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Fall is truly enchanting with its cozy sweater weather and the breathtaking vibrant colors. To fully embrace the beauty of this season, I've conjured up an adorable hedgehog leaf art craft. Inspired by the success of previous leaf art endeavors like the Lion Leaf Art and the Witch Leaf Art craft, the overwhelming response inspired the creation of this charming Hedgehog. Dive into the spirit of autumn by downloading the free Hedgehog body template, venture into nature to collect fallen leaves, and unleash your imagination as we craft this woodland masterpiece together.
Materials You'll Need:
Hedgehog Template
Fall Leaves
Elmer's School Glue
Scissors
Markers, Crayons or Color Pencil
Cardstock Paper
Step 1: Download and Print the Hedgehog Body Template
Begin by downloading the template, then print it on a sturdy paper like cardstock or construction paper.
This download is available to all members for FREE! You heard me correctly, memberships are free to join for everyone who is 18 years an older! . Click on the link to signup and to find the Hedgehog Leaf Art Template.
Step 2: Color the Headgehog's Body
Once you've printed the template, it's time to unleash your creativity! Use markers or colored pencils to bring the hedgehog to life. You're the artist, so let your imagination run wild!
Step 3: Gather and Prep Your Fall Leaves
Step outside and collect a variety of vibrant fall leaves. Opt for leaves with lively colors and different sizes to craft an eye-catching artpiece. After gathering the leaves, the next step is pressing them. The process is simple—begin by placing clean, dry leaves between sheets of paper. Apply weight on top, such as heavy books, and let them sit for 7-10 days. Regularly check and replace the paper if it becomes damp. Once done, the leaves will be flat and ready for your creative crafting!
My favorite place to find leaves in the mountains. I absolutely love hiking with my kids and I look for any excuse to get them in the trails. Here are a few of the reasons why I love hiking with my kids.
Physical Exercise and Health: Hiking is a fantastic way to get kids moving and engaged in physical exercise. It promotes cardiovascular health, enhances motor skills, and encourages an active lifestyle from a young age. Even a walk around the neighborhood or through a nearby park allows children to enjoy fresh air and sunshine, promoting overall well-being.
Connection with Nature: Being surrounded by nature, regardless of the location, allows children to develop a deeper connection with the environment. They learn about various plants, trees, insects, and the changing seasons. Gathering leaves during a walk offers them a tangible connection to the natural world, fostering a sense of appreciation and respect for Mother Nature.
Stress Reduction and Mental Well-being: Spending time in nature has proven to reduce stress and anxiety levels, not only for adults but for children as well. The calming effect of being surrounded by greenery, fresh air, and the soothing sounds of nature can provide a sense of peace and improve mental well-being.
Family Bonding and Quality Time: Hiking and outdoor activities create an ideal setting for family bonding. It's an opportunity for parents and kids to engage in meaningful conversations, share experiences, and strengthen their relationship. Even leaf gathering can become a family activity, promoting togetherness and creating cherished memories.
What if I don't live close to hiking trails?
Even without mountains in sight, you can find leaves in the parks and the neighborhoods you live in during the fall season.
What if I can't find fall leaves?
If the elusive fall leaves are playing hide-and-seek in your neighborhood, fear not! You can easily bring the autumnal magic to life by visiting a local craft store. Many stores offer a variety of artificial craft leaves that capture the essence of fall. Alternatively, you can unleash your creativity by cutting leaf shapes out of vibrant-colored paper. This way, even if nature's leaves are hard to find, you can still craft, infusing your creation with the warm and rich colors that define the season. So, whether from the great outdoors or a nearby store, there are multiple avenues to gather the essential materials for your fall-inspired hedgehog craft. Let your imagination guide you, and let the crafting festivities begin!
Step 4: Glue the Leaves
Apply Elmer's School Glue to the back of each leaf and carefully attach them to the hedgehog's head template, following the outline. Allow the glue to dry and it will secure the leaves in place.
Gluing Tip: Start with the top and work your way downard. Stacking each layer over each other.
Step 5: Cut and Attach the Hedgehog's Body
Carefully cut the hedgehog's body out using scissors. Glue the hedgehog on top of the leaves template, aligning it properly to complete your wild hedgehog craft.
Step 6: Display Your Hedgehog Leaf Craft
Once the glue has dried, proudly display your masterpiece! Place it on a wall, in your room, or on the refrigerator to showcase the majestic hedgehog and the beauty of fall leaves.
Don't let the fall crafting fun stop here! Get creative with these variety of captivating autumn crafts. Whether it's the enchanting Lion Leaf Art, the whimsical Witch Leaf Art, or the delightful Hedgehog Leaf Art, there's a plethora of fall-inspired creations waiting for you. Each craft brings a unique touch of seasonal magic and is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the spirit of fall. Don't miss out on these additional fall crafts that promise to add warmth, charm, and a touch of nature's beauty to your creative endeavors. Dive into the autumn crafting extravaganza and let your imagination flourish! 🍂🍁✨