For the kids...leaf print art

Article by: Greenhouse staff

This is an easy way to use materials right from your own backyard to create some impressive art!

You will need:

  • Green leaves
  • Scissors
  • Cotton cloth
  • Hammer
  • Vinegar
  • Iron
  1. Collect leaves from your backyard or from a neighbourhood park.Some leaves will work better than others so have fun trying out leaves from different trees and shrubs.
  2. With the help of an adult, cut out squares of cloth big enough to cover up a leaf. White cloth will work the best for this activity.
  3. Lay your leaf on a hard work surface with the veins (bumpy) side down and place a piece of cloth over top of the leaf.
  4. While holding the piece of cloth in place with one hand, use the hammer to gently tap the leaf underneath. Ask an adult for help with the hammer if it is tricky doing both at the same time. Try finding the outline of the leaf first and then work your way to fill in the middle. It works well to have the head of the hammer hit the cloth and leaf at a flat level, not at an angle. You will begin to see green liquid soak through onto the piece of cloth, revealing the shape of your leaf.
  5. If the leaf does not peel off easily from the piece of cloth, wait a few minutes until the leaf dries up and you will be able to easily brush it off.
  6. To make the leaf print permanent, lightly mist with vinegar. With the help of an adult press a hot iron onto your leaf print to enjoy your artwork for a long time to come!
  7. Get really creative and show off your leaf prints by decorating a white t-shirt!