Autumn is a stellar time of year for those who enjoy decorating. And the season is especially great for people who want to take advantage of nature’s natural decorations. Fall foliage is bright and beautiful, and easy to collect, arrange, and re-purpose indoors. Want to learn about the best ways to use leaves and gourds in fall decorating? Head outside (or to your local farmers market) and collect some of autumn’s natural bounty, such as autumn leaves and gourds, for a fun-filled decorating project.
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1. Turn Leaves Into Art
Whether you want to get crafty or just want something to do to entertain the kids, turning leaves into art is fun and easy. Simply take leaves, place them on paper, and rub with fall-hued crayons or colored pencils to achieve makeshift art. At the very least, you’ll have fun reminiscing with your five-year-old self.
2. Make Leaf Wreaths
No need to buy a fake wreath at the store when you have everything you need outside. Use twigs and branches to create a homemade wreath. Place bright-colored leaves between twigs and branches to create a unique, rustic piece of wall art.
3. Create a Leaf Centerpiece
You can never have enough centerpieces. And having one that matches the autumn scenery outside is so easy, you don’t even have to go to the store. To create this piece, simply fill a clear vase with leaves, dry grasses, and acorns, and place them around your home.
4. Etch Gourds
Another one of the best ways to use leaves and gourds in fall decorating is by etching gourds and carving out an autumn design. Simply trace a design on a thick-skinned gourd and etch around it. Surround the etched gourd with fall-hued flowers and leaves.
5. Miniature Guard Luminaries
Cut the top off a gourd, then carve a hole large enough to securely hold a candle. This also works well with miniature pumpkins. Place gourd votives around the house and light in the early evening to accentuate these beautiful, early fall sunsets.
6. Make a Guard Vase
Swan gourds (those gourds with long, sweeping necks) make great hanging vases. Cut a one to two-inch hole near the neck of the gourd, hollow out the small cut incision, and insert your favorite flowers, like mums.
7. Gourd Place Cards
Whether it’s Thanksgiving and you want some cute decor, or you’re hosting an autumn dinner party, adding miniature gourds around your home is a perfect addition. One of the best ways ot add in some fall decor is by printing out name cards and propping them up against mini pumpkins or gourds.
8. Other Fall Decor
There are so many other fall items outside that you can use as decor. Pinecones are a great way to add some festive nature to your home, especially as it gets colder and your fall decor turns into Christmas and holiday decor. Along with that, there are hedge apples and dry, regional grasses. If you don’t have a garden at home, you can easily pick regional, seasonal flowers as well to add to your home.
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