Easy Fall Décor DIYs You Can Do in an Afternoon

When the air turns crisp and pumpkin spice lattes make their grand return, you know it’s officially cozy season. And while store-bought Halloween and fall decorations can be fun, they’re not always stylish (or budget-friendly). That’s why DIY fall décor is such a game-changer. It lets you create pieces that match your home’s vibe, add personality, and save money in the process.

Whether you’re decorating for Halloween, Thanksgiving, or just want your home to feel warm and welcoming, these 10 chic and easy DIY fall décor ideas are perfect for moms decorating with kids, renters sprucing up small apartments, or millennials who want a Pinterest-worthy space for cozy gatherings.

The best part? These projects are affordable, beginner-friendly, and easy to customize. Let’s get crafting!

1. Velvet Pumpkins (No Sewing Required)

Forget the shiny plastic pumpkins from the store—velvet pumpkins bring soft texture and luxury into your home.

What you’ll need:

• Velvet fabric (any color: rich burgundy, emerald, cream, or classic orange)

• Small pumpkins (real or foam)

• Hot glue gun

• Cinnamon sticks or twigs (for stems)

  
  

How to make it:

1. Cut a square of velvet big enough to wrap your pumpkin.

2. Place the pumpkin in the center, gather the fabric around the stem, and tuck the ends into the top with glue.

3. Replace the original stem with a cinnamon stick or twig for a rustic finish.

   
   

These look gorgeous as a coffee table centerpiece or lined along a mantle. Pro tip: choose a variety of sizes for a layered effect.

2. Painted Pumpkins in Neutral Tones

For a modern twist, ditch the carving knives and instead give pumpkins a paint makeover.

Supplies:

• Pumpkins (real or faux)

• Acrylic or chalk paint in neutral shades (cream, sage, matte black, dusty rose)

• Optional: gold leaf or metallic paint

  
  

Instructions:

• Wipe pumpkins clean and apply 2 coats of paint.

• Add metallic accents with a sponge or stencil for designs like stars, moons, or geometric patterns.

  
  

This look is especially chic for apartments, where you might not want pumpkin guts all over the kitchen. Painted pumpkins last longer too, making them a perfect budget-friendly fall décor option.

3. Pumpkin Candle Holders

Candles make any room feel cozy, and pumpkins turn them into seasonal showstoppers.

You’ll need:

• Small pumpkins (pie pumpkins or mini gourds)

• Knife + spoon

• Tealights or votive candles

  
  

Steps:

1. Cut out the top of the pumpkin and scoop a shallow cavity.

2. Place your candle inside (battery-operated ones are a safer option for families).

3. Arrange several down your dining table or entryway for instant autumn charm.

   
   

4. Dried Orange Garland

This old-fashioned DIY is simple but incredibly beautiful.

Supplies:

• 4–5 oranges

• Baking tray + parchment

• Twine + needle

  
  

Instructions:

1. Slice oranges into thin rounds and bake at 200°F (95°C) for 3–4 hours until dry.

2. Thread slices onto twine or string, spacing them out like beads.

3. Hang across a window, mantel, or above your dining table.

   
   

It adds warmth and a subtle citrusy scent—perfect for cozy gatherings.

5. Mason Jar Leaf Lanterns

Bring the magic of autumn leaves indoors.

What you need:

• Mason jars

• Mod Podge (or clear glue)

• Pressed fall leaves

• Tea lights or fairy lights

  
  

How to make:

1. Brush Mod Podge onto a mason jar and stick pressed leaves around it.

2. Coat with another thin layer of glue to seal.

3. Drop in a candle or fairy lights.

   
   

They cast a beautiful glow that feels rustic yet whimsical.

6. Pumpkin Vase Centerpiece

Why buy a vase when you can make one out of a pumpkin?

Materials:

• Medium pumpkin

• Knife + spoon

• Jar or cup (to hold water)

• Fresh or dried flowers (pampas grass looks amazing)

  
  

How-to:

1. Hollow out the pumpkin and place a jar inside.

2. Fill with water (if using fresh flowers).

3. Arrange your bouquet for a stunning fall centerpiece.

   
   

This is a show-stopper for Thanksgiving dinner or a Halloween party.

7. Cinnamon Stick Candle Wraps

This DIY looks elegant but takes minutes to make.

You’ll need:

• Pillar candle

• Cinnamon sticks

• Twine or ribbon

  
  

Instructions:

1. Place cinnamon sticks vertically around the candle.

2. Wrap with twine or ribbon to hold them in place.

   
   

Not only does it look rustic, but the cinnamon releases a subtle scent when warmed.

8. Cozy Blanket Ladder

Fall décor isn’t just about pumpkins—texture matters too.

DIY option:

• Use wood planks or repurpose an old ladder.

• Sand, stain, or paint to match your style.

• Lean it against the wall and drape blankets over it.

  
  

It’s functional, stylish, and creates that Pinterest-perfect cozy corner.

9. Acorn & Pinecone Bowl Fillers

Bring nature indoors with a quick DIY centerpiece.

Supplies:

• Pinecones and acorns (collected or store-bought)

• Spray paint (gold, copper, or white)

• Decorative bowl

  
  

Steps:

1. Spray paint pinecones and acorns.

2. Let dry and pile them into a wooden or ceramic bowl.

   
   

It’s an easy 10-minute project that instantly adds fall warmth to any table.

10. Plaid Pillow Covers

Textiles are the easiest way to cozy up your home.

DIY hack:

• Take plaid scarves or blankets.

• Wrap them around existing throw pillows.

• Secure with safety pins or quick stitching.

  
  

Instantly your living room feels ready for fall—no need to buy new décor.

The magic of fall decorating lies in the little details. By combining natural elements (pumpkins, leaves, pinecones) with cozy textures (velvet, plaid, knits) and warm lighting, you can create a seasonal space that feels welcoming, festive, and personal.