DIY: Leaf Bowl and Fall Mantel

Does anybody else have any last minute fall projects inspired by Pinterest they have been meaning to tackle? I certainly did and finally got around to making this leaf bowl this weekend. I am really happy to share this project with y’all today because I think it will be the perfect addition to any Thanksgiving tablescape. Keep reading for the full tutorial!

First step is to gather all the supplies.

• I found two bouquets of leaves on clearance at Big Lots for $2.50 each. Honestly, I probably only needed one but I am glad I bought both to choose from a variety of sizes.
• You will also need a ton of Mod Podge
• A sponge brush
• A bowl to fill in as the mold
• and Cling Wrap to cover the bowl

I de-veined  the leaves by separating them from the branches to make them easier to work with. This was a really easy process. You just have to make sure to pull at the right spot to make sure you don’t tear the leaf.

Next, I covered my bowl with many, many layers of saran wrap. It was probably too much saran wrap. After I finished the project I saw this video tutorial on YouTube that suggests spraying the bowl with cooking spray before applying the saran wrap to help it cling to the bowl better. I’ll make sure to remember that step next year. I covered my workstation, prepared my mod podge and got to work.

I started at the center, strategically placing the largest leaves at the bottom to make the bowl more secure. I basically eyeballed each leaf to make for the best color combination possible. I let the bowl dry about 30 minutes, added a final layer of mod podge and left it to dry overnight.

The following day all that was left to do was to separate the bowl from the plastic wrap and trim off any excess glue leftover. I realize that I probably used a bit too much glue but at least I know its sturdy.

I bought some of my favorite candy to fill the bowl with and I was done!

The bowl is now happily sitting on my mantel that has been decorated for fall. It is placed right next to an apothecary jar filled with some wine corks and a flameless candle trio I am currently loving.

On the opposite side is a pumpkin I chose from a pumpkin patch I went to at my nephews birthday party atop some curled up leaf garland. Perched in front of the pumpkin is the adorable wood owl my nephew bought me for Christmas last year, he knows me so well.

And that’s it! I’ve definitely enjoyed this fall season but am so ready for winter.

What projects have you worked on lately?

Pinspire Me: Top Fallspirations

The weather has dropped to 88 degrees with the recent cold front and it’s making me want to celebrate the new season. It has been a while since I have shared a Pinterest-inspired post and decided that the new fall season was a perfect opportunity to do just that. I have a few things to share, all having to do with autumn, because I am ready to bring the new season into my home.

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First up, this beautiful fall mantel. I was instantly drawn to that starburst mirror, that the author of the post actually made herself, because it reminds me so much of my own. Then I noticed how cohesive the entire display looked. The wooden pumpkin, those rustic vases, the owl and the leaf garland are all the perfect accessories to surround the mirror. I hope I can create something just as beautiful. And when I do, you will be the first to see it. 

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As you all may know, my goal this past year has been to cultivate my green thumb. Which is probably why I was instantly drawn to this pumpkin planter, that the author describes as a “mumkin”, which I think is just adorable. The brown satin bow adds the perfect fall touch to this fall centerpiece. You better believe you will see this around my living room soon.

 

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I have been awaiting the fall season to arrive so I can start to make some new wreaths. Last year I discovered a love for them after making a Halloween monster wreath. But I recently handed it off to my nephew for him to enjoy and so I could have a reason to make a new one. I am definitely inspired by this Dia de los muertos-esque wreath shown above. 

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Now for some miscellaneous inspiration. Y’all have to know how obsessed I am with all things nails. And lately, matte has been my thang. I can totally see myself rocking these all month long. I hope y’all follow the link and try out some of the other fall mani trends they included like mixed prints, 3D accents and jewel tones. 

 

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I have only talked a bit about my recent transition to eating clean. Experimenting with new recipes has been my newest obsession. This blog has been such a huge inspiration with her “cheap clean eats” recipes. Check them out, they are all delicious and well, cheap. I can’t wait to try these pumpkin pancakes soon!

  How have you welcomed the new season?