Acorn-Leaf Framed Art Tutorial | Cakewalk DIY

Acorn & Leaf Framed Art Tutorial

Create stunning framed art with Acorn-Leaf templates! From a single painted leaf to a shadow box grid, this tutorial guides you through versatile designs.

Mix leaf types, paint with bold colors, or repurpose old frames—make it yours! Share your creations with #AcornLeafArt.

Get the Templates

Framed autumn-themed artwork with leaves and acorns on a neutral background to showcase a Cakewalk DIY Paper Craft tutorial.

Tools & Supplies

- Your finished painted/colored leaves and acorns from the Acorn-Leaf templates tutorial
- Photo Frame(s)
- Mat board or cardstock
- Glue
- Optional: Embellishments like ribbon, fabric for mat board, or foam dots for shadow boxes

Step 1:
- Cut a plain or colored mat board or card stock to fit your frame, or paint a mat for contrast (we painted one gold with metallic craft paint).
Step 2:
- Experiment with placement and color combinations!
- For a single leaf, center it. For grids, lay out 6-9 acorns evenly. Try a collage with mixed leaves and acorns. Adjust until satisfied.

Step 3:
- Use glue to fix your design to your mat board or cardstock. For floating frames, simply press the leaf or leaves between glass.
- Arranging a leaf at an angle adds visual interest by putting its symmetrical shape in an asymmetrical position.
- For larger frames, consider layering mats for a bit more color and depth.
- Here an ivory mat under the brown acorns and leaves keeps the contrast sharp, while the gold underneath that adds a luxe sparkle.
- The freeform arrangement echoes the fall of leaves and acorns from the tree.

- For shadow boxes, attach 3D acorns to mat or card stock with foam dots to create a bit of shadow underneath. This highlights the full shape and the enhances the 3D effect.
- You can also embellish a mat with fabric or patterned paper. Or mitre cut the ends of 4 pieces of ribbon and piece them together for easy mat customization.