When the leaves start turning and the air gets crisp, there’s no better time to head outdoors and soak in all that fall beauty. And guess what? Nature is full of craft supplies just waiting to be discovered! From colorful leaves to pinecones, acorns, and sticks, there are endless ways to turn your outdoor finds into beautiful fall crafts.
Fall Crafts Using Things You Can Find Outside
Whether you’re looking for a cozy weekend activity, something fun for a playdate, or a way to get your kids off their screens, these outdoor-inspired craft ideas are sure to make your autumn days extra special.
1. Leaf Art That Pops
Leaves are the star of fall — and they make for the prettiest art projects! Head outside with your kids to collect leaves in every shape, color, and size. Once you’ve gathered your treasures, the fun begins.
Ideas to try:
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Leaf Rubbings: Place a leaf under a sheet of paper and rub over it with crayons or colored pencils to reveal its beautiful veins and texture.
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Leaf Animals: Use different leaf shapes to form animals — a big maple leaf can be a fox’s face, and a smaller oak leaf can make its tail!
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Leaf Collage: Arrange your favorite leaves on cardstock or canvas and glue them down to create a piece of nature-inspired wall art.
Bonus tip: If you want your leaf art to last, press your leaves between heavy books for a few days before crafting.
2. Pinecone Creations
Pinecones are a fall classic and so easy to find at local parks, trails, or even your backyard. These little wonders can be turned into almost anything with a little imagination.
Fun ideas:
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Pinecone Owls: Add googly eyes, a felt beak, and mini pom-poms for wings.
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Pinecone Bird Feeders: Cover a pinecone with peanut butter, roll it in birdseed, and hang it from a tree. Your kids will love watching the birds stop by for a snack!
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Pinecone Garlands: Collect several pinecones and string them together for a rustic decoration that looks amazing on your mantel or porch.
3. Acorn Animals and Accessories
Acorns are one of the most versatile fall crafting materials. They’re cute, small, and perfect for creating mini masterpieces.
Ideas to try:
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Acorn People: Use acorns for heads and twigs for bodies, then decorate with tiny scarves made from scraps of fabric.
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Acorn Necklaces: Drill a tiny hole in the top of the acorn (grown-ups only!) and string it onto a piece of twine for a nature-inspired accessory.
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Painted Acorns: Let your kids paint them in bright colors or metallic tones for a fun twist on natural décor.
4. Twig and Stick Crafts
Never underestimate the creative power of a good stick! Gather a few twigs from your yard or a walk through the woods, and the possibilities are endless.
Fun projects:
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Twig Picture Frames: Use four sticks to make a frame shape, hot glue them together, and decorate with leaves or berries.
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Stick Stars: Arrange sticks in a star shape and tie them with twine. These make great ornaments or wall decorations.
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Nature Wands: Wrap yarn or ribbon around a long stick and glue a leaf or feather to the top. Perfect for a little outdoor magic!
5. Rock Painting Adventures
Painting rocks never goes out of style — and fall is the perfect time to do it. Take a walk and collect smooth stones, then set up a painting station at home.
Try these designs:
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Pumpkins
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Fall leaves
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Woodland creatures (think foxes, owls, and squirrels)
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Words like “grateful” or “thankful” for a seasonal touch
You can even hide your finished rocks around your neighborhood for others to find — a fun way to spread a little autumn joy!
6. Nature Crowns and Wreaths
Who says you need fancy supplies to make something beautiful? Gather up leaves, flowers, berries, and twigs, and create your own nature crown or wreath.
For a crown:
Use a strip of paper or cardboard as a base, and glue or tape your nature finds along it. Perfect for a fall photo shoot or just a fun afternoon of play!
For a wreath:
Use a wire or cardboard circle as a base, and attach leaves, pinecones, and other outdoor treasures with hot glue. Hang it on your front door to welcome the season in style.
The best part about fall crafts using things you can find outside is that they’re simple, affordable, and eco-friendly. Plus, they give families a reason to step outside and enjoy the beauty of the season together.
So grab a basket, bundle up, and start exploring! The next time you see a leaf pile, a pinecone, or an acorn, you’ll see more than just nature — you’ll see endless possibilities for creativity and family fun.
Because in the end, the best fall memories aren’t store-bought — they’re found right outside your door.
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