Whether just for Thanksgiving or year-round, this farmhouse decor is such a vibe

Thanksgiving will be here before we know it. While you’re busy planning your menu for Thanksgiving Day, don’t forget that the presentation is key! You can easily create a gorgeous seasonal tablescape of your dreams with these farmhouse decor items that are Joanna Gaines-worthy. And the best part? There are tons of things you can order straight from Amazon.

This decorating style has really taken off in the past ten years or so, and it’s definitely not going anywhere soon. The modern combination of soft tones, natural materials, and rustic metals is such a cozy and comfortable mix that we just can’t get enough of. It also tends to include neutral hues, so it’s ideal for fall and Thanksgiving! We’ve rounded up some of our favorite farmhouse decor pieces that will be on your table in just two days (if not sooner!). Keep reading to see them all.

Jute/Burlap Table Runner

Amazon

Decorating for the holidays is all about the details, especially when it comes to table settings. Easily dress up your table with a simple burlap table runner in a non-traditional color. This particular piece come-on over 13 colors and is so neutral, you can continue to use throughout the year!

Jute/Burlap Table Runner ($6.72)—Buy Here!

Rustic White Pumpkins

Amazon

What better centerpiece can you have besides rustic pumpkins with the message "give thanks?" These handmade gourds are made from polymer clay and are just the right size to make a statement without overwhelming the table. Plus, they leave plenty of room for the food!

Rustic White Pumpkins ($26.00)—Buy Here!

Galvanized Metal Napkin Rings

Amazon

Farmhouse decor is all about texture and the elements, and that's why these unique galvanized napkin rings are perfect for the big day. They tie in the perfect amount of rustic feel, while still being perfectly appropriate for Thanksgiving. We plan on keeping them out year-round.

Galvanized Metal Napkin Rings ($78.96/set of 4)—Buy Here!

Linen Dinner Napkins

Amazon

Thanksgiving is all about the food so you can't forget the napkins! Go with a generous and oversized version like these linen napkins for your meal. The blue-gray color is an homage to traditional farmhouse design but natural enough to easily pair with harvest colors like orange and red.

Linen Dinner Napkins ($19.99)—Buy Here!

Braided Rattan Placemats

Amazon

Creating a tablescape is all about adding texture and dimension. These braided rattan placemats pull double duty––acting as a placemat or charger, and giving depth to your design. Also, the natural rattan elements give your table a rustic feel.

Braided Rattan Placemats ($29.99/set of 4)—Buy Here!

Eucalyptus Garland

Amazon

Farmhouse decor doesn't typically lend itself to the traditional reds, yellows and oranges of Thanksgiving, but you can still get the holiday vibe by bringing neutral greenery into your design with a eucalyptus garland. The silver dollar design is moldable to your tablescape and brings just the right amount of living garland to your table.

Eucalyptus Garland ($12.99/2pk)—Buy Here!

Wooden Tiered Tray

Amazon

You can incorporate elements into your tablescape that are both beautiful and functional, like a wooden tiered tray. Whether you use to display finger foods, desserts or pile with decorative pumpkins, this gorgeous serving ware not only gets the job done but looks great while doing it.

Wooden Tiered Tray ($24.68)—Buy Here!

Wood Place Card Holders

Amazon

No detail is left untouched at your Thanksgiving table! Use natural elements, like these wood-styled place card holders, to add something extra. They are an easy and affordable way to further your farmhouse decor theme. This set also includes coordinating cards that fit right in.

Wood Place Card Holders ($14.99)—Buy Here!

Rustic Metal & Wood Cake Stand

Amazon

Cake stands hold more than just cakes—they take on pie, cupcakes and can even just serve as a decorative item. This rustic metal cake stand comes with tons of detail, from the metal and wood vintage look to the scalloped design. 

Rustic Metal & Wood Cake Stand ($33.67)—Buy Here!

 

—Karly Wood, Jesseca Stenson, and Kate Cartia

 

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

Let your Halloween door decorations do the spooking for you this year

It’s October—Halloween has officially arrived! Now is the time to get your house ready with your favorite Halloween inflatables and pumpkins (be sure to use one of our pumpkin stencil designs), but what about Halloween door decorations and front porch Halloween decorations? From rustic door panels, crow silhouettes, and even a witch who has a wrong turn, we’ve got 11 easy ideas to make your front entrance shine this Halloween. When you’re done with the decor, plan a movie night by picking one of the best Halloween movies on Netflix, and don’t forget the movie night snacks!

Monster Halloween Door

Would you believe us if we told you there’s no need for a kit when it comes to re-creating this monster Halloween door decoration? Just lots of poster board. We are so inspired by @liz.morrow’s gorgeous setup. For another idea, check out our monster door tutorial.

Pretty in Pink Halloween Door

 

Who says Halloween door decorations have to be scary? This adorable setup gives us just as many thrills as something a little more spooky might.

Halloween Door Panels

Amazon

These rustic signs are made from fabric that is weather-resistant, washable, and easy to put away to use in future years.

Get the look here

Spider Web Halloween Door

spider web halloween door decorations
Ashley & Hallman via Jane Can

This spider web door from Jane Can is too cute to spook! Grab yarn, Styrofoam balls, pom poms, and pipe cleaners to make this large spindly web and multi-legged spiders. 

Get the look here.

 

Related: 14 Genius (Almost) Homemade Halloween Decorations

Shadowy Silhouette Halloween Door

Wayfair

This shadowy silhouette is an easy one to fix up. Plus, there's no adhesive, and you can use it year after year.

Get the look here.  

Mummy Halloween Door Decorations

mummy Halloween door decorations
Carol Speake via Always The Holiday

Little ghosts will brave the walk to your front door when they see this welcoming mummy. A breeze to create with white streamers, black and yellow construction paper, and tape. 

Get the look here.

 

Witch Crash Halloween Door Wreath

Alison Faulkner via The Alison Show

Your little pretties will be bewitched by a crash-landing witch wreath! 

Get the look here.

Eyeball Door Wreath

Nicole & Candace via Crafty Sisters

All eyes are on the costumed guests! Add a little eerie to your door with an eyeball wreath like the one spotted over at Crafty Sisters

Get the look here

Related: DIY Halloween Decorations to Deck Your Haunted Halls

Moving Spiders

Delia Creates

Add a little creep factor with magnetic spiders (that you can move!) like these from Delia Creates.

Get the look here.  

Eek! Door Light

Settle this in next to a few spiders and cobwebs around your door, and it'll be a sweetly scary way to light up your front door on Halloween. 

Get the look here. 

Crows Flying Halloween Door

silhouette birds halloween door decorations
Idle Wife

There’s something eerie about swirling crows (thank you, Alfred Hitchcock), and we love the look spotted over at the Idle Wife.

Get the look here

 

It’s (nearly) fall, ya’ll! If you want to give your house a little harvest love this season, look no further. We searched everyone’s favorite online marketplace and found plenty of things to give your abode cozy vibes in no time. From soft snuggly blankets to charming wall signs, scroll down to see the best fall decor you can find on Amazon right now.

Glasshouse Fragrances Trick Or Treat Pumpkin Pie Candle

While this candle is technically Halloween-inspired, we are definitely on board burning this candle the entire fall season. With notes of coconut, orange, pumpkin, nutmeg, cinnamon, clove, cumin, maple, caramelized sugar, musk and vanilla, this pumpkin pie scented candle will burn for up to 65 hours.

Get it here, $55

White and Burlap Mini Pumpkins

These little pumpkins can go right out in September and stay out all the way through November. Use them on your mantlepiece, or on your dining room table as a centerpiece or Thanksgiving decoration. 

Buy them here, $16.99 for 18.

Sunny Sunflower Garland

This six-foot sunflower and straw garland would look great strung on your fireplace, over a doorframe or on your table. 

Buy it here, $26.49. 

Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice Kitchen Towel

Pumpkin spice is nice!! This cute little kitchen towel will perk up your dishwashing duties. 

Buy it here, $13.

Wooden Fall Sign

It doesn’t take much to make it feel like fall! This sweet wooden sign is a nice addition to a front entry or a kitchen counter.

Buy it here, $11.99.

Pom-Pom Blanket

Who wouldn’t want to snuggle down under this cozy-looking blanket? The warm color is the perfect accent for all your other fall decor, and the pom-poms add a little extra pop. 

Buy one here, $23.99.

Pumpkin Planters

How adorable would these little guys look on your kitchen island? Or as hostess gifts? The succulents are not included, but that leaves room to plant other items, too.

Buy a set of three here, $13.99.

Battery-Operated Candles

If you need to stock up on battery-operated candles, now is the time! This nine-pack comes with varying sizes so you can spread around the house or use together and make a statement. But either way, creating a cozy (or eerie!) glow is part of the fall fun.

Buy a set here, $9.99.

Scarecrow Pals

Don’t forget your front yard! These adorable scarecrows are perfect for welcoming guests to your humble abode during the fall season. Prop them up with pumpkins against your front door or put them in the ground in the yard, either way, they’re perfect for fall!

Buy a set here,$22.83

Thankful Banner

There's nothing quite like burlap for fall decor, and we love this banner! Adorned with maple leaves and the words THANKFUL, this banner can brighten up a living room, add flair to a holiday party and more.

Buy it here, $8.99. 

Heirloom Veggie Poster

This heirloom veggie poster is not typical fall decor, but the vintage vibe is charming, and it can work in your house all year long or just for the harvest season.

Buy one here, $12.99.

Harvest Plates and Napkins

If you’re going to use paper plates and napkins for your harvest celebration, these adorable pumpkin and sunflower plates fit the bill and the adorable vintage truck napkins complete the package.

Buy a set here, $15.95 for a set of 8.

Cotton Bunch

It’s easy to get a farmhouse look for fall with these cotton stems. Pair it with mini pumpkins and a burlap runner, and you’ll have a Pinterest-inspired table in no time.

Buy a bunch here, $12.99.

Farmer's Market Pillows

An easy way to get that that autumn feel? Simply swap out your couch pillows for this fun set of four. Farmer’s Market inspired, with plenty of colors, these are something you’ll love to pull out year after year.

Buy the set here. $16.99.

Plaid Tablerunner

This fall-colored table runner comes in three different sizes: 16”x72, 16”x90 and 16”x108 or as a tablecloth! It’s got hints of green, and the plaid print is on trend for fall 2020.

Buy the right size here, $28.

Apple Cinnamon Scented Candle

Last, but not least is a comforting fall scent. If pumpkin spice isn’t your jam, may we suggest this apple/orange/cinnamon scent instead? Your house will still have those spicy fall undertones but with a twist.

Buy one here. $20.

—Gabby Cullen

All images are courtesy of Amazon

Editor’s Note: At the time of publication, all items were available for purchase. 

 

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Jingle bell rock the holiday season with an easy Christmas wreath. We’ve gathered up 20 affordable simple wreaths to make yourself, from reindeer wreaths to horizontal wreaths to easy wreath making for kids. Whether your Christmas decorating style is simple and classic or bold and bright, you’ll find out how to make a Christmas wreath like a pro. Put on your favorite carols, grab your glue gun, scroll down to get started.

A Perfect Circle

Alice and Lois

We love craft projects that are easy to make and make an elegant statement, and this lovely wreath is both. The aptly named Simple Circle Wreath on store-bought macrame hoops plus seasonal greenery. Plus, it'is easy enough to make that you can create a trio—or more—in less time than it takes to watch Frosty the Snowman. Find out how to make one of your own at Alice and Lois.

All Blown Up

A Subtle Revelry

Make a candy-colored wreath perfect for Whoville with a bag of bright balloons. It's an easy fun take on the traditional Christmas wreath. Even the biggest Grinch won't be able to resist it. A Subtle Revelry shows you how you can make your own.

 

The Gingerbread Wreath

Life Made Delicious/General Mills

You will be parent of the year after baking this delicious gingerbread wreath. We love that it's a fun, festive twist on the traditional gingerbread house. Plus, your kids can get in on the action by decorating gingerbread boys and girls. Bonus? The key ingredient for this edible wreath is Pillsbury's refrigerated gingerbread dough, so even reluctant bakers can make it. Simply roll the dough, cut out shapes with your fave holiday cookie cutters, and layer them on top of an edible wreath. Find the step-by-step instructions here.

Absolutely Nutty

MADE Everyday

MADE Everyday offers up an Acorn Wreath that uses - you guessed it - acorns to create a modern, streamlined look. This DIY wreath doesn't require much in the way of craft skills, but since you have to glue them on one by one it may take an afternoon. Once you're done gluing, you can customize the color to match your holiday decor. Put on your favorite holiday music, get out the hot glue gun, and jingle all the way to MADE Everyday to find out how to make your own.

Reindeer Games

Make and Do Crew

Impress Dasher, Dancer, and Vixen with this easy DIY reindeer wreath. Pom-poms add a fun touch, and the bells will jingle each time your door opens. Jess at Make and Do Crew shows you how to make your own and add a touch of Rudolph to your Christmas decorations.

Wrapped in Ribbon

Kimbo West/A Girl and a Glue Gun

Rows of ribbon plus hot glue = an easy DIY wreath. Pick up a few rolls of extra-thick grosgrain ribbon and a wreath form, and follow the step-by-step instructions from Kimbo at A Girl with a Glue Gun. This wreath is also super-affordable, leaving lots of pennies left over for fun stocking stuffers.

Light Bright

Lights for Fun

Want to add sparkly fairy light fun to your front door? Simply add a strand of lights to any store-bought wreath to make it extra special. In five minutes flat, you’ll have a festive decoration to dangle from your door. Head to Lights4Fun for the step-by-step and photo inspiration. Twinkle twinkle, little wreath.

Pine Cones Meet Pom Poms

Make and Do Crew

This wreath includes a fun activity that also gets kids out of the house! Gathering pine cones from the backyard or a local park will provide most of the material for this peppy wreath. Plus, this one comes together for less than $10! Hop over to Make and Do Crew for the full tutorial from DIY wizard Jess.

It's Ornamental

Sweet Pickins Furniture

Make a big statement with a huge wreath that takes a little time, but not a lot in the way of specialized crafty skills. Buy out all the ornaments you can find at the Dollar Store in your fave colors, and get gluing. This beautiful, bold wreath will be one you'll love to use year after year. Sweet Pickins Furniture will tell you how to get it done.

Color Block Creativity

A Subtle Revelry

Everything’s more fun in color—especially when they’re extra bright colors, like those in this paper wreath from A Subtle Revelry. Plus, all the cutting required is good practice for your kiddo’s fine motor skills. Start on your way to delightful color block décor by following the DIY details here.

The Centerpiece Wreath

Adina Justina

Bubbles of festive burlap come together to create a base for candles in this tabletop wreath. Add a few golden baubles, and you’ll have a centerpiece that will last you until the ball drops on New Year’s Eve. Get the directions for exactly how to scrunch up that burlap at Adina Justina.

A Delightfully Different Wreath

Sara Albers and Melissa Fenlon of Alice & Lois for Minted Julep

Looking for a nontraditional way to spruce up your front door? Gather up greenery to make a dangling horizontal wreath, and then visit Minted Julep for all the steps to build this refreshing wreath. You'll have a simple, organic shape to brighten the inside or outside of your holiday home.

Top Off the Table

Say Yes

Got crafty kids? Look no further. These sweet mini-wreaths from Say Yes are a project you and your sidekick can tackle together with little more than a bag of cranberries and a seasonal soundtrack of your favorite carols. Plus, these combine place cards with bright wreaths for holiday-perfect place settings.

Nothing Bundt Fun

Amber Guetebier

If you want some bling for your door but don't have a lot of time, take a peek at this cool upcycled wreath. Using an old bundt pan, ribbon and a little flair, it’s nothing bundt fun for your little helpers. You can even skip the painting step and go with copper or silver to make it extra easy. Get the whole tutorial here.

 

Awesome Upcycle

Jessica Wilson via Scrumdillydilly

An eco-friendly take on the classic rag wreath, this version requires the yellow or white pages, paint, and lots of glitter. Get the whole tutorial over at scrumdillydilly.

 

Easy Evergreen

Delia Randall via Delia Creates

If you can't possibly imagine making a wreath without evergreen boughs, then this basic wreath tutorial from Delia Creates is just the ticket. Snag a few loose trimmings from your fresh tree, grab twinkle lights, and head over to Delia Creates to discover the secret way to create a perfect circle.

 

Burlap and Bells

Arena Blake via The Nerd's Wife

Bells will be ringing, are you listening? Give your jingle bells a place to hang with this charming front door decor. Gather a blank wreath form, burlap, and silver bells—you'll be on your way to holiday cheer in no time. Don’t think you’ve got what it takes to whip up your own? After taking a peek at the how-to over at The Nerd’s Wife, we’re betting you’ll change your tune.

Cute as a Button

Jackie Currie via Happy Hooligans

Another creative take on holiday wreaths, this button wreath thought up Jackie over at Happy Hooligans is a great project for a crafternoon with the kids. You’ll need buttons of all shapes, sizes, and colors. Grab the tutorial over at Happy Hooligans.

 

Magnificent Mason Jars

Sarah Ramburg via Sadie Season Goods

Is there anything a mason jar can’t do? These adorable wreath ornaments are the work of Sarah, the crafter-mind behind Sadie Season Goods. Using various types of materials and trimmings, you can easily whip up your own. Psst! These make great gifts! Skip over to Sadie Season Goods for the how-to.

 

 

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February and Valentine’s Day are usually synonymous with gifts of love and affection––and lots of candy. If you want to share the love this year, but without all the sugar, then keep reading. We’ve rounded up some of the sweetest and heartfelt gifts Etsy has to offer. These handmade notions are made with love and are perfect for your little loves this Valentines.

Watercolor Heart Print

Kiwi n Berries

Valentine's Day may be the perfect day to give this gift, but it will look sweet the entire year long. The instant download features nine watercolor hearts that can be customized in different colors and printed in various sizes.

Get it here, $5.70

Love Checkerboard Sweatshirt

Trex & Unicorn

With options in pink, gray and red, this adorable love checkerboard sweatshirt is perfect for any kiddo. The handmade and made-to-order top is made with a blend of cotton and fleece and will keep your little love nice and toasty through the month of love.

Get it here, $26

Snap Clips

Ryan and Wren via Instagram

Dress up your sweetie this year with adorable hair accessories! These rose gold snap clips from Ryan and Wren are the perfect festive addition to your little's hairstyle, and we won't tell anyone if mama wants to wear one, too!

Shop tons of clips here, $5+

Conversation Heart Soap

Sun Basil Garden Soap

Get them here. $12.95 per jar which contains approx. 18 mini hearts

Heart Mobile

Florcy Designs

Baby's first Valentine's Day has never been dreamier. This handmade felt mobile is made with 15 colorful hearts and 10 Nepalese wool balls and hangs from a satin-wound wooden hoop. Sweet dreams!

Get it here, $47.04

Tic Tac Toe Game

Little House Lane

Perfect for on the go or the coffee table, this Valentine's Day-inspired game will become a family fave. Handmade from maple hardwood, this sweet game comes with 12 pieces in a cozy burlap bag.

Get it here, $14.78

Personalized Valentine Mailbox Chair Backer

The Playhouse Kid

Who misses those days of getting snail mail? We do! So we're re-introduce this "vintage method" of giving love to your kids who only ever seen e-cards. For home or at school, this bright red cotton chair backer is a great way to get your kids sitting still in their seats.

Get it here, $27+

Conversation Heart Crayons

Kage's Krayons

Now that conversation candy hearts are no more, you can continue the tradition in a new way––with crayons! These handmade crayons are works of art in their own right, with the famed sayings you know and love from the OG heart-shaped sweet. 

Get it here, $9 for a set of 5

—Karly Wood

 

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Babies are the cutest companions but can also be the most daring explorers, which is why babyproofing your home is key once your little one becomes mobile. Looking to keep your kiddo safe without sacrificing your style? These products will do the trick—and you actually won’t mind having them in your house because they look that good.

Skip Hop Playview Expandable Enclosure

Skip Hop

Once in a while, you need a way to safely contain your little mover. This flexible hexagon play space is made with a sturdy steel frame, breathable mesh panels and a hinged door panel for simple, one-handed access. You can configure the panels however you like, or even mount the apparatus to the wall to create a convenient room divider. A serene gray-and-white color scheme with a cloud motif works well in both modern or traditional homes, so keeping baby safe at play stays easy on the eyes.

Available at skiphop.com, $160.

Fusion Gate

Fusion Gates

Sometimes you want your baby to have more freedom but not the complete run of the house. That’s where doorway gates come in handy. Fusion Gates has tons of styles, finishes and widths to choose from, all safe and certified by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA). The dual-mounted pressure gate is made with high-impact-resistant polycarbonate panels, aluminum framing and a steel hinge and latch, plus a one-finger finial for opening with ease. With screen designs ranging from trendy chevrons to a clean and classic Greek key border, there’s an option for every taste. The system also allows for interchangeable art screens so you can switch up your style.

Available at fusiongates.com, $199.

The Stair Barrier

The Stair Barrier

In addition to blocking off doorways, you’ll want to secure your stairs so baby can’t do any unsupervised climbing. The Stair Barrier has contemporary and versatile options that can be quickly installed between a wall and bannister or between two bannisters, then unbuckled and rolled neatly to the side for safe access. The soft, expandable gates are lightweight yet durable with heavy-duty webbing, and they’re travel-ready for wherever you may go with baby in tow. Choose from styles like Just Black (pictured), Burlap Charcoal, or farmhouse-inspired stripes.

Available at thestairbarrier.com, $154.99 and up.

MyDMoose Cable Management Box Organizer

MyDMoose

A potentially dangerous household item that babies seem to love is power cords. Keep yours safely out of the way and organized with this stylish and sleek box organizer. The box keeps a power strip or surge protector out of crawlers’ reach and effectively hides your chargers, power adaptors and various media cables, all of which can otherwise become a tangled mess. Rubber feet keep the box where it’s placed too!

Available at mydmoose.com, $24.99.

Safety 1st Adhesive Magnetic Lock System

Safety 1st

Kitchen and bathroom cabinets and drawers are full of more potential dangers than most parents care to count. Keep them closed and far from curious hands with a set of discreet but super-strong locks that does the job thanks to the power of 3M adhesive and a magnetic locking mechanism. Each pack comes with four toddler-tested locks and a magnetic key that you keep out of children’s reach.

Available at bestbuy.com, $14.99.

Elf Star Furniture Corner Guard

Elf Star

As soon as your baby starts cruising on furniture, you’ll realize just how many sharp corners are lurking around your house. Whether they're wood, glass, granite, ceramic, metal or plastic, you’ll want them covered in case your little one falls nearby. This 12-pack of extra thick, premium, high-density corner guards is a great, non-toxic choice and comes in plenty of color options to match your tables, counters, cabinets, fireplace hearth and more. Elf Star also has edge protectors for added safety and impact-absorbing benefits.

Available at myelfstar.com, $9.99.

Bink Doory Finger Pinch Guard

Bink

If you’re hoping to maintain your clean, white aesthetic after bringing kids into your home, look to Bink for modern babyproofing products, including Dots safety plugs for electric outlets, Up & Away to get blind cords safely stowed, and Bumpy Mini silicone safety corners for furniture. Our favorite is the simple but essential Doory, which acts as a doorway buffer to prevent accidental finger pinches. It’s non-toxic, fits over virtually every door width, and is designed to last throughout childhood.

Available at binkmade.com, $18.99.

Kikkerland Whale Bath Mat

Kikkerland

Splish splash, baby’s taking a bath! The only problem is you can find yourselves in a seriously slippery situation. Enter the Kikkerland Whale Bath Mat. Its no-slip suction cups adhere the mat to the tub’s surface, and the latex-free, mildew-resistant natural rubber design keep it clean and safe for use with little ones. Stick this on the bottom of your bath and get baby suds up while staying secure.

Available at kikkerland.com, $19.

—Whitney C. Harris

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Not sure where to put all of baby’s stuff? Before you spend your money on high-priced furniture, baskets and bins, read on for some clever—and cost-effective—organizational ideas, many of which you can DIY. With all the money you’ll save, you’ll be able to buy even more stuff if you like.

Storage Containers

IKEA

These IKEA hampers fold down flat when not in use, but trust us: You'll find tons of uses for them. Fill them with stuffed animals, dress-up clothes or other toys. The large opening means it's easy for your child to pull items outand put them back in during clean-up time. They're also handy for stocking with clothes that are out of season or that your child hasn't grown into yet. Stack them in your closet to save space. They're sturdy enough to remain upright, and the airy mesh sides mean they don't trap smells or moisture.

Available at ikea.com, $7.99.

Changing Station Organizer

100 Layer Cake-Let

Hang a peg board over the changing table and decorate it with a mix of cool accessories and necessities: baskets filled with butt cream and wipes, baby's monogram, and a favorite toy to distract during diaper changes. It'll all be out of the way but easily in reach. Win-win!

Idea: 100 Layer Cake-Let

Book Baskets

Apartment Therapy

Keep your bookworm's hardcovers and pop-ups looking brand new by stashing them in hanging baskets. Put the special reads (like Grandma's hand-me-downs) in higher baskets out of baby's reach, and keep sturdier board books on lower shelves.

Idea: Apartment Therapy

Clipboard for Accessories

Tinker With This

Keep small items like headbands, bowties or hats in order with this cute DIY clipboard. To make it, get some pallet wood (paint it if you like) and use wood glue to adhere clothespins across it. When your child gets older, use it to organize jewelry, award ribbons or other small items.

Idea: Tinker With This

Burlap-Covered Boxes

My Pink Life

Lots of diapers means plenty of empty diaper boxes. Reduce, reuse and recycle by wrapping the boxes in burlap or your favorite patterned fabric or wrapping paper. Fill the boxes with diapers, onesies, baby toys or anything else that needs a home.

Idea: My Pink Life

Closet Dividers

Blissfully Domestic

If you received clothes in various sizes at your baby shower or stocked up during Black Friday sales, you may find your baby's closet overrun with items in multiple sizes, making it hard to find what actually fits. To keep clothing organized by size, decorate plain wooden door hangers. If your closet bar isn't removable, hang the divider signs on a pretty ribbon.

Idea: Blissfully Domestic

Diaper Decor

Junk in the Trunk Vintage

Diapers are so much a part of your baby's room (and both of your lives!), you might as well make them part of the decor. In this clever hack, a shower caddy doubles as a handy and supercute diaper holder/display. Add a few coats of spray paint to match it to your nursery's color scheme.

Idea: Junk in the Trunk Vintage

Floating Shelves

Handmade Charlotte

A few inexpensive wooden boxes, some paint and hangers to affix them to your nursery wall are all you need for this eye-catching, and endlessly customizable, wall decor. It can hold books, toys, photos and much more. Best of all, you can keep adding to the display if you need more storage space, or rearranging it as your needs change. 

Idea: Juliana de Giacomi via Handmade Charlotte

Mini Chalkboard Clips

amazon.com

Attach these mini chalkboards (they come with attached clothespins) to toy bins, laundry baskets, storage baskets and more! This decorative way to label containers keeps items organized and gives you better oversight into what you have.

Available at amazon.com, $8.99 for a pack of 12.

featured photo: KathrinPie via Pixabay

— Ayren Jackson-Cannady

 

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Keep your kiddos busy as elves this holiday season with Christmas crafts that bring the cheer in big ways. Create Santa beards for funny photo opps. Make your own snowglobes using LEGO figures. There’s all kinds of fun to be had with just a few easy-to-grab materials. Merry Christmas and happy crafting!

1. Cotton Ball Santa Beard
A cotton ball Santa beard is the perfect accessory for photo opps and holiday parties. It’s also an easy thing to whip up and have on hand. Get the how-to at Say Yes.

santabeard11 (1)

Photo credit: Say Yes

2. Melted Crayon Reindeer
You can get some really cool and crafty effects if you’re willing to try your hand at melted crayon art–like a rack of antlers for this cute reindeer. Find out how it was made at Rockabye Butterfly.

Melted Crayon Reindeer craft

Photo credit: Rockabye Butterfly

3. Christmas Print Trees
This is a great creative activity for the preschool set. All you need is toilet paper rolls (to make the swirly print), paint and a set of little hands. Head over to Creativity First for more info.

holiday trees

Photo credit: Creativity First

4. Felt Play Christmas Tree
The beauty of this craft is that it’s a fun and interactive play activity — and it will likely keep the little ones from messing with your real tree with its real ornaments. Find a space on the wall for this felt creation and let the pretend time begin. Get the how-to from Sol and Rachel Do a Blog.

felt tree craft

Photo credit: Sol and Rachel Do a Blog

5. Fingerprint Gift Wrap
This craft is not only cute, it’s useful, too! The kids will have a blast painting their fingers and making the colorful pattern of lights. Learn more at burlap + blue.

diy gift wrap

Photo credit: burlap + blue

6. LEGO Snowglobe
There’s something genius about combining two kid-favorites like LEGOS and snowglobes. Sure, your little LEGO lover will have to sacrifice a piece or two, but everything shakes out when you’ve got the competed craft in hand. Get the how-to at minieco.co.uk.

santa-snow-globe-craft

 Photo credit: minieco.co.uk

7. Handprint Tree Skirt
It’s hard to pass up an art project involving kiddie hand prints. We like the idea for this tree skirt because it not only personalizes your Christmas tree but also can be added to each year as hands grow bigger. Head over to Life Sprinkled with Glitter for more details.

tree skirt craft

Photo credit: Life Sprinkled with Glitter 

 

8. Clay Snowmen
As an alternative to the outdoor cold, try whipping up your very own clay snowmen at your kitchen table. These little guys are great to play with or dot around the house for decoration. Get the instructions from Say Yes.

snowmen_clay craft

Photo credit: Say Yes

9. Clothespin Wreath
This craft doubles up as decoration and picture holder. (You can use the clothespins to hang your holiday photos and cards.) If you’re not too picky about the green of your wreath, let the little ones paint the pins whatever colors they desire. Get the scoop at Gwenny Penny.

clothespin wreath

Photo credit: Gwenny Penny

10. Elf Yourself
The kids will get a kick out of turning photos of themselves into pointy-hatted elves. Hang them around the house for extra smiles every time you turn a corner or do a smaller version for Christmas dinner place cards. Find out more at Art with Ms. Chiddo.

Elf Yourself

Photo credit: Art with Ms. Chiddo

11. Pop Bottle Penguins
Who knew your recyclables could be so cute? These little penguins are perfect pals to have around during the holiday season. Have the kids help paint — we’re betting they’ll love contributing to the penguin facial expressions. See more pics of this fab craft at Craftberry Bush.

bottle penguin craft

Photo credit: Craftberry Bush

12. Nutcracker Mask
We’re loving the creativity of this nutcracker mask–which is good to go for Christmas playtime and beyond. It makes use of a to-go food container, paint and more. You can get all the DIY details at Llevo el Invierno. The instructions are in Spanish, but you can translate easily using the handy Google widget on the right of the page.

nutcracker mask

Photo credit: Llevo el Invierno

 

13. Reindeer Gloves
This craft takes finger puppets to a whole new level. It may have less kid involvement than other activities (unless your kiddos are old enough to help cut out the felt characters) but the playtime payoff is worth it. See more ultra-cute pics at Delia Creates.

Reindeer Gloves craft

Photo credit: Delia Creates

14.  Snowman Garland
Face it: This snowman garland is pretty darn cute. Get the whole gang involved in making the faces on plates so you have a range of Snowman moods. Find out more at Real Life, One Day at the Time.

Snowman Garland craft

Photo credit: Real Life, One Day at a Time

 

15. Gingerbread Man Art
This activity has all the fun of making decorating gingerbread cookies but ends up as art instead of edibles. It’s scented, too, so you can get crafty even as you infuse the house with gingerbread smells. Get the whole scoop at Fun at Home with Kids.

Gingerbread Man art craft

Photo credit: Fun at Home with Kids

Which craft do you plan to try with the kids? Share with us in the comment section below!

–Abigail Matsumoto

 

This holiday season, why not shop for gifts that truly keep on giving? Read on to find local companies that not only offer unique gifts, but they also give all or a portion of their proceeds to a worthy cause. Giving never felt so good.

See Beautiful
Founded by a former GSU professor who wanted to change the way women and girls defined themselves as beautiful, the See Beautiful movement has grown beyond “self-image” and instead rallies around the everyday, intentional act of finding the beauty in life as it comes at you. And guess what? See Beautiful has really cool products, including funky t-shirts, bracelets, onesies, and organic scarves that return a portion of all proceeds to a non-profit of your choice. Be sure to check out the eco-friendly (and dishwasher safe) Re-Hy engraved glass bottles.

Details: See Beautiful, and See Beautiful Blog

Plywood People
While Plywood People deal in big-picture social ideas driven by creative, innovative people, they also put rubber to the road (or billboards to the sewing machine) by training and hiring refugees in Atlanta to make their incredibly cool Billboard Bags. More than a bag, the Billboard Bag Project even has corporate partners who have gotten behind their mission. And did we mention that the bags are cool, like really, really cool? Best part (other than the fact that you’re helping to create jobs for refugees in Atlanta)? You can wipe them down with a damp cloth, mom. Score.

Details: Plywood People, and Plywood People Blog

Kula Project
This Marietta-based non-profit invests in small-scale farmers in Rwanda by helping them access high-quality seeds and by plugging them in to a fair-market buyer for their crops, even before they’ve planted those seeds. You can support the Kula Project by shopping their products (we especially love their burlap bow ties), or by directly providing Rwandan farmers with coffee trees, banana trees, or farming tools.

Details: Kula Project, and Kula Project on Facebook

Defend Atlanta
Founded by childhood friends who grew up in our fair city, Defend Atlanta makes apparel that touts the city’s diversity, innovation, and uniqueness. And, by purchasing Defend Atlanta’s t-shirts, you’ll also be supporting a local non-profit (organizations change occasionally, but all are rooted in the community). Currently, a portion of the t-shirt sales support the Kindezi School in southwest Atlanta.

Details: Defend Atlanta, and Defend Atlanta on Facebook

HollyBeth Organics
This local entrepreneur began hand-crafting skincare products based on her grandmother’s knowledge of plants in the north Georgia mountains decades ago, and thank goodness (for us), she started producing small batches of her wonder creams, lotions, and potions full-time in Atlanta in 2007. Perfect for mamas with dry skin stemming from a lack of sleep, dehydration, and life in general, a portion of her proceeds go to cancer research and children’s charities.

Details: HollyBeth Organics, and HollyBeth Organics Blog

Did we miss one? What local companies do you love that give back? Share with us in the comments section below!

—Shelley Massey

Photos courtesy of See Beautiful, Kula Project on Facebook, Defend Atlanta, and HollyBeth Organics via Facebook

What if we told you there’s a product out there that can totally change the way you think about party planning for your kiddos future fiestas? No more shopping from the bargain bin or throwing stuff in your cart hoping it all comes together in the end. Meet P.S. XO the latest contender to the party in a box club that mixes just the right amount of creative with do it yourself options. Brainchild of child star turned super mom Soleil Moon Frye (Punky Brewster!), P.S. XO is anything but cookie cutter, and you can feel that the moment you open the box.

What’s Inside
Each Party Box contains classic, high quality decorations, favors, crafts and other essentials for birthday parties for up to ten children. Complete boxes include decorations (garlands, tassels, pom-poms, balloons), essentials (straws, cupcake toppers, confetti, tables runners and more) and craft supplies (metallic markers, memory books, photo corners, note cards). But if you need help planning in a specific area, you can buy things like party favor and craft kits separately.

Choose Your Theme
You can pick from a variety of curated party boxes with four themes.

Inside the fairy box you’ll find a fairy crown craft complete with ribbons and paper flowers, and enough pink and sparkles to make any little princess feel royal.

The pirate kit is perfect for little swashbucklers who want it all. Make personalized treasure chests complete with sand, gems, coins and stickers plus red, black and silver decorations to set up the perfect pirate’s cove.

And our favorite, the jungle themed box, will make little monkeys go bananas for all things wild including bright green balloons, burlap table runners, metallic streamers and gold foil confetti.

Finally, the celebrate boxes for adults has just the right amount of sparkle and class for a festive home party, no matter what the occasion.

Why We Love It
This is so much better than tossing pre-made favors into your shopping cart. P.S. XO creates something more organic: a chance to create together for a party you’ll remember for a long time to come. Plus, if you have older kids, you can park them at the craft table and let them go nuts. Definitely a plus.

Log on to the website, pick your box and it will be delivered right to your doorstep. Complete boxes – essentials, crafts, and decorations – are priced at $99.95 We, know that might sound steep, but when you figure in the time and actual cost of throwing a party, it’s just a drop in the bucket.

Buying some of the options a la carte is a perfect option for those looking to spice up what they already have. You really can’t go wrong.

Online: psxo.com

Moms, how would you use the supplies in a P.S. XO party box to create the ultimate party? Tell us in the comments below.

— Christina Montoya Fielder