The Japanese art of Hapa Zome

This creative outdoor art activity introduces learners to Hapa Zome, the Japanese technique of pounding leaves and flowers to release their natural pigments into fabric. Pupils collect natural materials and use simple tools to create colourful imprints, exploring texture, pattern and symmetry. The activity blends art, science and nature connection while encouraging creativity and observation.

© Learning Through Landscapes. Licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0

Activities (15+ min)
EYFS
Expressive Arts and Design
Art and Design

Preparation

What you need
  • The Japanese art of Hapa Zome resource

Equipment

  • Mallets, rolling pins or even just hand-sized rocks
  • Cotton fabric such as calico, cut up bed sheet or muslin. Kitchen roll also works
  • Various leaves, berries and flowers
Location

Outdoors

Useful guidance

Resources

LtL The Japanese Art of Hapa Zome Activity Guidance.pdf 483.05 KB

Step by step

  1. Download the Japanese art of Hapa Zome activity guide.
  2. Read the guidance for step by step instructions for each activity. 

Curriculum links

This activity can be used to support curriculum knowledge and skill development in Art & Design and Expressive Art & Design, alongside enhancing nature education, with age appropriate adaptations.