As the days grow shorter and the temperatures drop, fall invites us to embrace a slower pace and find joy in life’s simple pleasures. For those living a slow lifestyle, this season is an opportunity to indulge in mindful fall crafting and hobbies that not only enrich our homes but also our well-being. If you’re looking to deepen your connection with the autumn season and cultivate mindfulness through creative pursuits, here are some perfect fall hobbies and crafting ideas to consider.
01 | Knitting and Crocheting: Cozy Up with Handcrafted Comfort
Photo Credit: Daisy Farm Crafts
Knitting and crocheting are perfect fall activities that offer both relaxation and a sense of accomplishment. Creating handmade scarves, blankets, and mittens not only keeps you warm but also provides a calming, meditative experience.
How to Get Started:
- Find Patterns: Look for simple patterns for scarves or blankets if you’re a beginner, or challenge yourself with more complex designs if you’re experienced. This Chunky Cabin Throw is a popular choice for fall.
- Choose Your Yarn: Opt for soft, warm yarns in rich autumnal colors like rust, gold, and deep green. Good choices include Bernat Blanket Yarn ($11.99 per 32 yards) and Chenille yarn Giant Puffy Plush Yarn ($38.47 per 100 yards).
- Order Supplies: You will need a crochet hook and gauge to complete this project. Jumbo Crochet Hook and 4″ Swatch Gauge are excellent choices.
- Set a Routine: Dedicate a cozy corner in your home to your crafting and set aside regular time to work on your projects. You will need a gauge and a crochet hook to complete this
02 | Fall-Themed Candle Making: Infuse Your Space with Autumn Aromas
Photo Credit: Chalktree
Homemade candles are a wonderful way to bring the essence of fall into your home. With scents like cinnamon, pumpkin spice, and apple cider, you can create a warm, inviting atmosphere that enhances the season’s coziness.
Steps to Create Your Candles:
- Gather Materials: You’ll need wax (soy or beeswax), wicks, essential oils, and candle molds or jars. Consider Soy Wax Flakes ($18 for 2 lbs), Crackling Wood Candle Wicks ($8), and Wooden Dough Display Bowl ($30) for your mold.
- Melt and Mix: Melt the wax in a double boiler, then mix in your chosen essential oils and dye. Warm spice oils such as Cinnamon Bark, Ginger, Cardamom, and Clove Bud are especially wonderful around this time of year
- Pour and Set: If using the wooden dough bowl as your mold, check to make sure no leakage can occur. You can seal the exterior of the bowl to prevent leaking and preserve the bowl’s appearance. Pour the wax into your mold with the wicks in place. Allow the candles to set before lighting, up to a week for maximum aroma.
Safety Tip:
- Don’t burn the candle down to the bottom of the wooden mold, or it could catch fire.
03 | Autumnal Art Projects: Capture Fall’s Beauty
Photo Credit: Town and Country Living
Autumn’s vibrant colors and natural textures make it a great time for art. Whether you enjoy painting, drawing, or capturing the beauty of fall, the season offers an abundant of inspiration.
Creative Ideas:
- Leaf Prints: Collect fallen leaves, paint them, and press them onto paper for unique prints.
- Pressed Leaves: Place your collected leaves between parchment paper, then press them in a book from anywhere to a few days till a couple of weeks—timing may vary based on humidity. The leaves are ready when they become thin, fragile, and break rather than bend. For a beautiful display, consider using a Zinc and Glass Picture Frame ($98).
- Watercolor Painting: Capture the beauty of fall landscapes with watercolor paints, focusing on the rich hues of the season.
04 | Homemade Potpourri: Craft Natural Fragrances
Making your own potpourri is a fantastic way to enjoy fall scents and decorate your home. It’s also a mindful craft that involves selecting and arranging natural materials.
Potpourri Recipe:
- Ingredients: Dried leaves, flowers, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and citrus peels.
- Mix and Store: Combine your ingredients in a bowl, and let them sit for a few days to allow the scents to meld. Store in decorative bowls or sachets.
05 | Pumpkin Carving and Decorating: Seasonal Fun
Pumpkin carving is a beloved fall tradition that offers a creative outlet and a chance to decorate your home for the season. This activity can be both fun and meditative, allowing you to express your artistic side.
Tips for Pumpkin Crafting:
- Choose Your Pumpkin: Select a pumpkin with a sturdy stem and a smooth surface.
- Design Your Pattern: Sketch your design on paper or directly onto the pumpkin before carving.
- Get Creative: Beyond traditional carving, consider painting or decorating your pumpkin with autumn-themed embellishments.
06 | DIY Fall Wreaths: Welcome Autumn in Style
Photo Credit: Life as a LEO Wife
Crafting your own fall wreath is a delightful way to greet the season. Using natural materials and seasonal colors, you can create a personalized decoration for your door.
Creating Your Wreath:
- Materials: Gather grapevine wreath forms, dried flowers, leaves, and berries. Our favorite choice of wreath form is the Wispy Natural Grapevine Twig Everyday Wreath Base ($79).
- Assembly: Attach the materials to the wreath form using floral wire or hot glue. Add a ribbon or bow for a finishing touch.
Embracing slow living through mindful crafting and hobbies is a wonderful way to connect with the autumn season and bring a sense of calm and creativity into your life. From knitting and crocheting to creating homemade candles and potpourri, these fall activities offer both therapeutic benefits and a chance to enrich your home with personalized touches.
This fall, take the time to savor each moment and enjoy the process of creating something beautiful. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or just starting out, these projects are sure to bring warmth and joy to your slow living journey.
We’d love to see your fall crafting projects! Share your experiences and photos in the comments below or on social media with the hashtag #FallCraftingJoy.
Happy crafting and enjoy the cozy season!
