The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin Free Printable Illustrations
When it comes to fall-themed charm, few illustrations rival those from Beatrix Potter’s beloved “The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin.” While all of Potter’s books have their unique appeal, the illustrations of Nutkin and his antics are particularly captivating. If you haven’t yet encountered the cheeky Nutkin, let me introduce you to this mischievous red squirrel and his charming tale.
What’s to Love About Beatrix Potter’s Illustrations?
Beatrix Potter’s watercolor illustrations are renowned for their timeless beauty and captivating detail.
In “The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin,” her love for the Lake District comes to life. The ways she paid attention to the quirks of Nutkin’s character create a delightful visual narrative.
These color illustrations are not only a testament to her artistic skill but also bring Nutkin’s antics and the serene Owl Island to life in a way that continues to enchant readers.
Free Printable Squirrel Nutkin Illustrations
Thanks to the illustrations now being in the public domain, you can easily find and enjoy these beautiful works. However, these printable illustrations have been edited to bring back the life and beautiful coloring of the original artwork.
I’m excited to offer a selection of free digital downloads featuring Beatrix Potter’s Squirrel Nutkin illustrations. These printables include all 27 original charming illustrations that capture the essence of Nutkin’s adventures.
Download Your Free Illustrations: Available now in the Subscriber’s Library, these printables are perfect for personal use. Feel free to share this post so others can enjoy these classic Beatrix Potter illustrations too!
These free printables are a part of our exclusive subscriber library and are for personal use only. They are the exclusive property of Once Upon A Printable and may not be reproduced or used for commercial purposes without our written consent. Thank you for respecting our copyright.
A Brief Look at “The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin”
In this classic tale, Nutkin, along with his brother Twinkleberry and their cousins, embarks on a journey to Owl Island.
The squirrels construct little rafts from twigs, using their tails as sails, and bring gifts to Old Brown, the fearsome owl guardian. While the other squirrels present thoughtful offerings, Nutkin opts for mischief, taunting Old Brown with riddles and songs.
Despite Nutkin’s antics, Old Brown reluctantly allows the squirrels to gather nuts.
However, Nutkin’s persistent teasing eventually leads to a dramatic confrontation, resulting in Nutkin losing part of his tail.
This humorous and slightly perilous encounter highlights Nutkin’s over-confidence and adds a layer of excitement to the tale.
Beatrix Potter: A Brief Biography
Helen Beatrix Potter was a multifaceted English author, illustrator, natural scientist, and conservationist.
Beyond her famous children’s books like “The Tale of Peter Rabbit,” Potter had a passion for mycology and art. Her illustrations and scientific studies remain influential to this day.
Potter’s books, including “The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin,” continue to be beloved classics. Her series of tales, featuring characters such as Jemima Puddle-Duck, Peter Rabbit, and Tom Kitten, have sold over 250 million copies worldwide.
Beatrix Potter’s Books in Order of Publication
- The Tale of Peter Rabbit (1902)
- The Tale of Squirrel Nutkin (1903)
- The Tailor of Gloucester (1903)
- The Tale of Benjamin Bunny (1904)
- The Tale of Two Bad Mice (1904)
- The Tale of Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle (1905)
- The Tale of The Pie and the Patty-Pan (1905)
- The Tale of Mr. Jeremy Fisher (1906)
- The Story of a Fierce Bad Rabbit (1906)
- The Story of Miss Moppet (1906)
- The Tale of Tom Kitten (1907)
- The Tale of Jemima Puddle-Duck (1908)
- The Tale of Samuel Whiskers (1908)
- The Tale of the Flopsy Bunnies (1909)
- The Tale of Ginger and Pickles (1909)
- The Tale of Mrs. Tittlemouse (1910)
- The Tale of Timmy Tiptoes (1911)
- The Tale of Mr. Tod (1912)
- The Tale of Pigling Bland (1913)
- Appley Dapply’s Nursery Rhymes (1917)
- The Tale of Johnny Town-Mouse (1918)
- Cecily Parsley’s Nursery Rhymes (1922)
- The Tale of Little Pig Robinson (1930)
Beyond the Children’s Books
Beatrix Potter’s impact extends beyond her children’s books. She created merchandise, such as the Peter Rabbit doll, and was a successful farmer and conservationist.
Her work with Frederick Warne & Co. on various book editions and merchandise contributed to her lasting legacy.
Potter married William Heelis in 1913, and upon her passing in 1943, left her property to the National Trust. In 2015, the Trust discovered and published “The Tale of Kitty-in-Boots,” a posthumous addition to her celebrated collection.
