4 Rhode Island-Inspired Fall Decor Projects

As the crisp autumn air sweeps across Rhode Island, it's the perfect time to embrace the season’s charm by crafting your own fall decor – Rhody-style, of course. Inspired by the state’s rich coastal heritage and vibrant fall foliage, adding a local twist to your seasonal decorations is a breeze. Grab your glue gun, and let’s dive into some DIY fall decor ideas that celebrate the Ocean State!

1. Driftwood Wreaths 

Who says wreaths are just for Christmas? Take a seaside stroll along one of Rhode Island’s many beaches, and search for driftwood perfect for a fall wreath. Arrange the pieces in a circular pattern, glue them together, and add accents like dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, or even seashells for that coastal autumn vibe. Hang it on your front door for a warm (and beachy) welcome!

2. Seashell Pumpkins

Pumpkin decorating takes a Rhode Island twist with this beach-inspired idea. Instead of carving your pumpkins, paint them white or light blue, and use seashells to create unique patterns. Glue small shells and starfish around the pumpkin, or even spell out your family’s name for a personal touch. 

3. Nautical Garlands 

For a garland that feels straight out of Newport, gather some rope, mini buoys, and anchors from your local craft store. String them together with faux leaves in rich autumn colors – think deep reds, oranges, and golds – to create a festive garland for your mantel or staircase. This easy DIY project nods to Rhode Island’s sailing roots while keeping your home cozy and autumn-ready.

4. Lobster Trap Lanterns

Nothing says Rhode Island quite like lobster traps. For a unique porch decoration, find mini wooden lobster traps at a craft store or upcycle an old one. Fill it with fairy lights, pumpkins, or fall leaves for a lantern-style display that’s perfect for cool autumn nights. 

Rhody Recs:

For driftwood:

Beavertail State Park, Jamestown

Charlestown Breachway, Charlestown

Conimicut Point Beach, Warwick

East Beach, Charlestown

Fogland Beach, Tiverton

Goosewing Beach, Little Compton

Misquamicut State Beach, Westerly  

Moonstone Beach, South Kingstown

Napatree Point, Westerly 

Sachuest Beach (Second Beach), Middletown

Watch Hill Beach, Westerly

For pumpkins:

Adams Farm, Cumberland

Clark Farms, Matunuck

Confreda Greenhouses & Farms, Cranston

Cucumber Hill Farm, Foster

Dame Farm & Orchards, Johnston

Escobar’s Highland Farm, Portsmouth

Frerichs Farm & Greenhouses, Warren

Pezza Farm, Johnston

Phantom Farms, Cumberland

Pippin Orchard, Cranston

Quonset View Farm, Portsmouth

Rocky Brook Orchard, Middletown

Salisbury Farm, Johnston

Spring Hill Sugar House, Richmond

Sweet Berry Farm, Middletown

Young Family Farm, Little Compton