Creative

Leaf printing

by Fellowship Agency November 23, 2017

As Autumn draws to close and we start preparing for the Winter weather, it’s time to make the most of those crunchy fallen leaves. Follow the steps and create some stunning Autumn artwork.

Learning outcomes

You will be able to:

  • identify leaves in the natural environment
  • create an artistic design using natural resources

You will need (per person)

  • 2 x Shallow Gratnells trays (F1)
  • 4 x mini trays (or small pots)
  • A4 paper
  • Autumn leaves
  • Coloured paint
  • Paintbrushes

What to do:

  • Head outside and pick some lovely Autumn leaves that have fallen from the trees. You can easily collect these in a Shallow Gratnells tray.
  • Once you’re back inside, lay out two Gratnells trays. Select your favourite leaves and a place them in one of the trays. In the other, place a piece of A4 paper.
  • Squirt small amounts of coloured paint into some mini trays (or small pots).
  • Paint the back of your leaves and press them gently onto a piece of paper. Apply a little pressure to ensure the leaves print clearly.
  • Multiple printed leaves create the perfect Autumnal art piece or a lovely leafy scene.

Other things to try…

  • Use small pots for the paint.
  • Share photographs of your Autumnal creations on social media using #WhatsInMyTray.

Curriculum links:

EYFS- Development Matters- Expressive arts and design- Provide activities that give children the opportunity and motivation to practise manipulative skills, e.g. cooking, painting, clay and playing instruments.

Key Stage 1- Primary National Curriculum– Art- To develop a wide range of art and design techniques in using colour, pattern, texture, line, shape, form and space.

Year 1- Primary National Curriculum– Science- Plants- To become familiar with common names of flowers, examples of deciduous trees, and plant structures (including leaves).

Health and Safety

As with all Gratnells Learning Rooms What’s in my tray activities you should carry out your own risk assessment prior to undertaking any of the activities with children.