Cozy Autumn Evenings: 5 DIY Projects to Bring Hygge to Your Farmhouse

Imagine the crisp autumn air swirling around you, carrying the scent of woodsmoke and fallen leaves. The days are getting shorter, and a gentle chill settles in the evenings. There's a certain magic in this season, a call to gather indoors and embrace the simple comforts of home. Perhaps you're sipping a warm cup of apple cider, watching the sunset paint the sky in fiery hues, and thinking about how to make your farmhouse even more inviting for the months ahead.

Ready to learn how to infuse your home with the Danish concept of hygge – that feeling of coziness, contentment, and well-being – through simple DIY projects? In this post, you'll discover five easy and delightful ways to bring the spirit of autumn and hygge to your farmhouse, using natural elements, soft textures, and warm lighting. Let's create a haven of comfort and joy together!

1. The Golden Glow: DIY Beeswax Candles

Nothing says "cozy" quite like the soft, flickering light of candles. And when those candles are made with natural beeswax, the ambiance is even more inviting. Beeswax candles not only emit a warm, golden glow, but they also purify the air.

What you'll need:

• Beeswax (pastilles or blocks)
• Cotton wicks (pre-waxed are easiest)
• Glass jars or tins
• Double boiler or heat-safe bowl and saucepan
• Thermometer
• Optional: Essential oils (cinnamon, clove, orange)

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Melt the beeswax: In a double boiler or heat-safe bowl set over a simmering pot of water, melt the beeswax. Use a thermometer to monitor the temperature; beeswax should be heated to around 150-160°F (65-70°C).
2. Prepare your containers: Center a wick in each jar or tin, securing it at the bottom with a small dab of melted wax or a wick sticker. You can also use a clothespin or skewer across the top of the container to keep the wick centered.
3. Add essential oils (optional): Once the beeswax is melted, remove it from the heat and stir in a few drops of your favorite essential oils. Start with 10-15 drops per pound of beeswax and adjust to your preference.
4. Pour the wax: Carefully pour the melted beeswax into the prepared containers, leaving about ½ inch of space at the top.
5. Let it cool: Allow the candles to cool completely undisturbed. This may take several hours. As the wax cools, it may shrink slightly, creating a small dip around the wick. You can fill this in with a little more melted wax if desired.
6. Trim the wick: Once the candles are completely cool, trim the wick to about ¼ inch.

Troubleshooting: If your candles develop cracks, try preheating your containers slightly before pouring the wax. Also, avoid cooling the candles too quickly.

2. Harvest Hues: Creating a Foraged Fall Wreath

Bring the beauty of the outdoors in with a foraged fall wreath. This is a wonderful way to connect with nature and celebrate the colors of the season.

What you'll need:

• Wreath form (grapevine, wire, or straw)
• Foraged materials: dried flowers, seed pods, berries (check local regulations on foraging), interesting twigs, pinecones
• Floral wire
• Wire cutters
• Optional: ribbon

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Gather your materials: Take a walk around your property or a local park (with permission, of course!) and collect interesting natural elements.
2. Prepare your materials: Allow any damp materials to dry completely before using them in your wreath.
3. Attach the foraged materials: Using floral wire, attach the foraged materials to the wreath form. Start with larger items and then fill in with smaller pieces. Overlap the materials to create a full and textured look.
4. Add a ribbon (optional): If desired, add a ribbon to your wreath for a touch of elegance.
5. Hang and enjoy: Hang your beautiful fall wreath on your front door, above your fireplace, or anywhere you want to add a touch of autumn charm.

A Story From Our Farm: I remember one autumn, my daughter and I spent an afternoon foraging in our woods. We gathered fallen leaves in vibrant shades of red and gold, along with acorns and bittersweet berries. Creating a wreath together became a cherished memory, and the wreath itself was a beautiful reminder of that special time.

3. Knit Wit: Chunky Knit Blanket

Is there anything more hygge than snuggling under a cozy blanket on a chilly evening? This chunky knit blanket is surprisingly easy to make, even if you're a beginner knitter.

What you'll need:

• Super chunky yarn (wool or synthetic)
• Your own two hands! (This is arm knitting)
• Scissors

Step-by-step instructions (Arm Knitting):

1. Cast on: Create a slip knot and place it on one arm. Create a loop with the yarn, reaching through the first loop and pulling the new loop through. Place the new loop on the arm. Repeat to cast on the desired number of stitches (around 10-15 for a throw blanket).
2. Knit: Transfer the loops from one arm to the other, creating new loops with the working yarn.
3. Bind off: Knit two stitches together, then transfer the new loop back to the left arm. Knit two together again. Repeat until one loop remains. Pull the working yarn through the last loop and tie off.
4. Weave in the ends: Weave the ends of the yarn into the blanket to secure them.

Tip: Watch a video tutorial for arm knitting – it's much easier to learn by seeing it in action! There are tons available on YouTube.

4. Simple Comfort: Cinnamon Simmer Pot

Fill your farmhouse with the warm and inviting aroma of autumn with a cinnamon simmer pot. This is a natural and chemical-free way to freshen your home and create a cozy atmosphere.

What you'll need:

• Saucepan or small pot
• Water
• Cinnamon sticks
• Orange peels
• Cloves
• Optional: Apple slices, star anise, nutmeg

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Combine ingredients: Fill the saucepan with water and add the cinnamon sticks, orange peels, cloves, and any other desired spices or fruits.
2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer over low heat. Allow it to simmer gently, adding more water as needed to prevent it from drying out.
3. Enjoy: Let the fragrant aroma fill your home.

Safety Note: Never leave a simmering pot unattended.

5. Natural Art: Pressed Leaf Decor

Preserve the beauty of fall foliage by creating pressed leaf art. This is a simple and affordable way to add a touch of nature to your farmhouse decor.

What you'll need:

• Fresh leaves
• Heavy books
• Parchment paper or newspaper
• Frames or other display materials

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Gather leaves: Collect leaves that are relatively flat and free of blemishes.
2. Press the leaves: Place the leaves between two sheets of parchment paper or newspaper. Place the paper inside a heavy book, such as a dictionary or encyclopedia.
3. Wait: Allow the leaves to press for at least 1-2 weeks.
4. Display: Once the leaves are dry and flat, carefully remove them from the book. Arrange them in frames or use them to create other decorative items, such as garlands or collages.

Pacific Northwest Gardening Tip: Here in the Pacific Northwest, maple leaves press beautifully, showcasing vibrant colors. Experiment with different varieties to find your favorites.

By incorporating these five DIY projects into your home, you'll not only add a touch of autumn charm but also create a haven of hygge that welcomes you and your loved ones with warmth and comfort. Embrace the season, slow down, and savor the simple pleasures of farmhouse life.

Now, go forth and create! What are your favorite ways to bring hygge to your home during the autumn months? Share your ideas in the comments below! And be sure to share photos of your DIY projects on Instagram using #BetterHomesAndHarvestsHygge for a chance to be featured! We can't wait to see what you create!