17+ Easy DIY Fall Decor Projects for Beginners
Welcome to the wonderful world of autumn crafting! These beginner friendly projects require minimal supplies, basic skills, and deliver maximum seasonal charm to your home.
1. Painted Pumpkin Vase
Transform a simple craft pumpkin into a elegant vase. Spray paint a faux pumpkin in matte white, cream, or metallic gold. Use a knife to carefully cut an opening at the top large enough to hold a small vase or water filled container for fresh or faux flowers.
2. Burlap Table Runner
Create a rustic table runner by cutting burlap to your table length plus 12 inches. Use pinking shears to prevent fraying and add fabric stiffener if desired. Embellish with fabric paint or iron on autumn themed transfers.
3. Mason Jar Lanterns
Wrap jute twine around clean mason jars, securing with hot glue. Place battery operated tea lights inside for a warm, rustic glow. Add a cinnamon stick or small pinecone tied to the twine for extra autumn fragrance.
4. Leaf Printed Napkins
Use fabric paint and real leaves to create beautiful prints on plain cotton napkins. Press the painted side of a leaf onto the fabric, cover with paper, and gently rub to transfer the pattern.
5. Pinecone Centerpiece
Collect pinecones and arrange them in a wooden bowl or tray. Add neutral colored candles and sprigs of faux berries for a simple, natural centerpiece that requires no crafting skills.
6. Thankful Jar
Decorate a large glass jar with fall themed ribbon or washi tape. Keep slips of paper nearby for family members to write what they’re thankful for throughout the season.
7. Yarn Wrapped Letters
Spell out autumn words like “FALL” or “GIVE” using cardboard letters from craft stores. Wrap with yarn in seasonal colors, securing ends with hot glue.
8. Acorn Garland
Collect acorns (bake to eliminate pests) or use faux acorns. Use a small drill bit to make holes and string onto jute twine with a needle. Alternate with small wooden beads if desired.
9. Painted Wood Slice Coasters
Purchase pre cut wood slices from craft stores. Paint simple fall designs like leaves, plaid patterns, or monograms using acrylic paint. Seal with clear varnish for durability.
10. Fabric Scrap Pumpkins
Cut orange fabric into circles. Place a small amount of stuffing in the center, gather edges, and secure with twine. Add a stick for the stem and felt leaves.
11. Book Page Leaves
Fold book pages into simple origami leaves or cut leaf shapes from book pages. String into a garland or scatter across tables and mantels.
12. Cinnamon Stick Bundles
Tie cinnamon sticks together with rustic twine or ribbon. Add dried orange slices or small faux berries for color and fragrance.
13. Painted Rock Magnets
Collect smooth, flat rocks and paint with simple autumn designs like pumpkins, leaves, or acorns. Glue small magnets to the back for functional fridge decor.
14. Fall Signage on Wood
Paint a small wooden board with chalk paint. Use stencils or freehand lettering to create seasonal messages like “Happy Fall” or “Gather.”
15. Sweater Pillow Covers
Repurpose old sweaters in autumn colors by cutting to size and sewing simple envelope style pillow covers. Add buttons or embroidery for extra detail.
16. Berry Branch Arrangement
Place bare branches in a vase and attach faux berries using floral wire. Spray paint the arrangement in metallic copper or gold for extra elegance.
17. Leaf Confetti Garland
Use a hole punch to create confetti from colorful fall leaves (real or faux). String the leaf confetti onto thread to create a delicate, colorful garland.
Final Thoughts
The best fall decor comes from the heart, not perfection. Embrace imperfections as part of your DIY charm. Start with projects that match your current skill level and build confidence as you go. Remember that seasonal decorating should bring joy, not stress. Choose projects that make you happy and reflect your personal style. Happy crafting!
