As the air turns crisp and the leaves begin to change, there’s no better time to cozy up your home with warm, inviting fall decor. But let’s face it—decorating can get pricey. Don’t worry, though! You can transform your space into an autumn wonderland using items you already have at home, things found in nature, and a few inexpensive purchases.

Let’s dive into some easy and affordable DIY fall decor ideas that will make your home look festive without breaking the bank!

Upcycle Items from Around the House

Before you head to the store, take a look around your home. You’d be surprised how many everyday items can be turned into chic fall decor with a little creativity.

• Mason Jar Lanterns: If you have extra mason jars lying around, turn them into candleholders or lanterns! Simply place a tea light or small candle inside and decorate the outside with twine, dried leaves, or even some cinnamon sticks for that cozy fall scent.
• Old Sweaters: Got a sweater you no longer wear? Cut it up to cover old pillow inserts or create a cozy centerpiece by wrapping the fabric around glass vases.
• Wine Bottles: Empty wine bottles can make elegant vases. Paint them with fall colors like orange, red, or gold, and display dried wheat or branches for a simple yet stylish look.

Bonus Tip: Use a glue gun to attach pinecones, leaves, or burlap to any of your upcycled items for an extra fall touch.

Nature’s Bounty: Decorating with Found Items

One of the best things about fall is that nature provides plenty of decorating materials—for free! Take a walk outside and gather items like leaves, pinecones, acorns, and branches, then get crafty.

• Leaf Garlands: Collect colorful fall leaves and string them together using twine or fishing line. Hang your garland along your mantle or around door frames for a pop of fall color.
• Pinecone Bowl Centerpiece: Fill a bowl or basket with pinecones, acorns, and mini pumpkins for a rustic, natural centerpiece. You can even spray-paint some pinecones gold or silver to add a bit of sparkle!
• Branch Arrangements: Find bare branches and arrange them in a vase for a minimalist, modern look. Wrap fairy lights around the branches for a warm glow in the evenings.

Inexpensive Finds at the Dollar Store or Thrift Shops

If you’re willing to spend just a few dollars, the dollar store or a local thrift shop is your best friend for affordable fall decor.

• Dollar Store Pumpkins: You can find small foam or plastic pumpkins for just a couple of bucks. Paint them to match your color scheme or cover them in fabric or burlap for a cozy, farmhouse look.
• Affordable Faux Flowers: The dollar store often carries faux flowers in rich fall tones like burgundy, orange, and yellow. Use them to create a DIY wreath or add them to vases around your home.
• Thrifted Candleholders: Check out your local thrift shop for cheap candlesticks, which you can pair with fall-scented candles like cinnamon or pumpkin spice for an inviting autumn vibe.

DIY Wreaths: A Classic Fall Welcome

Nothing says “fall” quite like a wreath on your front door. And the best part? You can make your own with just a few materials—many of which you can gather from nature or find on sale.

• Grapevine Wreath: Start with a plain grapevine wreath base (which you can find at most craft stores or online for a few dollars). Add in some faux flowers, pinecones, and small pumpkins. Finish off with a bow made from burlap ribbon.
• Cinnamon Stick Wreath: For a wreath that smells as good as it looks, glue cinnamon sticks around a foam or wire base, and embellish it with dried oranges or small pinecones. You’ll have a fragrant wreath that sets the tone for the season!

Pumpkin Alternatives: Get Creative!

While pumpkins are a fall staple, they can sometimes be pricey—especially the larger ones. Luckily, there are plenty of alternatives!

• Painted Pinecones: Instead of pumpkins, paint pinecones in vibrant fall colors or even metallics for a modern twist. Arrange them in a basket or around your mantel.
• Paper Bag Pumpkins: Don’t want to spend on real pumpkins? Grab some brown paper bags, stuff them with newspaper, and tie the top with twine. Paint or decorate them for an adorable DIY pumpkin alternative.

---

You don’t have to spend a fortune to fill your home with the warmth and beauty of fall. By using what you already have, taking advantage of nature’s free offerings, and hitting up budget-friendly stores, you can create cozy, autumn-inspired decor that will have everyone asking where you got it.

Feeling inspired? For more DIY fall decor ideas, check out sites like Good Housekeeping and Pinterest for tutorials and inspiration.

Happy decorating! 🍂

Related: Decorate like a TikToker With These Trends