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DIY Vintage-Inspired Fall Projects You’ll Love

Fall has always been one of my favorite times of year. The air turns crisp, the leaves put on their best show, and suddenly I want everything in my home to feel cozy, nostalgic, and just a little bit vintage. (Maybe it’s my age, but I think everything looks better with a touch of “old soul” charm.)

The good news? You don’t have to spend a fortune on brand-new décor to make your home feel warm and inviting this season. With a few simple DIY projects, you can create pieces that look timeless, personal, and a little Pinterest-worthy. Plus, you’ll get that satisfaction of saying, “Oh this? I made it.”

Here are six vintage-inspired fall projects you can make at home—with step-by-step directions and a handy shopping list (all linked for you!) so you can recreate the look without a scavenger hunt.

1. Mason Jar Leaf Lanterns

There’s something about candlelight flickering through autumn leaves that makes a room instantly cozy. This project is as easy as it is beautiful.

How-to:

  1. Grab a clean mason jar.
  2. Brush on a thin layer of Mod Podge.
  3. Press faux fall leaves (real ones can crumble fast) around the outside.
  4. Add another coat of Mod Podge to seal them.
  5. Drop in a battery-operated tea light and watch the glow.

Shopping List:

2. Rustic Wooden Crate Display

Wooden crates are basically the Swiss Army knife of fall décor—you can stack them, fill them, stain them, or leave them rustic. Perfect for porches, entryways, or even next to the fireplace.

How-to:

  1. Pick up a few unfinished wooden crates.
  2. Stain them in a warm tone (think walnut or chestnut).
  3. Stack them at different angles.
  4. Fill them with plaid blankets, pumpkins, or mums.

Shopping List:

3. Vintage Book Pumpkin Stack

If you’ve got old books lying around (or can grab some cheap at a thrift store), this is the project for you. It’s simple, charming, and makes a perfect coffee table centerpiece.

How-to:

  1. Stack 2–3 old books.
  2. Wrap with rustic twine or burlap ribbon.
  3. Place a small faux pumpkin on top.
  4. Tuck in faux leaves or a sprig of eucalyptus for that “I actually thought this through” look.

Shopping List:

4. DIY Plaid Pillow Covers

Changing your pillows for the season is one of the fastest (and cheapest) ways to make a room feel brand new. For fall, nothing beats plaid.

How-to (No-Sew Option):

  1. Buy plain pillow covers in a fall plaid print.
  2. If you’re feeling crafty, use fabric glue to add extra embellishments (like buttons or trim).
  3. Insert your pillow form and toss it on the couch. Done!

Shopping List:

5. Amber Glass Vase Centerpieces

Amber glass just screams vintage fall, doesn’t it? This one is less of a DIY and more of a “DIY assembly,” but I promise it’ll look like you bought it at a boutique.

How-to:

  1. Arrange a few amber glass bottles in the center of your table.
  2. Fill them with dried pampas grass, wheat stalks, or faux eucalyptus.
  3. Cluster in groups of three for the most visual impact.

Shopping List:

6. Burlap Wreath with Vintage Charm

Nothing says “welcome” like a wreath on the front door. This one is simple to make but looks high-end and perfectly vintage.

How-to:

  1. Grab a foam wreath form.
  2. Wrap it tightly with burlap ribbon, securing with hot glue.
  3. Add mini faux pumpkins, berries, or a plaid bow for extra flair.

Shopping List:

Wrapping It Up

And there you have it—six vintage-inspired DIY fall projects that are simple, affordable, and guaranteed to make your home feel cozy this season. Whether you’re glowing up mason jars, stacking old books, or making a wreath from scratch, each project adds a little personal touch (and a little panache) to your space.

Plus, every time you walk past one of these creations, you’ll get that proud “I did that” feeling. And trust me, that’s better than anything you can buy at the store.

✨ Pro Tip: Don’t forget to light your new lanterns, curl up with that plaid pillow, and sip a hot cider. Fall isn’t just about decorating—it’s about slowing down, enjoying the season, and finding joy in the little things.

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