Crafts with Real Leaves

7 Beautiful Leaf Crafts to Make This Fall

Real leaves make the prettiest fall crafts—the colors, the textures, the nostalgia. You can sub faux leaves for a few of these, but crafts with real leaves bring that natural magic you just can’t fake. Save a couple ideas to try this weekend and turn an afternoon walk into easy, frugal decor.

When I was a kid, leaf projects were a big thing. I did a whole Girl Scout badge based on tree leaves back in the late ’70s—pressed leaves, bark rubbings, the whole shebang. Fall leaf crafts are still one of the best excuses to get out of the house, breathe in that crisp fall air, and make something beautiful together.

How to Choose the Right Leaves (Insect- & Disease-Free)

• Pick fresh, flexible leaves. Aim for newly fallen or gently snipped—crisp but not brittle.
• Inspect both sides. Skip leaves with spots, fuzzy growth, slime, or tiny clusters (possible eggs), and avoid obvious damage/holes.
• Watch for common issues. Black tar spots, powdery mildew (white film), or raised galls = no-go for preserving.
• Color matters. Choose bold reds, oranges, and yellows for the most eye-catching results.
• Clean gently. Lightly wipe with a damp cloth, then pat dry. Don’t soak—extra water can cause mold later.

Curious about ID’ing leaf shapes? This National Park Service leaf identification guide is a great, high-trust reference.

Quick Prep & Preservation Tips for Leaves

• Pressing: Place leaves between cardstock or parchment; weigh down with heavy books for 5–7 days.
• Mod Podge finish (optional): Seal both sides after leaves are fully dry to help preserve color/shape.
• Glycerin bath (for supple leaves): Mix 1 part glycerin to 2 parts warm water; submerge leaves 2–3 days. Dry flat.
• Microwave press (advanced): Sandwich in paper towels between two ceramic tiles; zap in short bursts. Check often.

1. How to Preserve Real Fall Leaves

If you’re making leaf crafts, preservation is step one. This tutorial shows multiple easy methods to help your leaves last.

Supplies Needed:

• Fall leaves
• Leaf press or cardstock & heavy books
• Mod Podge
• Foam brush

INSTRUCTIONS

2. DIY Pressed Flower Leaf Coasters

Turn pressed leaves into chic coasters—beautiful on an entry table or Thanksgiving spread.

Supplies Needed:

• 4×4 cut glass squares or circles
• Dried & pressed leaves
• Copper foil tape
• Flux
• Soldering iron
• Double-sided tape or glue dots
• Tweezers
• Small paint brush
• Binder clip or jeweler’s third arm

INSTRUCTIONS

3. Leaf People Craft

Kids love this one—add googly eyes and doodles to bring your leaf “people” to life.

Supplies Needed:

• Real leaves
• Googly eyes with adhesive backing
• Black marker

INSTRUCTIONS

4. DIY Table Runner with Real Fall Leaves

Simple, natural, and so festive—perfect for a cozy fall tablescape.

Supplies Needed:

• Fall leaves
• Scissors
• Paper towels
• Thick books
• Burlap
• Craft glue

INSTRUCTIONS

5. Real Fall Leaves Door Wreath

Use preserved leaves to craft a gorgeous (and frugal) front-door wreath.

Supplies Needed:

• Fall leaves (60–70 fresh leaves for a 16” wreath)
• Cardboard or heavy-duty cardstock (wreath form)
• Stapler and staples
• Craft glue or glue gun
• Twine
• Parchment paper

INSTRUCTIONS

6. DIY Leaf Prints

Fast, colorful, and kid-approved—frame a set for instant seasonal wall art.

Supplies Needed:

• Paint
• Paper
• Rubber brayer or wooden rolling pin
• Paper towel, scrap paper, or plastic sheets for the printing process
• Paint brushes and a palette

INSTRUCTIONS

7. Stunning Fall Candle Holder with Real Leaves

Upcycle a plain glass vase with real leaves for a warm, cozy glow on your mantel.

Supplies Needed:

• Glass vase
• Leaves
• Spray adhesive
• Mod Podge

INSTRUCTIONS

Final Thoughts

Looking for a frugal fall craft that doesn’t require a cart full of supplies? You can’t go wrong with these real leaf projects. From wreaths and coasters to simple leaf prints, real leaves add color, texture, and that “we actually went outside” feeling we all love this time of year.

If you’re in a crafty mood, you’ll also love:

• 7 of the Greatest Mason Jar Crafts to Make This Fall
• 10 of the Easiest DIY Fall and Pumpkin Decoration Ideas
• 9 Frugal and Easy DIY Fall Wreaths That Will Transform Your Home

FAQ: Working with Real Leaves for Real Leaf Projects

How do I keep real leaves from crumbling?

Press them fully dry (5–7 days) and seal with Mod Podge or use a glycerin bath (1:2 glycerin:water) to keep them flexible.

How can I tell if a leaf has disease or pests?

Avoid leaves with black tar spots, white powdery film (mildew), fuzzy growth, pockmarks, or clusters/eggs on the underside.

Can I use Mod Podge on real leaves?

Yes—once dry, brush a thin coat on both sides and let cure. It helps preserve color and strengthen delicate veins.

How long do preserved leaves last?

Pressed/sealed leaves can last for seasons (or longer) when kept out of direct sunlight and away from humidity.