20 Simple DIY Fall Decor Ideas to Try Out
As autumn leaves start to fall and the weather becomes crisp, there is no better time to bring the cozy essence of fall into your home. The season brings with it a magical transformation of nature's palette, painting the world in warm hues of orange, red, and gold. Complementing this naturally vibrant season with some creative DIY fall decor can elevate the ambiance of your living space and make it a true sanctuary. Gather your craft supplies, put on some mellow autumn tunes, and let's embark on this delightful journey of making your home reflect the beauty of fall.
DIY fall decor is not only budget-friendly but also unleashes your creative side. It allows you to craft each piece with love and personal touches, ensuring that the decor resonates with your style and the unique charm of your home. This blog post will explore 20 simple DIY fall decor ideas that are easy to make and perfect for injecting seasonal warmth into any space. Whether you're aiming to spiff up your living room, dinner table, or fireplace mantel, these ideas promise to inspire and invigorate your autumn home decor. Embrace the spirit of the season with these delightful DIY projects, and let's create some beautiful memories along the way.
20 Simple DIY Fall Decor Ideas to Try Out
1. Pine Cone Garland
Pine cones are quintessential fall treasures that can be transformed into charming garlands. String together pine cones using twine or ribbon for a natural, rustic look. Whether draped across your fireplace mantel or hung along your staircase, a pine cone garland brings the outdoors inside, adding an authentic touch of fall to your home.
Creating a pine cone garland can be a fun family activity. You can collect pine cones during a fall nature walk, making the process interactive and memorable. Once home, clean the pine cones, let them dry, and then start stringing them together. The process is simple, yet the result is a stunning, rustic decoration that embodies the essence of autumn.
2. Pumpkin Candle Holders
Hollow out mini pumpkins and place tea light candles inside. These adorable pumpkin candle holders will bring a cozy glow to any setting. Imagine them arranged on your dinner table for a warm and inviting centerpiece, or scattered around your living room to create a soothing autumnal ambiance.
To make these, start by carefully carving out the pumpkins and removing all the seeds. Once hollowed, pop in a tea light candle. You can even get creative with carving designs or painting the pumpkins to match your decor. These candle holders are not only beautiful but also a great way to add a soft, inviting light that's perfect for those crisp fall evenings.
3. Leaf Wreath
Collect colorful fall leaves and arrange them into a wreath. Attach the leaves to a wire or foam wreath form using hot glue. This project not only highlights the vibrant beauty of autumn leaves but also creates a welcoming display for your front door or an interior wall.
Taking a stroll to gather leaves can be a relaxing way to enjoy the season. Look for a variety of shapes and colors to add interest to your wreath. Once you've assembled your leaves and wreath form, start gluing the leaves in layers, covering the base entirely. The result is a stunning, natural decoration that celebrates the rich colors and textures of fall.
4. Mason Jar Leaf Lanterns
Paste leaves onto the outside of mason jars and place a candle inside. When lit, the leaves will cast beautiful, colorful shadows. These mason jar leaf lanterns offer a charming way to illuminate your home with the soft flicker of candlelight, enhanced by the intricate patterns created by the leaves.
Start by collecting some leaves and pressing them flat. Use a simple adhesive to stick the leaves onto clean mason jars. Once dry, place a small candle inside and watch as the light transforms your space with a cozy, ethereal glow. These lanterns can be placed on your porch, mantel, or as part of your table setting for a beautiful touch of fall.
5. Rustic Autumn Sign
Craft a rustic sign with fall-themed messages like "Harvest Blessings" or "Welcome Fall" using reclaimed wood and paint. This DIY project adds a personalized and heartfelt element to your home decor, perfectly capturing the spirit of the season.
Begin by selecting a piece of reclaimed wood—perhaps an old pallet or a piece of driftwood—and sanding it down for a smooth surface. Then, using stencils or freehand painting, add your chosen message in autumnal colors. Once dry, find the perfect spot to display your sign, whether it's in your entryway, living room, or even outdoors. This rustic autumn sign will warmly greet everyone who visits, infusing your home with the charm and warmth of fall.
6. Corn Husk Wreath
Create a unique wreath by tying together dried corn husks. Start by gathering enough corn husks—either from your local farm or craft store—ensuring they are dry and pliable. Arrange them in a circular pattern and use a sturdy twine to securely tie them together. The natural texture and earthy tones of the corn husks will instantly evoke a sense of autumn.
Once your basic wreath is formed, you can add a decorative bow or incorporate fall flowers like mums or sunflowers for an extra touch. Think about placing this wreath on your front door to warmly welcome guests or hanging it above your fireplace as the centerpiece of your fall decor. It's simple yet stunning, making it one of those DIY projects that truly captures the essence of the season.
7. Burlap Table Runner
Cut a piece of burlap fabric to the size of your table and decorate it with stencils or fabric paint to make a custom table runner. Burlap is a wonderful material for autumn as it brings a rustic, cozy feel to your dining area. Lay the cut piece of burlap flat and use stencils to create artistic patterns or phrases that celebrate the season, like "Harvest" or "Thankful."
This project is not only easy but also highly customizable. You can go for neutral tones or add splashes of fall colors using fabric paint to match your existing decor. Place your new table runner down the center of your dining table, and pair it with other fall decorations like an arrangement of mini pumpkins, candles, and foliage. It's a warm, inviting addition that will make your gatherings even more special.
8. Acorn Vase Filler
Fill vases or candle holders with acorns for a simple yet effective fall touch. Acorns are readily available in the fall and can be transformed into beautiful decor items with minimal effort. Once collected, rinse and dry your acorns to ensure they are clean and free of debris. Fill clear vases, glass jars, or even candle holders with these acorns to bring a touch of nature indoors.
For a modern twist, consider painting the acorns in metallic colors such as gold, silver, or bronze. This will add a chic element to your decor while maintaining that cozy, autumnal feel. Place these filled vases on mantels, coffee tables, or as a centerpiece on your dining table. It’s an easy way to incorporate the beauty of the season into your home aesthetic.
9. Cinnamon Stick Candles
Gather a bunch of cinnamon sticks and hot glue them around pillar candles. Not only do they look great, but they'll make your home smell amazing too. Start by ensuring your pillar candles are clean and dry, then use a hot glue gun to attach cinnamon sticks vertically around the candle. The fragrance of the cinnamon will provide a warm and inviting scent every time you light the candles.
This decor idea is perfect for creating a cozy atmosphere in your home during the fall months. Place your newly adorned candles on mantels, side tables, or as a centerpiece on a dining table. The natural, earthy look pairs beautifully with other fall decorations, making your space feel like a true autumn haven.
10. DIY Scarecrow
Put together a homemade scarecrow with old clothes and straw. Locate some old flannel or plaid shirts, jeans, and a pair of gloves to dress your scarecrow. Fill these garments with straw, hay, or even old newspaper to give them shape. Don't forget to top it off with a hat—perhaps an old straw hat or something that fits the fall theme.
This project is a fantastic way to utilize materials you have on hand while adding a playful touch to your yard or porch. Position your scarecrow sitting on a bale of hay, standing in your garden, or greeting guests at your front door. Your DIY scarecrow will bring a smile to the faces of all who see it, making it a delightful addition to your fall decor.
11. Autumn Leaves Centerpiece
Create a stunning centerpiece using faux autumn leaves arranged in a decorative bowl or vase. Start by selecting a variety of faux leaves in different shades of red, orange, and yellow to mimic the rich hues of the season. Arrange these leaves in a decorative bowl or vase, mixing in some acorns or pine cones for added texture and interest. The goal is to create a layered look that brings the essence of an autumn forest into your home.
This centerpiece is a wonderful way to bring the beauty of fall indoors, and it's perfect for your dining table, coffee table, or mantel. The best part is, these faux leaves won't wither, so you can enjoy your centerpiece all season long, year after year. Add some warm, ambient lighting around it with candles or fairy lights to elevate the cozy autumn vibe.
12. Painted Pumpkins
Skip the carving and paint pumpkins in various designs using acrylic paint. Painting pumpkins is a fun and less messy alternative to carving, and it offers endless creative possibilities. Get some acrylic paints and brushes, and let your imagination run wild. You can go for traditional autumn colors like warm reds, oranges, and yellows, or choose a more modern palette with metallics, pastels, or even bold, vibrant hues.
Get creative with patterns and shapes: try polka dots, stripes, or even intricate floral designs. Painted pumpkins can also be personalized with names or fall phrases like "Welcome" or "Grateful". Once your pumpkins are painted and dried, display them on your porch, mantel, or as part of your table centerpiece. These vibrant pumpkins bring a splash of seasonal joy and can be a delightful family activity that allows everyone to express their creativity.
13. Fabric Pumpkins
Sew small fabric pumpkins using fall-themed fabric. Choose fabrics in autumnal colors and patterns such as plaid, gingham, or leaf prints. Cut out circle shapes from the fabric, gather the edges with a needle and thread, and stuff them with cotton or polyester filling. Pull the thread tight to close the top, and your fabric pumpkin will start to take shape.
You can add a small stick or twisted fabric at the top to serve as the pumpkin stem, and sew on a felt leaf or two for added charm. These adorable fabric pumpkins are perfect for displaying around your home—on shelves, tabletops, or even in a decorative bowl as a centerpiece. They add a cozy, homespun touch to your fall decor and make lovely gifts for friends and family.
14. Twig Photo Frame
Collect twigs and glue them around an existing photo frame for a natural, rustic look. Begin by selecting a simple photo frame and gather twigs of various sizes and shapes from your yard or local park. Make sure the twigs are clean and dry before starting your project. Using a hot glue gun, attach the twigs to the frame, layering them to create a textured, uneven look that has a charming, rustic appeal.
To add extra flair, you can incorporate small pine cones, acorns, or faux leaves into the design. This natural-looking frame is perfect for showcasing your favorite fall photos or seasonal prints. Place your finished frame on a mantel, side table, or hang it on a wall to add a touch of the outdoors to your home decor. It’s a simple yet effective way to bring the beauty of nature inside.
15. Leaf Garland
String together paper or fabric leaves using twine to create a colorful garland that can be hung across mantels, doorways, or windows. Start by cutting out leaf shapes from fall-colored construction paper or fabric. You can download leaf templates online or create your own designs. Punch a small hole near the top of each leaf and thread a piece of twine through the holes to string them together.
To give your garland more dimension, consider adding real or faux acorns, pine cones, or small tassels between the leaves. Once your garland is complete, hang it across your mantel, doorway, or window for an instant touch of fall charm. This project is not only fun and easy but also customizable to fit your decor style. It's a wonderful way to celebrate the beauty of the season and brings a festive atmosphere to any space.
16. Harvest Basket
Fill a wicker basket with pumpkins, gourds, and seasonal flowers for a harvest-themed display that radiates the warmth and bounty of fall. Begin by selecting a sturdy wicker basket; the natural texture and earth-toned hues of wicker perfectly complement an autumnal arrangement. Next, fill your basket with a variety of mini pumpkins and gourds, choosing different shapes and colors to create visual interest. Add in some seasonal flowers such as mums, sunflowers, or marigolds, tucking them in among the pumpkins and gourds.
To enhance the harvest theme, consider incorporating additional elements such as ears of dried corn, sprigs of wheat, or clusters of berries. This beautiful basket can become a centerpiece on your kitchen counter or dining table, offering a touch of elegance and warmth to your home. Not only is it visually pleasing, but it also serves as a wonderful reminder of the abundance and richness that the fall season brings. Plus, it's easy to adjust and update throughout the season, keeping your decor fresh and inviting.
17. DIY Fall Coasters
Cut out shapes from corkboard and decorate them with fall-themed patterns or colors to make your own set of DIY fall coasters. Start by purchasing sheets of corkboard from a craft store and cutting them into your desired shapes—round, square, or even leaf-shaped coasters can add a unique touch. Once you have your shapes, you can unleash your creativity by painting them with autumn motifs such as acorns, pumpkins, leaves, or even simple geometric patterns in fall colors like burnt orange, mustard yellow, and deep red.
After decorating your coasters, seal them with a coat of varnish to ensure they are water-resistant and durable for everyday use. These coasters add a cozy, seasonal flair to your home, protecting your furniture while also being a conversation starter. They make lovely handmade gifts for friends and family and can be a fun craft activity to do on a rainy autumn afternoon. Spread them around your home to bring a cohesive, fall-themed look to your living space.
18. Autumn Scented Potpourri
Create a homemade potpourri using dried oranges, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and pine cones to fill your home with the comforting scents of fall. Begin by slicing oranges and drying them either in the oven on low heat or by placing them in a dehydrator. Once dried, mix the orange slices with cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, pine cones, and any other fragrant elements you enjoy, such as dried apple slices, star anise, or nutmeg. This combination creates a symphony of scents that embody the essence of autumn.
Place the potpourri in a decorative bowl or in small sachets to distribute around your home. Whether you set it on your coffee table, bathroom counter, or nightstand, the delightful aroma will invite warmth and comfort into every room. Making your own potpourri allows you to personalize the fragrance to your liking, and it can be modified with different seasonal ingredients as the months change. The sensory experience it provides is a wonderful way to enhance the cozy ambiance of fall within your living space.
19. Leaf Stamped Table Cloth
Use a real leaf coated in fabric paint to stamp patterns onto a plain table cloth, adding a personal and seasonal touch to your dining table. Begin by selecting a variety of leaves from your yard or a local park; their different shapes and sizes will create a more interesting and dynamic pattern. Coat one side of each leaf with fabric paint, then press it firmly onto a plain table cloth in your desired arrangement. Repeat this process with different leaves and colors to build a rich, layered design.
This DIY project not only enhances your dining table with a unique and custom look but also brings a piece of nature indoors, celebrating the beauty of fall foliage. Allow the paint to dry completely before using the table cloth and consider adding a sealant to ensure it’s washable and durable. This leaf-stamped table cloth will be a charming backdrop for your autumn meals, family gatherings, or even your Thanksgiving feast. It’s a wonderful way to engage with the season’s natural beauty and create a memorable, handcrafted piece for your home.
20. DIY Burlap Wreath
Craft a wreath using burlap ribbon and decorate it with fall accents like mini pumpkins, berries, and faux leaves for a welcoming and rustic addition to your fall decor. Start with a wreath form, which can be made of foam, wire, or even grapevine, and wrap it tightly with burlap ribbon, securing the ends with hot glue. The burlap’s natural texture and earthy color serve as a perfect base for fall decorations.
Once the base is complete, adorn your wreath with mini pumpkins, clusters of berries, faux leaves, and even small pine cones or acorns. Arrange these elements in a way that pleases your eye, using hot glue to secure each item in place. This DIY burlap wreath can be hung on your front door, over your mantel, or on an interior wall, bringing a charming touch of autumn warmth to any space. Its handcrafted nature adds a personal touch to your decor and can be customized each year with different embellishments, making it a versatile and enduring piece for your seasonal decor collection.
Conclusion
These 20 DIY fall decor ideas are simple, cost-effective, and bursting with autumn spirit. Each project brings a unique charm to your living space, transforming your home into a cozy haven perfect for the season. Imagine the joy of crafting your own beautiful decorations, infusing each one with a piece of your personality and style. It's a delightful way to celebrate the changing leaves, crisp air, and the overall magic of fall.
Not only do these projects enhance your home’s coziness, but they also provide a fun and memorable activity for you and your loved ones. Gather around the table with your family, friends, or even solo, and let your creativity flow. Whether you're creating a rustic wreath, a DIY pumpkin centerpiece, or a leaf garland, these crafts are a wonderful way to spend quality time and make your space a welcoming, festive place for the fall season. So, gather your materials and dive into the spirit of autumn, crafting your way to a warm and inviting home.
