We’re letting you know that this post contains sponsored links which Your Savvy Purse receives compensation for, which may impact their order of appearance.
Fall brings with it a sense of warmth and creativity. The air cools, the days get shorter, and many of us crave a cozy atmosphere at home. It’s the season of pumpkins, candles, and crisp leaves — and what better way to celebrate than with DIY projects that bring fall into your space?
But here’s the best part: you don’t need to spend big at craft stores or home décor boutiques to enjoy the beauty of the season. With a little creativity, some basic supplies, and items you may already have at home, you can create charming fall decorations, gifts, and functional pieces on a budget.
Let’s dive into some budget-friendly fall DIY projects that add seasonal charm to your home while letting your creativity shine.
1. Mason Jar Candle Holders
Nothing says fall like the soft glow of candlelight. Mason jars — or any glass jars you already have — make the perfect base for a cozy seasonal craft.
How to make them:
- Collect jars from pasta sauces, jams, or pickles. Wash and remove labels.
- Wrap jars with burlap, twine, or leftover ribbon.
- Add a layer of dried leaves or pressed fall foliage between the jar and a piece of clear contact paper for a colorful touch.
- Place a tealight or LED candle inside.
Why it’s savvy: Instead of buying pricey fall-themed candles, you’re reusing jars and creating something custom for pennies.
2. Leaf Print Table Runners
Bring nature right to your table with a handmade runner that doubles as art.
How to make it:
- Collect freshly fallen leaves in various shapes.
- Dip them in fabric paint or acrylic paint (warm tones like orange, gold, or burgundy work beautifully).
- Press the painted side down on a plain piece of fabric or even an old sheet cut into runner size.
- Let it dry completely before using.
Savvy tip: This works on paper too. You can create wall art, greeting cards, or even wrapping paper using the same technique.
3. No-Sew Fall Throw Pillows
Seasonal pillows are cozy but often expensive. A DIY version gives your living room the same cozy feel at a fraction of the price.
How to make them:
- Buy inexpensive pillow covers or use old ones you don’t mind re-covering.
- Use fabric glue, iron-on patches, or stencils with fabric paint to create fall designs like pumpkins, leaves, or quotes.
- If you don’t sew, fabric glue works wonders for simple embellishments.
Budget idea: Thrift stores often have plain pillow covers or fabric remnants you can transform for just a few dollars.
4. Homemade Pumpkin Spice Potpourri
Why buy expensive seasonal candles or sprays when you can make your own natural scent?
How to make it:
- Slice and dry apples and oranges (you can use the oven at a low temperature).
- Add cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, and star anise.
- Mix everything in a bowl or jar and leave uncovered to release the scent.
Bonus project: Package some in small mason jars tied with ribbon for sweet, homemade gifts.
5. Pinecone Garlands
Garlands instantly bring warmth to mantels, staircases, or doorways, and pinecones are a free seasonal supply.
How to make it:
- Collect pinecones (bake at a low temperature for 30 minutes to remove bugs).
- Attach twine or yarn to the tops with hot glue.
- String them together, spacing them out evenly.
- Add extras like faux leaves, acorns, or cinnamon sticks for variety.
This rustic decoration looks store-bought but costs almost nothing.
6. DIY Autumn Wreaths
Store-bought wreaths can run $40 or more, but you can create your own with materials you gather or buy cheaply.
How to make it:
- Use a wire hanger shaped into a circle, or purchase a dollar-store wreath form.
- Wrap with burlap or ribbon.
- Hot glue leaves, pinecones, faux berries, or even mini pumpkins onto the form.
- Hang on your door with twine or ribbon.
Savvy twist: Create a wreath that can transition into Thanksgiving by keeping the base neutral and adding seasonal accents later.
7. Upcycled Sweater Pumpkins
This craft turns old sweaters into adorable fabric pumpkins — soft, stylish, and sustainable.
How to make them:
- Cut a sweater sleeve or body into a tube shape.
- Stitch or tie one end closed, stuff with cotton or old fabric scraps, and close the other end.
- Add a stick or cinnamon stick as the stem, and tie with twine or ribbon.
Why it’s frugal: Instead of buying expensive fabric pumpkins, you’re upcycling old clothes that might otherwise be tossed.
8. Painted Pumpkins
Carving pumpkins can be messy and short-lived. Painted pumpkins last longer and can be customized to match your style.
Ideas to try:
- Metallic paints for a chic look.
- Stencils with leaves, plaid patterns, or fall quotes.
- White pumpkins painted with gold stems for farmhouse flair.
Bonus: Painted pumpkins last weeks longer than carved ones, making them budget-friendly décor that stretches through the season.
9. DIY Fall Luminaries
Create glowing accents for your porch, windowsill, or mantel.
How to make them:
- Use old tin cans (cleaned and label-free).
- Fill with water and freeze overnight (this prevents bending when you hammer).
- Use a nail and hammer to punch holes in patterns like leaves, stars, or words.
- Once thawed, place candles inside.
These rustic luminaries are virtually free and make beautiful outdoor lighting.
10. Fall-Inspired Centerpieces
You don’t need a florist or fancy décor shop for a seasonal table centerpiece.
Ideas to try:
- Fill a basket with apples, mini pumpkins, and pinecones.
- Use a large clear vase filled with acorns and topped with a candle.
- Arrange branches with colorful leaves in a pitcher for a natural, no-cost display.
Centerpieces bring the beauty of fall into your home while staying on budget.
Why Fall DIY is Worth It
DIY isn’t just about saving money — though that’s certainly a big perk. It’s also about:
- Creativity: Personalize your space with projects that reflect your taste.
- Sustainability: Many DIYs reuse or upcycle items you already have.
- Togetherness: These projects are wonderful for kids, grandkids, or friends to enjoy together.
- Seasonal joy: Bringing fall into your home makes the season feel special without splurging.
Fall DIY proves that cozy doesn’t have to be costly.
Final Thoughts
Fall has a way of inspiring us to nest, decorate, and create. Instead of heading straight for the seasonal aisle, take a look at what you already have and consider how a little imagination can transform it. From sweater pumpkins to pinecone garlands, mason jar candles to leaf prints, there are endless ways to embrace the season on a budget.
Not only will you save money, but you’ll also create a home filled with warmth, charm, and personal touches that can’t be bought in a store. So grab your glue gun, gather some leaves, and let the beauty of fall inspire your creativity.
This season, your DIY projects can be the cozy heart of your home — proof that a stylish fall doesn’t have to come with a big price tag.
