Activity Introduction

Natural colours occur in flowers and petals. Use these colours to decorate a piece of material and see what patterns you can create! 

Flowers and leaves have natural pigments in them which can be released on to paper or fabric by gently hammering them. First, you’ll collect some flowers and leaves from your garden or when out on a walk, taking notice of the beautiful world around you. Experiment pounding with different flowers and leaves to work out which makes the best pigment. 

Safety advice: Make sure you keep your fingers away and safe when you are hammering!

Younger kids will need support to complete this activity.

Some kids will be able to work on this activity with minimal support.

Ideal for:  Lower to Middle Primary Ages 6 – 9

Themes: 

  • investigate 
  • fresh air 
  • get moving 
  • be creative 

Time required: 30 minutes 

Curriculum connections: Maths, Science, The Arts, Critical and Creative Thinking

Lesson & Curriculum Details

Curriculum codes:

Resources Required

  • Cotton fabric – you could use a handkerchief or cut a square out of an old white cotton t-shirt or shirt 
  • Cutting board 
  • Flowers and leaves 
  • Hammer with a flat head 
  • Paper towel or paper 
  • Towel

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Worksheets

Student Worksheet

Flower Pounding - Activity Instructions

Natural colours occur in flowers and petals. Use these colours to decorate a piece of material and see what patterns you can create! 

Flowers and leaves have natural pigments in them which can be released on to paper or fabric by gently hammering them. First, you'll collect some flowers and leaves from your garden or when out on a walk, taking notice of the beautiful world around you. Experiment pounding with different flowers and leaves to work out which makes the best pigment. 

Safety advice: Make sure you keep your fingers away and safe when you are hammering!

Step 1. When out for a walk or in the garden, look carefully at the flowers and leaves around you. Pick some with different colours, textures and shapes to bring home. 

Step 2. Set up your pounding area. You might like to do this outside if it is a clear day. Put an old towel down first, folded over so it is roughly the size of the cutting board. This will help reduce the sound and

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