DIY Stained Glass Leaf Art (and the Perfect Snack to Go With It!)

(by Sara Jane Shelvock, CEO, Torus Coffee Company LLC)

Fall in Iowa means crunchy leaves, chilly mornings, and snacks that taste like cozy sweaters and bonfires. This week, we decided to combine all that fall magic into one wholesome family activity: Stained Glass Leaf Art — a simple wax paper leaf craft that’ll make your windows glow and your kitchen smell like autumn.

And of course, no Torus family craft session is complete without snacks — specifically our Apple Cinnamon Comets. Because if you’re going to wield a hot iron with kids nearby, you deserve a little sugar-powered bravery.

Step 1: Go on a Leaf Hunt (and Maybe Bribe Them With Snacks)

Tell the kids you’re “collecting artistic materials,” which sounds fancier than “go pick up leaves before I lose my mind.” Hand them a bag and watch the chaos unfold.

One kid will find the perfect leaf like they’re auditioning for “America’s Next Top Maple.” The other will bring you a stick, a rock, and possibly a live cricket.

Reward their efforts with a handful of Apple Cinnamon Comets — because motivation tastes better when it’s crunchy, sweet, and slightly cosmic.

Step 2: Prep the Leaves and Pretend You Know What You’re Doing

Spread your collection on the table. Admire the reds, golds, and oranges. Say smart things like, “Wow, look at that vein structure.” No one knows what that means, but it sounds impressive.

And while you’re pretending to be a leaf expert, take a snack break — those Apple Cinnamon Comets pair perfectly with crafting confidence.

Step 3: Wax Paper Leaf Sandwich Time

Lay one sheet of wax paper down, arrange your leaves, and top it with another sheet. You’re basically making a “leaf grilled cheese,” minus the calories (and with more parental supervision).

This part’s where kids say, “Can I do the ironing?” And you respond, “Not unless you have a fire extinguisher and a driver’s license.”

Step 4: Iron Like a Fall Craft Legend

Place a towel underneath, iron gently, and watch as the wax melts into magic. Suddenly, you’ve trapped fall itself — right there in your kitchen.

It’s quick, it’s easy, and it gives off that “Pinterest parent who totally has it together” energy — even if you’re still in sweatpants.

Step 5: Hang It Up, Take Pictures, and Brag Online

Stick your stained glass leaf art in a sunny window, snap a photo, and post it with the caption:

“Homemade fall window art — powered by Apple Cinnamon Comets and mild chaos.”

The light shining through the leaves looks stunning, and your house instantly feels more autumnal — and smells faintly of cinnamon and accomplishment.

DIY Stain Glass Leaf Art Up Close

DIY Stain Glass Leaf Art Door

DIY Stain Glass Leaf Art Door

Family Reactions:

• Mom: “This looks amazing — we’re basically an HGTV family now.”

• Dad: “Can we eat the Comets for dinner?”

• Kids: “Can we iron the dog’s toy next?”

• Dog: Ate one leaf and now believes in art.

Wrapping Up the Orbit

Between the crunch of leaves, the laughter, and the sweet smell of Apple Cinnamon Comets, this DIY stained glass leaf craft is pure fall family magic.

So gather your crew, grab some wax paper, and fuel your creativity with the snack that tastes like autumn in orbit — Apple Cinnamon Comets by Torus Coffee Company. Enjoy creating a fun afternoon with your own DIY Stained Glass Leaf Art.

Stay curious. Stay crunchy. Stay cosmic.

 — Sara Jane Shelvock, CEO, Torus Coffee Company LLC