HOW TO USE FALLEN AUTUMN LEAVES IN YOUR HOME
As the days grow shorter and the air develops a crisp chill, autumn brings with it a stunning splash of colour in the form of fallen leaves. While they create a vibrant display across outdoor spaces, these natural wonders can also be transformed into beautiful elements for home décor.
In this article, interior design expert Sylvia James at HomeHow.co.uk will explore various ways to incorporate fallen autumn leaves into your living space, enhancing its seasonal charm while celebrating one of nature’s most beautiful offerings.
Create Stunning Centrepieces
One of the simplest yet most impactful ways to bring autumn leaves into your home is by using them to create stunning centrepieces. You can gather a variety of leaves in different shapes and colours, such as reds, yellows, and deep oranges.
One great centrepiece idea is leaf-filled vases. To achieve this look, fill a clear glass vase with your fallen leaves. You can layer them for a more dynamic look or mix them with other autumnal elements like acorns and pinecones. This can serve as a lovely table centrepiece that embodies the spirit of the season.
Another stunning effect can be achieved through floating leaf decorations. Take a shallow bowl, fill it with water, and add a few colourful leaves. You can even add some candles to float atop the leaves for a beautiful, cosy glow on a cold autumn evening. This creates a peaceful, elegant atmosphere perfect for dinner parties or casual family meals.
Craft Beautiful Wall Art
Fallen leaves can be transformed into unique pieces of wall art. With just a little time, creativity, and attention to detail, you can showcase their beauty in your home:
To create stunning framed leaf prints, press leaves between the pages of heavy books for a couple of weeks until they become flat and dry. Once prepared, arrange them in an artistic way on a canvas, or even just a sheet of paper, before framing and hanging them on your wall. This creates a simple yet striking piece of art that perfectly reflects the beauty of the season.
For a similar approach, create a collage using a variety of leaves. Arrange them in a way that forms a shape or pattern and then glue them onto a canvas or large piece of cardboard. This project can be a fun activity to do with children, allowing them to unleash their creativity while learning about nature – A perfect personalised touch to add to a family home.
Enhance Cosy Spaces
When we think of autumn, we often think of cosiness, and what better way to enhance your space where you can curl up with a good book and a cup of piping hot tea, coffee, or hot chocolate than by using fallen leaves?
For a touch of whimsy that brings the magic of autumn right to your sofa, consider stuffing decorative cushions with dried leaves. Choose a breathable fabric to allow the scent of autumn to waft through the air. This can provide a natural aroma that invigorates your space while remaining aesthetically pleasing.
Another great idea is to create your own decorative mats. Spread out a collection of autumn leaves beneath a glass coffee table or in your entryway. This will add a pop of colour and evoke natural feelings of the season each time you enter your home. Just make sure that you change out the leaves regularly to keep everything looking fresh!
Create Seasonal Wreaths and Garlands
Probably the most popular way to use fallen autumn leaves in home décor is to create a traditional seasonal wreath. Wreaths and garlands can look stunning even if made of artificial materials, but really take on a whole new life when made with freshly fallen leaves.
To create your own leaf wreath, gather fallen leaves and attach them to a circular base made from twigs or cardboard. You can create a lush, full wreath or a minimalist version with just a few leaves. Hang the finished product on your front door or within areas of your home, such as a large kitchen cabinet, for a warm welcome that highlights the beauty of the season.
Autumn garlands can be created by stringing together leaves using twine or thin wires. Drape them across mantels, door frames, or around windowsills to create an impactful effect that truly embraces the spirit of the season. These garlands can bring a touch of autumn into any room, making it feel cosy and inviting.
Maintenance Tips
To ensure your fallen leaves maintain their beauty and don’t simply create a messy look, here are some top maintenance tips to keep in mind when decorating with them:
- Dry Before Use: Make sure to dry the leaves thoroughly before using them in any décor to prevent mould and mildew from forming and to stop them from decaying.
- Use Protective Coatings: It is a very good idea to use a spray sealant to coat leaves after they have dried. This can help to retain their colour and form for a longer period.
- Regular Changes: To keep your décor looking fresh and seasonal, rotate the leaves and replace any that start to degrade. This will maintain a cosy and cheerful atmosphere in your home.
Final Thoughts
Embracing the beauty of fallen autumn leaves can significantly enhance your home décor during this season of stunning nature. Whether you decide to craft centrepieces, wall art, or cosy accents, the possibilities are endless. By incorporating these elements, you can celebrate both the beauty of nature and the warmth of autumn right from your own home.
MORE ABOUT THE AUTHOR… SYLVIA JAMES: Sylvia James has worked as an interior design expert for over 15 years. Sylvia is skilled at creating beautiful home designs and can work with a range of budgets to suit the homeowner. In addition, Sylvia also provides expert interior design tips and advice for HomeHow.co.uk, and her tips have been published in a range of leading press publications.
