Every year my husband usually has to tell me it’s too early to start putting up Christmas decorations, so I’ve learned that I can get away with putting up fall/autumn decorations (aka Thanksgiving) in October, which is okay with me.  I’m already playing with ideas for this year’s mantel.

Here are some of the fall mantel decor ideas I plan to use as inspiration. At the end you will find a list of items you can mix and match to create the perfect look for your fall mantel.

Fall Mantel Decor Inspiration

Source: Bless this Nest

This gorgeous fall mantel is heavy on wood and greenery. Create a similar wreath using wooden slices and a fall floral from your local craft store. Check your local thrift shop for a window frame to display it on.

Source: She Gave it a Go

Easily recreate this look with some fall garland, unique fall signs (you can even create your own), and vintage wooden candle holders.

Source: DIY Beautify

A nice fall sign surrounded by painted mason jars, candles, simple greenery, and assorted pumpkins are all you need to create a similar look.

 Source: Choose to Thrive

Display a fall wreath on a rustic frame to create a nice focal point for this mantel. If you have a Cricut, you can print vinyl letters and stick them to your choice of bottle. Add some pampas grass and you’re done!

 Source: Nest of Posies (includes 21 fall printables!)

I love the simplicity of this minimalist look. Just frame a fall saying and add a variety of pumpkins!

Source: Proverbs 31 Girl

The wall sconces add a nice touch to this mantel. This is a simple yet elegant look that can be created with a few of your favorite fall objects, twigs, and burlap garland. I think bead garland would also look great here!

Source: Serendipity Refined

Here is another example of using a wreath as the main focus, this time on a large mirror. Throw in some metallic-painted pumpkins, pine cones, twigs, and leaves.

Anchor Pieces

Large mirror – Go for a black, gold, or rustic wood frame.

Large framed autumn landscape print – Think pumpkins and leaves.

Rustic farmhouse sign – Try one with a seasonal saying like ‘Thankful’ or ‘Happy Fall Y’all.’

Fall wreath – Use it alone or place it on a mirror or window frame.

Vintage window frame – Find one at your local thrift shop or at a yard sale.

Accent Pieces

Fall garland – Create a nice effect by choosing garland with lights.

Black metal lanterns – Use LED candles or fill them with autumn leaves and mini pumpkins.

Flameless candles – Safety first!

Wooden candle holders – These are great for all year!

Dried pampas grass – Add it to cute little vases or painted mason jars.

Assorted pumpkins and gourds – If you aren’t using real ones, try velvet-wrapped, metallic-painted foam, or these adorable knit pumpkins.

Decorative pine cones – You can obviously grab these outside. Just make sure to clean them properly.

Check out some DIY fall decor ideas.