Fall is a beautiful reminder of God’s artistry and the beauty in every season He created. This Leaf and Acorn Garland craft gives kids a hands-on way to appreciate and celebrate the colors and wonders of autumn. As they work on each piece, it’s a lovely opportunity to reflect on how God made each leaf, tree, and even us—uniquely beautiful in His image.
Here’s a simple guide to creating this garland together with a heart of gratitude and creativity.
1. Download & Print the Templates
Start by downloading and printing the leaf and acorn templates on sturdy paper, like cardstock, so the garland will last. (These templates are free for personal use—just visit my website to download, and please share the link instead of copying or selling the template.)
2. Coloring with Thankfulness
Encourage kids to color each leaf and acorn in the rich hues of fall—red, orange, yellow, green, and brown. As they create, take a moment to talk about all the blessings we’re grateful for this season, and how the changing colors show God’s wonderful design. They can even add glitter, stickers, or tissue paper for extra beauty, just like God added special touches to each of us.
3. Practicing Patience with Cutting
Once the leaves and acorns are colored, it’s time to cut them out along the lines. Cutting is a great way to build focus and patience, which God encourages us to practice. (Plus, it’s a wonderful fine motor skill exercise for little hands!) Remind them that just like we carefully shape each piece, God carefully shapes each of us with love.
4. Punching Holes for Connection
Use a hole punch to add a small hole at the top of each leaf and acorn. These holes are where they’ll be strung together to make a beautiful garland—symbolizing how we’re all connected through God’s love and grace.
5. Assembling the Garland
Now comes the fun part—putting it all together! Thread each leaf and acorn onto a piece of string, twine, or yarn in any pattern they choose. They can arrange them in alternating colors or group similar pieces, creating a garland that reflects their own unique style, just as God made each of us uniquely. Help them tie a small knot on each side of the leaves and acorns to keep them in place.
6. Display with Joy!
Hang the finished garland in a special place—over a doorway, across a wall, or even as a table centerpiece. It’s a reminder of fall’s beauty and the Lord’s goodness in every season. Encourage your kids to pray over their display, thanking God for His creation and all the beauty He surrounds us with.
This Leaf and Acorn Garland is more than just a craft—it’s a way to bring hearts and hands together, celebrating fall and reflecting on God’s amazing love and creativity. Enjoy this time together, and remember that just as each leaf is different, each one of us is wonderfully made in God’s image. Happy crafting! 🍁
