Leaf Print Craft

Nature crafts are good scout activities for several reasons. First, you can get the kids outside to collect the supplies. While they are there, they can look around and really see the outdoors. Second, they are usually inexpensive. And third, I just like the way natural stuff looks.

Leaf prints are always fun for Cub Scouts. They are easy and usually look pretty good. Instead of the usual method of putting the leaf under the paper and rubbing it with a crayon, try making leaf prints with paint. Or use it over a leaf rubbing to get a layered affect.

Materials:

• Several fresh leaves (should not be dry and crumbly)
• a few different colors of washable paint
• paintbrushes or sponges
• paper

Instructions for Making Leaf Prints

1. “Paint” the veined side of the leaf with paint, using a paintbrush or sponge. Use a generous amount, but not so much that it is drippy.
2. Place the leaf, paint side down, on the paper.
3. Press the leaf gently to transfer the paint to the paper, but try not to move the leaf around since that will cause smudges.
4. Remove the leaf.
5. Repeat with more leaves and different colors.

The prints might not look perfect, but they will look nice enough that your kids will appreciate them. Scouts could also make a frame for the print by gluing twigs and natural “finds” to a fun foam frame shape.