How I Styled Six Fall Trays Using Simple Reused Decor

 This fall, I wanted to challenge myself to decorate with just a few simple items—things most of us already have tucked away in our craft bins. With one round tray, a Dollar Tree lantern, a battery‑operated LED candle, a handful of faux florals, and a mix of Dollar Tree pumpkins, I created six different autumn looks. Each one feels cozy, seasonal, and totally unique, all without buying a bunch of new décor.

My goal was to show how versatile your everyday pieces can be. By swapping out colors, textures, and small accents, you can build fresh designs that fit your style and your space.

Decorating Each Tray

My First Tray: Classic Lantern & Autumn Florals

For my first tray, I began by placing a round tray on a woven placemat to create a cozy base. Next, I placed the black lantern in the center and added a small LED candle inside. I figured this would provide a soft autumn glow that I love. I took yellow faux florals and arranged them around the lantern to brighten up the scene. To complete the look, I added two small pumpkins from Dollar Tree—one red and one orange—for a simple pop of fall color. This setup was incredibly easy, and it reminded me of how much you can create with just a few pieces you already have on hand.

My Second Tray: A Soft & Sweet Halloween Touch

I kept the lantern as the main piece because I love the cozy glow it provides. Then, I added some fun pops of color with little fabric pumpkins in green, pink, and orange. After that, I tucked in some orange florals to bring in that warm autumn vibe.

To finish the look, I included two tiny ghost cutouts. It’s a small detail, but it adds a cute Halloween touch without being too spooky. I really enjoyed putting this together because it demonstrates how you can blend fall and Halloween in a soft, playful way.

My Third Tray: Cozy Fall Colors

I wanted to mix a variety of textures and colors to create a cozy autumn atmosphere. I started with a lantern and my LED candle because the soft glow always sets the right tone. Next, I added a small potted plant to introduce some greenery and balance out the warm colors.

On one side, I placed a red textured pumpkin, and on the other, a brown velvet pumpkin. I love how these two pumpkins together instantly make the tray feel rich and warm. To finish it off, I tucked in a little bunch of yellow flowers for a bright pop of color.

This arrangement came together so naturally—just a blend of textures, colors, and a few simple pieces I already had on hand.

My Fourth Tray: Pressed‑Flower Candle Jar & Autumn Details

For my fourth tray, I wanted to incorporate something handmade, so I reused a glass jar that I had designed in a previous craft project. I love discovering new ways to utilize pieces I've already created, and this jar, adorned with pressed yellow flowers, is one of my favorites. I placed it inside a lantern, allowing the candlelight to shine through the flowers, which creates a beautiful, soft glow.

Next, I added a small pumpkin to bring in that classic fall touch. Then, I layered in some greenery, including simple branches and a few yellow blossoms, to fill out the tray and create a warm, natural feel.

This tray is particularly special to me because it combines autumn décor with something I crafted myself. It serves as a reminder that you can repurpose your handmade pieces in new ways and incorporate them into your seasonal decorating.

My Fifth Tray: Soft Greens, Pumpkins & a Cozy Lantern Glow

For my fifth tray, I wanted to create something simple and soft for fall. I started with my lantern and LED candle because the warm glow always sets the perfect mood. Then, I added a few pieces of greenery to establish a natural base—just enough to make the tray feel full without overcrowding it.

Next, I placed a couple of small fabric pumpkins in orange and beige tones. I love how these colors complement each other; they’re calm yet still very autumnal. To complete the look, I tucked in a few yellow flowers to brighten everything up and tie the entire tray together.

This arrangement came together easily, and it's a great example of how you can reuse the same pieces—greenery, pumpkins, and florals—and still create a completely different look each time.

My Sixth Tray: Pumpkins, Candlelight & a Touch of Greenery

For my last tray, I opted for a simple and cozy arrangement. I began with my LED candle, which I love for its warm glow. Next, I added several fabric pumpkins in different colors, arranging them around the candle until the tray felt balanced and full.

I wanted to complete the look, so I tucked in a small branch with green leaves. This is an easy detail that adds a natural touch that makes the entire setup feel more complete.

This tray is a great example of how you can reuse the same pieces—the candle, the pumpkins, and the greenery—and still create something fresh. Sometimes, the simplest arrangements end up being my favorites.

I hope this inspires you to play around with your own décor and see what new looks you can create without buying a bunch of new items. Sometimes the best ideas come from simply rearranging what you already love.

If you try any of these styles or create your own version, I’d love to see it. Happy crafting, friends, and happy autumn.

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