We Re-Read Our Vintage BHG Magazines—Here Are the Best Fall Decorating Ideas from Our Pages

You'll be surprised at how many seasonal decor ideas we still use (and love) today.

Better Homes & Gardens magazine has been in circulation for more than a century, so we know a thing or two about decorating—including seasonal updates. As the air gets colder and the leaves begin to turn colors, it's time to start thinking about fall decorating . And while we have tons of modern ideas, this year we're looking to the past to decorate for the season. We flipped through the past century of our magazines to find fall decor that's still applicable today. Get inspired by these timeless ideas straight from the pages of vintage BHG issues.

1979: Naturally Dyed Fall Crafts

Whether you want to make a wall hanging (like the one we featured in 1979) or you want to personalize something like napkins or a tablecloth, naturally dyed fabric, yarn, or thread has a nostalgic autumnal feel that's not as hard to achieve as you might think. Lean into the harvest season and collect various flowers, herbs, and produce to provide beautiful color to textiles.

Related: How to Make the Vintage Better Homes & Gardens Christmas Tree Wall Hanging

1950: Seasonal Produce Centerpiece

Nature provides beautiful and affordable decor, and produce is no exception. Use apples, pumpkins, squash, grapes, and more to boast the colors of autumn on your tablescape . For a dinner party, use some of the ingredients that you're using in your dish as decor for the table so that guests can get a preview of what's to come.

Related: Our Editors Dished on Their Favorite Fall Vegetables—Here's How They Cook with Them

1959: Fall Flower Arrangement

Floral arrangements aren't just for spring and summer—they can be an easy way to bring the vibrant colors of autumn indoors. Our 1959 article advised readers to arrange foliage in a triangular shape (for example, create two high points with greenery and one low point with flowers). This method helps create visual interest. Mums, roses, and sunflowers are all popular flowers for fall arrangements .

2004: DIY Mini Acorn Wreath

This adorable mini acorn wreath exudes all of the nostalgic feelings of fall. Use a hot-glue gun to cover a moss-covered wire or cardboard ring with found acorns. Tie ribbon around the miniature wreath so it can be hung in a window, from a doorknob, or on the back of a chair.

2000: Real Oak Leaves as Decor

This fall decorating idea is so simple that it can easily be overlooked. Use real oak branches and leaves to make a woodsy indoor arrangement. Place bunches of the branches in an antique pitcher or vase for a cozy look.

Related: Your Guide to Using Real Branches and Leaves as Fall Decor

2003: Gourds in Vases

Stack different sizes of gourds into clear glass vases of various heights for a harvest spin on floral arrangements. Mix different amounts and colors of gourds in each container, and add fresh pumpkin vines for a touch of greenery. Place the vases down the center of a table or on a mantel .

Related: The 10 Best Types of Gourds to Grow for Decor, Crafts, and More

1988: Dried Autumn Wreath

This harvest-inspired wreath from 1988 is similar to dried floral wreaths that are still popular today. Our original article suggested using wire to attach bunches of dried wheat to a purchased straw wreath. Continue this bunching and wiring process with other dried grasses and grains. Lastly, tuck in dried flowers for variety and color.

2002: Real Pumpkins and Gourds Indoors

While faux pumpkins and gourds can be used for fall decorating, real ones add undeniable seasonal charm. This 2002 image showcases how stunningly cozy real ones can be when used inside. To get this homey look, arrange all kinds of pumpkins and gourds on tables and mantels or stack them in a basket that's placed on a chair.

Related: 8 Tips for How to Make Pumpkins Last Longer This Halloween

1950: Frame Pressed Leaves

This 1950 pressed leaf idea transcends into modern-day fall decor . Go on a nature walk this autumn to collect various fallen leaves to dry and press before framing on fall-inspired matting. Once framed, the piece can be hung on a wall as decor for seasons to come.

For more Better Homes & Gardens news, make sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Read the original article on Better Homes & Gardens .