Fall Decorating Ideas On A Budget

Are you looking for some easy, beautiful fall decorating ideas but your budget says otherwise? Well…I’m here to tell you that embracing the enchanting hues of autumn doesn’t have to put a strain on your wallet. As the leaves begin to change and a crisp breeze fills the air, it’s the perfect time to infuse your living space with the cozy warmth of the season. If you’re wondering how to achieve that charming fall ambiance without breaking the bank, you’re in the right place.

In this post, we’ll explore a plethora of ingenious fall decorating ideas on a budget, ensuring that your home exudes the spirit of fall without compromising your financial comfort. Let’s delve into creative yet cost-effective ways to transform your space into an autumn wonderland.”

*This post may contain affiliate links, which means that if you buy a suggested product, I will earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.  For more information, see my disclosure page.

 

fall decorating ideas on a tight budget

These are the tips and tricks that I have used for years to get my home ready for my favorite season of the year! You too, can create a cozy, warm, fall friendly home without breaking the bank!

Decide on your palette

The first thing to do when your getting ready to bring the season into your home is to decide on a color palette or maybe a theme. Do you prefer traditional colors of oranges, yellows, reds, greens & brown? Maybe you prefer a more neutral palette that’s more earthy like tans, creams, whites or browns. 

If you’re not sure, look through some magazines or even watch fall decorating on YouTube. What is it that catches your eye? When you know what look you’re going for, it will make it easier for you to go forward in creating a beautiful, tranquil space.

Shop what you already have

Before you go on the hunt for decor, do an inventory of what you already have.

Look and see what Fall decor you already have, but also look for other items that can be used for any season. Some things that come to mind are candles, lanterns, candleholders, vases, baskets, pillows and throw blankets. I also go to my craft stash and see if I have any ribbon that would work well with the season and also look look through my florals.

You’ll be amazed and what you may already have! Sometimes, all it takes is moving something from one place to another to give a completely different look.

Nature’s Bounty

Take a leisurely stroll in your local park or your own backyard to gather fallen leaves, pinecones, acorns, and twigs. Once collected, clean and dry them to ensure they’re free from dirt and insects. Place the leaves in a decorative bowl or scatter them along your mantel for an instant touch of autumnal charm. For an added flair, consider spraying the leaves with a bit of gold or copper paint to give them a shimmering effect. Magnolia and oak leaves are perfect for this!

DIY Garland

Creating your own garland is not only a budget-savvy option but also a chance to express your creativity. Use twine, jute or string as the base and then attach paper or fabric leaves, small pumpkins, or mini pinecones using hot glue. Hang your homemade garland above doorways, along stair railings or drape it across your fireplace mantel to infuse your space with a rustic fall vibe.

Thrift Store Treasures

Thrift stores are a treasure trove of affordable decor items. Hunt for vintage candle holders, cozy blankets, and rustic picture frames. These items might not look like much at first, but with a little DIY magic, you can transform them into fall-worthy pieces. Consider spray-painting candle holders in warm metallic shades or distressing picture frames for a shabby-chic touch.

you may also be interested in:  Best Tips For Thrift Store Shopping

Mason Jar Magic

Mason jars are versatile and wallet-friendly. Fill them with seasonal elements like dried corn kernels, colorful beans or cinnamon sticks. Place a tea light inside each jar to create a warm, inviting glow. Arrange a group of these jars on a shelf, table or even hang them outside to light up your porch in the evenings.

You can also paint mason jars to match your own decor. They make great vases for dried, silk or real floral arrangements.

*Tip* – Don’t stop with mason jars! You can do the same thing with just about any kind of jar. Spaghetti sauce jars work great for vases, as do salsa jars, jelly jars, etc. You get the idea. Recycling is not only fun, but it keeps them out of the landfills.

I painted this mason jar with an ivory chalk paint and once it was dry, I light distressed it with sand paper. I then tied a bow using gingham check ribbon and hung a sweet, black tassel from it. The flowers are from The Dollar Tree. This makes a beautiful arrangement and can be changed out, seasonally.

Nature-Inspired Centerpieces

Rather than investing in elaborate centerpieces, head outdoors to gather branches with colorful leaves. Arrange them in a tall vase or pitcher, and tie a ribbon around the vase’s neck for a polished touch. For an alternative centerpiece, arrange a few small pumpkins or gourds in a rustic basket along with faux foliage for a simple yet captivating fall display.

If you don’t care to head out into nature, you can also make a beautiful centerpiece with items from the dollar store. For just a few dollars, craft a gorgeous centerpiece in colors that can match your own decor.

you may be interested in:  How To Make A DIY Dollar Tree Fall Centerpiece

 

Hit the dollar stores!

The Dollar Tree is one of my favorite places to get seasonal decor! They have really stepped up their game in the last few years and you can find decor that will rival Hobby Lobby, Target or Michael’s for a fraction of the cost! They have signs, florals, dinnerware, craft supplies and much more!

Free Printables

This is probably one of my favorite fall decorating ideas that is extremely budget friendly. Search online for free fall-themed printables that resonate with your style. You can find everything from printable quotes to leaf patterns and watercolor images. Frame these printables and place them on your walls, shelves, or mantel. Laminate some of the prints to use as stylish placemats on your dining table, adding an extra layer of fall flair.

Handmade Wreaths

Crafting your own wreath is an excellent way to personalize your fall decor. Gather materials like burlap, twigs, fabric scraps, or even old sweaters. Shape them into a wreath form, securing them with hot glue or wire. Add embellishments like faux berries, acorns, or mini pumpkins to complete the look. Hang your handmade wreath on your front door or above your fireplace to welcome the autumn season.

 I made this stunning wreath with a 12″-14″ grapevine wreath and 2 large maple leaves stems` that I purchased from Walmart. To make it, I just clipped them off the main stem and pushed them into the wreath, going in one direction. I hung it inside so I didn’t even bother hot gluing them. I’ve gotten 2 years out of it and it still looks beautiful! 

**Tip** – If you are planning on putting it outdoors on a porch, it would probably be best to use hot glue for reinforcement against the elements.

Pinecone Accents

Pinecones are versatile and easily available, making them an ideal addition to your fall decor. Gather a collection of pinecones and consider painting them in autumnal hues like deep red, burnt orange or rich brown. You can also add a touch of glamour by lightly dusting them with glitter. Arrange these pinecones in baskets, vases or bowls to create charming rustic displays throughout your home.

Seasonal Pillow Covers

Investing in seasonal pillow covers is a cost-effective way to update your decor for fall. Choose covers with designs featuring pumpkins, leaves or warm fall colors. Slip them over your existing throw pillows to instantly transform your sofa, chairs, or bed. When the season changes, simply store the covers for next year.

   

See Fall Pillow covers

Autumn Aromas

Enhance the fall ambiance of your home by infusing it with delightful aromas. Simmer a pot of water on your stove and add cinnamon sticks, cloves and orange peels. The fragrant steam will fill your home with a warm, inviting scent. Alternatively, light budget-friendly fall-scented candles or place affordable potpourri in small bowls throughout your space for a cozy sensory experience.

Check out Pinterest for many recipes for simmering potpourri.

Leaf Art Prints

Gather fallen leaves in various shapes and sizes. Place them under a sheet of plain paper and use crayons or pastels to create leaf rubbings. Frame the art prints for an affordable and nature-inspired wall decoration.

Festive Table Settings

Craft your own place cards using cardstock or craft paper. Cut out leaf shapes and write guests’ names on them. Pair these with simple cloth napkins in fall colors for an elegant yet inexpensive table setting.

Clothespin Wreath

Clip wooden clothespins onto a wire wreath frame and then attach artificial fall leaves to them. Add a ribbon for hanging. This DIY wreath is both cost-effective and customizable.

Pumpkin Flower Vases