Draw a regular hexagon with flat top and bottom edges, approximately 20 cm from the top flat edge to the bottom flat edge. Its widest corner-to-corner measurement will be slightly larger. Draw a smaller matching hexagon in the center, 12 cm between its top and bottom edges. The space between them makes a broad frame about 4 cm wide along the flat sides.

If drawing the hexagon from scratch, mark six equally spaced points around a circle with a radius of approximately 11.5 cm, then join adjacent points. Rotate the drawing so it has horizontal top and bottom edges. Use the same method with a radius of approximately 6.9 cm for the centered opening.

An adult should cut out the outer shape and inner opening on a protected surface. Paint the front and cut edges terracotta, leaving the back plain. Use a thin coat to reduce curling, and let the paint dry fully according to its instructions. Prepare the three paper tails and twine while you wait. This stage ends with all components separate.

Cut two matching clear-film hexagons approximately 16 cm between their top and bottom edges. That leaves a 2 cm overlap behind the frame around the smaller opening. Before removing the backing, arrange the leaves within an imaginary 12 cm center area: golden leaf at upper left, red leaf at upper right, and ochre oak leaf below them. Keep space between the leaves so light can pass through.

Peel the backing from the first film piece and place it sticky side up. Use a little removable tape at the corners if it moves around. Lay each leaf down gently, pressing it flat without rubbing brittle edges. Remove the backing from the second film piece and lower it sticky side down over the first, starting at one edge and smoothing outward.

Seal the film to itself around every leaf and along the perimeter. Use only flat, dry leaves; damp or bulky material may discolor or prevent the film from closing. The panel is now assembled, but the cardboard frame remains separate.

Turn the dry frame over so its plain cardboard back faces upward. Center the sealed leaf panel over the opening, with the intended front of the leaf arrangement facing through the frame. Tape the film's outer border to the back of the cardboard. Keep tape on the hidden border rather than across the visible leaves.

Attach the three crepe-paper tails to separate positions along the lower back edge. From the front, mustard is on the left, cream in the middle, and rust on the right. When you are looking at the back, that order appears reversed. Overlap the top of each tail onto the cardboard by about 1 cm and secure it with a short piece of clear tape.

Punch one small hole near the center of the top frame band, keeping enough cardboard between the hole and outer edge to resist tearing. The decoration is assembled at this stage, but its hanging loop is still loose.

Thread the 25 cm twine through the top hole and tie its ends together to make a short loop. Check the knot and every taped attachment before hanging. Hold the frame from the top and let the three tails fall freely; trim uneven tips only if needed.

Hang it from a suitable existing hook near a bright indoor window. Keep the loop out of young children's reach and clear of blind cords. Use a hook that can support the lightweight craft, and check that the frame sits upright without catching on the window. The leaf colors and veins become easier to see when light comes through the clear center.