Acorn Necklace Craft for Preschoolers

There’s something magical about collecting nature treasures with preschoolers—especially in the fall. This acorn necklace craft is one of those preschool crafts that feels just right for the season. Kids get to gather, twist, glue, and thread as they turn a humble acorn cap into a wearable work of art. Whether you’re doing this as part of a forest walk, a fall theme week, or just looking for a cozy afternoon project, this activity offers the kind of calm, hands-on learning that sticks.

If you’re introducing gentle nature crafts into your homeschool rhythm, this one’s a keeper.

Acorn Necklace Craft

This sweet fall craft starts with a nature walk and ends with a handmade keepsake your preschooler will be proud to wear. Using real acorn caps, simple materials, and a bit of patience, kids will create a one-of-a-kind necklace that’s equal parts nature and nurture. Let’s walk through it step by step.

What You’ll Need

• acorn caps (you can buy some here if you can’t find them in nature near you)
• notebook paper
• glue
• embroidery thread
• thumbtack
• small screwdriver
• bakers twine
• glass bead (optional)

What You’ll Do

Start with a nature walk:
Invite your preschooler to gather acorn caps. Look for ones without cracks, and collect a few extras in case some break while crafting.

Make the “acorn” base:
Tear about 1/3 of a sheet of notebook paper and crumple it into a soft ball. Uncrumple and re-crumple a few times to soften it.

Wrap with thread:
Cut several 3-foot lengths of embroidery thread. Spread glue over the paper ball, then wrap the thread around it, gently rotating as you go. Add glue as needed to help each strand stick. Continue until the ball is fully covered.

Prep the acorn cap:
Snip off the stem. Use a pushpin to poke several holes in the center of the cap to help prevent cracking. Then, using a small screwdriver, gently twist through the center to create a hole for the twine.

Add your twine:
Fold your baker’s twine in half and twist the ends. Thread it from the bottom up through the hole in the acorn cap. Tie a knot on the inside to keep it in place.

Optional touch:
For a finished look, slide a small bead down the twine so it rests on top of the cap.

Assemble your acorn:
Hot glue the wrapped paper ball to the underside of the cap. Let it dry completely.

Tie it off:
Knot the twine ends to complete your necklace—and it’s ready to wear!

Want the Printable Version?

We’ve put together a step-by-step printable tutorial for this craft so you can take it outdoors or keep a copy in your seasonal binder. It’s perfect for fall-themed centers, co-op craft days, or weekend nature play.

More Fall Activities for Preschoolers

Keep the learning going with these fall favorites:

• Toilet Paper Roll Turkey Craft
• Leaf Matching Cards (Free Printable)
• Fall Activities for Toddlers
• Pumpkin Seed Sensory Bin

Whether you’re threading these necklaces under a cozy blanket fort or outside in the crisp fall air, this craft is a gentle reminder that learning can be simple, slow, and sweet. Be sure to tag @homeschlprek if you share your creations—we’d love to see your little acorn artists in action!