Creating a Cozy Fall Tablescape with Found and New Items

As the crisp air of fall begins to roll in and the leaves start changing color, it's the perfect time to transition your home decor to reflect the warmth and coziness of the season. One of the most enjoyable ways to do this is by creating a beautiful fall tablescape, whether for everyday dining or special gatherings. The best part? You can mix and match items you already own with new finds to craft a stunning autumnal centerpiece that’s both unique and budget-friendly.

Here’s a guide to help you create an inviting fall tablescape using a combination of found treasures and new purchases.

1. Start with a Natural Base

To capture the essence of fall, start with a natural and neutral tablecloth or runner. Think about materials like burlap, linen, or cheesecloth like these. If you don’t have a fall-themed cloth, consider repurposing a soft blanket or plaid scarf as a base layer. The texture will add depth and warmth, perfectly embodying the cozy essence of fall.

Found Idea:
Vintage Linens: Raid your linen closet or check local thrift stores for vintage fabric, old scarves, or even lace remnants. These items can add a personal, nostalgic touch to your tablescape.

New Idea:
Rustic Table Runner: Purchase a runner made from jute or a neutral linen fabric to serve as the foundation for your display. Earthy tones like beige, brown, and soft greens make for a versatile backdrop that can be reused year after year. I keep coming back to this cheesecloth runner because of it’s affordability and I love the texture!

2. Incorporate Natural Elements

Found Idea:
Foraged Goods: Gather pinecones, colorful leaves, and fallen branches from your yard or nearby park. These items can be spread across the table or used to fill a decorative vase or rustic dough bowl like this one.

New Idea:
Mini Pumpkins, Gourds, & Stems: If you don’t have pumpkins in your garden, they’re easy to find at grocery stores or farmers' markets. Mini pumpkins or white gourds can make cute, seasonal touches along the center of your table. And if you don’t live in an area with branchy stems of folliage colors you can purchase fall stems from your local craft store like Michaels. Here are some of my favorite stems I incorporated into my tablescape:

3. Layer with Dinnerware

Whether you’re using your everyday dishes or special ones reserved for occasions, layering dinnerware adds dimension and elegance to your tablescape. Stick to neutral tones like white, cream, or soft grey so they don’t overwhelm the seasonal accents.

Found Idea:
Mismatched Plates: Use a mix of your existing dinnerware for a charming, eclectic look. Vintage or secondhand shops often carry inexpensive, mismatched sets that can create a homey feel. I found these exact plates at my local Goodwill.

New Idea:
Statement Charger Plates: Adding a set of metallic or wooden charger plates under your dinnerware instantly elevates the look. Gold, bronze, or copper chargers bring a rich, warm glow to the table that pairs beautifully with the autumn theme. I chose these gold chargers for my tablescape.

4. Add Seasonal Centerpieces

The centerpiece is where you can get creative and let your personality shine. It could be as simple as a bowl of apples or a more elaborate display with candles, lanterns, and flowers.

Found Idea:
Glass Jars & Candles: Reuse mason jars or vintage vases to hold candles, twigs, or small bouquets of flowers. If you have extra glass bottles, they can serve as unique vases for seasonal blooms like mums, dahlias, or sunflowers.

New Idea:
Statement Candleholders: Pick up a few new candleholders in metallic tones or wooden finishes to create height and variation in your centerpiece. Flameless LED candles can provide the flickering warmth without the worry of an open flame during a family dinner.

Here is what I used in my floral centerpiece:

5. Personal Touches with Found Items

One of the easiest ways to make your tablescape feel special is by adding personal touches, especially ones you’ve found or already own. Repurpose old decor items and place them in new settings.

Found Idea:
Vintage Books: Stack small books from your personal collection under candleholders or vases for a whimsical look. It’s an unexpected but delightful way to create depth in your tablescape.

New Idea:
Fall-themed Napkin Rings & Placeholders: If you want to add a bit of charm, invest in fall-themed napkin rings like these wooden ones or rings shaped like leaves, acorns, or pumpkins make a delightful finishing touch. You can also add a placeholder for your guests like these so there’s no guessing

6. Finish with Textiles

Adding textiles like napkins, placemats, or even a throw draped across the back of chairs adds warmth and texture to the setting. Autumn is all about rich, layered fabrics that invite guests to settle in and stay a while.

Found Idea:
Repurposed Scarves or Shawls: Use scarves or shawls that you already have as makeshift runners, placemats, or chair throws. It’s an inexpensive way to incorporate color and texture without buying something new.

New Idea:
Cloth Napkins: Pick up a set of plaid or checkered napkins in fall colors like orange, mustard, or forest green to add a pop of seasonal color to your table. Or a solid colored napkin that coordinates with your florals like these.

Conclusion: Mixing Old & New for Timeless Charm

Creating a fall tablescape that’s equal parts stylish and affordable is all about blending old with new. By reimagining what you already have and incorporating fresh pieces, you’ll be able to design a space that feels inviting, warm, and perfect for the season.

Let your creativity lead the way, and remember: no two tablescapes have to look alike. As you gather found treasures and sprinkle in some new items, your fall table will become a reflection of your personal style—one that’s ready to welcome guests all season long.