Autumn Decor on a DIY Budget
It’s here, or as close to here that I have already started decorating my home for the autumn season. Which means it's a pumpkin, pinecone, apple, and gourd explosion in my house. Remember that just because you’re ready to decorate for the season doesn’t always mean it’s time to traverse through your local Homegoods or Marshalls and buy everything with a yellow leaf or pumpkin. You can DIY some pretty nice fall decor, or at the very least buy some real pumpkin and gourds to decorate your home and then later eat!
1. Rustic Pumpkin Centerpiece
Nothing says fall like pumpkins, and a rustic pumpkin centerpiece is an easy way to bring the season indoors. Start with a mix of real or faux thrifted pumpkins in various sizes and colors. Arrange them in a wooden crate or a shallow bowl, and add some greenery like eucalyptus or magnolia leaves for texture. For an extra touch, tuck in a few pine cones or acorns. This centerpiece can be used on your dining table, coffee table, or even as a welcoming display on your entryway table.
2. Fall Leaf Garland
Bring the beauty of autumn leaves into your home with a DIY leaf garland. Collect leaves of different shapes and colors from your yard or whilst on a walk. Be sure to press them between sheets of wax paper and iron them on low heat to flatten and preserve them. Once you have your leaves ready, use a needle and thread or some twine to string them together. Hang the garland across your mantel, along a staircase, or around a window to create a festive fall atmosphere.
3. Mason Jar Candle Holders
Create a warm, ambient glow with mason jar candle holders. Start by gathering a few mason jars and fill each with small pine cones, acorns, or dried beans to hold the candles in place. Place a tealight or votive candle inside each jar. To add a touch of fall flair, wrap some burlap or ribbon around the neck of the jars and tie them with twine. You can also add a sprig of rosemary or a cinnamon stick for a subtle, seasonal scent. Arrange these candle holders on your mantle, dining table, or even outside on your porch to create a cozy ambiance.
4. Harvest Wreath
A harvest wreath is a classic way to celebrate the season and add a welcoming touch to your front door. To make your own, start with a grapevine wreath base, which you can find at most craft stores. Then, choose a variety of fall elements to decorate with—think mini pumpkins, gourds, dried corn husks, faux berries, and silk flowers in rich autumn hues. Use a hot glue gun to attach your items to the wreath, layering them to create a full, abundant look. Finish by tying a ribbon at the top for hanging.
5. Plaid Throw Pillows and Blankets
Adding plaid throw pillows and blankets is one of the simplest ways to bring fall into your home. Look for rich colors like burnt orange, deep red, and mustard yellow that reflect the changing leaves. You can sew your own pillow covers using plaid fabric or repurpose old scarves for a unique touch. Drape cozy blankets over sofas and chairs to create a warm, inviting space perfect for snuggling up with a good book or enjoying a cup of hot cider.
6. Pine Cone Fire Starters
As the evenings grow cooler, there's nothing better than a cozy fire. Pine cone fire starters are an easy and charming way to get your fireplace or fire pit going. Gather pine cones from your yard and dip them in melted wax, letting the excess drip off. While the wax is still soft, sprinkle them with cinnamon or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme. Once the wax has hardened, your fire starters are ready to use. They make great gifts, too—just bundle a few together with some twine and a festive tag.
With just a few simple projects, you can bring the warmth and charm of fall into every corner of your home. Whether you're crafting a rustic pumpkin centerpiece, hanging a leaf garland, or making your own harvest wreath, these DIY ideas are sure to add a personal touch to your seasonal decor. So grab some friends for a craft night, get creative, and enjoy the process of transforming your home for the cozy season ahead. Happy Crafting!