At The Messy Moose, we believe that creativity thrives in nature, and what better way to enjoy art this summer than by heading outside and printing with logs? This earthy, hands-on activity is perfect for kids of all ages and encourages curiosity, movement, and experimentation.
What is Log Printing?
Log printing is exactly what it sounds like—using the cut end of a log as a stamp! When you apply paint and press the log onto paper or fabric, it reveals beautiful, natural patterns like tree rings, bark textures, and cracks. No two prints are ever the same, which makes this a magical art experience.
🍃 Why We Love It:
- Gets kids outside and connecting with nature
- Teaches about trees, growth rings, and wood textures
- Great for sensory exploration and process art
- It’s messy in the best possible way!
🔨 What You’ll Need:
- Small logs or thick branches (cut flat on one end)
- Tempera or acrylic paint (non-toxic & washable is best for kids)
- Paintbrushes or sponges
- Heavy paper, kraft paper, canvas, or even fabric
- A sturdy outdoor surface (a picnic table, stump, or even the ground!)
- Smocks or old clothes—this one gets wild!
🎨 How to Do Log Printing Outdoors:
- Collect Your Logs
Find logs that are about the size of a soup can or smaller—ask an adult to saw one end flat so it can stamp evenly. Bonus if the log has interesting bark textures or visible tree rings. - Set Up Your Studio Outside
Lay down a drop cloth or old sheet if you’re working on the grass or patio. Let the kids arrange their materials however they like—part of the fun is setting up their own creative space! - Paint Your Log
Use a brush or sponge to apply paint directly to the flat end of the log. You can use one colour or layer a few for a marbled effect. - Stamp & Press
Firmly press the log onto your surface. Try different angles, rotate between prints, or overlap to create a pattern. Encourage the kids to experiment—there’s no wrong way to log print! - Explore & Expand
Try printing with bark or the side of the log too! See what happens when you roll it or mix with other natural items like leaves and pinecones.
☀️ Summer Tips:
- Do this activity in the shade to keep the paint from drying too fast.
- Use fabric paint if you want to make log-printed tea towels, tote bags, or picnic napkins!
- Have a tub of water nearby for easy cleanup.
- Turn your prints into summer art banners, nature journals, or greeting cards.
- We found our stump from a neighbour’s wood leftovers!
🧡 The Moose Takeaway:
At The Messy Moose, we’re always looking for ways to blend art with exploration, and log printing is one of our summer favourites. It’s earthy, imperfect, and absolutely beautiful—just like childhood creativity. So gather some logs, head outside, and let the kids get gloriously messy!
Stay wild and creative,
The Messy Moose Team
🦌🎨🌿
