The holidays are officially over.  Have you have put away your tree and ornaments yet?  I am a procrastinator about cleaning up because I enjoy the decorations so much.  But it’s time to move on.  As magical as our homes are during the Christmas season, when winter rolls around it is time for more serene atmosphere.  During the winter months I like to keep my decor warm and cozy.  I also keep lots of twinkle lights in my home to add some sparkle.

One of my favorite chores each season, is to decorate my home and garden shed.  I tend to keep the decor more natural.  Which means that I like to use outdoor elements like branches, leaves, flowers and vines.  My fabrics tend to be more neutral and rustic with burlap, broadcloth and ticking.  There are certain decor items that can be easily used to change out your home from one season to the next.  Here are some of my favorite transitional items that are easy to replace each season.

Decor Items that are easy to Change each Season:

Pillows

This is a popular item that you will find is easy to change out.  I enjoy having different pillows each season but how do you store so many extra pillows?  One of the ways to handle this is to purchase pillow covers rather than actual pillows.  That way you don’t have to store bulky pillows but can use the same ones with different patterns.  It is easy to make your own covers out of coordinating fabrics as well.  Or try making them from old sweaters or vintage pillow cases such as this winter scene.

Wreaths

This is my favorite seasonal change.  Some of my wreaths stay year-round but I always change my front porch and Pinecone Cottage wreaths.  Wreaths can be simply made or can be fancy.  They can be a single type of component such as pinecones or a variety of materials.  Over the years I have made them from paper, feathers, pine boughs, pinecones, sweaters, driftwood and shells.  The list of things that you can make them with is endless.

Words

Don’t you love words.  Changing your seasonal wording sparks thoughts of the each season.  Be on the lookout for new seasonal sayings.  You can frame a saying or paint it onto a rustic board.  Chalkboards can be easily changed out with different sayings.  Place scrabble tiles in strategic places that have seasonal thoughts.

Containers

I use a variety of containers in my decor.  These include wooden or galvanized trays, cake stands and soup tureens.  You might have other containers that you like such as boxes, pottery bowls and dishware.  These don’t have to be expensive.  You can often find items at your local thrift store or yard sale.

Natural Elements

Here’s where scavenging comes in.  Look around your yard and neighborhood for natural elements to bring into your decor.  This could include pinecones, acorns, leaves, feathers, branches, birds nests and shells to name a few.  Many of these items can be purchased at your local craft store but I like the fun of using what I discover in my yard or on my daily walks.

Candles

The soft glow of candles can light up any season so be on the lookout for candle holders and fragrant candles to add into your decor.  After “season” shopping is a great time to stock up for the next year.

Books

Stacking seasonal books can help elevate your candles and natural elements.  This can add a new dimension to your display.  I like to use vintage books but any will do…old or new.  Stacks of your favorite seasonal magazines also can add height to your displays.  Use what you have available.  You can also cover your books with seasonal wrapping or craft paper for a different look.

It is easy to make simple changes as we move from one season to another.  The changes don’t have to be complicated.  Instead focus on the things that bring you joy.  Take a look at magazines and Pinterest each season to get an idea of what excites you and make a few changes.  You don’t have to redo your whole house for the season.  Just add in a few touches to remind yourself of the ebb and flow of our days.

If you would like to make some of your own decor items such as my bookpage wreath then you might want to get a copy of my Free 5 Easy Winter Crafts.  Sign up for my email here for your free download.