Bringing nature indoors transfigures any living space, and acorn garlands are among the most charming ways to do just that. If you’ve been searching for an affordable, sustainable decoration that adds warmth and character to your home, you’ve found it in these delightful woodland treasures.

In this guide, I’ll show you everything you need to know about creating, displaying, and preserving your acorn garlands. We’ll unearth various styling options for different seasons, the best harvesting techniques, and simple crafting methods that anyone can master.

Plus, I’ll share some unexpected ways these natural beauties can enhance spaces beyond the mantlepiece. Ready to add a touch of forest magic to your home? Let’s gather those acorns and get started.

Acorn Garlands in Decor

Have you ever noticed how a simple string of acorns can make a room feel warm and welcoming? Acorn garlands bring the outdoors in without breaking the bank or taking up much space.

These natural decorations connect us to the woods and changing seasons while we stay cozy inside. Unlike plastic ornaments that end up in the trash, acorn garlands are earth-friendly and celebrate nature’s quirky beauty.

What’s great about acorn garlands is how they work all year round.

They look amazing in the fall with golden leaves and amber candles. But they also fit right in during winter when you add a touch of silver paint or mix them with pine branches.

The bumpy caps and smooth bodies of acorns add interesting texture to rooms filled with flat screens and soft surfaces. As they drape across mantels or wind through table settings, you want to reach out and touch them.

There’s something special about making your acorn garland. Collecting acorns on walks, picking through different shapes, and stringing them together slows life down for a bit. It’s a break from our fast-paced world.

Best of all, these decorations cost almost nothing if you gather materials yourself. A well-made acorn garland gets better with time, becoming part of your home’s story year after year.

Tools and Materials Required

Making Our Own Acorn Garland

Creating an acorn garland is a simple yet charming way to bring a touch of autumn into your home.

It doesn’t matter if you are decorating for fall or crafting a festive piece for a nature-inspired celebration; this DIY project is both fun and easy to make.

With just a few materials, you can create a beautiful garland that adds warmth and rustic beauty to any space. Here’s how you can make your acorn garland step by step:

Step 1. Gather and Sort Your Acorns

Start by heading outdoors; parks, backyards, or trails are great places to scout for acorns. Look for ones that are firm, dry, and preferably still wearing their little caps. Try to collect a variety of sizes and shades, as that adds depth and charm to the final garland. Avoid any that feel soft or have holes, which might be a sign of insects.

Tip: Pick up a few more than you think you’ll need. Some may split or crack during drying or drilling.

Step 2. Clean Your Acorns Gently

Give your acorns a good soak in warm water for about 10 to 15 minutes. This helps loosen dirt and flush out any tiny critters hiding inside. Swish them around a bit, then rinse and lay them on a towel to dry. Pat them down gently to remove excess moisture and let them air out for a few hours before baking.

Step 3. Bake to Cure and Dry

Preheat your oven to 200°F (93°C). Line a baking tray with parchment paper and spread the acorns in a single layer so they dry evenly. Bake for 90 minutes to 2 hours, flipping them once halfway through. This not only hardens them but also kills any remaining insects that may be inside.

Tip: Stay nearby while they bake. If they are overheated, acorns can sometimes crack open. While you wait, turn your kitchen into a cozy crafting prep zone.

Step 4. Reattach or Reinforce Loose Caps

Once baked and cooled, check for caps that may have popped off. No worries if they did—it happens. Use a small dab of hot glue to reattach them firmly. Press the cap into place and hold it for about 10 seconds to set. You can also reinforce caps that feel a bit wobbly, just to be safe.

Step 5. Drill a Small Hole in Each Acorn

With a handheld drill or sharp skewer, make a hole just beneath the cap—this is where your twine will go through. Go slow and steady to avoid cracking the acorn. It helps to place the acorn on a folded towel or soft cloth to keep it stable while drilling.

Step 6. Add Optional Accents

Here’s your chance to get creative. You can mix acorns with felt balls in muted or vibrant colors, add wooden beads for a boho twist, or even paint the caps in metallic shades for a festive touch.

Try alternating materials to create a balanced and eye-catching pattern.

Step 7. String and Space Your Acorns

Thread each acorn carefully onto your chosen string or twine. You can tie a small knot before and after each piece to keep them from sliding or space them out freely for a more relaxed, natural look. Once you’re happy with the arrangement, tie small loops at both ends of the twine so you can easily hang your garland on hooks, nails, or knobs.

Here’s a link to a YouTube video for more detailed steps on making an acorn garland:

Mix It Up: Combining Acorns with Felt Balls, Beads, and Twine

While acorns alone make for charming garlands, combining them with other materials takes your decoration to a whole new level.

I’ve found that mixing textures and elements creates a more zestful look that catches the eye and adds personality to any space.

Starting with the basics, acorns provide that natural, earthy foundation. Their rustic appearance grounds your garland in nature, but who says we need to stop there?

Adding a few felt balls introduces a pop of color and softness that contrasts beautifully with the hard shell of acorns.

Beads are another fantastic addition. Glass beads catch light and create sparkle, while wooden beads complement the natural theme.

I like using different sizes – some tiny seed beads between larger elements add complexity without overwhelming the design.

The choice of twine matters more than you might think! Consider these options:

• Natural jute for a rustic, farmhouse feel
• Baker’s twine for a touch of color with its spiral pattern
• Thin hemp cord for a softer, refined look
• Cotton string if you want something that takes dye well

Seasonal Variations: Acorn Garlands for Fall, Winter, and Beyond

Storage Tips:

• Bake collected acorns at low heat first to prevent mold
• Store in paper bags between seasons (avoid plastic)
• Include silica gel packets to control moisture
• Base garlands can last for years with proper care
• The beauty of acorn garlands lies in their connection to nature’s cycles. They bring the outdoors in while evolving with the seasons.
• With minimal effort and cost, you can create decorations that transfiguration throughout the year while maintaining that grounded, natural aesthetic.

Styling Ideas: Where and How to Display Your Acorn Garland

Once you’ve created your perfect acorn garland, the fun part begins – finding the ideal spot to showcase your natural masterpiece.

I’ve experimented with different locations around my home and I found out that these versatile decorations work almost anywhere.

• Mantels are perhaps the most obvious choice, and for good reason. Draping your acorn garland along a fireplace mantel creates an instant focal point that draws the eye.
• Doorways offer another natural spot for garland display. Hang your creation across the top of a doorframe for a welcoming touch that adds character without taking up valuable space.
• Windows deserve some decorative attention, too! An acorn garland hung across the top of your window frame brings the outdoors in while framing your view of the actual outdoors.
• Bookshelves often have that space at the top that’s perfect for a garland. The natural elements provide a beautiful contrast to book spines and add warmth to your literary collection.

Remember unexpected places like stair railings, headboards, or even bathroom mirrors. I’ve found that sometimes the most surprising locations create the most delightful impact.

Below are some links to buy some ready-made acorn garlands:

Wool Felt Acorn Garland

• Material: Felt
• Length: 180cm
• Price: $86.00

Acorn Garland

• Type: Felt Banner
• Price: $38.00
• Banner Length: 74″ x 4″

Artificial Oak Leaf, Acorn, Berry Garland

• Color: Multicolor
• Material: Oak
• Price: $16.26
• Dimensions: 2″D x 6″W x 60″H

Wrapping it Up

Creating an acorn garland isn’t just a craft. It’s a simple, heartfelt way to bring the outdoors in and add a warm, natural touch to your space.

It doesn’t matter if you choose a classic look or add your twist with felt, beads, or seasonal colors; the result will feel personal and inviting.

It doesn’t take much – just a handful of acorns, a bit of time, and a little creativity.

The process itself is calming, and the final piece tells a quiet story of nature and handmade beauty. From mantels to window frames, it fits anywhere you want a touch of charm.

So, next time you’re out for a stroll, gather a few acorns. You’ll be surprised how something so small can make your home feel so cozy.

Looking to add a touch of nature to your place? Check out Felt Leaf Garland: A Touch of Nature Indoors