3 Simple DIY Projects for Fall

3 Simple DIY Projects for Fall

What is it about fall that makes us want to start fresh? Maybe it's just like that famous F. Scott Fitzgerald quote: "Life starts all over again when it gets crisp in the fall." Fitzgerald was right...we always feel the need to do some cleanup come autumn, whether it's outdoors or in, be it our lawn, or closing our pool, or taking on some fun DIY projects inside the home. The fun thing about decorating inside the home (and out, really!) is that design is never really done. That means there's always another fun project to attempt on a rainy Saturday with the kids. Always another tree or flower to plant in the backyard. Always another way to switch up your lighting. We're big fans of change, when it's done right, and that's why we'll be attempting the three DIY projects below for fall. Don't worry: these are easy to do at home, easy to do with the kids on hand, and best of all, will look positively beautiful!

Frame Fall Leaves

1. Frame Fall Leaves

This is one of our absolute favorite fall DIY projects. It's just so simple. It's a great activity for kids, and encourages their artistic side to flourish. All you need to do is buy a few glass frames, and mount your favorite fall leaves inside them. Stack a series on your mantle, and voila! You've got easy art that looks fresh for fall. Like we said, this one is great to try with the kids. Take the dog on a long walk through the local park, or explore some green areas closer to home. Tell the kids to pick five of their favorite leaves off the ground, then take those home and help them frame them. Whether you display them on the mantle, in the kitchen or even in the bathroom (perfect with a pumpkin spice candle!), they're sure to look beautiful.

Acorn Candle Holders

2. Create Acorn Candle Holders

Is it just us, or do your yards fill up with acorns as soon as the leaves start to change? We swear, we could sweep our driveway every single day this fall and still not get all the acorns up and out of the way! We love autumn, but fall cleanup can be a bit of a pain. This next DIY idea is a great way to add some fun into fall cleanup, and to encourage the kids to participate. All you'll need for this project are a few mason jars (which you might have at home; if not, you can pick them up at your local hardware or grocery store), some heavy wire for hanging, and some small votive candles. To make, simple string the wire around the top of your mason jars and fashion them to hang (see the image above). Twisting the wire together will help to strengthen the bond and make it easier to hang. As another option, you can forgo the wire, and simply display the candle holders on a table or mantle. Send the kids out to collect a large bowl of acorns from the backyard, then fill each jar up about 1/4 of the way with the acorns. Place the votives inside (the acorns will keep them steady), and voila! Beautiful, fall-inspired candle holders. These are the perfect centerpiece for Thanksgiving, if you ask us.

DIY Cement Candle Holders

3. DIY Cement Candle Holders

This last project might not be as easy for the kids, but it's a great option for older children, ages 12 and up. It's a bit more involved, but still a fun weekend project for the family. You'll need a few more supplies, and the full steps can be found here. See the image above - how beautiful are these? If you make them, do let us know how it goes! This project might be a bit more complicated, but it's worth the effort: these gorgeous cement votive holders, with their rustic, woodsy feel, as positively perfect for fall. What could be better?