12 Cozy DIY Projects to Try This Fall
As summer’s vibrant greens transition into autumn’s golden shades, a magical atmosphere envelops us. The soft crunch of fallen leaves beneath our feet, the refreshing coolness of morning air, and the inviting aroma of pumpkin spice signal a time to slow down and appreciate life’s little joys. Autumn is a season for comfort, and what better way to celebrate it than by engaging in hobbies that are both heartwarming and sustainable? Here, we delve into specific activities that will keep you content and environmentally conscious as the days shorten.
1. Knitting and Crocheting
I am only just starting to pick up this hobby. A friend got me into it, letting me borrow some yarn and a hook. I can easily see how the soothing rhythm of knitting or crocheting can bring comfort during chilly evenings. Consider crafting a chunky knit blanket using sustainably sourced wool, which not only keeps you warm but also makes a thoughtful gift for a loved one. You might also try creating a set of handmade cotton dishcloths that are reusable and environmentally friendly, showcasing your unique style while reducing waste. You can follow this video for basics- it helped me a lot!
2. Candle Making
Candle making has been a delight and the bane of my very existence. The warm, cozy autumnal scents like flannel and fall leaves and apple picking are so fun to play with. Less fun is the intense amount of science involved. Like any hobby, it is more complicated and expensive than it looks. However, if you don’t care too much about how the candle looks or if it even smells like anything when you burn it, this is a pretty fun hobby to get into. Try making your own candles with soy wax and essential oils like cinnamon or clove to evoke autumn scents. Consider adding dried herbs such as rosemary or lavender to your candles for a rustic touch. These personalized creations make for charming gifts during the holiday season, spreading warmth and sustainability. As soy candles already need two weeks to cure, if you make them during the fall season, they can be ready to gift for the holidays!
3. Baking with Seasonal Ingredients
Autumn is a time of harvest, making it perfect for baking with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Explore recipes using organic apples to make a classic apple pie or whip up pumpkin bread using locally sourced pumpkins. Share your homemade goodies with neighbors or host a small gathering, fostering community connections while celebrating the flavors of the season. Consider a recipe swap or Friendsgiving- it doesn’t have to be in November for it to count!
4. Gardening and Composting
You can almost always find me in the garden. This season, I have unfortunately transformed into Farmer McGregor, as rabbits have sought to eat all of my plants. I have since developed a weird hutch looking thing of chicken wire, wood, and pvc pipe, in order to keep them out. I’ll keep you posted on how well this works- life is all about experimenting, and staying positive despite the curveballs thrown your way.
Rabbits or no, and even as temperatures dip, you can continue to nurture your garden. Plant hearty vegetables like Brussels sprouts or winter radishes to enjoy fresh produce throughout the colder months. Additionally, start a compost bin using kitchen scraps like vegetable peels and coffee grounds, which can enrich your garden soil and reduce landfill waste. Engaging with your garden and getting some fresh air can be a rewarding and meditative experience, especially as the sunlight hours fade.
5. Foraging and Preserving
Oh yes- I’m serious. Embrace your inner little mouse in an apron or fox in a suit and head on out there with a basket in hand. Foraging allows you to connect deeply with nature and its seasonal bounty. Depending on where you live, you can even learn to identify local edible mushrooms like chanterelles or wild berries such as blackberries. I myself do not live in such an abundant place (I’m more of a city slicker right now), but you can always make it a cute day trip to go to a U-pick berry, pumpkin, or apple orchard. Once you’ve successfully foraged, try preserving your finds by making jams or drying herbs for winter use. Jam is shockingly easy to make, and tastes so much better when made fresh. This not only extends the life of your harvest but also enhances your culinary adventures throughout the year.
6. Upcycling and DIY Projects
Autumn is the perfect time to embark on creative indoor projects. Consider upcycling an old wooden chair into a stylish plant stand with a fresh coat of eco-friendly paint. Alternatively, transform leftover fabric scraps into a patchwork quilt, combining memories and sustainability. Make it a social activity by inviting friends to a thrift store to pick up old picture frames or prints, and repaint them with spooky or fun designs. DIY projects like creating your own natural cleaning products can provide practical benefits while reducing your ecological footprint. I like to steep lemon peels in vinegar to use for shower cleaning, and wipe up counters with scrap towels. It feels so cozy and rewarding, like the earth is loving you right back.
7. Writing and Journaling
Autumn’s introspective vibe is ideal for writing. Start a gratitude journal to document your favorite autumn moments or write poetry inspired by the season’s beauty. Use recycled paper notebooks or digital platforms to minimize waste. This practice not only helps organize your thoughts but also encourages mindfulness and creativity. This is the best time of year to get reflective about your life and habits, and think about what can be changed for the better. It’s nice to get a head start on those new year resolutions!
8. Nature Walks and Photography
Taking a walk through colorful autumn landscapes can be inspiring. Bring along a camera to capture the stunning foliage and wildlife. Document the vibrant oranges, reds, and yellows of the leaves, or photograph local flora and fauna. Consider going with a prompt in mind, like trying to capture tiny, often overlooked details in nature; or get a photo of every color of the rainbow; or try to find rocks or leaves that match your eyes; find unique patterns and textures; take a picture of the same location at dawn and another at dusk; and so on. Retrain your brain to notice the little things, and encourage living in the moment!
9. Reading and Book Swaps
One things my friends and I started this season was a bi-weekly book club. We meet up over facetime to discuss our lives, drink a little tea or wine, and chat about our book! We like to bring a favorite moment or quote to get the conversation going. Organize a book swap with friends, allowing everyone to exchange gently used books, discover new authors, and reduce the need for new purchases. And reading doesn’t have to be social- you can just as easily settle into a cozy corner with a warm blanket and a good book. Create a reading nook adorned with pillows and soft lighting to enhance your experience.
10. Learning a Musical Instrument
With the cooler weather, consider picking up an instrument like the ukulele or keyboard. Search for second-hand instruments to lessen your environmental impact. Learning to play music can bring joy and serve as a creative outlet, allowing you to express your emotions and connect with others through shared musical experiences. It also helps build your brain, and exercises it in a different way. This video helps with reading sheet music and playing the piano.
11. Volunteer and Community Engagement
Autumn signifies a season for giving back. Participate in local community clean-up events, help plant trees in your area, or volunteer at a food bank. These activities not only support your community and the environment but also foster a sense of purpose and connection with those around you. Facebook and Meetup are good ways of seeing what’s going on in your area.
12. Mindful Meditation and Yoga
As nature prepares for its winter slumber, take this opportunity to cultivate mindfulness through meditation or yoga. Practice outdoors to feel more connected to the earth, breathing in the crisp autumn air. These practices can enhance your mental clarity and offer a peaceful escape from daily stressors. I like this yoga video for the autumnal vibes!
Conclusion
Autumn is a season full of opportunities to connect meaningfully with the world around us while practicing sustainability. By indulging in these comforting hobbies, you nourish your spirit and contribute positively to the planet. Whether you’re knitting by the fireplace, foraging in the woods, or volunteering in your community, each small action makes a difference in creating a more sustainable future. Embrace autumn with open arms and a heart full of gratitude for the simple joys it brings.
