Break out the pumpkin spice lattes, because fall is finally here! In addition to being almost everyone’s favorite season, fall is a great time for getting cozy. It’s time to plug in the slow cooker) for some hearty soups and stews, which are just right for eating after a nice long walk to look at the changing fall colors. A long walk is also the perfect time to look for nature’s free craft supplies – those gorgeous changing fall leaves!
Fall leaves run the gamut from still green to perfectly golden to burnt oranges and fiery reds, which means there are ways to use them in all sorts of craft projects. From festive garlands to placemats, we’ve rounded up 20 craft ideas anyone who can gather leaves can try. So grab a delicious pumpkin spice-flavored drink and a glue gun, and settle in for some super fun fall crafting!
Create a Fall Leaf Garland.
A fall leaf garland is a beautiful way to bring some rustic charm to any wall or to use as a Thanksgiving decoration. This idea, care of Artful Parent, is an easy one to do with kids, so it might make a fun rainy day activity.
A Leaf Table Runner Adds Elegance to Any Table.
It’s not really a craft roundup if there isn’t some Martha Stewart happening, right? This is an elegant idea for a leaf-stamped table runner that just takes fabric, paint, leaves, and a bit of patience. But the final result is so pretty!
Enhance a Door With a Leaf Wreath.
A wreath is a season-appropriate way to bring a little nature to the front door. We love the look of this one from Uncommon Designs, though it may take more than 10 minutes to complete this project if you don’t already have a premade wreath.
Leaf People Add Whimsy.
Looking for an ultra simple but fun leaf craft idea to do with younger kids? Look no further! These leaf people inspired by At Home With Ali are so cute and allow for so much preschooler creativity.
Transform Leaves Into Butterflies.
Although we tend to associate butterflies with spring and summer, these adorable leaf butterflies show that butterflies can flutter into fall too! Leaves, pipe cleaners, twigs, and hot glue are all that are needed to make this version from DIYnCrafts.
Fall Leaf Candleholders Add Charm.
Yes, Martha Stewart strikes again! This is such a pretty way to turn clear glass candleholders into Thanksgiving table decorations. This craft probably isn’t the most kid friendly, but it should be easy enough for even novice adult crafters.
Preserve Color With Wax-Dipped Leaves.
Left alone, fall leaves don’t last very long, so those who want to keep fall colors for more than short time should consider making wax-dipped leaves. Once dipped in paraffin wax, these leaves will be a lot sturdier for making into garlands or incorporating into other fall crafts.
Leaf Place Cards Tell People Where To Sit.
We like big leaves and we cannot lie! This idea, care of Country Living, is so easy. Just gather as many oversized leaves as needed, let them dry, and use an oil-based pen to add names. Perfect for a party!
Crepe Paper Garland Brings Color Inside.
Not everyone lives in a place where colorful fall leaves are easy to find (we see you, warm weather dwellers!), so this crepe paper fall leaf garland from The House the Lars Built is an effective alternative if real leaves aren’t available.
Paint and Leaves Create Unforgettable Pumpkins.
This project from the Sweet Escape shows that pumpkins aren’t just for Halloween decorating. The white paint really lets the colors of the leaves pop, and these pumpkins will enhance any porch or doorstep all fall long! Nothing spooky about that!
Fall Leaf Placemats Bring the Season To the Table.
Here’s another fall leaf craft idea that is super cheap to make and perfectly kid friendly! A fall leaf placemat, like the one seen on Classy Mommy, requires only leaves, wax paper, and an iron. It's so easy to create and adds charm to a table all fall.
Welcome Fall With Sign.
If a fall leaf wreath seems a little too complicated, this fall welcome sign from Country Living is an easier door decoration alternative. A tray, some string or ribbon, chalkboard paint, leaves and twigs make this festive and fun.
Light Things Up With Mason Jar Candle Holders
All hail that hipster favorite, the humble but ever versatile mason jar. This craft idea from Spark and Chemistry can be done using either hot glue or Mod Podge and can be completed in an afternoon. Love it!
Make a Fall Leaf Crown.
For moms who have some princess- or fairy-loving kids at home, this craft is sure to be a hit! Fall leaf crowns, an idea found at Hand Made Charlotte, are simple, fun, and just right for an afternoon of imaginary play. Just check for dirt and bugs on the leaves first.
Big Leaf Art Brings Nature Inside.
We’re not going to lie – this gorgeous leaf collage from Just a Girl is probably not the easiest one on our list and is the only one that might require power tools. But for confident crafters, this one can become a major statement piece of fall décor.
Show Off Nature's Beauty With Leaf Book.
This nostalgic craft is the perfect way to for kids to collect and save their favorite leaves for the season. To create this wax paper-based craft, check out This West Coast Mommy for instructions. It can become a beautiful keepsake or gift for a grandparent for the holidays.
Combine Two Passions With a Book and Leaf Garland.
The coziness of fall always makes curling up with a good book seem like a smart idea. This pennant-shaped garland by Simple As That is a beautiful way to celebrate fall and the enduring power of a wonderful read! This is also a useful way to upcycle an old or damaged book that's taking up valuable space on a bookshelf.
Metallic Magnolia Wreath Makes a Statement.
Those who have access to both a magnolia tree and several cans of metallic spray paint can create a stunning wreath. This look from Better Homes and Gardens is definitely more elegant than rustic, but the metallic colors mean it works equally well as a fall or winter wreath for those who invest the time in making it.
Glitter Enhances Leaves.
This is a project that can be created outside, before the weather gets too cold. And why outside? One word: GLITTER. Kids will love this craft from Artful Parent, and moms will like doing it outside so they aren’t stuck finding glitter everywhere all fall long.
Add a Little Extra Color With Paint-Dipped Leaves.
Those who like a more minimalist or mid-century vibe are sure to love these paint-dipped leaves from Emily Isabella. Once the leaves are painted, they can be scattered on a table as decoration or incorporated into one of the other craft ideas from this list, such as a placemat or garland.
