6 Ways to Decorate With Twigs

As summer morphs into fall, you might be thinking about ways to decorate your home for the new season. This year, try using twigs in your décor. They are free, easy to find, and perfect for creating rustic decorations. Plus, using natural elements is a brilliant way to bring the outdoors inside. If you are lucky enough to have a backyard, all you have to do is walk out your door. If not, these projects will give you an excuse to take a trip to the nearest park. It also doubles as a fun activity for the entire family.

As with all projects using natural materials, it is essential to be careful as you gather twigs. Do not pick anything up that is decaying or is covered in bugs. Take some time to carefully inspect the twigs after your collect them. Give them a good shake to make sure you haven’t brought home any stowaways. (Otherwise, this situation could make for an interesting DIY décor project.)

Once you are ready to decorate your space, check out these six ideas using twigs. You will be surprised at how easy it is to transform your house on a dime.

1. Arrange in a Vase

For a quick and easy project that requires zero fancy skills, place a handful of twigs in a vase. The end result is an instant rustic centerpiece. To emphasize the autumn look, tie hemp or ribbon around the vase. It's as easy as that.

Of course, you can easily take it up a notch with a few nifty DIY hacks. Spray paint the twigs in a metallic color for a festive touch. Wrap them in twine, yarn, or thread for a color blocked look. It just goes to show how the simplest materials can double as a centerpiece for your next decorating endeavor.

2. Construct a Monogram

Add a personal touch to your space by creating a large letter with twigs. You can find cardboard or wood letters at the craft store. They are available in a wide variety of sizes and styles. Once you gather your supplies, use wood glue or hot glue to adhere the twigs across the letter. Depending on the size of your twigs, you might need to break them into smaller pieces. Hang up the finished monogram using ribbon or twine. You can also lean it up against the wall on a mantle, dresser, or bookcase.

3. Create a Geometric Wreath

A wreath is a traditional piece of décor that can be used across many seasons and holidays. It comes down to how the wreath is embellished. Wreaths are especially popular during the fall and winter seasons. Fortunately, you can make a simple geometric wreath using just a few twigs from your backyard. This version is trendy and extremely easy to make.

To make a geometric wreath, gather three to six twigs. Three pieces can make a triangle, four can make a rectangle or square, and five can make a pentagon. Six twigs can make a hexagon. Simply arrange the twigs in your desired shape and tie the ends together with strands of hemp or twine. Feel free to add a dot of hot glue or wood adhesive for extra security. For extra flair, glue paper flowers, fern leaves, or cinnamon sticks. This is a perfect project if you have limited space or are looking for minimalist-inspired décor.

4. Decorate a Frame

Show off your autumn memories with a fall-themed frame. This is ideal for sprucing up your coffee table, counter top, or desk. To make your own, buy a frame with wide, flat borders. This can be as big or as small as you’d like. Glue twigs around the frame with hot glue. Top it off with a holiday elements such as ribbon or dried leaves.

5. Glue to a Candle Holder

Embrace the fall season by decorating candle holders with twigs. Simply glue twigs to the exterior of a glass container or candle holder. You can apply this idea to a store-bought candle or an empty holder. Don’t forget to emphasize the autumn vibes by pairing it with a holiday-scented candle. Vanilla, cinnamon, pine, and cranberries are excellent options.

Much like wreaths and vases, you can easily add extra flair to your twig candle holder. Try wrapping the holder with fabric or twine. Alternatively, you can spray paint the twigs before gluing them. For safety reasons, make sure the twigs do not come into contact with the candle’s flame.

6. Make a Garland

A garland is wonderful for spicing up a mantle or plain wall. And while they can be used as day-to-day décor, they are especially popular for parties and events. Regardless of the occasion, a garland can be made with small twigs and twine.

To make your own DIY garland, cut a long strand of twine or yarn. The longer the strand, the longer your finished garland will be. Using shorter strands of twine, tie small twigs along the main strand and you have yourself a garland. You can also incorporate pine cones, cinnamon sticks, and dried leaves. To hang up your new creation, use a thumbtack at each end.