Autumn Leaf Scratch-Art Collage Activity for Kids

With this fall leaf scratch art project, kids can create a colorful collage of autumn leaves using a classic scratch-art technique.

We recently made some spooky Halloween scratch art, and had leftover homemade scratch-art paper, so we turned it into a Fall Leaf scratch art collage. It’s a wonderful way to squeeze in one more seasonal craft before winter arrives.

Fall Leaf Scratch Art for Kids - Happy Hooligans

Scratch art is simple to make and always yields striking results — the bright underlayers peek through bold scratched lines to reveal vivid patterns. The technique is engaging and satisfying for kids, and the finished pieces often look frame-worthy. Display them in a playroom, hallway, or a child’s bedroom for a burst of seasonal color.

This project is best suited to children ages 5 and up because it involves some fine-motor control for tracing and scratching leaf shapes. Younger children can join in, too — they might prefer creating abstract scratch art or experimenting with simple shapes rather than detailed leaf outlines.

Leaf Scratch art, pastels wood stick

For a reliable scratch-art paint recipe and a step-by-step guide to this project, visit CBC Parents to see the full instructions and tips that make the process easy and fun for families.

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