DLTK's Crafts for Kids
Leaf Butterflies: A Nature-Inspired Craft for Kids

Let your creativity take flight with this fun and simple leaf butterfly craft! Using just four leaves and a twig, you and your little ones can create beautiful butterflies to celebrate the wonders of nature. So, let's head outside, breathe in the fresh air, and get started on this delightful craft!

Materials:

• 4 leaves (try to get two sets of two similar in size) for each butterfly
• Optional: blade of grass (for the body) for each butterfly
• Waxed paper
• Glue
• Two heavy books or a flower press
• White or colored paper
• Markers, colored pencils or crayons (optional)
• Scissors (optional)

Instructions:

• Venture outside to find the perfect leaves and twigs for your butterfly craft. Look for two leaves of similar size for the bottom half of the wings, two leaves that are slightly larger for the top half of the wings and a blade of grass to use as the body. Play around with different leaves until you find the ones that you think make the prettiest butterfly. Make sure the leaves are fresh and not too dry, so they'll be easy to work with.
• Optional: Draw a straight line in the center of your paper as the body of your butterfly
• Create Your Butterfly Wings: Lay two leaves next to each other with their stem end touching to form the top wings of your butterfly. Then, place the other two leaves below the top wings with their stem end touching as well. Make sure the bottom wings are slightly smaller in width than the top wings. Glue the leaves onto a piece of paper in the way you've arranged them.
• Attach the Body: Glue the blade of grass to the center of the wings, covering the points where the leaves meet. This will form the body of your butterfly.
• Add Details: Use markers, colored pencils, or crayons to add any details you'd like to your butterfly, such as antennae, eyes, or flowers nearby. Be creative and have fun with it!
• Press Your Butterfly: Cut a piece of waxed paper large enough to cover your butterfly. Place the waxed paper over the butterfly and gently press down. Place your butterfly (covered in waxed paper) between the pages of a heavy book or a flower press. Leave it for a few days to allow the leaves to dry and flatten.
• Display Your Creation: Once your leaf butterfly is dry and pressed, carefully remove it from the waxed paper. You can now display on the fridge, use it as the front of a card, or even frame it as a keepsake.

As you admire your stunning leaf butterfly, take pride in your handiwork and delight in showcasing it for all to appreciate. This straightforward yet enjoyable outdoor activity allows you to embrace nature's splendor while fashioning a cherished memento. Here's to another great day of crafting!

Leanne

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