Now that fall has arrived, you might be inspired to try some DIY fall decor ideas in your home. But are there ways to add some autumn warmth without blowing through tons of cash? You bet! Just try a few of these DIY fall decor ideas below, many of which cost less than $50 – or even free.
Step away from the pine cones
While you might not be spending as much time outdoors as the weather gets cooler, you can bring in earthy elements for an organic fall feeling. But try to think outside the pine cone box.
“Pine cones have already been done,” says James Tabb, a designer with Laurel & Wolf. “Instead, opt for autumn accents like cotton ball bouquets or eucalyptus branches.”
Pile on the pillows
On beds, couches, chairs, and benches, it’s hard to have too many pillows, especially when temperatures start cooling.
“In luxe fabrics and seasonal patterns, pillows add a sense of warmth and style within any space,” Tabb says.
Let there be light
Shorter days and longer nights mean you’ll need to up your lighting game. Tabb recommends layering plenty of lamps for maximum light.
Swap art
Often we think of art as a permanent exhibit in our home, but it can be more interesting to think of our pieces as traveling exhibits that change with the seasons.
“Beach prints are nice, but come fall a moodier makeover may be the way to go,” Tabb says. “One way to transform your gallery wall is with black-and-white photos or abstract art. Simple, yet beautiful, monochromatic art matches almost everything and makes a major statement.”
Add some velvet
if there’s one trend designers overwhelmingly agree with for fall, velvet is it. In the bedroom or living room, with blankets, pillows, and more, the opportunities to work the materials into your decor are vast. It’s cozy and comfortable and comes in the most delicious colors.
Refresh the fireplace
Your fireplace has likely been neglected all summer. Now is the time to show this space some love before it begins beckoning everyone to gather around it again.
“This can simply be adding fall foliage in tall vases around the hearth or adding great accessories to your mantel,” Says Liz Toombs, president of Polka Dots & Rosebud Interiors. “If you have a fireplace that is unusable, filling it with candles is a fabulous option to add that warmth.”
Throw on the throws
Throws and cozy blankets draped over couches, chairs, and benches make your space look and feel warmer as you’re cozying up on the couch with a book.
“Layer, layer, and layer some more,” Tabb says,. What goes better with your favorite flannel PJs than a cashmere tartan throw?
Get ready for the elements
Get your entryway or mudroom fall-ready with beautiful and practical accessories. Add on interesting boot tray near the entrance, which can be a great-looking accessory – and also plenty useful for wet and dirty shoes. Same goes for a decorative umbrella holder, which will save your floors on those dark and stormy nights (and days).
Lay down some table linens
If you’ve been defining alfresco all summer, it’s time to pay attention to your neglected dining room table with some great fall linens.
“A quality table linen set not only warms up and decorates your dining room in the cooler months, but also serves a key functional purpose for holiday entertaining,” says Erin Brownstore, owner of Wolf & Irving Table Linens. “They’re especially amazing to have when staging homes, since it adds a warm touch that helps a family picture their holiday gatherings.”
Cozy up your cocktails
Cassie Crooke, studio manager for Rumor Design and reDesign, reminds people not to forget their bar area when it comes to fall preparations. “Refresh your bar cart or wet bar with seasonal spirits and accompanying mixers for fabulous fall cocktails at a moments notice. When the weather cools down, we are always drinking hot toddies, so assorted teas and a honey pot are perfect on-hand ingredients. Copper mugs ass beautiful color to a fall vignette, so having mule mixers like ginger beer and limes handy is also a great idea.”
realtor.com/homeimprovement:Julie Ryan Evans