Easy, Budget-Friendly Fall Decorations You Can Make in Minutes

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Fall decorating doesn’t have to cost a fortune or take all weekend. A few pumpkins, some pretty stems and things you already have around the house can make your home feel warm and cozy in no time. Here are easy ideas, most under $10, including a couple the kids can make all by themselves.

5-minute pumpkin centerpiece

Pick up a small pumpkin and a few bunches of fall flowers or faux stems on sale at the craft store. Cluster the stems in a jar or low vase and set the pumpkin beside it on a wooden board or tray. Add a few mini gourds, pinecones or candles and you’re done.

Kid-made yarn pumpkins

Kids can make these in minutes: wrap orange yarn around a ball of yarn or a toilet paper roll stuffed with tissue, then tuck a cinnamon stick or twig in the top for a stem and add a felt leaf. They’re perfect for a windowsill or mantel.

Grapevine wreath

Start with a plain grapevine wreath (or twist your own from vines in the yard). Tuck in leftover ribbon, faux leaves, mini pumpkins or berries with floral wire or hot glue. A simple burlap bow finishes it.

More easy fall ideas

• Mason jar candles: fill jars with dried corn, coffee beans or acorns and nestle a tea light or LED candle on top.
• Leaf garland: string real pressed leaves or paper leaves the kids cut out.
• Pumpkin tea lights: hollow out mini pumpkins and set a battery tea light inside.
• Cozy textures: swap in plaid throws, flannel pillow covers and a basket of blankets.
• Simmer pot: orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves and apple peels in a pot of water on low make the house smell like fall.

Tips for decorating on a budget

• Shop end-of-season sales and store decorations in labeled bins for next year.
• Bring the outdoors in: branches, pinecones, acorns and leaves are free.
• Choose neutral pumpkins (white, sage, cream) that work from September through Thanksgiving.
• Use real pumpkins outside and faux ones inside so they last.

FAQ

When should I put up fall decorations?

Any time after Labor Day! Neutral fall decor can stay up through Thanksgiving.

How do I make real pumpkins last longer?

Keep them out of direct sun and off damp surfaces. Don’t carve them until a day or two before Halloween.

Are battery candles better?

Around kids, pets and dried leaves, yes. They’re safer and still look cozy.

You might also like:

• Cranberry Votive Holder
• Create a Cozy Reading Nook