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Creative Leaf Printing With Gold Paint

Leaf printing can be done in numerous ways. This is one of our favorite fast and easy ways to create leaf art with paint. Not only do you get beautiful results, but you can also complete this printmaking process in 10 minutes or less!

gold painted leaf printing image on black paper.

Why You Will Love This Art Process


  • KID FRIENDLY – Even preschoolers can paint a leaf and print it.
  • EASILY CHANGE COLORS —We love the look of metallic paint on black paper, but you can use any color.
  • SUPER FAST – The example above was done in less than 10 minutes!

Supplies You’ll Need

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Supply Tips

  • We only use this brand of construction paper because it does not fade as quickly as other brands.
  • You can also purchase this fun 18-pack of metallic craft paints for various projects.
  • Tempera paint also works well for this project with young children. Due to the chalky nature of tempera, most colors will stand out on the black paper.
image of a leaf, paper plate with gold paint, paintbrush and black paper on a marble counter.

Leaf Printing With Paint Tutorial

Step 1: Find The Right Leaves

Searching for the right leaves is essential (just like our marker print leaf art project). Whole, flat, fresh, or newly fallen leaves with pronounced veins will work best.

Stay away from leaves that are too dry. It will be hard to get a good leaf impression on paper.

collage of images showing painting a leaf with gold paint and printing it on black paper.

Step 2: Paint The Textured Side Of The Leaf

The goal is to cover the leaf’s veiny side with paint completely. To get the cleanest print, check that there are no large globs of paint.

Step 3: Print The Leaves

One at a time, flip the leaf over and cover it with paper or a paper towel. Carefully press all parts of the leaf.

Step 4: Remove The Leaf and Let Dry

You can carefully lift the leaf once you think the whole leaf impression is on the paper. Be careful not to smudge the wet paint!

Tips

  • You may be able to reuse a painted leaf to get a few prints.
  • Press, don’t rub your leaf. This will keep your leaf impressions looking crisp.
  • You can add other drawings and paintings or use these in a mixed-media project.
  • Cover your work surface with extra paper. Before printing, make sure you paint the whole leaf surface.
  • Keep your hands clean so you do not add extra smudges to your leaf artwork.
image of gold leaf paint impressions on black paper.

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Printmaking FAQs

Yes, you can do leaf printing on fabric. We recommend keeping the fabric tight and using fabric paint for the best results.

You can use tempera paint, an ink pad, classic water soluble ink and even washable markers to create leaf prints. If you are looking for a non-messy way to see leaf textures, you can also do leaf rubbings for a fun art process idea.

More Nature Art Projects

Leaf printing is a fun and easy way to create beautiful art pieces and connect with nature simultaneously. Whether you are a seasoned artist or just looking for a nature art idea for the family, leaf printing is fun for all ages. Go outside, collect some leaves and paint, and start printing. You will be amazed at all the stunning imagery you can create!

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