There’s something about summer that makes everything feel a little slower — more time outside, more wandering, more collecting little treasures from the yard or beach. This simple leaf imprint project turns those everyday finds into colorful works of art. It’s creative, calming, and surprisingly beautiful — without being messy or complicated.

Best of all, once you set it up, kids can return to it again and again on their own. This project is about slowing down and noticing the details — the lines in a leaf, the way colors blend, the surprise of texture appearing on paper. With just a few simple materials, it becomes a go-to summer activity that feels both relaxed and meaningful.

Create a Simple Summer Art Spot

A small, dedicated setup makes this easy for kids to do independently.

  • Set up a tray or bin with: Crayons or oil pastels in a cup, Watercolor set and brush, A stack of paper, A small basket for leaves, Paper towels and a damp sponge
  • An outdoor table or shaded patio works beautifully and keeps cleanup simple. Having everything within reach encourages kids to start creating without asking for help.

Why it’s a summer win

  • Gets kids outside and noticing nature
  • Builds focus and fine motor skills
  • Uses just a few supplies you likely already have
  • Feels artsy and special, not “crafty”
  • Easy to repeat with new leaves and new color palettes

What You’ll Need

  • Leaves, ferns, grasses, or small flowers (Fresh leaves show the most detail.)
  • Crayons (peel the paper off for best results) or Oil pastels if you want a richer color
  • A tray or cardboard “messy mat”
  • Liquid watercolors for bold, bright color
  • White construction paper, printer paper (surprisingly great for showing texture), or Watercolor paper 
  • Optional: painter’s tape to keep leaves from sliding, paper towels for blotting

Instructions

  1. Collect and look closely. Head outside and gather a few interesting leaves. Notice the veins, edges, and shapes.
  2. Make the rubbing. Place a leaf under the paper. Hold it steady and rub a crayon sideways across the top. The texture will start to appear like magic.
  3. Add watercolor. Brush watercolor over the rubbing. The wax from the crayon resists the paint, so the leaf pattern shows through beautifully.
  4. Play and experiment. Overlap leaves. Try different colors. Layer light and dark. No two pieces will look the same.
  5. Transform. You can leave the artwork as is, cut shapes for a collage, or turn finished pieces into handmade cards.

Tasha is a 1-year art educator and owner of ARTLab Maui in Kihei, where artists of all ages can learn, play, and create. artlabmaui.com