the art form by using materials that are slightly different than the standard white paper and crayon technique. Our *NEW* Leaf STEAM Printable Pack also has a number of science, art, math & nature activities for kids too!Īrt Objective: To use a variety of paper types (wax paper, tracing paper, parchment paper) and explore different mediums (crayon, oil pastels, colored pencils) when creating leaf prints. Since this project is part art and part science, there are a few goals we have when creating leaf rubbings or leaf tracings.

Leaf impression art how to#

We’ve outlined the details on how to make a leaf rubbing, what you’ll need for the project and affiliates links to a variety of supplies and books that we used for our activity. I especially enjoy this activity in late October and November - it’s very creative and one of many fun Thanksgiving activities for kids that encourage them to get outside on those cool Fall days. We see so many beautiful leaves covering the ground that we are drawn to capture both their shape and hue on paper. Leaf rubbings (also known as leaf prints or leaf tracing) are one of those activities that almost every child tries as Autumn approaches. Leaf Rubbing Activity: Art & Science Project

We will cut around them to make cards and others we will frame in an arrangement.Easy leaf rubbing activity – part art and part science, this leaf STEAM activity lets kids of all ages create something beautiful and get a peek into the parts of a leaf!Įver since I was a child, I was fascinated by the idea of being able to lay a leaf under paper, rub a crayon over the top and create this beautiful self-made art - an instant ‘picture’ that shows all the detailed lines and swirls of the leaf.Īs I grew to become a nature lover, I realized that making a leaf print is much more than just a pretty picture - it’s also a peek into the science of trees. We all loved trying this out and made a huge stack of leaf prints in a variety of shapes! We found it looked really effective to add a range of similar colours on the leaves before printing, as well as arranging the prints next to each other or even slightly overlapping them too.Įach leaf, once painted on, can be used to make a print at least 2-3 times, sometimes making the best result by the last one as the paint has thinned out a little by then. Then press them directly into the paper, smoothing over the back of them using your hands, and carefully peel off to reveal the print. Add them to a nature journal, use them to create large scale art, print them onto cards or even turn them into wrapping paper and gift tags.įor the best results, paint the leaves using a paintbrush rather than dipping them directly into the paint, to ensure the paint isn’t applied too thickly. Leaves and flowers make particularly striking and beautiful prints and can be gathered on nature walks or from an outdoor play area while outside together. I love how you can take simple household items, cut fruit and vegetables and many items from nature and use them print such a wide range of shapes and patterns.

Printing is one of my most favourite art forms, along with collage and sculpture.

Make some beautiful leaf printing art using natural materials in any season! So simple and effective, easy enough for any age to enjoy!