A fall wreath constructed from handmade leaves is the perfect craft project to involve children of different ages and skill levels. In fact, it’s a craft project that gives the entire family a chance to bond as they discuss a few of the things they’re thankful for. The supplies for this project are inexpensive, and you may already have most of them in your home right now. The affordability also makes this a great Thanksgiving craft to make with grandchildren, for the classroom, day care, scout troupe or other organizations that involve young children.
Supplies for 1 Wreath:
· 1 paper plate · 6 sheets of paper (plain white paper, colored construction paper or paper that’s previously been used for other projects) · Crayons and colored pencils in fall hues · Children’s safety scissors · Glue stick
Start the youngest children on covering a sheet of paper with fall color. Any combination of crayons and pencils can be used, and in fact the end result is best if several colors are used. Cover the paper with an even layer of color. If recycling paper from other projects use the backside or color over any designs that already exist.
An adult or older child can trace three of four leaf designs onto one of the blank pieces of paper. Make a variety of shapes such as a maple leaf, oak leaf and basic oval leaf. Each leaf should be approximately 3 to 4 inches long and 2 to 3 inches wide. Cut them out to use as templates.
Instruct an older child to trace the leaf designs onto the back of a colored piece of paper. Give the job of cutting out the leaves to children between the ages of five and eight – it’s great practice for their scissor skills.
Ask older children to trace around the edge of the cut leaf with a dark brown of russet felt marker. Include center and lateral veins on approximately half of the leaves for extra detail.
Cut the center out of a paper plate. Use a bowl or saucer to draw an even circle. Leave 1 ½ to 3 inches around the edge of the plate. Color or paint the paper plate in dark brown or dark green to provide a neutral background for your leaves.
Glue the leaves with veins around the wreath shape in a random design. On the remaining leaves, ask each family member to name one or two things they’re grateful for, and write it on the leaf with a bold marker. Condense their sentiments into one or two words to make it easier to read. Attach the remaining leaves to the form. Use a removable, adhesive-backed hook to display your wreath on any door.
To help preserve your wreath year after year, wrap it in acid-free tissue paper before storing.