Decorating for Autumn
by Nikki Willhite
www.allthingsfrugal.com
Not everyone is lucky enough to live in New
England, and to see the beautiful changing of the leaves to rich Autumn colors.
However, we can still celebrate the season.
Bring out and display items of the season. Some may just be
everyday items, but in the rich colors of Autumn. Autumn is the season we most
associate with nature. Autumn colors are rich browns, gold, reds, oranges, and
dark greens.
Even if you have a small house, it is fun to have just one spot
where you can change the display on a periodic basis. You can change pictures,
table covers, scents, all kinds of accessories, and even add treats.
This display table can become a special place for your family;
sometimes the first spot the children check when they come home from school to
see what's new and if there is anything there for them. It's a great tradition.
Use things that remind you of the outdoors. Here are some ideas:
*Tablecloths: and other linens (add pieces of Autumn fabric on
top of existing tablecloths for an economical Autumn effect).
*Quilts, throws, and pillows. If you make decorative pillow
covers in the same way pillow shams are made, you can slip them on and off for
the season.
*Acorns, squashes, colorful corn, and such ,displayed in straw
or woven baskets. Apples in varied colors look wonderful and can be recycled :-)
Pear add even more interest with their different size and colors.
*Orange and Red Leaves: Just a few silk ones will add a spot of
color on the table or in other arrangements such as the one above. Single, well
shaped leaves look wonder framed by themselves, or spray painted gold. Be sure
and get a small easel so you can display pictures on your table.
*Buy some un cracked nuts and a nutcracker if you don't already
have one. Display the nuts and then have a family night where you crack them and
eat them. We did this when I was growing up, and it was always a treat to have
fresh nuts.
*Add a birdhouse to your table, and place some greenery and
candles around it. Add some earthy scent if you aren't getting it from the items
on the table.
*Last but not least, bring out the first of the Holiday
Decorations, whether it by pilgrim hats or pumpkins.