Craft of the month · November 2026 · 45 minutes · 4-8 residents

Pressed-Leaf Gratitude Cards

Residents glue real pressed autumn leaves onto folded cards and write a short thank-you inside. The leaves are light, colorful and easy to handle, and the finished card goes to a family member, a friend or a staff member, so the hour ends with a gift.

Get the large-print instructions

You'll need

• Folded blank cards (cardstock, 5 x 7 inch) and envelopes
• Pressed autumn leaves, about 4 per resident
• Glue sticks (one per person)
• Wide-tip markers in dark colors
• Large-print sheet of thank-you phrases
• Paper plates to hold each person's leaves
• Damp cloths for sticky fingers
• Optional: fall-colored stickers or ribbon

Before residents arrive

1. One to two weeks ahead, collect dry, flat leaves on a walk (residents can help) and press them between paper towels inside heavy books.
2. Fold the cards if needed, set a plate with leaves at each place, and print the thank-you phrase sheet in large type.
3. Ask families or the front desk for addresses so cards can be mailed the same day.

Step by step

1. Look at the leaves together. Pick your favorite colors and shapes and set them on your plate.
2. Arrange two or three leaves on the front of the card until the design looks right to you.
3. Rub the glue stick on the back of each leaf, then press it gently onto the card for a count of ten.
4. Decide who the card is for. Think of one thing that person did that you are thankful for.
5. Write 'Thank you' and a short message inside, or choose a phrase from the sheet to copy.
6. Sign your name. Add a sticker or ribbon if you like.
7. Address the envelope with staff help and set it in the basket for mailing.

Adapt it for every ability level

• Independent: Make two or three cards for different people, write a longer note, and help a neighbor choose leaves or read the phrase sheet aloud.
• Supported: Pre-place the leaves so they only need to press them down. Offer two choices: 'Red leaf or yellow?' Staff write the message as they say it.
• Sensory: Let them hold and feel the leaves, smell a cinnamon stick, and watch the colors. Guide their hand to press a leaf; staff finish the card.

Safety: Use glue sticks only, no hot glue or scissors at the table; check that leaves are dry and free of mold before use.

While hands are busy, ask

• Who raked the leaves at your house when you were growing up?
• Did you ever jump in a big pile of leaves?
• Who is someone you have always wanted to thank?
• What did fall look like where you grew up?

Questions people ask

How do you press leaves quickly for a craft?

Lay flat, dry leaves between paper towels and close them inside a heavy book for about a week. Pick leaves that are freshly fallen and not yet brittle.

What if residents cannot write?

Staff or volunteers can write the message exactly as the resident says it. The resident can still choose the leaves, press them on and add a mark or initial.

Can we use fake leaves instead of real ones?

Yes. Felt or paper leaves from a craft store work well and last longer. Real leaves add a smell and texture that many residents enjoy, so mix both if you can.

Who should the cards go to?

Family members, friends, veterans, staff, volunteers or a local fire station are all good choices. Mailing them the same day keeps the gesture fresh and lets residents know their thanks arrived.

More hands-on ideas: crafts for seniors with dementia and the full activity library.