Dotting decorative books around your home creates the perfect balance between attractive aesthetics and practicality. I wouldn’t use your favorite reads to decorate your home, though. When you want to curl up on the sofa with a good book, what would happen to your decor?
Stacked book decor is a great way to keep your home looking stunning while keeping your well-loved books ready to be read whenever you like. Read on for where to find decorative books and, most importantly, how to style them.
The simplest place to find decorative books is to dig through your own collection. Do you have any old reads that you don’t touch anymore? Dig out those dusty tomes, clean them up, and match similar colors, styles, and sizes.
If you don’t have any yourself, you can always try heading for a thrift shop or browsing second-hand stores. People donate and give away books all the time. You might find some pre-loved finds that will look perfect in your home.
Books By The Foot is an organization that can also help out in this area. They rescue books from all over the country, processing tens of thousands daily. You can buy packages according to color, style, etc., – whatever you need to create the aesthetic of your dreams.
Depending on your style, there are a variety of different styles of decorative books that might pique your interest. If you’re a fan of rescuing secondhand books, you might like the old-fashioned style of older books. Very shabby-chic with their worn leather, musty pages, and traditional style.
For those who prefer a more modern take, white decorative books have also been growing in popularity. You can specifically seek out monochrome books to group together. This will look especially good styled with marble tabletops and other modern, clean aesthetics.
If you like having a splash of color in your life, why not go for more colorful additions in your home? You can choose books of the same color palette, or go all out and create a rainbow stack. Of course, this will depend on what colors you can find. But, sometimes the sourcing of all the different colors makes it all the more fun.
Once you’ve got the color and style of your books sorted, it comes down to choosing the placement of them.
Many people choose to buy decorative books for coffee tables, fanning them out artfully as a central statement. This can also work on side tables and even extensive dining tables – so long as you leave room for the food! Place the books next to flowers and plants to soften up the area.
Something that works particularly well for rainbow collections and rustic books is stacked book decor. Pile them high or pile them low. This arrangement looks good whether you’ve got three books or ten. Use stacks of books to break up a traditional bookcase or to complete a mantelpiece.
You could get creative and use stacked books as plant stands or side tables. Be careful not to put anything too valuable or heavy on top of them, though! A teetering pile of books is no place for a treasured vase.
Get More Decorating Inspiration
Looking for more ideas to go with your artful decorative books? Look no further – I’ve got you covered with these other decor posts:
Nothing says ‘I love you’ like a handmade gift, and a DIY Sharpie mug is a perfect thing for your dad this Father’s Day – or any loved one on any day! It’s super easy to make, and you’ll end up with a classy, personalized gift that they’re sure to love.
My favorite thing about these mugs is that they can be totally customized—whatever message, color, and style you think dad would like can be done. This is also an easy and cheap Father’s Day gift that anyone from toddlers to grown-ups can make.
Take a few minutes beforehand and think about what design would suit your mug. Maybe you have an inside joke with someone and you’d like to remember it forever on a mug? Maybe your dad is a sports fan and you could create him his very own unique merchandise! Whatever it is, your plain mug is a perfect blank canvas for you to get creative with.
You also don’t need to have major art skills to do this DIY. It’s all about choosing the right stickers, so you’re not really limited to what you can draw.
How To Make A DIY Sharpie Mug
Making this DIY sharpie mug couldn’t be easier! Gather your supplies and get to work. Dad will love this homemade Father’s Day gift idea, but the fun thing about this project is you can customize it for any holiday or need.
To make DIY painted mugs, there are a few different things you need. These can easily be found in a local craft store or even in the dollar store. To make it simple, I’ve linked the supplies below with affiliate links from Amazon so you have the option to purchase there as well.
Add your stickers to your coffee mug. For Father’s Day, pick ones saying things like ‘#1 DAD’ or ‘Dad Rocks!’ similar to the ones I’ve linked above. Of course, for other occasions, pick ones customized to the event or person. Make sure that you smooth out the stickers carefully, so there are no wrinkles or air bubbles trapped underneath that could disrupt the pattern.
Color your mug however you would like. Some people prefer to draw geometric patterns, others like a plain white color to draw attention to the stickers. You can do whatever you prefer, but just make sure that you color over the stickers.
Once your mug is decorated, place it in the oven at 350 degrees for 40 mins. Once the time has run out, turn off the oven but keep mugs in the oven until it is completely cooled.
Peel off your stickers and you now have a personalized mug for Father’s Day! Wrap it in a cute gift box or wrap it in tissue paper to complete the gift and make sure it doesn’t get broken before they get to see it.
Remember that the mugs will be hand wash only. They can’t go in a dishwasher, or else the color will start to fade or peel off – and a plain white mug is nowhere near as fun!
Do I have to use stickers?
You can of course simply draw on with Sharpie – the stickers are there as a guideline, and so you can have picture-perfect designs on your mug. But if you’re artistically inclined, then you might want to have a go at drawing your own unique pattern!
Check Out Other DIY Posts
Still feeling crafty? Don’t stop now! Here are some other fun craft ideas for you – maybe they would make good gifts to go alongside your DIY Sharpie mug?
When it turns to sweater weather, these fall mantel decor ideas will help you fill your home with rustic charm.
What is your favorite thing about fall? Is it the cooler weather, the warm coffees, or the rich and vibrant hues of orange and yellows? I love all of it! Bring on the oversized sweaters and hot coffee. This is the best season of all!
When it comes to decorating my home for fall, I always go straight to the mantel first. It’s the easiest spot and is so fun to arrange.
Simple Fall Mantel Decor Ideas
I found some of the easiest and most charming ideas online and brought them here. Check them out; I think you’ll enjoy them too. Some of them remind me of something Joanna Gaines would do, while some are more rustic and others cozy.
No matter what kind of aesthetic you create in your home, I’m sure you’ll find something you love in this post.
Yellow And Orange Mantel
Sometimes all you need to do is add some yellow and orange colors to your mantel. These tiny changes from Ideas for the Home by Kenarry make a huge difference.
Vertical Decor
If you have lots of space above your fireplace, use that vertical space wisely. I love how Worthing Court made the windowpane in the middle the tallest piece. It makes the entire room feel taller. Here’s a similar style if you want to try this look on your mantel!
Balance and Symmetry
Another really important thing to consider as you design your mantel is to maintain balance and symmetry. This mantel from Stone Gable Blog is exquisitely balanced – top and bottom, and both sides are equal.
Decorate With Books
If you don’t have a fireplace, decorate a bookshelf or entertainment center. Cherished Bliss used some pumpkins and other autumn decor pieces with her books. I love how cozy it turned out.
DIY Fall Garland or Banner
This is the perfect season to create your own DIY Fall garland. The orange and yellow sunflowers are another really simple touch that makes this mantel from Hawthorne and Main look so perfect.
Pretty Words
Decorating with words is becoming increasingly popular every year. I love how Tater Tots and Jello used both a wooden letter board and framed chalkboard to create a farmhouse fall mantel. It’s warm and inviting.
Rustic Wheat Mantel
The best way to decorate for fall is to use items from nature as a centerpiece. I love how Blooming Homestead created a backdrop for this DIY wheat wreath out of reclaimed wood. The entire thing is sheer farmhouse genius!
Not in the mood for a DIY? Check out this beautiful wheat wreath from Pottery Barn.
Vases On A Fall Mantel
On my Fall Home Tour, I shared my gorgeous modern fall mantel decor. Everything is balanced, and there’s so much texture. I loved how the stainless steel vases complement the more rustic wooden elements so well.
Orange and Black Wreath
Making your own fall wreath is a really easy way to decorate for fall! Home Fresh Ideas shows you how to make a wreath that’s perfect for transitioning to Halloween (I love that candy corn).
Blue And Green
It’s ok to deviate from the whites, oranges, and yellows you typically see on fall mantels. This one from The Happy Housie uses green and blue as the main colors, and it is quite charming.
Orange and Brown Leaves
Orange is a classic color of fall. There are ways to use it on your fall mantles that will bring bright, exciting shades of autumn to your room. This mantel from The DIY Village uses leaves in the garland and the wreath.
Family Photo Centerpiece
Use a layered creative photo frame to show off your family portrait and decorate around it for fall. I love using family pictures as the centerpiece! The rustic milk pail and felt pumpkins from Craft Create Cook all pair together perfectly.
Pumpkins and Squash
As you decorate your mantle, use a variety of similar items. Unexpected Elegance used both pumpkins and squash of diverse shades and shapes. They are both on top of the mantel and at the bottom on the floor.
Printable Wall Art
I love finding free wall art printables, and this mantel uses some that you can download for free. Download them from Wonder Mom Wannabe. They will spruce up your wall beautifully.
Blessed Fall Mantel
The top of a piano makes an ideal place to decorate in lieu of a fireplace mantel. An Oregon Cottage used two different garlands with simple flowers and pumpkins on top.
Small Fireplace Decor
Don’t think you need an expansive fireplace to decorate for fall. Anderson and Grant decorated a small electric fireplace mantel with levels, interesting textures, and antiques. It all works together so tastefully.
Rae Dunn Inspired Pumpkins
Do you like Rae Dunn? You can create your own painted pumpkins that look just like the real thing. This tutorial uses a Cricut, so if you have one, you can make these pretty pumpkins for your mantel.
Kitchen Mantel
What other spaces in your home lend themselves to be decorated for fall? Duke Manor Farm created a charming shelf in their kitchen. They used pumpkins and a watercolor painting of pumpkins to set the autumnal mood.
Painted Shutters
Fans of antiques and rustic decor, this one is for you! I think my favorite thing from this mantel is the pair of shutters that hold the wreath. It adds height to the mantel. I also love the touches of blue inside the book and on the antique glass.
DIY Craft Projects On the Mantel
As the weather becomes colder, it is the ideal time for arts and crafts. This mantel from Sustain My Craft Habit is full of things you can make yourself. From the painted canvas to the gold and white pumpkin, this is a crafter’s dream come true.
Rustic Pumpkin With Monogram
When you personalize your fall mantel decor, you add a unique touch to your home. This mantel from Staying Close To Home brings the outdoors in with the vibrant garland and the rustic rope pumpkin. The orange L is the ideal way to personalize it.
Halloween-Inspired Fall Mantel
Decorating for fall is so much fun – and I especially love using Halloween decor to get the season started off right. This spooky combination of thrifted framed art and wicked mini-pumpkins make the perfect mantel decor.
The Secret To Fall Mantel Decor Ideas
Did you find any ideas that you will try to copy? I hope so! If you want to create your own ideas, there are just a few things you need to remember: balance, colors, and texture.
Create a centerpiece and then balance it on either side equally. If there are too many things on one side and not another, just move things around.
Try to limit your mantel to just a few colors. The most admirable mantels will have just one main color and a few accent colors around them.
An easy way to do it is to add a variety of textures: leaves, different fabrics, and layers of picture frames.
No matter what, if it makes you happy, then do it!
Pumpkins aren’t only used for Halloween – they are an all-around fall favorite item to use in your decor. Here’s a few ideas on how to use pumpkins in your home to decorate for fall and for the whole fall season.
When you think of Halloween, you think of cold weather, scary costumes, and pumpkin carving. While pumpkins are usually associated with Halloween, they also play a major role in fall decor. These days you can’t find fall-style inspiration without pumpkins included somewhere.
The fun thing about using pumpkins is that there is no shortage of ideas and design. You can use these items all through the inside and outside of the home. Fresh or fake, they make the perfect addition to any shelf, porch, or mantel.
Let’s dive into the different ways how to use pumpkins in your home as fall decor.
1. Make Flower Pot Pumpkins
Instead of your typical flower pots, try pumpkin planters! Hollow out some large and small pumpkins and plant some succulents or plants. Keep the plants in their original pot so that the plant stays alive. Simply place the plant inside of the pumpkin and let it grow.
Line the pumpkin with mesh or decorative cloth and carve out a message or designs. This adds extra detail to the pumpkin pots.
2. Fill a Vintage Bucket with Pumpkins
You’ve seen the farmhouse buckets full of flowers or shrubbery placed on the front porch for curb appeal, right? Instead of flowers, create a bucket o’ pumpkins! Just place some in a variety of shapes and sizes in a bucket until it’s full.
You can pack half of the bucket with moss and the rest with pumpkins to give it a fuller look. This is a great idea to use inside your living room or outside on the front porch.
3. Spruce Up the Dining Room Table
For an autumn-inspired tablescape, lay a table runner across the center of your table. If your table is round, use the runner that best fits. Pick up pumpkins of all sizes – large, medium, and small. Depending on the size table you have, about three of each will do just fine.
Layer them onto the table runner in the center of the table. Add your decorative plates and drinkware to finish off the look!
4. Living Room Full of Pumpkins
If you have a fireplace mantel or couch table in your living room, spruce it up with pumpkins in a clear vase. Purchase a few glass cylinder vases and a few mini pumpkins. Then, place the vases in the desired space and add the mini pumpkins in until they are all full.
You can choose to decorate the vase with ribbon or a bow to finish off the look.
5. Scented Pumpkins in the Bathroom
Take away the boring flowers from your vanity and add in some scented craft pumpkin bathroom decor. You can find these at any craft store in your area. Get a few large pumpkins and a few small ones for each bathroom. I’d say about five per bathroom should work.
Place them in the center of your double sink or in the corner of your guest bathroom counter. Add them to a basket and place them on the back of the toilet for a natural deodorizer.
6. Add Them to Fill Space
Use small or medium-sized pumpkins to fill up space on your dressers, tables, bookshelves, and countertops. It’s as simple as that!
Go through your home and find spots that need filling: up against a picture frame, between two candles, or next to a decorative lamp. There will be small spaces to fill all through your home.
7. Wrap Pumpkins with Lights
Wrap some large pumpkins with Christmas lights and place them outside to light up your outside space. Use them to illuminate your walkway or doorway. If you have a covered patio or porch, use them around the chairs and seating areas for ambiance.
A fun tip for wrapping pumpkins in lights for when winter comes around, replace the lights with red and green. This way, you can keep the pumpkins outside with colored lights for a Christmassy feel!
8. Get Creative and Paint Them
Similar to carving pumpkins, painting pumpkins is even more fun because you don’t have as much mess to clean up. You can paint large pumpkins with fun messages or house numbers.
Use smaller pumpkins as decor to go with the color scheme. No need to stick with the traditional orange pumpkins – even neutral or rustic colors are great!
To be even more creative, trying painting different patterns or faces on your pumpkins. A great craft for kids is to create pumpkin farm animals. Make your favorite farm animals, such as a dog, a cow, or a goat, out of a pumpkin!
Fall Pumpkin Decor: A Must-Have for the Season
Incorporate more pumpkins into your decor for the fall season this year. You don’t have to stick with the tradition like classic orange pumpkins or pumpkin carving. There is no right way to decorate for the fall. Add your own unique creativity when using pumpkins as decor. Make it fun, make it simple and make it festive!
Create a cozy fall space in your home by adding seasonal accents and colors to your everyday household items. Use natural shades with splashes of harvest colors to produce a modern fall decor look.
If you look outside, the leaves have started to change color and fall. You can find pumpkins at your local stores and fall fragrance is beginning to fill the air. The weather is getting cooler and the year is coming to a close. What does all of this mean?
It means it is time for the fall season!
Break out the seasonal decor, weather your linens for the cold, store the summer candles away, and start prepping for the holidays.
The fall season is one of the most looked-forward-to seasons of the year. This may be due to its cozy feel, fashionable winter clothing, holidays, or pumpkin spice lattes. There is no one reason why fall is so popular, it is a mix of things that many people love!
So, when the time to decorate for fall comes back around, we all jump for joy! The stores start stocking up with adorable fall and holiday items, and each year there is always a new idea brewing. How can I top my decor from last year?
Keep It Simple with Modern Fall Decor
Want to know how easy it is to decorate with modern fall decor? It’s as easy as adding a few seasonal accent pieces to your everyday items and decor. You can use outdoor items such as tree trimming and acorns as accent pieces as well.
It will last you all season long and when Christmas rolls around, all you have to do is add a tree and change out your pillows!
If you’re looking for an affordable and cheap way to decorate for the fall, this is it!
Start With The Living Room
This decor from Modern-Glam brings out the simplicity of modern decor with a splash of fall aesthetic. They use their everyday items but spruce them up with seasonal flowers and colorful wall decor. They changed out their pillows to reflect harvest and autumn, which pairs perfectly with their accent chair. Just add an orange and white plaid blanket over the couch to really pull this look together!
This look from Better Homes and Gardens incorporates more deep red and orange shades. It brings out autumn colors and mixes them with their cream-colored furniture. Add a centerpiece to your coffee table and a few accents to your mantle. Keep it simple while making it pop.
Lead To The Kitchen
Check out this kitchen decor by Cherished Bliss. If you look closely, you can see that the only “fall” piece is the vase and brush. They used a white vase with some seasonal flowers. It is simple but noticeable. Add in a beige kitchen towel to throw the modern fall decor look together even more.
This modern kitchen from Boxwood Avenue has beautiful gold trims and a great modern aesthetic. They added pumpkin decor and seasonal flowers to give this kitchen a hint of harvest colors, bringing out the fall look.
Hang Out In The Dining Room
This dining room via Modsy has a common modern farmhouse look. It is simple and elegant, but when you look at the picture, it reminds you of a cozy fall evening. Utilize the color black when decorating for a more modern take. With colors such as black and white, you keep it simple but cozy.
These place settings are the perfect modern fall decor for your dining room table. Keep the pattern of black and white and throw in patterns such as plaid and wicker. This tablescape by SBK Living has all of the perfect colors for a fall dining room table. You see hints of gold and wicke4r but at the same time uses the black and white colors generously.
Cozy Up The Bedrooms
This modern bedroom look from Jane at Home is simply perfect. Change out your plants to seasonal flowers and add a splash of a mustard color. Add a blanket across the bed and you’re done!
The plant and tree decor on the nightstand makes the bedroom by Rhiannon Lawson Blog feel woodsy and gives off a modern fall vibe. The orange pillows and blankets add another touch of harvest colors and look cozy topped off with the wooden tray on the bed. Festive yet simple!
Add Some Spice To The Bathrooms
Use dry plants and barley as fall decor inside of vases like Taryn Whiteaker did here. Clear and white vases pair especially well when wanting a more modern look. You could even add some leaves from outside to the bottom of a clear vase to make the look pop.
This photo fromOne Kin Design utilizes the shelf space in their bathroom to display modern fall decor. They kept their usual color scheme and used fall decor items such as pumpkins and wreaths to keep the modern look going for the fall. The simple splash of color from the vase in the corner pulls the whole look together in my opinion!
To Wrap It up
When decorating for a modern style, keep in mind that using natural accents as well as black, white, and beige decor is great for the fall, but can also be used year-round. These simple additions to your home decor give off a cozy ambiance perfect for the season.
When choosing decor pieces for a modern look, using items such as pumpkins, flowers, and other fall accessories in a harvest-inspired color scheme. When you start changing the pillows and linens, choose plaid patterns and add in some velvet for some simple added texture.
The great thing about modern fall decor is that you can update it for each season. When fall comes around, all you need to do is add in some patterns and splash in a few harvest hues. Switch out your plants to be eucalyptus, sunflowers, and hydrangeas too.
The modern fall look is simple but very cozy. You can turn your everyday furniture and decor into a seasonal ambiance. Utilize darker colors mixed with natural shades, and you’ll see your space come together!
I hope you enjoyed this modern fall decor inspiration and that it helps you create the ultimate fall-inspired space in your home!
Decorating your home for the holidays can be challenging when you can’t see the big picture, right? Check out these beautiful kitchen designs and pick your favorite fall kitchen decorfor this year!
As fall is making its way back to us, this means it is time to bust out our pumpkin decor, colorful vases, and fall candles. And your kitchen space is not a place to neglect when decorating your home for the fall season. Although it is not exactly a place to cozy up and watch a movie in, it is a place to entertain. So, this means that decor for the season is totally necessary for your kitchen!
You won’t want to go too overboard when decorating your kitchen space. Remember, you still have to cook, which means it will get messy daily. You won’t want to be moving a bunch of stuff off the counters or getting sauce on the decor items. Make it simple and easy – but eye-catching!
Take a look at these gorgeous kitchens below decorated to fall perfection. Find the style that works for you and DIY it yourself. You can find most of the decor at your local craft store or dollar tree.
Fall Kitchen Decor
1. Decor for Kitchen Cabinets
This is a warm and inviting decor idea for a kitchen with space above your cabinets. Kimberly Baudin on Pinterest used seasonal garland to add depth to the top and spaced out decor items such as pumpkins and flowers. Using vertical space keeps the countertops clean and really highlights the beautiful centerpiece on the island.
2. Fall Shelf Decor
If you have a lot of open sheving like Modern Glam’s kitchen does, this is a great idea to try in your home. They have a bright and open kitchen space with fall colors and strategically spaced decor. You can see that they use everyday items such as cutting boards and ingredient containers mixed in with pumpkins and fall ceramics. They simply added in small decor items to give the kitchen a pop of fall!
3. All White Decor for Fall
This kitchen from Life with Mar is the perfect example of a white pumpkin fall. The entire kitchen is brightened with white and hints of bolder fall colors sprinkled in. Add some wreaths to the back of your bar stools, create a decorative table placement for each chair and add some decorative fall soap. This kitchen is subtly decorated but still captures the comfortability and coziness of fall.
4. Autumn Color Inspired Decor
If this kitchen by Golden Boys & Me doesn’t scream Autumn, then I don’t know what does. You can see the hints of autumn hues throughout this fall kitchen decor! This color scheme was implemented perfectly. You have different shades of reds, oranges, soft yellows, and greens with beige. Plus, with apples and pumpkins all around, you can smell the fall scents from here.
5. Decorative Kitchen Corner
Sometimes decorating for the season can be as simple as filling a corner of your kitchen with fall decor pieces. Set out a wooden tray and decorate it with pumpkins, garland, and acorns. Add in some pumpkin spice cookies or syrup, and you have a simple fall display. This kitchen from Clean and Scentsible is a great example of how you can turn one corner into eye-catching decor.
6. Fall Decor for Kitchen Nook
When decorating your kitchen for fall, you can extend the festive decor into your dining room area. Whether you have an official dining room or just a nook attached to your kitchen area, deck it out with fall decor like this home featured on Worthingcourt Blog! Create a fun centerpiece and decorative placemats to go on the table and add patterned cushions to the chairs. Setting the ambiance for your dining room area will give some credit to your kitchen as well.
7. Farmhouse Fall Style
This beautiful farmhouse kitchen from Sanctuary Home Decor is elegant and rustic all at the same time. I love a good farmhouse-style home, and the addition of modern elements in this kitchen results in a space that looks open and bright. They used copper tones in their pans which complement the cutting boards, pears, and flowers beautifully. It is consistent throughout the kitchen but not enough to overpower the white. The color combination is a great nod to the fall season.
8. Simple Kitchen Decor
What stood out the most in this kitchen decor was the use of lighting in the kitchen. Adventures in Decorating used lighting below and above the cabinets to give the space a warm tone. Mixed in with the seasonal garland, pumpkins, and orange colors, it gives this kitchen a true autumn-inspired ambiance.
9. Small Decorated Areas
If you have small shelving areas or corners in your kitchen, focusing on decorating those spaces is a good place to start. This keeps the decor localized in one area, which gives you space to continue cooking without too much in the way. This photo featured on Better Homes and Gardens shows a great example of decorating a small area in a kitchen. They added some plain coffee cups, decorative berry vines, farmhouse vases, cutting blocks, and bowls to these small shelves. White, copper, and red have been evenly distributed throughout – there isn’t too much of one tone. This is a great fall kitchen decor idea if you have one or two of these smaller spaces in your kitchen!
10. Subtle Fall Kitchen Decor
If you look at this kitchen by Styled with Lace, you immediately can tell it is fall-inspired, although it uses florals with shades of pink and red, and there aren’t warmer tones mixed in. The pumpkins, apples, and seasonal wreath are subtle yet festive pieces that make this kitchen say autumn. While this color combination works for fall, it also reminds us of winter or Christmas, so you could easily switch out decor pieces for the next holiday. This design is inviting and happy, bringing cozy fall vibes to the space while also reminding you of a beautifully crisp winter morning watching the snowfall. It makes you want to hang out and drink a hot tea or coffee, doesn’t it?
Which design was your favorite, and how will you start decorating your kitchen for this upcoming fall season? I hope these kitchen ideas inspired you to try something new or maybe even outdo your decor for last year!
Decorate your home for the fall with fun and budget-friendly decor! These DIY wooden pumpkins make a great touch to any fall decor and you get to make it your own! No more overpaying for wooden pumpkin decor, let’s create our own!
Fall is right around the corner and you know what that means? Fall decor! I always love seeing fall home decor on Pinterest or Instagram. It really puts you in the mood for a cozy season.
Needless to say, another big favorite of mine is when I can decorate on a budget and DIY my decor. Do you agree?
These DIY wooden pumpkins are so easy you will be wondering why you haven’t been using simple wood pallets or cutouts to create your own fall decor. All you need are just a few materials that you can find lying around your house or for cheap at your local craft store.
Once you gather your materials, it takes under 30 minutes to finish the project depending on design, detail, and drying time.
This DIY project is a fun activity to do with family as well and give away as gifts. Once you start making them you won’t want to stop, so why not give some to your neighbors and family.
Get the whole family in on it and let your little ones create their own pumpkin decor to put up in their room.
If you pick up a large wood pallet, I can assume you will get at least 4 pumpkins out of it. If you don’t have a large wood pallet I’ll fill you in on where to find these cutouts.
Pretty easy, right? Who knew that instead of buying those $30 pumpkins at your local craft store, you could make it yourself for under $10.
So let’s dive into crafting your very own DIY wooden pumpkin decor!
Tips for Making Wooden Pumpkin Decor
This fall I am decorating my home with these adorably cute DIY Wooden Pumpkins. They are the perfect addition to any home decor in autumn.
There are a few different types of DIY pumpkin decor. You can choose from the 2×4 wood block pumpkins or the flat wooden pumpkins. It’s as easy as 1,2,3, and here are my steps to getting started.
Have in mind the theme of your decor this year. This will play a role in how you design or paint the pumpkins.
Gather your supplies. Whether you are using cutout pieces, 2×4 blocks, or both, gather those materials.
Next, you will want to find your paint colors. You can choose any wood or craft paint, and a package of paintbrushes.
Gather any stencils you want to use and extra items to add to your pumpkins.
Sand down any rough edges on the wood with a piece of sandpaper or handy sander. (If you don’t have you, you can find one at any home improvement store or Walmart.)
Once the wood is smoothed out, it’s time to paint and design your pumpkins!
There are many different ways you can decorate with wooden pumpkins for the fall season. Whether your style is rustic, modern, white dominant, or colorful, you’ll want to match your DIY pumpkins with the rest of your home decor.
If decorating indoors, focus on mantles, centerpieces, and shelving. For outdoor, think patios, doorways, and porches.
Mantel Pumpkin Decor
This layered mantel decor from Lil Luna featuring a classic orange wooden pumpkin is so thoughtful and well executed.
Pumpkin Shelf Decor
These stacked books and wooden pumpkin combo from The Wooden Owl are perfect fall shelf decor.
Pumpkin Porch Decor
This front porch by Pretty DIY Home is a perfect example of white pumpkin decor.
Wooden Pumpkin Door Decor
This wooden pumpkin door hanger from Simple Made Pretty is a simple yet super cute fall decoration for the home!
Where To Buy Wooden Pumpkin Cutouts
Your local craft store never disappoints, right? This also holds true when looking for pumpkin cutouts to decorate and display this autumn.
You can go into any local craft almost any time of the year and find pumpkin cutouts. You will find an abundance of sizes and choices more towards the end of summer beginning of fall.
Another great element is that they are usually budget-friendly as well!
If you still can’t find any available or you don’t have access to either of these places, you can find them at Walmart, Target, and Dollar Tree.
DIY Wooden Pumpkin Tutorials
There are an endless amount of do-it-yourself projects for creating your own wooden pumpkin decor. Check out some of these ideas below for some autumn inspiration.
1. Painted Pumpkin Decor
Painting your pumpkin decor allows you to really fit your seasonal items with the style of your home. This tutorial for painted pumpkins from Kippia at Home shows examples of a classic white look, and bold colored wooden pumpkins as well.
2. Patterned Wooden Pumpkins
In case you’re in the painting mood, don’t be afraid to go bold. From stripes to polka dots to non-traditional colors, your pumpkin DIY can be totally uniquely yours. This tutorial for patterned pumpkins from Megan Plus Five is a fun one!
3. Pallet Pumpkins
A disassembled wood pallet is the perfect starting point for fall decor. Whether you just make square or rectangle pumpkin-esque decorations or are able to cut out a perfect pumpkin shape, pallet wood is a great option.
A lot like pallet wood, fence pickets are a great material to upcycle to make fall home decor. This stacked wooden pumpkin by Do Dodson Designs is so great!
5. Pumpkin Door Hanger
Craft pumpkin cut outs are a super versatile way to decorate your home for fall. To demonstrate, this wooden pumpkin door hanger DIY by The County Chic Cottage is a simple yet striking way to decorate your front door for the season.
6. 2×4 DIY Pumpkins
Even if you don’t have extra wood laying around your garage or workshop no worries, you can easily run to a home improvement store a pick up a few pieces of 2×4 wood.
Another cut of wood absolutely perfect for pumpkin decor are 4x4s! For example, check out Made To Be A Momma’s tutorial for these simple ribbon-topped wooden pumpkins.
Painting a pumpkin is the easy part! You can use any craft paint at your local craft store or wood paint. No need to buy a gallon of paint, a small ounce bottle will do just fine.
When you paint a flat pumpkin you will want to paint in strokes going up and down, not side to side. This will give the pumpkin that round shape and look. When you paint the strokes up and down you can angle the brush with a bit of a curve to it in the direction of the wood curves.
How to make a pumpkin out of pallets?
You’ll want to disassemble the wood pallet first to get each individual piece of wood on its own. After this, you will want to cut the wood boards into sections. Choose the length you want each piece to be and cut each board into the same length.
You can choose to create a box or rectangle with the cut pieces and glue them together or you can create individual pumpkins out of each cut piece.
As I mentioned above you can probably find extra wood laying around your garage or workshop, or you can easily run to a home improvement store a pick up a few pieces of 2×4 wood.
Odds are, these pieces of wood are in prime shape and ready to be made into a project!
You’ll probably want to also grab a sheet of sandpaper to smooth out the corners and faces of the woodblock.
This helps the paint go on smoother and your pumpkins look neater. Use any craft paint or wood paint and get to decorating!
Painted brick fireplace features are everywhere! Why? Because they’re the perfect, cost-effective way to bring new life to your space! Use this list to get inspired and transform your brick fireplace into something enviable.
There is nothing dreamier than exposed brick. Something about this feature reminds me of a different time when we knew where our produce came from and had our bathtubs in a kitchen closet (for convenience, of course!).
Despite these pastoral fantasies, natural brick fireplaces can leave a little to be desired. I’m talking outdated colors, crumbly exteriors, or overall shabby appearances.
There’s a simple answer to this problem – a painted brick fireplace makeover!
Give Your Fireplace a Facelift with Paint
If your brick fireplace needs a little lift, paint is your magic weapon. We all know the impact a fresh coat of paint can create, and painting brick is no exception!
Natural brick can look dated and unharmonious in your living space. By painting brick, you give it a modern facelift that looks more purposeful and impactful in your space.
I completely transformed my fireplace by giving it a quick and inexpensive whitewash. The proof is in the before and after photos.
The whitewash added life to my living space and made it look so much more modern. I love the way it brightens the space; it’s almost unrecognizable!
Add a room-changing effect to your space by trying out one of these painted brick fireplace makeovers. I guarantee you’ll love the results!
Benefits of a Painted Brick Fireplace
While I’m all about the visual appeal, there are actually several benefits to painting your brick fireplace.
Provides easy cleaning – Painting your brick will make the cleaning process so much easier! The grooves and texture of natural brick can be tricky to clean, while painted brick only requires a quick wipe!
Helps protect the brick – While painting already deteriorating brick is not a great idea, it can help protect healthy brick! It provides a sealant to help prevent fading and deterioration. It can also make deterioration slightly more visible, so you’re able to catch and fix damages quickly!
Adds harmony to the room – Natural brick stands out in a big way, and not always how you want it to. Bring back harmony to your living space by painting your brick fireplace a complementary color.
Packs a powerful punch – If you’re looking for maximum impact with minimal effort, a painted fireplace is your solution! A fireplace is a natural focal point and gathering spot in any living space. Give it that extra bit of flair to really make it shine!
Gives an inexpensive DIY lift – This project is easy and inexpensive. You can do this redesign for as little as $50 or less if you already have the supplies!
Modernizes a classic feature – Brick is a beautiful material, but when used in the wrong way, it can make a room look dated. Keep the integrity of this classic piece while giving it a modern flair with a fresh coat of paint.
10 Painted Brick Fireplace Makeovers You Can Do on a Budget
You can do a lot with a coat of paint. With seemingly unlimited options, it can be hard to decide where to start! Here are 10 painted brick fireplace makeovers to inspire you on your next DIY project.
Be sure to click over to the original blog posts to see the before and after brick fireplace makeover shots – they are amazing!
Whitewash
A whitewash offers maximum style with minimum effort. AKA – it looks a lot more complicated than it is!
Use a whitewash to give your fireplace a chic, rustic feel (think modern cottage). You can see how I whitewashed my brick fireplace here.
Gray is a super popular choice for a painted brick fireplace – and for good reason! It offers a great neutral that can contrast with light or white walls while maintaining a softer look than a black option.
It’s a versatile choice that has a harmonious appeal.
Sometimes the simplistic approach is best! Opt for a neutral paint color to tie the room together. Choose a similar paint to the surrounding walls (or the same shade!) for a seamless transition.
Add a bit of shine to your space with high gloss paint. Use this to bring life and sparkle to a neutral white fireplace. Alternatively, add a taste of high glamour with glossy, black paint.
Go beyond natural brick texture for an eye-catching fireplace! Use stencils to paint geometric patterns on your fireplace. This choice is so fun and unique to you!
This technique is similar to a whitewash but has an even more visible impact! Designed to imitate old European cottages, this style uses mortar that is “smeared” along the brick.
The results? An incredible illusion of imperfect bricks with a totally unique texture. While technically not a painted brick fireplace, the effect is so stunning I just had to include it!
For more fun with mortar, consider a mortar wash! This technique involves spreading mortar over your brick and then removing some of it before it dries down completely.
It offers a lot of character while retaining some subtlety.
If you’re looking for dramatic impact, high contrast is the choice for you! Choose black paint to contrast a white wall (or vice versa). The visual speaks for itself!
This would be a fun way to keep some of the classic charm of a brick fireplace while modernizing the rest. It also makes the brick fireplace surround really pop against the more modern shiplap.
Color is the quickest way to bring joy to a room! Choose a bold color like tangerine or cerulean to turn your fireplace into a statement piece. This modern brick fireplace makeover is sure to wow!
If you love color but find vivids too harsh, pastels are a great choice. Slight shades of lavender, baby pink, or sage add a touch of color while maintaining a neutral appeal.
Pastels can add a dreamy quality to your brick fireplace, perfect for a bedroom or cozy living space. This is one of my favorite mantel paint ideas!
Frequently Asked Questions about Painted Brick Fireplace Makeovers
How do I paint a brick fireplace?
Painting your brick fireplace is quick and easy! With this technique, you can transform your fireplace in just a few hours.
Step 1 – Clean your brick of any dust or debris. Step 2– Mix your paint. This will look different depending on your chosen technique. Step 3– Get painting! Work in small 1×1 foot sections for optimal evenness! Step 4– Decide on an optional second coat. This is optional based on your brick and preference!
Your options are endless! I know – very helpful. The color you choose is going to make a big difference to your room.
A neutral white or beige will keep the room looking clean and bright. A contrasting black or gray will have a more dramatic effect, drawing the eye with its clean lines and stark difference.
A vibrant pop of color or stenciled pattern will become a focal point of the room and bring an element of fun and surprise.
Whatever your goal is, paint can make it happen. The best part? You can always change it up! While you can’t go back to natural brick, you can always change the color later on.
Why shouldn’t you paint your brick fireplace?
While I am adamantly for painted brick, there are a few things you’ll need to consider before taking the plunge!
Many warn about painting brick because of its porous nature. Brick absorbs water when wet and when you paint over it, it traps the moisture in the brick. This can cause your brick to deteriorate over time and accentuate any imperfections in the material. It could even cause molding (yikes!).
To ensure your brick is protected, use mold and mildew-resistant paint. If your brick is in really poor condition before painting, you might want to consider an alternative project.
You’ll also want to consider potential touch-ups. While natural brick needs little to no maintenance, you’ll likely need to touch up your painted brick fireplace over time.
Finally, consider the permanence of painted brick. Once you start, you can’t go back!
Is painted brick going out of style?
All signs point to no! The painted brick fireplace is a long-lasting trend that isn’t going anywhere! The reason for its immortal popularity? It is totally customizable!
If you’re looking for a painted brick fireplace that is going to withstand the test of time, opt for a neutral palette that can fit any design style as your tastes evolve.
Final Thoughts on Painted Brick Fireplace Makeovers
A painted brick fireplace is the perfect choice to bring modern appeal to a classic feature.
The customization opportunities mean this DIY has chameleon abilities – it fits into any design preferences and style! And because this project requires minimal supplies, it also fits into any budget.
I hope this gives you the inspiration you need to transform your brick fireplace! Which fireplace makeover is your favorite? Let me know if you’re interested in trying one of these ideas in the comments down below.
It’s almost time to pull out your fall decor! These no sew fabric pumpkins are super easy to DIY. They’re the perfect addition to any room in your home.
There’s just no denying that pumpkins and fall were meant to be. Now that fall has officially arrived, pumpkins are literally everywhere you look!
I can’t tell you how many times a day I see pumpkins…everywhere. And while I love them, I also know that I have the crafty ability to make some of my very own DIY pumpkins to decorate my house as well.
If you love to craft like me, you’re going to be ecstatic about these easy no sew fabric pumpkins. Not only is it an adorable fall craft, but it’s also honestly super simple as well.
If you have the time, you can even make more than one and create your own little pumpkin patch right in your own home!
Seriously, how cute would that be?
Easy DIY fabric pumpkins
I love finding seasonal crafts that add a touch of uniqueness (and are nice to my wallet) to my house, and these no sew fabric pumpkinsare perfect for just that.
You’ll fall in love with them just like I did, and before you know it, you’ll have your very own pumpkins to see every day in your own home!
Materials needed:
Makes 1 no sew pumpkin, 5” high (including stem) x 5” wide.
Scrap Fabric – lightweight woven material such as cotton twill, broadcloth or flannel
Iron the fabric for your no sew pumpkins prior to starting to remove all creases and wrinkles.
Using scissors, cut scrap fabric into a circle shape that measures 14” in diameter. Tip for cutting fabric into a circle: Fold the fabric in fours. Measure and mark 7” along each side length and at the center length on the 45-degree angle. Cut the fabric joining the marked points. Put the circle aside.
Fill the plastic sandwich bag with ½ cup of uncooked navy beans.
Fill the rest of the bag with polyester stuffing.
Insert the driftwood into the middle of the bag through the stuffing with one end poking out of the bag in the center.
Seal the bag on both sides of the driftwood.
Loosely wrap an elastic band around the driftwood and let it fall to the top of the bag.
Lay the fabric circle (with the pretty design) facing down and place the filled bag in the center.
Begin folding the fabric edges up and into the elastic band.
Work one side at a time until all fabric edges are folded in. Adjust as needed until the look and feel of pumpkins are achieved.
Repeat all steps for as many DIY fabric pumpkins as you want to make!
Tips:
For smaller-sized no sew pumpkins, cut the fabric into a circle that measures 10” in diameter, and reduce the number of beans and stuffing inside the bag. Use a shorter piece of driftwood and follow steps 4 to 10.
If the driftwood lifts up and out as you fold in the fabric, simply push it down to where it needs to be and continue folding in the fabric
Vintage Christmas decorations are one of the most popular antiques to hunt for and collect. Whether it’s the nostalgia these decorations hold, their quirky vintage charm, or the elevated craftsmanship from the past, they are highly sought after.
Vintage designs are so revered, that modern manufacturers and big box stores boast aisles and shelves full of reproductions of vintage Christmas trees, ornaments, and other decorative elements during the holiday season.
While some people luck into inheriting an attic filled with vintage holiday décor, many find themselves scouting for these festive collectibles at stores, sales, and online.
Everything from vintage tinsel trees in exquisite condition to used Christmas cards and gift wrap is desirable. Crafters and upcyclers are especially fond of imperfect or flawed Christmas trinkets to incorporate into their holiday craft projects, such as ornaments, snowglobes, and wreaths.
Many of these sought-after antique decorations have historical ties to Germany and German manufacturers. However, popular vintage decorations in the mid-20th Century were made in Japan. Collectors and buyers often look for location stamps or tags from these countries and other locations in Europe and Asia (Taiwan, in particular).
Vintage Christmas Decorations To Collect
While all vintage Christmas decorations are potentially collectible, particular examples are more sought after and prized than others. Here are many of the most desirable and collectible vintage Christmas decorations that remain popular today:
Christmas Trees
While traditional evergreen trees were, and continue to be, a favorite element of Christmas decorating, various artificial versions are popular with collectors. One of the most coveted vintage Christmas decorations is the aluminum or tinsel tree from the mid-20th Century. Most were silver in color, but pink aluminum trees also existed. Corresponding color wheels that lit up and bounced colorful light off the metallic trees are also in high demand.
Ceramic Christmas trees were incredibly popular as tabletop trees, varying in size and embellishment (color, shape of light pegs, use of mica snow, etc.). While older versions from the 1970s and 1980s are popular for collectors, they are often missing light pegs. However, replacement pegs are available for both vintage and contemporary ceramic trees.
Bottlebrush trees are also a perennial favorite of fans of vintage Christmas décor. Vintage bottlebrush trees pre-decorated with ornaments and glitter are rarer and typically more expensive. Plainer versions, with or without artificial snow, are more easily found and particularly sought after by crafters who may prefer trimming them with beads and glitter.
These older bottlebrush trees (and modern reproductions) are essential to Christmas villages, DIY snow globes, and other craft projects, such as Christmas wreaths and ornaments.
As popular and desirable as vintage Christmas trees are, vintage ornaments are arguably the most popular Christmas decoration. And while there are older ornaments made from cardboard and wood, blown glass ornaments are what most collectors and buyers seek out.
Shiny Brite is the most recognized name in vintage Christmas ornaments, dating back to mid-19th Century Germany. However, Shiny Brite as a brand name has become synonymous with any vintage glass ornaments, regardless of the manufacturer.
From the vibrant colors to the intricate blown-glass designs, Shiny Brites are collected and prized by anyone with an affinity for nostalgic Christmas décor. Vintage Christmas fans treasure the ornament boxes for their graphics. They are incorporated into holiday vignettes, and broken ornaments are ground down into glass glitter for many craft projects.
Lights
Historically, Christmas trees were outfitted with candles to provide illumination. However, Thomas Edison changed all that with the advent of Christmas lights.
The most common vintage Christmas lights are the C7 and C9 incandescent light bulbs, which are large and teardrop-shaped. Collecting these string lights doesn’t involve plugging them in for various safety reasons; instead, the vintage bulbs are used as vase- and bowl fillers during the holidays.
Vintage bubble lights, with their bright colors and bubbling liquid, were also popular in the mid-20th Century. While modern buyers may look at them through nostalgia-colored glasses, they were pretty dangerous to use due to the chemicals in the liquid.
Holiday Fabrics and Linens
Decorating for Christmas seems incomplete without stockings on the mantel and a decorative skirt under the tree. Unsurprisingly, vintage holiday fabrics are another treasure antiquing shoppers and collectors look for.
Vintage stockings, particularly those made from felt or flannel and decorated with retro graphics, are favored by collectors. Even homemade stockings made from felt or crocheted yarn are considered heirlooms.
Other linens, such as older Christmas tablecloths, napkins, and placemats, are collectible favorites. Like other vintage Christmas decorations, these fabric pieces are favored by crafters and sewists who repurpose them into new creations.
Figurines
Regarding Christmas figurines, Santas are always the most cherished and prized of any Christmas character. Ceramic Santa Claus and other Christmas figurines made by notable brands such as Holt Howard, Napco, and Lefton are some of the more valuable ceramic collectibles. But other vintage figures made from ceramic, plaster, spun cotton, and resin are also in high demand.
Non-Santa figurines are collectible favorites, including vintage nutcrackers, elves/pixies, angels, and reindeer.
Unsurprisingly, vintage nutcracker soldiers made in Germany or Austria are some of the most collectible versions. Knee-hugging elves, which inspired Elf on the Shelf, are trendy vintage pieces. Plastic reindeer are especially popular with crafters, who use them in decorative Christmas craft projects.
We picked up this cool vintage set of 3 men on camels at a thrift shop, and we use them as our three wise men. They round out our vignette perfectly!
Putz Houses
Vintage Putz houses, those little cardboard Christmas village houses, are a treasured favorite of many vintage buyers. Like anything miniaturized, they are exceptionally charming and often embellished with mica snow, tiny bottlebrush trees, and stained-glass windows made from colorful cellophane.
It’s important to note vintage Putz houses that still have their bottlebrush trees intact are more collectible than others. The trees typically fell or broke off over time or from too much handling.
Paper Ephemera
When it comes to vintage Christmas decorations, many are made from paper or cardboard. Crafters have a particular affinity for paper ephemera, from Christmas cards and wrapping paper to old children’s books and vintage advertisements. These paper elements are ideal craft supplies for making any number of projects, including new cards, ornaments, and other mixed-media crafts.
Vintage Christmas cards and retro gift wrap are covered with graphics that feature retro fonts and imagery. Older paper ephemera, particularly Victorian postcards, are highly prized and can be quite collectible. Postcards that feature Santa Claus are considered rare and more valuable. But some vintage Christmas postcards are downright peculiar and, therefore, collected for their quirky graphics and provocative sayings.
Outdoor Christmas Decorations
Unsurprisingly, most vintage holiday decorations are used inside our homes. But there are specific outdoor decorations that vintage shoppers look for.
In particular, vintage blow molds are rare and regularly fetch extravagant prices. Large plastic Santas, snowmen, candles, and reindeer are popular and getting increasingly more challenging to find, especially if they still light up.
Collectors and decorators also favor vintage wooden sleds. They are often used as porch decorations during the holiday season, with wreaths and vintage ice skates as embellishments.
Other Collectibles
There are several other collectible vintage decorations worth noting. These include artificial flowers and greenery, glass Christmas tree toppers, mercury glass beaded garlands, and vintage Nativity sets.
Vintage toy trucks have also become very popular in modern-day Christmas decorating. The image of a vintage pickup truck bringing a Christmas tree home is incredibly iconic. Modern manufacturers often incorporate imagery onto items such as throw pillows, decorative signs, ornaments, Christmas cards, and wrapping paper.
Where To Buy Vintage Christmas Decorations
As collecting vintage Christmas decorations grows in popularity, so does the number of places that sell them. Advertising the availability of these festive collectibles is a surefire way to attract buyers, so older holiday décor is regularly displayed front and center.
Buyers looking for vintage holiday decorations should look at any of the following locations when building their collection:
Because of the rising cost of these decorations, rummaging through a parent or grandparent’s attic for vintage pieces is not to be missed if the opportunity presents itself.
But when all else fails, secondhand sellers are the best bet when looking for vintage holiday treasures. There are also dedicated sellers on sites like Instagram that host online sales; searching the #vintageChristmas hashtag (and similar variations) is an excellent way to locate their accounts.
While previous generations regularly stored their holiday decorations in attics, basements, and backyard sheds, they are best stored in climate-controlled environments.
Many vintage Christmas decorations are fragile (glass, ceramic, paper), and some embellishments (glitter, mica, flocking) can deteriorate or rub off when not stored properly.
Waterproof storage containers such as plastic tubs with locking lids are ideal for more delicate decorations. And those tubs should be kept in areas located away from extreme temperature changes or high humidity.
The most delicate ornaments, such as bubble wrap and cardboard dividers, may need additional padding and protection. Christmas fabrics should also be stored in sealed plastic tubs to protect them from potential pests (mice, insects, etc.) and mold/mildew.
A Very Vintage Holiday
While some vintage Christmas decorations are more valuable than others from a resale perspective, that doesn’t need to be a decision-making factor while shopping for them. There are vintage decorations for every budget and decorative style, conjuring different memories in all of us.
From heirloom pieces passed down over generations to nostalgic treasures found while antiquing, vintage Christmas decorations have a unique, sacred place in our memories and homes. Enjoying them in your home is the best way to keep memories of the past alive while making new ones with your loved ones each season.
