Bring the Outside In: Decorating Your Living Room with Foraged Fall Treasures

As the leaves turn golden and a crispness fills the air, it's time to embrace the beauty of autumn and bring that warmth into our homes. Here at Better Homes and Harvests, we believe in creating spaces that reflect the seasons, connecting us to the natural world and fostering a sense of cozy contentment. This fall, let's skip the mass-produced decorations and explore the art of foraged fall decor. Imagine a living room filled with the textures and colors of nature, a space that whispers of crackling fires, the scent of drying herbs, and the soft texture of woven wool throws.

This isn’t just about saving money; it's about creating a sustainable and uniquely beautiful home, one that tells a story of your connection to the land. So, grab your basket, put on your boots, and let's embark on a foraging adventure!

The Thrill of the Forage: What to Gather

The beauty of foraged decor lies in its inherent uniqueness. No two branches are exactly alike, no two pinecones perfectly symmetrical. Embrace the imperfections and let nature be your guide. Here are a few treasures to look for:

• Dried Wildflowers: Fields and meadows are often brimming with wildflowers that are past their prime but still hold their beauty. Look for sturdy varieties like goldenrod, yarrow, and Queen Anne's lace.

• Branches: Fallen branches offer endless possibilities. Look for interesting shapes, textures, and colors. Birch, maple, and oak branches are excellent choices.

• Pinecones: These iconic symbols of fall are readily available in forests and parks. Collect a variety of sizes and shapes for visual interest.

• Gourds: From miniature pumpkins to vibrant squashes, gourds add a touch of whimsy to any fall display. Check your local farmers market or even your own garden!

• Leaves: Gather fallen leaves in various colors – reds, oranges, yellows, and browns – for adding depth and texture to arrangements. Be mindful of preserving them properly to avoid decay (more on that later!).

• Nuts & Acorns: These can be sprinkled around centerpieces or used in decorative bowls for a touch of woodland charm.

• Seed Heads: Consider dried seed heads from plants like poppies or teasel. They add interesting texture and architectural detail.

• Berries: Gather brightly colored berries like rosehips or crabapples, but be absolutely sure they are not poisonous! If you are unsure, err on the side of caution.

Preparing Your Foraged Finds: From Field to Fabulous

Before you start decorating, it's essential to properly prepare your foraged materials. This ensures they last throughout the season and don't bring unwanted critters into your home.

• Cleaning: Gently brush off any dirt, leaves, or debris. For pinecones, you can bake them at 200°F (93°C) for about 30 minutes to kill any bugs and help them open up.

• Drying: Hang wildflowers and branches upside down in a cool, dark, and dry place for several weeks until they are completely dry. This prevents mold and helps them retain their color. For leaves, you can press them between heavy books or use a desiccant like silica gel.

• Sealing: Consider spraying pinecones, gourds, and other porous materials with a clear sealant to protect them from moisture and prevent decay.

• Preserving Leaves: To preserve leaves, you can dip them in melted beeswax or iron them between sheets of waxed paper. This will help them retain their color and prevent them from crumbling.

DIY Delight: Two Projects to Get You Started

Ready to unleash your creativity? Here are two simple DIY projects that will transform your foraged finds into stunning fall decor.

1. Dried Flower Wreath: A Rustic Welcome

This wreath brings a touch of rustic elegance to your front door or living room wall.

• Materials:

  • Dried wildflowers (variety of colors and textures)
  • Grapevine wreath form
  • Floral wire
  • Wire cutters
  • Hot glue gun (optional)

• Instructions:

  1. Prepare your flowers: Ensure your wildflowers are completely dried. Trim the stems to varying lengths.
  2. Attach the flowers: Start by attaching larger flowers to the wreath form using floral wire. Wrap the wire tightly around the stem and the wreath.
  3. Fill in the gaps: Use smaller flowers and foliage to fill in any gaps and create a full, lush wreath. You can use hot glue for extra security, but wire is generally sufficient.
  4. Layer textures and colors: Experiment with different textures and colors to create a visually appealing wreath.
  5. Hang and enjoy: Hang your finished wreath on your front door, over the mantel, or anywhere you want to add a touch of fall beauty.

2. Pinecone Centerpiece: A Woodland Focal Point

This centerpiece adds a touch of woodland charm to your dining table or coffee table.

• Materials:

  • Pinecones (variety of sizes and shapes)
  • Shallow bowl or tray
  • Dried moss
  • Small gourds or pumpkins
  • Candles (optional)
  • Nuts & Acorns (optional)

• Instructions:

  1. Prepare your base: Line the bowl or tray with dried moss.
  2. Arrange the pinecones: Arrange the pinecones in the bowl, starting with the larger ones and filling in with smaller ones.
  3. Add gourds and pumpkins: Nestle small gourds or pumpkins among the pinecones for added color and texture.
  4. Embellish: Scatter nuts and acorns around the centerpiece for a touch of woodland charm.
  5. Add candles (optional): Place a few candles in the centerpiece for a warm and inviting glow. Be sure to use caution and never leave lit candles unattended.

Styling Your Space: Creating a Cozy Fall Atmosphere

Once you've created your foraged decorations, it's time to style your living room to create a warm and inviting fall atmosphere.

• Color Palette: Embrace the colors of autumn – warm browns, oranges, reds, and yellows. Incorporate these colors into your throw pillows, blankets, and rugs.

• Textural Elements: Add layers of texture with woven wool throws, chunky knit blankets, and natural fiber rugs.

• Lighting: Create a warm and inviting ambiance with soft lighting. Use candles, string lights, and lamps with warm-toned bulbs.

• Focal Points: Create focal points by displaying your foraged arrangements on mantels, shelves, and coffee tables.

• Personal Touches: Add personal touches that reflect your style and interests. Display family photos, vintage finds, or handmade items.

Sustainable Style: Decorating with a Conscience

Foraging for natural materials is a sustainable way to decorate your home. It reduces waste, supports local ecosystems, and connects you to the natural world. When foraging, always be mindful of the environment. Only take what you need, avoid disturbing wildlife, and leave no trace behind. Choose materials that are naturally abundant and readily available in your area.

Share Your Inspiration!

We hope this post has inspired you to embrace the beauty of foraged fall decor. We can't wait to see what you create! Share your own foraged decor projects on social media using the hashtag #BHHandHForagedFall. Let's inspire each other to create uniquely beautiful and sustainable homes this season. Happy foraging!