Leaf Art For Kids: Lion Template
- Jessie
- Oct 4, 2023
- 6 min read
Updated: Sep 24
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Bring the beauty of autumn indoors with this fun and creative Leaf Art for Kids: Lion Template Craft! This printable project combines the excitement of coloring with the hands-on fun of collecting and gluing real fall leaves. Kids start with a simple lion template, color it in with their favorite crayons or markers, and then create a one-of-a-kind mane by gluing on brightly colored autumn leaves. It’s an easy, engaging, and budget-friendly fall craft that encourages both creativity and outdoor play.
This leaf art craft is designed to spark imagination while helping kids celebrate the changing seasons. Children love heading outside to gather red, orange, yellow, and brown leaves, then bringing them back in to transform their lion into a roaring masterpiece. Every lion looks different depending on the leaves used, making this a craft that’s as unique as each child. Parents and teachers will appreciate how this activity blends art with nature, creating a keepsake that’s perfect for hanging on the fridge or classroom bulletin board.
Not only is this project fun, but it’s also educational. Kids will practice fine motor skills while coloring, cutting, and gluing. They’ll also develop an appreciation for nature as they notice the colors, textures, and shapes of different leaves. The lion template provides just the right amount of guidance while still leaving plenty of room for creativity, making this craft ideal for preschool, kindergarten, or elementary-age children.
Parents love that this craft is low-prep and affordable. Simply download the printable lion template, print it on regular paper or cardstock, and you’re ready to go! Add a pile of freshly collected leaves, some glue, and crayons, and you’ve got everything needed for a fun fall afternoon. Whether you’re looking for a weekend activity, a classroom art project, or something special to do during a family gathering, this fall leaf lion craft is guaranteed to keep kids smiling.
The Leaf Art Lion Template is also a perfect way to celebrate fall holidays and seasonal events. Teachers can use it during lessons about animals, habitats, or autumn themes. Parents can incorporate it into homeschool art time or as a quick after-school project. With its mix of coloring and nature-inspired crafting, this printable strikes the perfect balance between structured activity and open-ended creativity.
If your kids enjoy this lion craft, be sure to check out some of our other fun fall crafts for kids! Popular favorites include the Coffee Filter Fall Tree Craft, where kids paint coffee filters to look like colorful autumn trees, the adorable Hedgehog Leaf Craft, the spooky but cute Witch Leaf Craft, and the creative Bat with Leaf Wings Craft. Each project uses simple supplies and printable templates to make crafting easy for kids and stress-free for adults. Together, they make a fantastic fall collection that celebrates the season’s magic.
This project is also a wonderful way to get kids excited about outdoor exploration. Collecting leaves for the lion’s mane encourages children to observe the natural world and notice how each leaf is unique. You can turn it into a fun family outing by going on a leaf hunt, then returning home to use the treasures found outside in this craft. Not only does it spark creativity, but it also fosters appreciation for nature and seasonal changes.
Whether you’re looking for a rainy-day project, a classroom art center activity, or a creative way to celebrate the fall season, this Leaf Art for Kids: Lion Template craft is a must-have. It’s simple, engaging, educational, and best of all—it turns ordinary leaves into extraordinary works of art. Purchase and download your printable today and let your kids’ creativity roar with their very own fall leaf lion!
Materials You'll Need For Lion Leaf Art:
Fall Leaves
Elmer's School Glue
Scissors
Markers, Crayons or Color Pencil
Cardstock Paper
Step 1: Download and Print the Lion Body Template
Start by downloading the printable lion body and head template. For best results, print it on standard 8.5x11 cardstock or heavy construction paper so it holds up well while kids color, cut, and glue their fall leaves onto the mane.
Step 2: Color the Lion's Body and Head
Once you've printed the template, it's time to unleash your creativity! Use markers or colored pencils to bring the lion 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 mane. 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.
Step 4: Glue the Leaves
Apply Elmer's School Glue to the back of each leaf and carefully attach them to the lion's head template, following the mane outline. Allow the glue to dry and it will secure the leaves in place.
Gluing Tip: Start with the outer layer and work. your way inward. Stacking each layer over each other. This will make the mane look fuller.
Step 5: Cut and Attach the Lion Body and Head
Carefully cut the lion head out using scissors. Glue the lion's head with the fall leaf mane onto the lion body template, aligning it properly to complete your roaring lion craft.
Step 6: Display Your Roaring Lion Fall 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 lion's roar and the beauty of fall leaves.
This delightful Lion Fall Leaf Craft beautifully blends the autumnal spirit with creativity. Children will enjoy the process of gathering leaves from nature, tracing, cutting, and gluing, making it a fantastic seasonal craft that encourages both artistic expression and a connection with the natural world. Let's celebrate the season and create a roaring masterpiece that captures the essence of fall!
How Do I Download the Lion Template?
You can purchase the Lion Template directly from Artsy Kids Zone. The template is available in black and white (perfect for kids to color and customize).
After purchase, you’ll receive an instant digital download—no waiting, no shipping costs. Simply download the PDF, print at home, and start crafting! By purchasing, you’ll not only enjoy this fun project, but you’ll also be supporting Artsy Kids Zone so we can continue creating more creative activities for kids.
***These printables are intended for personal and school use exclusively. Unauthorized copying, uploading, republishing, distributing or alteration of these files in any manner is strictly prohibited. If you plan to showcase these printables, please ensure to include a link back to artsykidszone.com.
Explore More Creative Crafts
Discover a world of creative fun beyond mermaids! Dive into our collection of imaginative crafts that are perfect for kids of all ages. Explore the Bee Toilet Paper Roll Craft, where you can transform simple household items into adorable buzzing bees. Or, flutter over to our Butterfly Coffee Filter Craft, where you can create vibrant and colorful butterflies using coffee filters and simple art supplies. With these engaging activities, there's always something new and exciting to discover at Artsy Kids Zone. Let your creativity soar and embark on a crafting adventure today!
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