Recommended November craft ideas for day service centers

Matsutake Mushroom Origami

[Origami] How to Fold Autumn Delicacy “Matsutake Mushroom”

Let’s recreate the matsutake mushroom—an iconic flavor of Japan’s autumn—using origami.

A key point is to use both sides of the paper to clearly show the color difference between the cap and the stem, while shaping the overall form with a gentle roundness.

Once the piece is neatly folded, it’s also a good idea to draw patterns to make it look even more like a matsutake.

Try imagining a seasonal scene where matsutake are arranged—such as a circular layout inspired by a woven basket—so the mushrooms feel naturally grouped and evocative of the season.

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kappamaki

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Cutout painting

Easy With Fallen Leaves! Cutout Painting / [OT Let’s Try Making It! Vol. 30] (Recreation & Crafts)

This is a cutout painting that lets you fully experience autumn by touching fallen leaves.

First, sketch an autumn-themed motif on drawing paper and cut it out with scissors or a craft knife.

Next, glue fallen leaves onto another sheet of drawing paper.

Finally, layer the cutout sheet on top, glue it down, and let it dry—that’s it! Display it in a frame to add an accent to your interior.

If you enjoy working with natural materials or are good at detailed handiwork, give it a try.

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miyabi

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Pine cone made with origami and construction paper

[Craft Idea] Pine Cone (October–November Wall Decorations) (Senior Recreation, Day Service, Occupational Therapy OT, Origami, Colored Construction Paper, DIY, 3D Craft, Wreath) (Template PDF Available: See Description)

Pine cones are tree nuts that let you enjoy the changing seasons from autumn to winter.

For this craft, cut out the sketched pine cone parts with scissors and glue them together to create a three-dimensional effect.

When gluing, gently roll the cut paper pieces and lightly flatten the tips—this helps make them look more realistic.

It could also be fun to use pink or orange origami paper to express the color changes of the pine cone.

There are many delicate steps, but the sense of accomplishment when you finish will bring joy and confidence.

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mayumi

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Autumn hanging ornaments

How to Make Autumn Hanging Decorations with Origami and Paper Plates (with Audio Commentary) [Tsukurumon]

How about making a hanging decoration of maple leaves that sway and twirl beautifully? Fold origami a few times and, like making paper cutouts, create autumn leaves such as maples and ginkgo.

Using various colors—red, yellow, and orange—for the maple leaves will make them look especially beautiful.

Adding creases to ginkgo leaves and fallen leaves gives them a three-dimensional feel, and it’s fun to watch them sway.

Cut a painted paper plate into a spiral, then glue on the leaves and maples you made.

The way it twirls and sways is colorful and delightful—you’ll never get tired of watching it.

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utatane

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A bagworm made by rolling it round and round

[Craft Idea] Spinning Bagworm ~craft~ (November Autumn) (Wall Decorations) (Senior Recreation/Day Service) (Childcare/Educational) (Origami) (Creative/Psychiatric OT) (Insects/Easy) (Hanging Ornament) (DIY)

Bagworms collect small twigs and fallen leaves to protect their bodies and live inside them.

The key to making this bagworm craft is to take a sheet of origami paper folded in half, make fine cuts with scissors, then roll it diagonally into a spiral to form the case.

It’s a task that uses fine finger movements, but it’s simple and easy for older adults to participate in.

Once you layer the rolled cases and cut out some leaves, you’ll have an adorable bagworm! Adding eyes with round stickers is also recommended.

It’s great finger exercise, so please give it a try.

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mayumi

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Pine cone wall-hanging decor

When it comes to autumn flowers, cosmos are the first that come to mind.

This time, let’s make a wall-hanging interior decoration that recreates cosmos using pine cones.

First, use nippers to cut off the scales of the pine cones.

For safety, it’s recommended to wear gloves.

Have staff assist with the tougher parts.

Attach the decorated pine cone pieces—painted with acrylics—one by one onto a cutting board from the 100-yen shop.

A cosmos wall-hanging made with autumn materials will instantly fill your entryway or room with an autumn atmosphere.

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Nanaka

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Tissue-paper hedgehog

Hedgehog wall decoration made with tissue paper – great for pretend barbershop play too. Perfect for autumn crafts (art projects) for toddlers, elementary school kids, after-school programs, and senior recreation.

This is a cute hedgehog craft made with tissue paper flowers! Stack several sheets of tissue paper, accordion-fold them, tie the center with a chenille stem or string, then snip fine cuts into both ends and fan it out.

Next, cut hedgehog shapes from construction paper, attach the tissue paper, and add eyes with round stickers to finish! You can change up the color combinations of the tissue paper or make different sizes, too.

If you’re making a wall display, try adding origami mushrooms and fallen leaves for an even stronger autumn vibe.

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miyabi

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