As the days grow cooler and leaves tumble to the ground, autumn brings endless inspiration for creativity. I think it’s the perfect season to slow down and enjoy cosy autumn crafts together.
Among the easiest (and most satisfying) fall crafts for children is making a leaf bookmark. This simple activity combines nature, creativity, and a love of reading.
In this guide, I’ll show you three different ways to make a beautiful pressed leaf bookmark. All of them are suitable for toddlers, preschoolers, and older children.
Why Leaf Bookmarks Are Perfect Autumn Crafts
When we think of autumn projects for kids, leaves are usually at the heart of them. They are colourful, free to collect, and wonderful for hands-on art activities for kids.
Leaf bookmarks are ideal because:
- They’re practical. Children can use them in their schoolbooks or favorite stories.
- They’re personal. Each bookmark is unique, depending on the leaves chosen. That means they make wonderful home made gifts!
- They’re simple. Even preschool art activities can be adapted to include this craft.
For younger children, it’s a lovely introduction to autumn children’s crafts. For older ones, it’s a thoughtful handmade gift.
Materials You’ll Need For Your Leaf Bookmark
- Autumn leaves (choose flatter ones if possible)
- Heavy book and kitchen paper or newspaper (for pressing and drying)
- Card, glue, and scissors. Use handmade card (from any good craft store) for a beautiful natural look that complements the leaves perfectly.
- Wax paper and iron (optional method)
- Laminating pouches and laminator (optional method)
- Ribbon or string (optional finishing touch)
- Paints and brushes (optional) – feel free to paint the leaves before sticking on if your child prefers a vibrant look! I actually love to paint them with watercolor paint. You get a delicate, achingly beautiful leaf color, especially with leaves that have turned translucent.
Step 1: Collect and Press Leaves
Head outside for a mini adventure. Collect a handful of autumn leaves in different colours. Maple, oak, and beech leaves are all wonderful for kids autumn leaf crafts.
After collecting, place them between sheets of kitchen paper or newspaper inside a heavy book. Leave for 1–3 days to press and dry. This prevents curling or mould when you use them later.
Step 2: Choose Your Leaf Bookmark Method
There are three simple ways to make a leaf bookmark.
Option 1: The Simple Dried Leaf Bookmark
- Glue the pressed leaves onto a piece of card cut to bookmark size.
- Younger children can enjoy arranging different shapes and colors in any pattern.
- You can cut off any edges of overhanging leaves, or leave them overhanging for added creativity.
- If you’d like extra protection, cover it with clear sticky tape (the really wide type).
- Punch a hole at the top and add some ribbon or string.
This is perfect for autumn crafts for toddlers or preschoolers – quick, fun, and no special equipment needed.
Option 2: The Wax Paper Leaf Bookmark
- Place dried leaves between two sheets of wax paper.
- Put a sheet of baking paper on top to protect your iron.
- Gently iron until the wax fuses and seals the leaves inside.
- Once cool, trim the wax paper into neat bookmark shapes.
Cutting after ironing ensures the wax stays sealed and the edges look clean.
Option 3: The Laminator Leaf Bookmark
- Cover a sheet of card with pressed leaves, gluing them in place.
- Slide the card inside an A4 laminating pouch.
- Run it through the laminator.
- Once sealed, cut the laminated sheet into several bookmarks.
This method is brilliant for making multiple autumn kids crafts at once – perhaps as gifts for friends or teachers.
Variations for Different Ages
- Autumn crafts for toddlers: Stick to Option 1, helping them glue and arrange small colourful leaves.
- Preschool art activities: Add sequins, crayon rubbings, or stickers alongside the leaves.
- Older children: Experiment with layering leaves or combining with pressed flowers.
This flexibility makes bookmarks one of the most adaptable autumn ideas for kids.
Learning Benefits
Making a leaf bookmark helps children:
- Build fine motor skills (cutting, gluing, threading ribbon).
- Observe nature closely (shapes, textures, and colors).
- Develop creativity (choosing designs and patterns).
- Feel connected to the season and outdoors.
Gifting and Display Ideas
Bookmarks make ideal gifts for grandparents, teachers, or friends. Children love the idea of giving something they made themselves.
At home, you can even hang them from a branch in a vase to create a “bookmark tree”, turning autumn leaves DIY into a striking seasonal display.
Final Thoughts
Making a leaf bookmark is wholesome, simple, and full of seasonal charm. Whether you choose the straightforward card-and-glue version, the wax paper method, or the more durable laminator option, the result is something children can treasure.
Among all the fall craft ideas for toddlers, preschoolers, and older children, this one is guaranteed to bring joy and satisfaction. So next time you’re out crunching through leaves, gather a few favorites. With just a little effort, you and your child can turn them into a handmade bookmark – a reminder of Autumn’s beauty and the fun of creating together.
Stephanie Simmons is an Anglo-American mum of two who is passionate about all things outdoors. She loves camping, outdoor crafting, and all outdoor activities.
Steph believes in getting the kids outdoors no matter the weather!
She created Wild Bloom Families to share her passion for the outdoors with other families.
Getting in nature can transform your physical health, mental health and happiness!
