10 Free and Fun Autumn Arts and Crafts Ideas for Rainy Days

10 Free and Fun Autumn Arts and Crafts Ideas for Rainy Days

Whether you’re looking for ways to entertain the kids on a rainy day or enjoy a relaxing DIY project yourself, autumn provides plenty of inspiration. Best of all, these arts and crafts ideas are budget-friendly, with many using materials you can find at home or in your garden.

Here are some free and fun autumn-themed crafts to try out when the weather turns chilly:

1. Leaf Printing

Bring the beauty of autumn indoors with leaf printing. Go on a walk to collect fallen leaves of different shapes and sizes, then use them as stamps. Simply paint the underside of a leaf and press it onto paper to create a natural print. You can experiment with various colours and paper textures to create unique patterns, cards, or framed artwork.

Tip: This is a great activity for kids, helping them learn about different types of trees and leaves.

2. Create an Autumn Wreath

Make your own autumn wreath using foraged materials from your garden or local area. Pinecones, acorns, twigs, and colourful leaves can be used to craft a beautiful seasonal wreath. All you need is a basic wireframe or a cardboard cut-out to use as the base. Attach the items with glue or string, and hang it on your door for a natural autumnal decoration.

3. Pinecone Bird Feeders

Pinecones aren’t just pretty—they can also be used to make bird feeders! Cover a pinecone with peanut butter (or a nut-free alternative) and roll it in birdseed. Tie some string around the top and hang it outside to attract birds to your garden. This craft is fun for kids and also gives you the chance to enjoy some autumn birdwatching.

4. Autumn Collage

Get creative with an autumn-themed collage. Gather magazines, newspapers, and old scraps of paper or fabric, and cut out shapes to represent autumn colours and scenes. Think reds, oranges, browns, and yellows to reflect the season’s hues. This is a simple yet fun way to make autumn art, and kids will love creating their own seasonal masterpieces.

5. Salt Dough Leaf Decorations

Salt dough is an easy and fun way to make lasting autumn decorations. To make salt dough, mix 2 cups of flour, 1 cup of salt, and 1 cup of water. Roll the dough out and use leaf-shaped cutters, or press real leaves into the dough to make impressions. Bake the shapes in a low oven until hard, then paint them in autumn colours once they’ve cooled. These can be hung around the house or used as table decorations.

6. Pressed Flower and Leaf Art

Take advantage of autumn’s natural beauty by creating pressed flower and leaf art. Collect a variety of flowers and leaves, then press them between heavy books for a few days. Once they’re flat and dry, arrange them on paper or in a frame for a lovely nature-inspired piece of art. This is a simple, calming activity that’s perfect for a rainy autumn afternoon.

7. Pumpkin Decorating Without Carving

Skip the mess of carving and decorate your pumpkins with paint, markers, or even fabric. You can create everything from spooky Halloween faces to elegant autumn patterns. This no-carve approach also means your pumpkins will last longer, making them great for indoor displays throughout the season.

8. DIY Autumn Lanterns

Create cosy lighting for those dark evenings with DIY autumn lanterns. Use old jam jars or glass containers, and decorate the outside with autumn leaves, tissue paper, or paint. Pop an LED tea light inside for a warm, ambient glow. These lanterns are perfect for adding an autumnal touch to your home, and they’re an easy, low-cost craft project.

9. Handmade Autumn Cards

Autumn is the perfect time to make your own greeting cards. Use pressed leaves, paper cut-outs, or stamps to create unique autumn-themed designs. Whether you’re sending a thank you note or just a friendly greeting, handmade cards add a personal touch. This is a great craft for kids too, as they can design and decorate the cards to their liking.

10. Acorn and Pinecone Creatures

Turn foraged acorns and pinecones into adorable woodland animals. Use pinecones for bodies, acorns for heads, and attach twigs or leaves as arms, legs, and tails. You can paint faces on them, or add googly eyes to bring them to life. These little creatures make charming decorations and are a fun way for kids to use their imagination.

Make the Most of Rainy Autumn Days

From making autumn wreaths to decorating pumpkins, these arts and crafts ideas will help you and your family enjoy the cosy autumn days indoors. Gather your materials, get crafting, and make the most of the season’s charm!