15 DIY Fall Outdoor Decor Projects for a Budget-Friendly Makeover

As the leaves start to change and there’s a crisp chill in the air, it’s time to embrace the cozy charm of fall.

But who says you need to break the bank to give your outdoor space an autumnal makeover? Get ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into these 15 budget-friendly DIY fall outdoor decor projects that will transform your home’s exterior into a seasonal wonderland. From your front porch to your backyard, we’ve got you covered with easy, creative ideas that will have your neighbors oohing and aahing in no time!

Below are my favorite outdoor lights. 

-waterproof outdoor solar string lights

1. Pumpkin Planter Parade

Let’s kick things off with a classic fall favorite – pumpkins! But we’re going to give them a twist:

1. Choose a variety of pumpkins in different sizes and colors.
2. Cut off the tops and scoop out the insides (save those seeds for roasting!).
3. Fill them with potting soil and plant fall flowers like mums, pansies, or ornamental kale.
4. Arrange your pumpkin planters on your porch steps or along your walkway.

Pro tip: To make your pumpkin planters last longer, spray the insides with a mixture of water and bleach before planting. This helps prevent mold and keeps your display fresh throughout the season.

2. Rustic Fall Wreath

Nothing says “welcome” quite like a beautiful wreath. Here’s how to make one on a budget:

1. Start with a wire wreath form or repurpose an old grapevine wreath.
2. Gather fallen leaves, pinecones, and acorns from your yard.
3. Use a hot glue gun to attach your natural elements to the wreath.
4. Add a few faux fall flowers or berries for a pop of color.
5. Finish with a burlap bow for that perfect rustic touch.

Hang your creation on your front door or a prominent window for instant fall charm!

3. Mason Jar Lanterns

Light up your outdoor space with these charming mason jar lanterns:

1. Collect clean mason jars (any size works).
2. Paint the jars with fall colors like orange, yellow, or brown.
3. Once dry, lightly sand parts of the jar for a distressed look.
4. Wrap twine or burlap ribbon around the jar’s neck.
5. Place battery-operated tea lights inside.

Hang these from tree branches, line them up on your porch railing, or use them as table centerpieces for your next outdoor gathering.

4. Autumn Leaf Garland

Bring the colors of fall foliage to your outdoor space with this simple garland:

1. Collect fallen leaves in various shapes and colors.
2. Press the leaves between heavy books for a few days to flatten them.
3. Once dry, dip each leaf in melted beeswax to preserve its color and texture.
4. Attach the leaves to a long piece of twine or ribbon using clothespins.

Drape your garland across your porch or along a fence for a festive touch that celebrates nature’s beauty.

5. Painted Wooden Welcome Sign

Greet guests with a personalized touch:

1. Find a piece of scrap wood or an old wooden board.
2. Sand it down and paint it with a base color of your choice.
3. Use stencils or freehand to paint “Welcome” or a fall-themed phrase.
4. Decorate the edges with painted fall leaves or attach real pressed leaves.
5. Add a strip of burlap or twine for hanging.

Place your sign by the front door or lean it against a porch pillar for a warm, inviting feel.

6. Upcycled Tire Pumpkin

Turn an old tire into an adorable pumpkin decoration:

1. Clean an old tire thoroughly.
2. Spray paint it orange (or white for a ghost pumpkin look).
3. Cut leaves and a stem from scrap wood, paint them green and brown.
4. Attach the leaves and stem to the top of the tire with strong adhesive.
5. Add a face with black paint if desired for a jack-o’-lantern effect.

This unique decoration can be a fun addition to your yard or driveway.

7. Fall-Themed Outdoor Pillows

Cozy up your outdoor seating area:

1. Find inexpensive plain outdoor pillows or pillow covers.
2. Use fabric paint or markers to draw fall-themed designs (leaves, pumpkins, acorns).
3. Alternatively, cut fall shapes from felt and glue them onto the pillows.
4. Add phrases like “Hello Fall” or “Give Thanks” using stencils.

These pillows will make your outdoor furniture inviting and seasonal.

8. Pinecone Fire Starters

Perfect for those chilly fall evenings around the fire pit:

1. Collect large pinecones from your yard or nearby park.
2. Dip them in melted scented wax (cinnamon or apple scents work great).
3. While the wax is still soft, sprinkle with spices like cinnamon or cloves.
4. Tie a piece of twine around the top for easy lighting.

Store these in a basket near your fire pit for both decoration and function.

9. Autumn Ladder Display

Repurpose an old wooden ladder into a stunning fall display:

1. Clean and sand an old ladder, leaving it natural or painting it if desired.
2. On each rung, create small vignettes with:
   
   • Potted fall plants
   • Lanterns with LED candles
   • Small pumpkins or gourds
   • Framed autumn quotes or photos
3. Lean the ladder against a wall on your porch or in your yard.

This versatile display can be easily changed throughout the season.

10. Corn Husk Wreath

For a unique take on the traditional wreath:

1. Soak corn husks in warm water to make them pliable.
2. Wrap a foam wreath form with burlap ribbon.
3. Fold corn husks into various shapes and pin them to the wreath form.
4. Add dried corn cobs, small gourds, or fall berries for extra texture.

This natural wreath brings a touch of rustic charm to any outdoor space.

11. Glowing Leaf Luminaries

Create a magical evening ambiance with these luminaries:

1. Clean empty glass jars or vases.
2. Collect colorful fall leaves and press them.
3. Use Mod Podge to adhere the leaves to the outside of the jars.
4. Once dry, place LED tea lights inside.

Group these luminaries on tables or line your walkway for a warm, inviting glow.

12. Fabric Scrap Scarecrow

Add a whimsical touch to your garden with a homemade scarecrow:

1. Create a frame using two sturdy sticks tied in a cross shape.
2. Stuff old clothes with straw or newspaper.
3. Use fabric scraps to create a patchwork shirt or dress.
4. Make a face using buttons, felt, or paint on a small burlap sack.
5. Top it off with a straw hat or handmade fabric hat.

Position your scarecrow among your fall flowers or vegetables for a fun, festive look.

13. Painted Pumpkin Planter Box

Upgrade a simple wooden planter box:

1. Paint a rectangular planter box white or cream.
2. Use orange paint to create pumpkin shapes along the sides.
3. Add green stems and leaves with paint or felt cutouts.
4. Fill the planter with fall flowers or ornamental grasses.

Place this cute planter on your porch steps or as a centerpiece on an outdoor table.

14. Autumn Leaf Bowl

Create a stunning decorative bowl using fall leaves:

1. Inflate a large balloon and cover half with plastic wrap.
2. In a bowl, mix equal parts water and white glue.
3. Dip pressed fall leaves in the mixture and layer them on the balloon.
4. Once dry, pop the balloon and remove it to reveal your leaf bowl.
5. Spray with a clear sealant for durability.

Fill your bowl with pinecones, mini pumpkins, or use it as a unique serving dish for outdoor gatherings.

15. Gourd Birdhouses

Invite feathered friends to your fall garden:

1. Choose firm, dried gourds with long necks.
2. Clean the gourds thoroughly and let them dry completely.
3. Cut a small entrance hole and clean out the inside.
4. Paint the gourds with outdoor paint in fall colors.
5. Drill small drainage holes in the bottom.
6. Add a perch using a small twig.

Hang these charming birdhouses from tree branches or your porch overhang.

Bringing It All Together

There you have it – 15 budget-friendly DIY fall outdoor decor projects that will transform your space into an autumn paradise. The best part about these projects is that they allow you to put your personal stamp on your outdoor decor. Mix and match these ideas to create a cohesive look that reflects your style and celebrates the season.

Remember, the key to successful DIY decor is to have fun with it. Don’t stress about perfection – the little imperfections are what give handmade items their charm. Get your family or friends involved in the crafting process and make it a fun fall activity. You’ll create beautiful decorations and lasting memories at the same time.

As you work on these projects, keep these tips in mind:

• Always prioritize safety, especially when working with tools or hot glue.
• Shop your home and yard first – you might be surprised at what materials you already have.
• Don’t be afraid to put your own spin on these ideas. Creativity is encouraged!
• Rotate your decor throughout the season to keep things fresh and interesting.
• Consider the weather in your area and choose materials that can withstand the elements.

With these DIY fall outdoor decor projects, you’ll create a warm and inviting atmosphere that welcomes the season – and your guests – with open arms. So grab your crafting supplies, head outside, and let’s welcome fall in style! Happy decorating!

I love everything fall.  Check out these other articles I think you might like. 

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Incorporating Vintage Fall Kitchenware in Industrial Decor