Bring the colors and textures of summer right into your home by making your own decor from natural materials. Using items like driftwood, shells, branches, and stones, you can easily create unique pieces that reflect the beauty of the season without relying on plastics or synthetic decorations. Simple touches from nature add a relaxed, inviting feel and let your creativity shine while keeping things eco-friendly.
This approach not only makes use of what you can find outdoors, but also lets you personalize every detail. From handmade centerpieces with sand and shells to wall hangings crafted from twigs and moss, there are endless possibilities to match your style and space. Get inspired to try new projects, discover easy ways to upcycle natural treasures, and brighten your home with your own summer creations.
Key Takeaways
- Choose natural materials for a fresh summer look.
- Find easy ideas for centerpieces and wall decor.
- Explore fun, eco-friendly crafts for your home.
Choosing Natural Materials for Summer Decor
Natural decor adds warmth and character to your summer spaces. Choosing the right materials and handling them carefully brings out the beauty and longevity of your DIY projects.
Essential Natural Elements for Crafting
Using materials like wood, moss, twigs, and shells adds texture and an organic touch to your decor. Flowers and plants are perfect for fresh centerpieces or wreaths. Leaves and greenery work well for garlands or table accents.
You can also collect pine cones, acorns, feathers, and stones. These items are often easy to find and can be displayed in bowls or glass jars. Rattan, raffia, and linen make excellent bases for craft projects such as wreaths and table runners.
For a quick overview, use this table:
| Material | Best Uses |
|---|---|
| Moss | Wreaths, terrariums |
| Twigs | Frames, mobiles |
| Shells | Mirrors, vases |
| Feathers | Wall art, accents |
| Acorns | Garland, ornaments |
Where to Source Materials Sustainably
Collecting materials responsibly means respecting nature and keeping local habitats healthy. Gather fallen leaves, twigs, pine cones, and acorns from parks or your own yard rather than breaking or cutting from living plants.
Driftwood and shells can be found along beaches, but only take what’s abundant and leave plenty for wildlife. For flowers and plants, look for local farms or trimmings from your garden. Consider buying craft supplies and dried botanicals from eco-friendly stores that support sustainable harvesting.
Always check the rules about collecting from public lands. When in doubt, choose shops or online sellers with transparent sourcing policies.
Tips for Preparing and Preserving Finds
Before using any natural material in your craft, clean and dry it thoroughly. Gently brush off loose dirt or insects from pine cones, acorns, and twigs. If you use fresh flowers or branches, give them a quick rinse and allow them to air dry.
To preserve moss, leaves, and feathers, use a spray of clear sealer or a natural glycerin mixture to help retain color and texture. Store delicate items in breathable containers away from direct sunlight.
When crafting with shells and stones, soak them in soapy water to remove sand, then let them dry completely. Take time to sort and organize your finds, so they’re ready to use when inspiration strikes.
DIY Centerpieces and Table Decor
Natural materials like flowers, shells, twigs, and leaves add an inviting and earthy feel to your summer tablescapes. Using simple techniques, you can create unique centerpieces that bring the outdoors in and make your table stand out.
Creating Rustic Centerpieces with Flowers and Leaves
Gather a mix of freshly cut flowers and leafy branches from your garden or a flower shop. Choose sturdy blooms like sunflowers, daisies, or wild roses, and pair them with eucalyptus, fern, or leafy stems for added texture.
Arrange everything in a mason jar, ceramic pitcher, or reclaimed glass bottle. Add small rocks or pebbles to the bottom to secure taller stems. For a rustic finish, tie twine or raffia around the neck of your container.
Cluster several small jars in the center of your table, or place a single large arrangement as a focal point. Try layering large leaves beneath the jars or scattering them along a burlap runner for extra greenery.
Beach-Inspired Arrangements with Shells and Twigs
Start by collecting shells in different sizes and shapes, along with small pieces of driftwood, twigs, or beach pebbles. Fill a glass bowl or tray with sand, and nestle the shells and twigs on top. Add a pillar candle in the center for a simple, elegant touch.
Arrange the shells and twigs loosely, avoiding an overly structured look. Stack a few shells or wrap twine around twigs for added coastal charm. For extra interest, add small starfish décor or sea glass pieces, but keep the palette neutral and soft.
Place this arrangement at the center of your table or use smaller versions spaced out across a long table for a beachy vibe. Avoid overcrowding—negative space helps highlight the natural accents.
Seasonal Greenery and Wildflower Displays
Use locally-sourced greenery and wildflowers to create informal, seasonal displays. Combine freshly picked grasses, clover, or Queen Anne’s lace with herbs like rosemary or mint for fragrance.
Arrange the greenery and wildflowers in mismatched bottles, tin cans, or small baskets. Add water to keep everything fresh, and consider varying the heights for a relaxed look. For extra texture, weave in long blades of grass or delicate twigs around the rim.
Scatter additional leaves or flower petals across the table runner or placemats for subtle color and texture. This approach works well for casual gatherings and outdoor meals, making each table feel fresh and personal.
Creative Wall Art and Hanging Decor Ideas
Simple nature-based projects can transform your space, letting you bring the outdoors in with pressed flowers, handmade garlands, and whimsical mobiles. These summer DIY projects use easy-to-find materials like plants, feathers, acorns, pine cones, and moss to create inviting wall decor.
Pressed Plant and Flower Frames
Pressed plant and flower frames offer a way to display vibrant summer blooms and leaves all year. Begin by collecting a variety of fresh flowers, ferns, or small branches while they’re at their peak. Press them between heavy books or use a flower press, leaving them flat for 1-2 weeks.
Once dried, arrange your pressed pieces between glass panes or in floating frames for a delicate, detailed effect. Mix different colored petals for contrast, or group specimens by shape. These framed displays add a botanical accent to your walls and make unique, personal gifts.
Tips for a clean look:
- Wipe dust from the glass before assembly
- Use acid-free paper to reduce discoloration
- Mount frames in clusters for visual interest
DIY Garlands with Feathers and Acorns
DIY garlands made from feathers and acorns combine texture and shape for lively, natural wall decor. Foraged acorns can be painted or left with their natural finish. Feathers—collected during walks or purchased—add softness and contrast.
Thread feathers and acorns onto twine, string, or thin jute. Alternate between the two for dimension or group by color. Lightweight and simple to hang, you can drape garlands over mantels, doorways, or blank wall spaces.
Garland creation steps:
- Drill tiny holes in acorns for threading
- Tie feathers and acorns at intervals along the string
- Secure ends with knots or loops for hanging
Nature Mobiles Using Pine Cones and Moss
Nature mobiles are a playful way to showcase pine cones and moss. Gather pine cones of various sizes and dry green moss. Secure pine cones to sticks or driftwood bases using clear fishing line or strong thread. Nestle bits of moss among them for added depth.
For a balanced look, hang items at different lengths. The gentle motion of mobiles gives a breezy, summer feel to any room. You can also add small branches, seed pods, or bits of bark to enhance your display.
Supply checklist:
| Material | Suggested Amount |
|---|---|
| Pine Cones | 5-10 |
| Green Moss | Handful |
| Branch/Driftwood | 1 piece |
| Fishing Line | 2-3 meters |
| Scissors | 1 |
Crafting Fun Summer Accessories
Bring summer vibes to your wardrobe with accessories made from nature’s own materials. Using beads, shells, and feathers, you can create custom pieces perfect for the season’s easygoing style.
Natural Bead Jewelry and Wearables
Beads made from wood, seeds, and even small stones are ideal for simple summer jewelry. You can string them on cotton cord, elastic wire, or even linen thread.
To make your own, collect small, smooth pieces while out on walks or at the beach. Drill holes using a small hand tool, or choose beads with existing openings.
Popular ideas include:
- Stacked bead bracelets: Mix different sizes and colors.
- Layered necklaces: Use adjustable knots for a beachy look.
- Anklets: Combine natural beads with metallic spacers.
Natural beads pair well with linen fabric or woven cord for boho-inspired accessories. These wearable crafts are low-cost and reflect the textures and colors of summer.
Simple Shell and Feather Accents
Shells and feathers can be used as eye-catching accents on jewelry, hats, or bags. Clean and dry your shells and feathers before use to keep your accessories looking their best.
Use lightweight string or strong craft glue to attach shells and feathers. You can make:
- Drop earrings: String small shells or feathers onto earring hooks.
- Shell hairclips: Attach flat shells to hairpins with glue.
- Keychains: Combine a single large shell with a few small feathers.
Consider painting shells in bright colors or adding beads for extra detail. These quick projects are suitable for adults and kids, making summer crafts a group activity.
Upcycled and Eco-Friendly Craft Ideas
Creating summer decor with upcycled and eco-friendly materials allows you to reuse what you have and reduce waste. You can turn everyday items like cardboard, plastic, and glass into attractive seasonal accents with just a few craft supplies.
Using Cardboard in Summer Decor Projects
Cardboard is easy to find and surprisingly versatile for summer DIY. You can cut it into shapes for garlands, create stencils for painting, or build lightweight wall art. For example, use cardboard circles to make a sunburst mirror or cut out leaf shapes for a summer-themed mobile.
Decorate the cardboard with acrylic paints, colored paper, or natural materials like twine and pressed flowers. To help ideas flow, keep a list of possible projects:
- Garden signs for herbs or flowers
- Table centerpieces
- Hanging lanterns (with LED lights)
If you have children, cardboard projects make for safe and simple family crafting sessions. Always seal completed decor with a clear coat if you plan to use it outdoors.
Mixing Recycled Materials with Nature Finds
Combining recycled elements with items you find outside lets you make unique and textured summer decor. Glass jars become flower vases when paired with twigs or wrapped with jute and dried flowers. Plastic bottles or tin cans can turn into planters when painted or decorated with pebbles, bark, or moss.
Try these easy combinations:
| Recycled Item | Nature Find | Resulting Craft |
|---|---|---|
| Tin can | Moss and stones | Rustic plant holder |
| Plastic bottle | Twigs, leaves | Hanging bird feeder |
| Glass jar | Sand, shells | Beachy table lantern |
Use strong glue or natural fiber twine to attach materials. This approach helps you make the most of what’s on hand while adding a personal touch to your summer space.
