Easy Autumn Decorating Ideas

I love to decorate for just about anything - holidays, seasons, a change in the weather or even just because.  But, I’m also all about frugality and making wonderful things to save a few pennies.  Here are my top three activities for decorating for fall:

1. Pumpkin Masterpiece - This is awesome for a fireplace mantle, a bookshelf, a coffee table, a kitchen counter, or just about anywhere you can spread a few pumpkins out.  First of all, choose a word that summarizes your feelings for the occasion.  Some ideas are “Harvest,” “Thankful,” “Welcome” and “Peace.” Next, acquire pumpkins, one for each letter of the word you would like to use.  The size of the pumpkin will depend upon the space available (and your budget!).  I like to use the pie-baking size pumpkins.  Now, using a nice paint such as copper or silver, paint each letter on a pumpkin.  You can either freehand or be more formal and/or elaborate and use a stencil.  Once the paint dries, display your proud pumkins in a prominent place for all to see and enjoy!
2. Leafy Placemats - Gather a variety of leaves.  Look for “whole” leaves as opposed to fragments or ripped leaves.  Go for a variety of color if you can as well.  If colorful leaves are not readily available in your area, purchase silk leaves from a hobby or craft store.  Next, if you have time, press the fresh leaves between two paper towels situated in a heavy book (or stacked between two books) and allow them to dry.  Arrange the leaves on a piece of poster board or heavy tag board cut to placemat size, and then cover the entire project with clear contact paper.  If you only have a few leaves, use a piece of printer paper and make leaf rubbings.  Place the leaf under the paper and rub over the leaf with the side of a crayon.  Vary the color of crayon used and move the leaf around the paper to make a lovely design.  Cover with contact paper to protect it.  These add a delightful hint of whimsy and fun to any autumn table!
3. Thankful Family Wreath - This is an excellent decorative touch for your home this year!  Trace hand prints (yours or anyone else’s in the house - can be a combination of different ones, too!) onto construction paper.  Use fall colors, such as yellow, orange, red or brown.  Cut out each hand print and write a word or phrase of something you are thankful for.  Next, take a paper dinner plate and cut out the center.  Glue each hand print around the paper plate ring, fingers facing out.  Overlap for more depth and variation to the wreath.  Hang on a door or on a wall for everyone to see!

With a little time, some creativity and a mindset to have some fun, you can have your house ready for the holidays in no time!

Do you have an easy and inexpensive way to spruce up your living space for the fall?  Share it with us by posting a comment!