The Autumn Equinox brings a turning point in the year, when summer gives way to autumn and the nights begin to draw in.
It is the season of harvest – fruits, nuts and berries fill the hedgerows and birds and mammals prepare themselves for the colder months ahead.
The Children’s Forest by Dawn Casey, Anna Richardson and Helen D’Ascoli includes lots of seasonal activities, stories and crafting projects for autumn, including leaf sewing:
Leaf Sewing
TO MAKE:
Use a needle and strong thread, or wool, to stitch leaves together. Sew autumn leaf mini patchwork quilts or clothes for puppets and elves.
For younger children, instead of a needle, use a thin but strong stick. Tie the thread to one end, and use the stick as a needle. They may need help securing the first two stitches.
Leaf Bunting/Mobiles
Leaves can be stitched to create beautiful bunting and mobiles. In order to keep the autumn colours for longer, first press the autumn leaves for a few days until until flat and dry.
In a saucepan, warm beeswax gently over the fire. When it has melted, hold the stem of the leaf and dip the leaf into the beeswax.
Use a needle and thread to sew into bunting or mobiles. You may also wish to add other woodland treasures, such as acorns, berries and alder cones.
This and many more autumn-celebrating activities, songs and stories can be found in The Children’s Forest: Stories & songs, wild food, crafts & celebrations all year round.
