Bringing the Autumn Harvest Indoors: Simple and Sustainable Decorating Ideas

What does autumn mean to you? Is it the crisp air, the vibrant colors of changing leaves, or the comforting aroma of pumpkin spice? Whatever your association, autumn is a season of abundance and beauty. Here at Better Homes and Harvests, we believe in bringing that beauty indoors, celebrating the season with simple, sustainable, and heartfelt autumn decor that reflects the spirit of homesteading. Forget mass-produced plastic; let's embrace the natural bounty around us! This year, we’re focusing on DIY decorations using foraged and homegrown elements to create a warm and inviting farmhouse style home.

This blog post is your guide to sustainable decorating with natural materials. We'll explore fall decorating ideas that are not only beautiful but also kind to the earth. These seasonal decor projects are rooted in resourcefulness, self-sufficiency, and an appreciation for the simple things – core tenets of the homesteading lifestyle. And the best part? Many of these decorations can be composted after the season, returning their nutrients to the earth.

Why Choose Sustainable Autumn Decor?

In a world of disposable decorations, opting for natural and foraged elements is a conscious choice. Here's why it matters:

• Reduces Waste: By using what nature provides, we minimize our reliance on manufactured goods and reduce plastic waste that ends up in landfills.
• Connects Us to Nature: Bringing the outdoors in helps us appreciate the beauty of the natural world and stay connected to the changing seasons.
• Supports a Circular Economy: When we compost our decorations after the season, we return organic matter to the soil, enriching it for future growth.
• Creates a Unique Aesthetic: Natural decorations have a charm and character that mass-produced items simply can't replicate. Each piece tells a story.
• Saves Money: Foraging is free! You'll be amazed at the treasures you can find in your own backyard or local park.

DIY Fall Decorating Ideas: Embrace the Harvest

Ready to get creative? Here are three distinct DIY decorating ideas using foraged or homegrown autumn elements:

1. Rustic Pumpkin and Gourd Centerpiece

Imagine a stunning centerpiece gracing your farmhouse table: a collection of pumpkins and gourds in various shapes, sizes, and colors, nestled amongst dried corn husks and sprigs of bittersweet. The warm hues of orange, yellow, and brown create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, perfect for family gatherings and harvest celebrations. This centerpiece evokes a feeling of abundance and gratitude, reminding us of the simple pleasures of the season.

Materials:

• Assortment of pumpkins and gourds (foraged or homegrown)
• Dried corn husks
• Sprigs of bittersweet or other fall foliage
• Rustic wooden bowl or tray (optional)
• Battery-operated fairy lights (optional)

Instructions:

1. Gather your materials: Head to your garden, a local farm, or a nearby park to collect pumpkins, gourds, corn husks, and foliage.
2. Arrange the base: If using a bowl or tray, place the corn husks inside to create a nest.
3. Position the pumpkins and gourds: Arrange the pumpkins and gourds on top of the corn husks, varying their placement for visual interest.
4. Add foliage: Tuck sprigs of bittersweet or other foliage around the pumpkins and gourds to fill in any gaps.
5. Illuminate (optional): Weave battery-operated fairy lights throughout the centerpiece for a warm and magical glow.

2. Foraged Leaf Garland

Envision a delicate garland cascading across your mantle or adorning a doorway: a string of vibrant autumn leaves, preserved in wax for lasting beauty. The sunlight catches the leaves, illuminating their intricate patterns and bringing the colors of the forest indoors. This garland feels whimsical and enchanting, adding a touch of natural elegance to your farmhouse style home.

Materials:

• Freshly fallen autumn leaves (various shapes and colors)
• Beeswax or paraffin wax
• Double boiler or heat-safe bowl and saucepan
• Clothesline or twine
• Clothespins

Instructions:

1. Collect your leaves: Gather a variety of colorful leaves that are still pliable.
2. Melt the wax: Melt the beeswax or paraffin wax in a double boiler or heat-safe bowl placed over a saucepan of simmering water.
3. Wax the leaves: Dip each leaf into the melted wax, coating it completely. Use tongs to remove the leaf and allow excess wax to drip off.
4. Dry the leaves: Hang the waxed leaves on a clothesline or twine using clothespins.
5. Assemble the garland: Once the leaves are dry, string them together using twine or thin wire to create a garland.

3. Dried Flower and Branch Entryway Arrangement

Picture an inviting entryway adorned with a graceful arrangement of dried flowers and branches in a tall, rustic vase. The muted tones of the dried flowers complement the natural texture of the branches, creating a welcoming and elegant focal point. This arrangement evokes a sense of tranquility and timeless beauty, setting the stage for a warm and cozy welcome.

Materials:

• Dried flowers (hydrangeas, sunflowers, lavender, etc.)
• Branches (birch, willow, maple, etc.)
• Tall, rustic vase or container
• Floral foam (optional)
• Twine or ribbon (optional)

Instructions:

1. Gather your materials: Collect dried flowers from your garden or purchase them from a local florist. Forage for branches in your backyard or a nearby wooded area.
2. Prepare the vase: If using floral foam, cut it to fit the vase and secure it in place.
3. Arrange the branches: Place the branches in the vase, arranging them to create a visually appealing structure.
4. Add the dried flowers: Insert the dried flowers into the vase, filling in any gaps and creating a balanced arrangement.
5. Embellish (optional): Tie twine or ribbon around the vase for an added touch of rustic charm.

Homesteading and Sustainability: A Natural Fit

These DIY decorations embody the principles of homesteading – resourcefulness, self-sufficiency, and appreciation for the simple things. By using foraged and homegrown elements, we minimize our environmental impact and celebrate the beauty of the autumn harvest. When the season is over, these decorations can be composted, returning their nutrients to the earth and completing the cycle of life.

Choosing sustainable decorating options aligns perfectly with a homesteading lifestyle. It’s about being mindful of our consumption, reducing waste, and living in harmony with nature.

Share Your Autumn Creations!

We'd love to see your fall decorating ideas! Share your own autumn decorating creations on social media using the hashtag #BetterHomesAndHarvestsAutumn. What's your favorite foraged find this season? Share your fall decorating tips in the comments below! Let's inspire each other to create beautiful and sustainable homes that reflect the spirit of autumn.

As the leaves fall and the days grow shorter, let’s bring the warmth and beauty of the autumn harvest indoors. By embracing natural materials and DIY decorations, we can create a farmhouse style home that is both cozy and sustainable, reflecting the values of homesteading and our deep connection to the earth. Now, go forth and decorate!