Fall is a perfect time to change up your space with small touches that feel warm and homey.
Using natural items like wood, fabric, and dried fruit can turn everyday corners into welcoming spots.
These fall decorating ideas bring texture, scent, and comfort without needing fancy tools or big spending.
Many use items you have, like jars or buttons, making projects simple and fun for kids or groups.
From garlands to lanterns, every idea adds charm to rooms, porches, or tables.
Just a few minutes of hands-on work can help make your space feel calm and inviting through the cooler months.
The following are ways to bring the season into your home with care and creativity:
Simple Fall Touches to Make Your Home Feel Warm
Fall is a good time to change the way your home looks using simple materials.
You can create a fresh and seasonal feel without buying much.
Many of these ideas use things you already have, like jars, fabric, or paper.
These projects work well for all kinds of spaces, small tables, doors, or shelves.
They’re also easy to make alone or with kids, friends, or family.
Try a few to give your space a cleaner, brighter look for the new season.
The following are ways to bring the season into your home with care and creativity:
1. Wood Slice Garland
Use small wood slices from tree branches to create a garland.
Drill a hole in each piece, then string them together with twine.
Write short words like “fall” or “home” on the slices with a marker or wood pen.
You can also draw leaves or small pumpkins.
This garland is perfect for mantels, doorways, or shelves.
It gives your home a cozy, woodsy feel.
Use dry wood so it doesn’t crack over time.
It’s a great project to do with kids or friends.
- Material Tip: Use fallen branches to save money.
- Fun Touch: Tuck in cinnamon sticks for a soft scent.
- Seasonal Benefit: Brings forest elements into your space.
2. Cork Pumpkin Cluster
Take wine corks and glue them together to shape a small pumpkin.
Paint the corks orange or leave them natural.
Add a twig on top for the stem.
Make several in different sizes and group them on a tray or windowsill.
This is a fun way to reuse old materials and add a handmade look to your fall setup.
You don’t need many tools, and cleanup is simple.
- Material Tip: Use leftover corks or ask friends to collect them.
- Fun Touch: Tie a ribbon around the twig stem.
- Seasonal Benefit: Keeps your decor mess-free and reusable.
3. Bundled Branch Chandelier
Collect thin sticks and tie them together with twine.
Hang this bundle above your table or corner area.
Decorate it with leaves, berries, or paper cutouts.
It adds color and charm without needing a lot of work.
This hanging piece draws attention and adds warmth to your room.
You can even clip on tiny notes or drawings.
- Material Tip: Use dry, firm branches to keep them strong.
- Fun Touch: Clip on paper leaves with hand-drawn designs.
- Seasonal Benefit: Adds height and texture without spending much.
4. Apple Basket Entry Decor
Place a basket by your door and fill it with red and green apples.
Add straw, dry leaves, or mini pumpkins.
This will give your entryway a fresh and happy look.
You can even use the apples for snacking if guests come over.
If the apples go soft, replace them weekly.
This is easy to set up and creates a cheerful vibe right at the door.
- Material Tip: Pick apples that last longer, like Fuji or Gala.
- Fun Touch: Add a bow or handwritten welcome tag.
- Seasonal Benefit: Combines food, color, and decor all in one.
5. Wood Crate Display Wall
Stack or hang small wooden crates and fill them with seasonal items like jars, pumpkins, or small signs.
You can leave the crates natural or paint them in soft orange or cream.
Change out the items each week to keep the look fresh.
Add string lights to make the setup glow at night.
- Material Tip: Ask local stores for free crates.
- Fun Touch: Add fairy lights or dry corn.
- Seasonal Benefit: Builds a movable, reusable wall display.
6. Plaid Shirt Pillow Covers
Turn old plaid shirts into pillow covers.
Cut the fabric and sew it around an old cushion.
Use the buttons on the shirt to close the back.
These covers add a fall look to your living room and are soft to the touch.
They’re also easy to wash and store.
- Material Tip: Use flannel for a cozier feel.
- Fun Touch: Leave one shirt pocket on the front.
- Seasonal Benefit: Adds texture and color with reuse.
7. Hay Bale Coffee Table Base
Use two small hay bales stacked side by side.
Place a wooden board across the top to create a table.
Decorate it with candles, pumpkins, or a tray.
This setup is fun for covered porches or indoors.
The hay gives a farm-style look and is easy to remove when fall ends.
- Material Tip: Wrap hay in burlap to reduce shedding.
- Fun Touch: Tie ribbons on the hay corners.
- Seasonal Benefit: Creates a themed table for gatherings.
8. Pumpkin Lantern Pathway
Put out pumpkins and place battery candles inside.
Line your front steps or walkway with them.
Choose different pumpkin sizes for variety.
This adds a gentle glow at night and welcomes guests warmly.
Paint or carve simple shapes for added fun.
- Material Tip: Use LED lights instead of real candles.
- Fun Touch: Add painted designs like stars or moons.
- Seasonal Benefit: Makes outdoor spaces cozy and safe.
9. Painted Leaf Window Clings
Press leaves flat, then coat one side with clear glue.
Once dry, stick them to windows like stickers.
You can paint the leaves in bright colors or leave them natural.
These are fun to move around and make your windows come to life.
- Material Tip: Choose leaves with smooth backs for better stick.
- Fun Touch: Add glitter or tiny dots for sparkle.
- Seasonal Benefit: Turns windows into a fall scene.
10. Harvest Utensil Holder
Wrap a mason jar in burlap or fabric and tie with twine.
Add forks, spoons, or napkins inside.
These holders are perfect for party tables or family dinners.
You can even write names on them if guests are over.
- Material Tip: Use recycled jars from sauces or jams.
- Fun Touch: Hang a tiny tag with a thankful word.
- Seasonal Benefit: Adds fall charm to everyday meals.
11. Wicker Boot Tray with Acorns
Place a flat wicker basket near your door to collect muddy or wet shoes.
Fill the outer edges with acorns, pinecones, or dried leaves.
This turns something useful into a warm welcome.
You can line the tray with a rubber mat under the wicker to protect your floor.
Place a small sign above it saying, “Kick off your boots!” This will add a touch of fun and help guests feel at home.
Switch out the natural pieces if they get too dry or messy.
- Material Tip: Add a plastic tray under the wicker to catch water.
- Fun Touch: Mix in small wooden letters to spell “FALL.”
- Seasonal Benefit: Combines function and decoration right at your entry.
12. Burlap Chair Bows
Cut wide strips of burlap and tie them into large bows around the back of dining chairs.
You can’t tuck a small faux pumpkin or dried leaf into the knot for a seasonal pop.
These bows work for any chair and are easy to tie and remove.
They dress up your space without much work.
If burlap feels rough, line the back with soft fabric to avoid scratches on wood.
Try using deep orange or brown ribbons to mix it up.
Add a cinnamon stick or dried orange slice for scent and color.
- Material Tip: Use fray-resistant burlap for a cleaner edge.
- Fun Touch: Add a pine sprig or ribbon center.
- Seasonal Benefit: Gives dining spaces a soft, cozy feel.
13. Spice Jar Votives
Fill small glass jars halfway with whole spices like nutmeg, clove, and allspice.
Place a tealight candle on top of the spice layer.
When lit, the warmth gently releases a soft scent into the room.
Line these up along a mantel or table for both light and fragrance.
Try using matching jars for a clean look or mix different sizes for charm.
You can also decorate the outside with twine or lace.
Use only battery candles if you want to avoid heat.
- Material Tip: Use wide-mouth jars for easy cleaning.
- Fun Touch: Tie a cinnamon stick to the jar with twine.
- Seasonal Benefit: Adds glow and natural fall smells to any spot.
14. Basket Wall Display
Hang a group of woven baskets on the wall in a pattern.
Use different sizes and shades for a layered look.
Some can stay plain while others hold small dried flowers, leaves, or flat fabric pumpkins.
Arrange them over your couch or dining area for extra warmth.
To attach, use small hooks or nails that are easy to remove later.
This setup feels welcoming and shows off texture without being too busy.
It’s simple to put together and works for the whole season.
- Material Tip: Use light baskets to avoid heavy nails.
- Fun Touch: Add mini chalk tags with fall sayings.
- Seasonal Benefit: Adds shape and softness to large, blank walls.
15. Book Page Leaf Garland
Tear out pages from old, damaged books and cut them into leaf shapes.
You can trace real leaves or use cookie cutters as templates.
Punch a hole at the top of each and string them together with twine.
This garland works well on mantels or wrapped around a door.
The pages give a vintage touch, and the neutral color pairs well with bold fall decor.
You can also lightly paint the edges for a hint of orange or red.
- Material Tip: Use aged paper for a richer look.
- Fun Touch: Write thankful words on each leaf.
- Seasonal Benefit: Puts old books to good use in a fun, crafty way.
16. Lanterns with Pine Needles
Place bundles of fresh pine needles inside clear lanterns along with small LED candles.
The green needles add texture and a fresh woodsy scent, while the candles give off a soft glow.
Arrange them on porches or hall tables.
Replace the pine every week or so to keep it fresh.
If the lanterns are large, add pinecones or dried berries to fill in gaps.
This works best with open lanterns that let the scent come through.
You can also use faux pine if allergies are a concern.
- Material Tip: Wash pine needles first to remove bugs.
- Fun Touch: Add a twist of dried orange peel inside.
- Seasonal Benefit: Blends light and scent for full fall impact.
17. Milk Jug Vase
Old metal milk jugs make great vases for tall branches, dried corn stalks, or wheat.
Place one on your porch or by the fireplace and fill it with height.
You can also wrap a band of burlap or twine around the middle for extra detail.
This kind of display fits well with country or cabin looks and can be changed up with every season.
If you don’t have a real milk jug, large tin cans can work just as well with a little paint.
- Material Tip: Line with a jar if using real water.
- Fun Touch: Hang a fall label tag from the jug’s handle.
- Seasonal Benefit: Adds a strong vertical piece with minimal work.
18. Button Pumpkins
Arrange buttons in orange, red, and brown tones on a piece of felt shaped like a pumpkin.
Use fabric glue to hold them in place.
Add a small felt square for the stem and some green thread as a vine.
Frame your creation or use it as a place mat or wall hanging.
Kids love this project, and it’s safe for all ages.
You can even use old shirt buttons to save money and mix colors.
- Material Tip: Choose thick felt for stronger support.
- Fun Touch: Add a bow or small leaf at the top.
- Seasonal Benefit: Bright, fun art that works anywhere.
19. Firewood Stack Wall Art
Cut several thin slices of firewood and glue them onto a round backing board.
Paint a simple word or leaf outline in the center, or leave it as a natural design.
This artwork fits well above a mantel or small table.
Each wood slice shows its rings, giving your piece a unique look.
Sand down the surface and edges before gluing to avoid splinters.
- Material Tip: Use a thick board base to hold weight.
- Fun Touch: Tie a rope hanger on top instead of a wire.
- Seasonal Benefit: Adds strong texture and brings wood indoors.
20. Grain Sack Table Runner
Take a vintage grain sack or buy burlap fabric to create a table runner.
Cut it to fit the length and fray the edges slightly for a soft look.
You can use fabric paint to stencil leaves or pumpkins in the middle.
Add lace on the ends if you want something fancier.
Place this under candles or a bowl of fruit.
It brings color and texture to plain tabletops and is simple to roll up and store when the season ends.
- Material Tip: Use painter’s tape to keep stencil edges clean.
- Fun Touch: Add small buttons along the runner sides.
- Seasonal Benefit: Covers your table in a warm, handmade way.
21. Mini Chalkboard Tags
Create small labels using mini chalkboards or black cardstock cut into rectangles.
Write fall-themed words like “gather,” “spice,” or “thankful” with chalk or a white marker.
Tie these tags to baskets, mugs, napkin holders, or storage jars.
They add a playful and custom look to your fall setup.
You can reuse them year after year, and change the words as needed.
Kids can help write on them or draw small pictures.
They also work great as table place cards for dinners.
- Material Tip: Use string or twine instead of tape for a cleaner hang.
- Fun Touch: Draw tiny pumpkins or leaves in the corners.
- Seasonal Benefit: Adds words and warmth without needing lots of space.
22. Corn Husk Candle Holders
Wrap dried corn husks around glass jars and tie them with jute or twine.
Place a battery-powered candle inside for a warm, golden glow.
These holders look great lined along a mantel or placed on a porch.
The corn husks give a natural texture and remind people of harvest time.
You can even trim the tops to different heights for a layered look.
If you don’t have real husks, use paper strips or raffia as a replacement.
- Material Tip: Soak husks briefly in water before wrapping to prevent cracking.
- Fun Touch: Tuck a cinnamon stick behind the twine for smell.
- Seasonal Benefit: Brings a harvest feel to any table or ledge.
23. Twine-Wrapped Vases
Take a clean glass bottle or jar and wrap it in twine from bottom to top.
Secure it with glue every few inches.
This gives your vase a soft, natural cover.
Fill it with dried flowers, wheat stalks, or feathers.
These vases can sit on your coffee table, fireplace, or even windowsill.
If you make a few in different shapes and heights, group them for more impact.
It’s an easy craft with a lot of charm.
- Material Tip: Use thick twine for faster wrapping and better grip.
- Fun Touch: Add a small button or charm tied to the top.
- Seasonal Benefit: Brings texture and fall tones to any room.
24. Sweater Wrapped Planters
Cut the sleeves off an old sweater and pull them over small pots.
Tuck the ends inside the pot or secure with glue.
This gives your planters a soft, cozy look that’s perfect for the cooler months.
Use planters of different sizes and colors for more variety.
Try white or gray sweaters for a soft tone, or go bold with orange and red.
These look great on tables or windows and are easy to switch out when the season ends.
- Material Tip: Use thick knit sweaters to avoid stretching.
- Fun Touch: Tie a small ribbon around the top edge.
- Seasonal Benefit: Adds warmth and comfort to plant displays.
25. Wood Pallet Porch Sign
Take a narrow wood pallet or board and paint a short phrase like “Welcome Fall” or “Harvest Time.”
Use stencils for clean letters or hand paint for a rustic look.
Lean it beside your front door or in the garden.
You can decorate it with painted leaves or tie dried corn husks at the top.
These signs are strong, simple, and can be stored flat for next year.
- Material Tip: Sand rough edges and use outdoor paint if placing outside.
- Fun Touch: Add a tiny hook for hanging keys or lights.
- Seasonal Benefit: Greets guests with a handmade and festive touch.
26. Nut-Filled Hurricane Jars
Pour layers of nuts like walnuts, pecans, and hazelnuts into a glass jar.
Nestle a battery-powered candle in the center.
The natural tones of the nuts give a rich fall color scheme.
These jars are perfect for side tables or centerpieces.
As a bonus, you can eat the nuts when the season ends. To keep it neat, choose unshelled nuts for a cleaner look.
- Material Tip: Use a tall jar with a wide opening for balance.
- Fun Touch: Add a strip of ribbon or burlap around the top.
- Seasonal Benefit: Combines natural items with soft lighting.
27. Cinnamon Stick Pumpkin
Using hot glue, glue cinnamon sticks into a circle to form the shape of a pumpkin.
Tie twine around the middle to hold them in place.
Add a stick or rolled paper for the stem and a felt leaf on top.
The cinnamon adds both texture and scent.
This tiny craft is great for kitchen counters or window ledges.
You can also group three or four of them in different sizes for a full display.
- Material Tip: Choose straight sticks of equal length for best results.
- Fun Touch: Sprinkle a little nutmeg on top for extra smell.
- Seasonal Benefit: Brings scent and handmade style together.
28. Walnut Shell Tealight Boats
Break open some walnuts and keep the shell halves whole.
Scoop out the nuts and save the empty shells.
Put a small piece of candle wick inside each shell.
Then, pour melted wax into the shell to hold the wick.
Let it cool and harden.
You now have tiny candles!
Place the shell candles in a bowl of water so they float, or line them up on a shelf or table.
They will make your home feel warm and fun.
- Material Tip: Use a spoon to pop out the nut without breaking the shell.
- Fun Touch: Add a drop of clove oil for a nice smell.
- Seasonal Benefit: Brings soft light and fall style in a small, fun way.
29. Rustic Ladder Blanket Holder
Lean an old wooden ladder against the wall and drape soft throw blankets over the rungs.
This gives guests a cozy choice and fills an empty wall space.
You can also hang string lights or dried leaves along the sides for more color.
This is perfect for living rooms, guest rooms, or porches.
If you don’t have a ladder, build one using thick dowels and paint.
- Material Tip: Sand splinters and use light wood to move easily.
- Fun Touch: Add a woven basket at the base for extra pillows.
- Seasonal Benefit: Combines storage with seasonal charm.
30. Dried Fruit Garland
Slice apples and oranges into thin rounds and bake on low heat until fully dried.
Use a needle and thread to string the slices together.
Add cranberries or small pinecones for texture.
Hang the garland across mantels, windows, or door frames.
The dried fruit adds a natural scent and warm color to your space.
Store it in a dry place to reuse next year.
- Material Tip: Dry slices on parchment paper to prevent sticking.
- Fun Touch: Mix in a few star anise for extra scent.
- Seasonal Benefit: Adds color, smell, and handmade style in one.
More Unique Fall Decorating Ideas
Need more ideas?
This list has quick projects you can make with simple stuff at home.
They don’t take much time and still make your space look fun and fresh.
Try one or two to fill a small spot like a shelf or table.
These ideas are easy to start and great for all ages.
31. Acorn-Filled Glass Vases
32. Rake Head Scarf Rack
33. Yarn-Wrapped Pinecones
34. Felt Leaf Coasters
35. Twine-Wrapped Pumpkin Centerpieces
36. Leaf Cookie Cutter Garland
37. Hollowed-Out Book Decor
38. Denim Pocket Utensil Holders
39. Paper Bag Leaf Window Art
40. Chalkboard Pumpkin Place Cards
41. Tiered Crate Gourd Display
42. Copper Scrubber Pumpkins
43. Cork Leaf Trivets
44. Cinnamon Stick Door Bunches
45. Sock-Filled Fabric Pumpkins
46. Quilted Leaf Potholders
47. Twine and Rusty Key Wreath
48. Shoebox Lid Wall Art
49. Wooden Spoon Scarecrow Decor
50. Folded Flannel Napkin Rings
51. Candy Corn Jar Toppers
52. Painted Twig Table Numbers
53. Wheat Wreath Napkin Holders
54. Fridge Magnet Leaves
55. Painted Doormat with Leaves
56. Raffia Candle Wraps
57. Faux Berry Centerpieces
58. Handmade Twig Coasters
59. Brick Sponge Pumpkins
60. Funnel Wall Sconces
61. Beaded Keychains with Leaf Charms
62. Printed Fall Poem Scrolls
63. Leaf Wall Art from Wallpaper Samples
64. Clay Pumpkin Magnets
65. Sweater Sleeve Leaf Garland
66. Doily Pumpkin Wraps
67. Painted Wine Bottle Scarecrows
68. Felt Acorn Bunting
69. Recycled Cereal Box Fall Scene
Conclusion
Simple touches can bring a lot of joy during the fall season.
These ideas use easy-to-find items to fill your home with warmth, color, and fun.
With just some glue, twine, or a few old jars, you can build projects that feel fresh and special.
Many of them can even be reused year after year.
Try them on your own or turn them into a group project with kids or friends.
From table settings to front door displays, there’s something here for every part of your space.
And because many of these ideas are made from natural or reused materials, they’re also kind to your budget.
So go ahead, grab those fallen leaves, wrap up some twine, and make your home cozy and bright all season long.
Ready to get started?
Check out our easy DIY decor guide, browse:
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- 75 Wall Wizardry: Decorating Large Walls Made Easy
- Budget Home Decor: High-Impact Upgrades for Under $50
Alex Guerrero, a graduate with a Fine Arts degree from the Rhode Island School of Design, has been a visionary in the world of color and design for over 15 years. His professional journey began in the heart of the fashion industry in Milan, where he developed an acute sense for color harmonies and trends. Alex joined our team in 2018, offering fresh and innovative perspectives on color utilization in various spaces. Renowned for his ability to blend contemporary trends with timeless elegance. Outside of work, Alex is an accomplished painter and a volunteer art therapist, his artistic talents further enriching his professional insights.
