In short

A woven leaf crown that fits a child's head and survives a whole afternoon of play. Real measurements, age guidance and safety notes for the whole project.

A leaf crown is one of those crafts that looks impressive and is genuinely simple. The version here is woven rather than glued, so it holds together through running, jumping and a whole afternoon in the garden, and it can go straight on the compost heap afterwards.

It suits children aged six and up with an adult helping with the measuring and the tying. The trick is to weave the crown slightly too small, because the leaves stretch a little as they are worn, and a loose crown slides straight off.

Sizing the crown to the head

Measure around the child's head just above the ears, then subtract 2 cm from that number. A six-year-old usually measures about 51 cm, so you would build a crown of 49 cm. The leaves relax as they warm up on the head, so the slightly tighter fit ends up comfortable and stays put.

What You'll Need

  • About 24 fresh leaves, or 12 long palm strips cut 1.5 cm wide
  • A 60 cm length of cotton twine
  • A soft tape measure
  • Sharp scissors, for the adult
  • A bowl of warm water for softening the strips

Adult supervision is required. An adult should cut the leaves and twine, since scissors and some leaf stems are sharp. Check every leaf for thorns or sharp ribs before children handle them, keep them away from mouths, and wash hands after the craft. Do not use any leaf you cannot identify.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Measure and mark

    Measure the head, subtract 2 cm, and cut the twine to that length plus 15 cm for tying. Lay it out straight on the table as your guide.

  2. 2

    Soak the strips

    Soak the palm strips or long leaves in warm water for five minutes so they fold without cracking. Blot them dry so they are damp, not dripping.

  3. 3

    Weave the band

    Fold the twine in half and weave the leaves around it in an over-under pattern, alternating the direction each time, until the band reaches the measured length.

  4. 4

    Lock the ends

    Weave the final leaf over both ends of the band and tuck its tip back through, so the join is hidden and cannot unravel when the crown is worn.

  5. 5

    Tie and fit

    Bring the two twine ends together and tie a firm double knot, then trim the twine to 3 cm. Slide the crown onto the head and adjust the leaves so they sit upright.

A woven leaf crown band of fresh green leaves lying flat on a table
Weave the band 2 cm smaller than the head, since the leaves relax once worn.

Making it last the afternoon

  • Keep the crown out of direct sun so the leaves do not wilt mid-play.
  • If a leaf starts to droop, dip just that leaf in water and press it back into the weave.
  • Store it in a bowl of shallow water between uses and it will stay fresh for a day.
  • When play is done, the crown can go straight onto the compost heap.

Helpful Tips

  • Use leaves with a strong central rib; they hold the weave better than soft thin leaves.
  • Make the crown for a doll or teddy first as a practice run, which children love.
  • Keep a spare handful of leaves to replace any that split while weaving.
  • For a sturdier crown that lasts a week, weave palm strips instead of soft garden leaves.

A crown kit for the whole party

Our kids leaf kit includes pre-cut strips and twine for six crowns, ready for a birthday party table.

Shop kids kits