Make art with flower marking

A fun way of creating natural prints on fabric or paper. Experiment with different types of flowers and leaves to see how different plants create different natural dyes. 

A finished picture of flower markings on white paper against a wooden table

Note: this won’t work with dried plants. They must be relatively fresh. Cut flowers in water would work. When picking plants, always check with the landowner that you have permission and never over harvest a single plant (it will suffer and might die). Pick a small bit from many plants instead.

This guide is part of our Sense Arts, Sport & Wellbeing programme. This activity can be done at a time that suits you, either in your own space or in an educational setting.

Who is this for

This is a crafting activity for people who are deafblind or have complex disabilities and can be enjoyed by anyone.

Why does this make a difference?

This is a creative and sensory activity that helps people learn by engaging with nature and using their senses to connect with their surroundings, exploring touch and different textures while supporting independent choice.

Shows tabletop with some leaves, fabric and two smooth stones.

How to do this activity

What you’ll need

  • Pale natural fabric (cotton works well)
  • A collection of fresh leaves of flowers
  • A smooth pebble
  • Iron (optional)
A hand cuts away some leaves and flowers in the garden.

Step 1

A hand cuts away some leaves and flowers in the garden. / —
Hand is placing leaves onto fabric in a pattern

Step 2

Cut two pieces of fabric or paper to the same size. Lay one on your surface, then your leaves or flowers.
Enclosing the leaves in cloth

Step 3

Lay the other piece of fabric/paper on top of the arrangement.
Hand is shown rubbing the stone on the fabric

Step 4

Firmly on the fabric or paper with your stone. You can use it a bit like a hammer– no need to be gentle with the plants. The more pressure you exert, the more you will force the see colour coming through.
A finished picture of flower markings on white paper against a wooden table

Step 5

Gently peel the top layer away, then gently peel the plant matter away. You should now have a pattern on both sides – the main pattern and a weaker ghost pattern!

Top tips

To create lasting colour:

  • Let the bundle dry out before peeling away – this lets the colours sink in more
  • If using fabric, when dry, iron gently to set the colour
  • For even better colour, soak fabric in diluted soya milk overnight & then let dry before using (do this a few days before you intend to print the fabric)
  • You could also do it on a tea towel or tote bag