Fall leaf lacing is a fun beginning sewing project for kids. Learning to sew is an easy way to develop the fine motor muscles in the hand necessary for writing and more detailed hand work.

Using sturdy fall leaves to practice sewing instead of lacing cards makes this homeschool activity idea both economical and eco-friendly. You can also try sewing on burlap for another fine motor activity.

For more fall crafts see Top 10 Fall Nature Crafts.

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Fall Leaf Lacing Beginning Sewing Project for Kids

Fall leaf lacing is a fun an easy way for kids to practice fine motor skills and learn to sew. Developing the fine motor muscles in the hand helps prepare children for writing and other forms of detailed hand work.

Fall Leaf Lacing Materials:

Sturdy fall leaves. We used magnolia leaves.
Mod Podge (optional)
Foam Brush (optional)
Single hole punch
Blunt darning needle.
Any color of yarn.
Scissors

Fall Leaf Lacing Beginning Sewing Project for Kids: Directions

1. Mod Podge (optional)

Use a foam brush to paint Mod Podge onto both sides of the leaf you will be using. This will both preserve the leaf and help strengthen it. This is optional – you do not have to do this for the activity to work. Allow to dry.

2. Punch holes in leaf

Use a single hole punch to make a lacing pattern around the edges of the leaves. You can also try punching different designs that you would like to sew.

3. Thread needle

Use yarn in any combo that will fit through your needle.
Cut a long enough section of yarn to double up and be long enough to lace the leaf.
Bring the yarn or thread all the way through the needle to meet the other end.
Tie several thumb knots so that the knot won’t pull through the punched hole in the leaf.

4. Invite child to lace leaves

If your child has never done any lacing activities demonstrate it for them from start to finish first. Young children learn best by watching and imitating others.

Fall leaf lacing is an easy and fun way for kids to practice fine motor skills and begin to learn to sew. Sewing with kids is an easy way to develop the fine motor muscles in the hand necessary for writing and more detailed hand work.

Using sturdy fall leaves makes this autumn homeschool fine motor activity idea both eco-friendly and economical. For more autumn fun check out ways to celebrate the fall autumnal equinox and our Top 10 Fall Crafts.

For more beginning sewing ideas check out teaching kids to sew using burlap and yarn and our pocket pet mouse.