As autumn settles in, it’s the perfect time to soak up the season’s cozy vibes with some fun and creative DIY projects. Whether you’re looking to spruce up your home, craft thoughtful gifts, or add a personal touch to your Thanksgiving table, these easy fall crafts will bring a little extra warmth and joy to your autumn days. So, gather your loved ones, roll up your sleeves, and let the creativity flow!
1. DIY Fall Garland
Create a cozy, aromatic fall garland that will add color and scent to any room in your home.
Materials:
- Dried orange slices
- Cinnamon sticks
- Cranberries (real or faux)
- Faux leaves in fall colors
- String or twine
- Needle
Instructions:
- Begin by slicing oranges and drying them in the oven at 200°F (90°C) for about 2-3 hours, flipping halfway through.
- Once your oranges are dried, start assembling the garland by threading a needle with twine or string.
- Alternate between dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, cranberries, and faux leaves as you string them together.
- Make sure to leave enough space between each item to create a balanced, natural look.
- Hang your garland across a mantel, window, or doorframe to add a festive touch to your home.
Tip: Add some essential oil drops to the cinnamon sticks for an extra burst of fall fragrance.
2. Pumpkin Spice Sugar Scrub
Give your skin some seasonal love with this fall-scented sugar scrub, perfect for self-care or as a thoughtful homemade gift.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- ½ cup coconut oil (melted)
- 1 tablespoon pumpkin spice
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract (optional)
Instructions:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the sugar and pumpkin spice.
- Slowly pour in the melted coconut oil and stir until well mixed. If desired, add the vanilla extract for an extra layer of fragrance.
- Once the mixture has a sand-like consistency, spoon it into small mason jars or decorative containers.
- Seal the jars and add a festive ribbon or label. Store in a cool place until ready to use or gift.
Tip: Use the scrub in the shower to exfoliate and hydrate your skin, leaving it soft and fragrant!
3. Thanksgiving Mason Jar Vases
Bring a rustic touch to your Thanksgiving table with these easy-to-make vases that celebrate the warm hues of autumn.
Materials:
- Mason jars
- Acrylic paint in fall colors (orange, brown, gold, etc.)
- Paintbrushes
- Twine or ribbon
- Fresh flowers, dried wheat, or faux flowers
Instructions:
- Paint the mason jars in your chosen fall colors. You can opt for a single color or mix and match for a more eclectic look.
- Let the paint dry completely. If necessary, apply a second coat.
- Once dry, tie a piece of twine or ribbon around the mouth of the jar for an extra decorative touch.
- Fill the jars with fresh or dried flowers, wheat stalks, or any seasonal foliage to create a beautiful fall-inspired centerpiece.
Tip: These vases are perfect for Thanksgiving table decor or as a seasonal accent on a mantel or shelf.
4. DIY Gratitude Jar
Encourage mindfulness and gratitude this season by creating a Gratitude Jar for your family.
Materials:
- A mason jar or large container
- Decorative ribbon, stickers, or paint pens
- Small pieces of paper and a pen
Instructions:
- Start by decorating the mason jar with fall-themed stickers, ribbons, or simply writing “Gratitude Jar” on the outside with a paint pen.
- Throughout November, have family members or guests write down things they are thankful for on small slips of paper and drop them into the jar.
- On Thanksgiving Day, open the jar and take turns reading the notes aloud, reflecting on the blessings of the past year.
Tip: Make this a yearly tradition to keep gratitude at the center of your fall celebrations.
5. Fall-Scented Candles
Capture the essence of fall with homemade candles in scents like cinnamon, apple, or pumpkin spice.
Materials:
- Soy wax or beeswax
- Candle wicks
- Essential oils (cinnamon, apple, pumpkin spice)
- Jars or small containers
- Double boiler or microwave-safe bowl
- Wooden craft sticks (flat ones, like popsicle sticks)
Instructions:
- Melt the wax using a double boiler or in the microwave (in 30-second intervals, stirring between each until fully melted).
- Once melted, stir in your favorite fall-scented essential oils (about 20-30 drops, depending on the size of your candle).
- Place the candle wick in the center of your jar or container. To keep the wick upright, you can use a flat wooden craft stick: Cut a small slit in the center of the stick and thread the wick through it. Lay the stick across the top of the jar, so the wick stays straight as the wax cools.
- Carefully pour the melted wax into the jar around the wick, filling it almost to the top.
- Allow the candle to cool and harden for several hours, making sure the wick remains centered with the help of the craft stick. Once solidified, remove the stick and trim the wick to about ¼ inch before lighting.
Tip: These make lovely homemade gifts, especially when paired with a Pumpkin Spice Sugar Scrub!
6. Thanksgiving Table Centerpieces
Craft simple yet elegant centerpieces for your Thanksgiving table using natural and rustic elements.
Materials:
- Mason jars or glass containers
- Flameless Candles (pillar or tea light)
- Mini gourds, pumpkins, or pinecones
- Rustic wood slices or trays
- Cranberries or seasonal flowers
Instructions:
- Arrange the wood slices or trays in the center of your table as a base.
- Place mason jars or glass containers in the middle and add candles inside.
- Surround the candles with mini gourds, pumpkins, pinecones, cranberries, or seasonal flowers to create a festive fall display.
- Turn on the candles just before guests arrive to set the mood with a warm, welcoming glow.
Tip: You can customize the centerpiece to match your personal style by adding more or fewer elements, keeping it minimal or lush.
These fun and easy fall crafts will help you embrace the season and create a warm, inviting atmosphere in your home. Whether you’re looking for gifts, decor, or something to bring the family together, these DIY projects are sure to spark joy!
