How to Make a Hand Print Tree with Your Child
Creating a hand print tree is a fun and memorable craft activity that you can enjoy with your child. This project not only fosters creativity but also creates a treasured keepsake that captures your child’s growth over time.
Ingredients and Materials Needed
Non-toxic washable paint (various colours, such as green, brown, red, and yellow)
Large sheet of white or light-coloured paper or canvas
Paintbrushes
A cup of water for rinsing brushes
Paper towels or baby wipes
Smock or old clothes for you and your child
A damp cloth for spot cleaning
Steps
Prepare Your Workspace: Cover your working surface with newspaper or a plastic sheet to protect it from paint spills. Dress your child and yourself in smocks or old clothes.
Create the Tree Trunk: Using brown paint and a paintbrush, paint a simple tree trunk with branches in the centre or side of the paper. Allow it to dry for a few minutes if needed.
Make the Hand Prints: Choose a colour for the leaves (green is classic, but autumn shades like red, yellow, and orange work beautifully). Help your child apply paint evenly on their palm and fingers. Carefully press their hand onto the paper around the branches to create leaf shapes. Repeat as desired for a full tree effect, or get the parents to include their handprints for a full family project!
Add Details: Use paintbrushes to add extra leaves, grass, or even a sun and clouds to the background for a personalized touch. You could also add a word instead of adding too many details. Write your child’s name and date on the back to remember when the tree was made.
Clean Up
Immediately rinse your child’s hands with warm water and mild soap to remove paint.
Wipe excess paint from the table or workspace using a damp cloth or paper towels.
Clean brushes with water until paint is removed, then dry.
Dispose of or wash smocks and old clothes if necessary.
This hand print tree is a wonderful way to connect through art and create a lasting memory that you and your child will cherish for years to come.