Introduction to Fall tree craft

The Fall tree craft is fairly simple to do with most ages of kids. The fall trees add no some color and fun to a cold and dreary day when indoors is the place to be. It is also adjustable for different looks and sensory experiences.  For younger ages, fingers, cotton swabs, small sponges and paint brushes can be used as tools. Additionally, older kids can use the same tools but can be more precise when creating the leaves. They can also use markers and pens to draw details on leaves and other objects.

Fall tree template

First, decide on a tree silhouette or just the trunk and branches. I found one on Pinterest similar to this one. There are several options online for this. Or, if you are so artistically inclined, draw it yourself and make as many copies as needed.

Paper for the Fall tree craft

Next, decide what to paint onto. Printer paper, or copy paper might work well for your needs. Knowing the crafters I was going to have, I thought a thicker paper was the best option. My project was for a first grade class party. Some first graders tend to go heavy on the paint. A thinner paper would quickly fall apart with a large amount of paint. I opted for a thicker paper, such as card stock. Mixed media paper and canvas are other ideas, as well.

Fall tree craft tools

After the tree silhouettes are on as many papers needed, it is time to collect tools. As mentioned before, be creative with the tools, based on the age group that will make this craft. Our fall trees were created during a class party. Easy clean-up was an important factor for us. We decided to go with cotton swabs as our tool for application. They would make small circles and could be used to “draw” other objects. Also, the cotton swabs are easily disposable. Additionally, we used small paper plates to put the paint on.

Fall tree craft paint

Finally, the last supply necessary for this craft is paint. For colors, we chose red, orange and yellow. Other options for fall tree colors include some greens, burgundy, brown and even some grey hues. Choose any color you associate with fall leaves. In addition to paint colors, there is also type of paint to decide on. For little kids, washable paint means easier clean-up. This is especially true if it is not possible to work with each child individually. Personally, I prefer to use acrylic paints. The texture of acrylics, along with versatility, is most appealing to me. Also, acrylic paint is easily cleaned from many surfaces with the use of baby wipes. Of course, the sooner the paint is tended to, the easier it is to clean up entirely, no matter what kind of paint it is.

Create Fall tree craft

After gathering all of the necessary supplies, allow your artists to use their creativity. Squirt a small amount of each paint color onto a paper plate. Use an amount about the size of a quarter or half dollar. Set the paper, plate with paint and tools on the workspace. Let them create as desired. If you would rather, demonstrate for them how to use the tools.

Be creative

All 3 of my kids had fun with this activity. My oldest decided to also make a leaf pile under the tree. My other two kiddos saw their brother’s idea and adopted it for their own picture. Keep in mind, if the paint is too thick on the paper it will take longer to dry. This activity can be done with a tree silhouette, as described here. Another idea is to use a wreath silhouette and add oriental bittersweet or pyracantha berries with the leaves. This can also be done with other holidays and seasons, as well. For example, a green wreath silhouette with red or colorful dots for winter. Another idea is for a gumball machine and the colors representing the gumballs inside the machine. Be creative and have fun.