How to transform Scrap Wood into Charming Pumpkins: A DIY Adventure

 

Wooden blocks, handmade Fall pumpkins

Wooden blocks, handmade Fall pumpkins

Painted and ready for stencilling…

On a recent stroll through my neighbourhood, I stumbled upon a house under construction. Among the debris, I noticed a pile of scrap wood that sparked an idea. I asked the contractors if I could take a few small blocks for a DIY project, and to my surprise, they jokingly offered the entire pile. Intrigued, I brought the wood home and began a delightful transformation.

I cleaned and sanded the blocks to prepare them for their new life. With a fresh coat of paint and a touch of black acrylic stenciling, each block started to take shape. I meticulously worked on the edges to give them a refined look, and for the stems, I ventured to the park and gathered some sticks.

The result? Adorable, handcrafted wooden pumpkins that perfectly capture the essence of autumn. My total spending was $3.36 for craft paint from local shop called Dollarama. On Etsy wooden pumpkins are over $15.00 each. I’m thrilled with how they turned out and plan to keep a couple for myself. The rest are available for sale, so if you’re looking for a unique fall decoration, feel free to reach out!

Thank you for reading, I hope you enjoy the next one ⬇️⬇️⬇️

https://verasslowlivingdiaries.blogspot.com/2024/09/turning-leftover-candle-bits-into.html

How to transform Scrap Wood into Charming Pumpkins: A DIY Adventure

 

Wooden blocks, handmade Fall pumpkins

Wooden blocks, handmade Fall pumpkins

Painted and ready for stencilling…

On a recent stroll through my neighbourhood, I stumbled upon a house under construction. Among the debris, I noticed a pile of scrap wood that sparked an idea. I asked the contractors if I could take a few small blocks for a DIY project, and to my surprise, they jokingly offered the entire pile. Intrigued, I brought the wood home and began a delightful transformation.

I cleaned and sanded the blocks to prepare them for their new life. With a fresh coat of paint and a touch of black acrylic stenciling, each block started to take shape. I meticulously worked on the edges to give them a refined look, and for the stems, I ventured to the park and gathered some sticks.

The result? Adorable, handcrafted wooden pumpkins that perfectly capture the essence of autumn. My total spending was $3.36 for craft paint from local shop called Dollarama. On Etsy wooden pumpkins are over $15.00 each. I’m thrilled with how they turned out and plan to keep a couple for myself. The rest are available for sale, so if you’re looking for a unique fall decoration, feel free to reach out!

Thank you for reading, I hope you enjoy the next one ⬇️⬇️⬇️

https://verasslowlivingdiaries.blogspot.com/2024/09/turning-leftover-candle-bits-into.html

How I Saved Money by Drying My Own Homegrown Herbs

Since my retirement and moving back to Canada I created a mini garden on my balcony. Not having a green thumb I was pleased with my herbs and cherry tomatoes. I decided to dry my homegrown herbs—dill, parsley, green onion, and chives. It was such a simple process and a great way to save a few dollars since dried herbs can be quite expensive at the store. 

After harvesting, I washed and patted them dry, cut them then spread them out on trays and placed in a dry area for a few days. Once they were completely dried I stored them in glass jars. Now, I have a fresh supply of flavourful herbs that will last me through the fall and winter seasons! It’s a practical, easy DIY project that makes use of what I already have growing at home.

My balcony homegrown harvest  

Pat dry dill, parsley, onion, chives

Chopped chives

 

Drying process

How I Saved Money by Drying My Own Homegrown Herbs

Since my retirement and moving back to Canada I created a mini garden on my balcony. Not having a green thumb I was pleased with my herbs and cherry tomatoes. I decided to dry my homegrown herbs—dill, parsley, green onion, and chives. It was such a simple process and a great way to save a few dollars since dried herbs can be quite expensive at the store. 

After harvesting, I washed and patted them dry, cut them then spread them out on trays and placed in a dry area for a few days. Once they were completely dried I stored them in glass jars. Now, I have a fresh supply of flavourful herbs that will last me through the fall and winter seasons! It’s a practical, easy DIY project that makes use of what I already have growing at home.

My balcony homegrown harvest  

Pat dry dill, parsley, onion, chives

Chopped chives

 

Drying process

Pumpkin Spice Season. Fall decor painted book stack

Fall Decor Project: Pumpkin Spice Season Book Stack

Hand painted book stack, Fall decor display

Hand painted book stack, Fall decor display

As the crisp fall air settles in, I wanted to bring a touch of seasonal charm to my home with a unique, personalized and affordable fall decor project. I’m thrilled with how it turned out, and I’m excited to share the details with you!

For this project, I decided to create a stylish stack of three books that would add a pop of autumnal color and a cozy vibe to my space. Here’s how I did it:

1. Choosing the Books: I started with three old books that I found on a curb during my morning walks. They didn’t need to be in perfect condition since they would be getting a makeover.

2. Painting the Covers: I gave each book a fresh look by painting them in rich fall colors—black, orange, and teal. These shades not only complement each other beautifully but also capture the essence of the season.

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3. Adding the Text: Once the paint was dry, I added a bit of sparkle with gold letters from Dollarama for $1.25. I glued the words "Pumpkin Spice Season" onto the spines of the books. This touch makes the stack both festive and inviting.

4. Tying it Together: To finish, I wrapped the stack with a simple piece of twine. This added a rustic element that perfectly suits the fall theme. As a final touch, I placed a pumpkin from Dollar Tree for $1.50. 

The pumpkin adds a charming touch to the decor.

5. Displaying the Decor: The finished book stack looks fantastic on a shelf, coffee table, or entryway. It’s a versatile piece that enhances any space with a warm and welcoming autumn feel.

I’m incredibly pleased with how this project turned out. It’s a simple yet effective way to infuse some seasonal spirit into my home. If you’re looking for an easy and creative fall decor idea, this book stack might just be the perfect project for you!

Salvaged, up-cycled books

 

Fall Decor Project: Pumpkin Spice Season Book Stack

Hand painted book stack, Fall decor display

Hand painted book stack, Fall decor display

As the crisp fall air settles in, I wanted to bring a touch of seasonal charm to my home with a unique, personalized and affordable fall decor project. I’m thrilled with how it turned out, and I’m excited to share the details with you!

For this project, I decided to create a stylish stack of three books that would add a pop of autumnal color and a cozy vibe to my space. Here’s how I did it:

1. Choosing the Books: I started with three old books that I found on a curb during my morning walks. They didn’t need to be in perfect condition since they would be getting a makeover.

2. Painting the Covers: I gave each book a fresh look by painting them in rich fall colors—black, orange, and teal. These shades not only complement each other beautifully but also capture the essence of the season.

This is your first paragraph of content.

This is your next paragraph of content.

3. Adding the Text: Once the paint was dry, I added a bit of sparkle with gold letters from Dollarama for $1.25. I glued the words "Pumpkin Spice Season" onto the spines of the books. This touch makes the stack both festive and inviting.

4. Tying it Together: To finish, I wrapped the stack with a simple piece of twine. This added a rustic element that perfectly suits the fall theme. As a final touch, I placed a pumpkin from Dollar Tree for $1.50. 

The pumpkin adds a charming touch to the decor.

5. Displaying the Decor: The finished book stack looks fantastic on a shelf, coffee table, or entryway. It’s a versatile piece that enhances any space with a warm and welcoming autumn feel.

I’m incredibly pleased with how this project turned out. It’s a simple yet effective way to infuse some seasonal spirit into my home. If you’re looking for an easy and creative fall decor idea, this book stack might just be the perfect project for you!

Salvaged, up-cycled books

 

Handmade Fall Decor on a Budget: DIY Pumpkins, Wreaths, and Topiary

Handmade Fall Decor on a Budget: DIY Wreath

Handmade Fall Decor on a Budget: DIY Fabric Pumpkins

As someone who recently moved back to Canada after living abroad, I found myself without many seasonal decorations. While strolling through a local stores, I picked up a few pumpkins, but to my surprise, they were much pricier than I expected. Being on a budget, I quickly realized that I needed to get creative. So, instead of splurging on expensive decor, I decided to shop at home. Here’s what I made from old clothing items, fabric scraps, and other supplies from my crafting stash.

1. DIY Fabric Pumpkins Using some fabric scraps and old clothing items, I made the cutest fabric pumpkins. These can be crafted from virtually any material you have on hand – think old flannel shirts, sweaters, or even leftover fabric from previous projects. I stuffed them with some cotton filling and tied the tops with twine. You can also add real or faux stems, or even twigs from your backyard for a rustic touch. I also used wine corks with glued twine around. The result? Beautiful pumpkins that cost next to nothing and will make a lovely display.

2. Fall Wreath For the wreath, I purchased a wreath from Dollarama for $3.00 (with the change I had from returned empties)but you could easily use a cardboard cutout as a base. I added faux leaves, and artificial flowers from my stash. Some hot glue, a little patience, and voilà – a charming wreath perfect for hanging on the front door. To personalize it, I added a couple of my own handmade mini fabric pumpkins. The best part is it’s fully customizable based on what you have available.

Handmade Fall Decor on a Budget: DIY Topiary

3. DIY Topiary 

The topiary was another fun project using items I already had. I had 3 different sizes of wicker candle holders given to my by my daughter. I was hesitating to use them lighting candles so I came up with a better idea.

Stacking  them on top of each other and securing them with hot glue then decorated with items I had on hand. I created a simple, yet elegant, pumpkin topiary. It will be a beautiful focal point for my balcony and an excellent way to greet the season.

The Beauty of Handmade on a Budget

Not only did these DIY fall decorations save me money, but they also allowed me to recycle materials I already had. The result is a cozy, personalized fall display that brings a bit of seasonal magic into my home without breaking the bank.

I encourage anyone else looking to decorate on a budget to look around your home and see what materials you can repurpose. A little creativity goes a long way, and your handmade pieces will always have more character than anything store-bought! 

Happy crafting!

Handmade Fall Decor on a Budget: DIY Pumpkins, Wreaths, and Topiary

Handmade Fall Decor on a Budget: DIY Wreath

Handmade Fall Decor on a Budget: DIY Fabric Pumpkins

As someone who recently moved back to Canada after living abroad, I found myself without many seasonal decorations. While strolling through a local stores, I picked up a few pumpkins, but to my surprise, they were much pricier than I expected. Being on a budget, I quickly realized that I needed to get creative. So, instead of splurging on expensive decor, I decided to shop at home. Here’s what I made from old clothing items, fabric scraps, and other supplies from my crafting stash.

1. DIY Fabric Pumpkins Using some fabric scraps and old clothing items, I made the cutest fabric pumpkins. These can be crafted from virtually any material you have on hand – think old flannel shirts, sweaters, or even leftover fabric from previous projects. I stuffed them with some cotton filling and tied the tops with twine. You can also add real or faux stems, or even twigs from your backyard for a rustic touch. I also used wine corks with glued twine around. The result? Beautiful pumpkins that cost next to nothing and will make a lovely display.

2. Fall Wreath For the wreath, I purchased a wreath from Dollarama for $3.00 (with the change I had from returned empties)but you could easily use a cardboard cutout as a base. I added faux leaves, and artificial flowers from my stash. Some hot glue, a little patience, and voilà – a charming wreath perfect for hanging on the front door. To personalize it, I added a couple of my own handmade mini fabric pumpkins. The best part is it’s fully customizable based on what you have available.

Handmade Fall Decor on a Budget: DIY Topiary

3. DIY Topiary 

The topiary was another fun project using items I already had. I had 3 different sizes of wicker candle holders given to my by my daughter. I was hesitating to use them lighting candles so I came up with a better idea.

Stacking  them on top of each other and securing them with hot glue then decorated with items I had on hand. I created a simple, yet elegant, pumpkin topiary. It will be a beautiful focal point for my balcony and an excellent way to greet the season.

The Beauty of Handmade on a Budget

Not only did these DIY fall decorations save me money, but they also allowed me to recycle materials I already had. The result is a cozy, personalized fall display that brings a bit of seasonal magic into my home without breaking the bank.

I encourage anyone else looking to decorate on a budget to look around your home and see what materials you can repurpose. A little creativity goes a long way, and your handmade pieces will always have more character than anything store-bought! 

Happy crafting!