Incorporating Antlers and Vintage Finds into Fall Decor

As the leaves turn amber and the air gets a little crisper, there’s something in all of us that wants to cozy up our spaces, bringing a touch of the outdoors and a dash of nostalgia into our homes. What better way to do that than by incorporating antlers and vintage finds into your fall decor? Antlers offer that rustic, natural look that pairs perfectly with warm autumn hues, while vintage pieces add a layer of history and charm that makes any space feel a little more like home. Together, they’re like peanut butter and jelly for your fall decorating—a duo that’s both heartwarming and uniquely stylish.

1. Why Antlers and Vintage Finds?

The beauty of antlers is that they add texture, form, and a bit of nature-inspired elegance to any decor. Don’t worry, no need to head out on a hunting expedition—antlers can be shed naturally by animals and sourced sustainably. The organic shape and natural earth tones of antlers provide a striking visual appeal that blends seamlessly with fall’s warm colors, like deep oranges, rich reds, and muted browns.

On the other hand, vintage finds—whether it’s an old lantern, a weathered mirror, or a stack of aged books—bring a sense of nostalgia and personal history. These items can be family heirlooms, flea market treasures, or thrift store rescues. Each piece has its own story, a life lived before it found its way into your home. Combined with antlers, they create a rustic, collected-over-time look that feels like a cozy retreat in the woods.

2. Choosing Your Antlers and Vintage Pieces: Mixing Texture and Story

When it comes to antlers, there are so many ways to use them. Look for different sizes and shapes if you can, as they create visual interest. Large antlers make a statement above a mantel or entryway, while smaller ones can be tucked into bookshelves or even set on a coffee table as a centerpiece.

For vintage pieces, think beyond just “old stuff.” Look for items that speak to you, that feel like they belong in your home. Maybe it’s an old pocket watch from a time when people relied on something other than their phones for the time, or a set of antique brass candlesticks that have seen a hundred holiday dinners. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something that feels authentic to you.

Pro Tip: If you don’t have family heirlooms or unique finds on hand, head to your local thrift store or flea market! These places are treasure troves for unique vintage pieces, and you never know what you’ll find—a dusty old clock, an oil painting of a misty mountain, or a vintage milk jug waiting for its moment to shine.

3. Antlers as Focal Points: From Walls to Tables

Antlers are perfect for creating focal points because of their natural shape and interesting structure. If you have a large set of antlers, try hanging them above a mantel or an entryway table. Paired with some fall garlands or twinkling lights, antlers make for an eye-catching display that’s equal parts rustic and elegant.

For smaller antlers, get creative. Lay them on a coffee table or dining table alongside fall foliage, miniature pumpkins, or pine cones for an autumn-inspired centerpiece. They can also look beautiful in a bookshelf, especially when paired with vintage books and small trinkets. Think of them as the punctuation marks of your decor, the little details that make everything else pop.

One fun idea? Place smaller antlers around a cluster of candles to create a warm, inviting glow on chilly autumn nights. The flickering candlelight reflects off the natural curves of the antlers, creating a cozy, magical vibe that’s perfect for fall.

4. Vintage Finds in Action: Timeless Touches and Layering

Let’s talk about layering with vintage pieces, a trick that brings depth and warmth to any space. Start with larger pieces, like an antique mirror or a vintage trunk, and build around it. If you have an old trunk, use it as a coffee table or even a side table, draping a cozy plaid blanket over it and topping it with a lantern or a stack of old books.

Mirrors, especially ones with a little patina or vintage frames, bring light and a hint of mystery to a room. Hang a mirror above your mantel with a few strands of garland or wreaths of autumn leaves, and suddenly, you’ve got a cozy yet elegant display that reflects the season.

Try This: Collect old amber bottles or mason jars, and use them as vases for seasonal flowers or dried grasses. Their warm, earthy tones blend perfectly with the colors of fall, and they make any surface feel a little more old-fashioned in the best possible way.

5. Mixing Old and New: Balancing the Look

The trick to making antlers and vintage finds work in modern homes is balance. Pairing something rustic with sleek or modern pieces keeps it from feeling too themed or “country cabin.” Think of it as a balance between Grandma’s treasures and contemporary style.

For example, if you have a vintage wooden bench, pair it with a modern throw blanket in a rich fall color. If you’re displaying antlers on a sleek white shelf, add a contemporary vase in a soft, neutral shade to keep things grounded. This mix of old and new keeps your space looking fresh, not dated.

One great place to practice this balance is your dining table. Try mixing a set of modern dishes with antique silverware or vintage glassware. Add a few sprigs of dried lavender or wheat in a mason jar for a centerpiece, and you’ve got a table setting that feels timeless and welcoming.

6. Antlers in Unexpected Places

The joy of decorating is often in the surprises, and antlers provide plenty of opportunities for that. Think beyond just hanging them on the wall! Place them on a bookshelf for an unexpected rustic touch, or use them as curtain tiebacks for a creative, unique look.

You can even use antlers in your entryway to hold hats, scarves, or keys. Attach small hooks to a larger antler and hang it by the door for a rustic, functional piece that’ll have everyone talking. Or, if you’ve got a craftier side, try spray-painting smaller antlers in gold or white for a modern twist, then use them as bookends or paperweights.

7. Cozy Up with Textiles: Throws, Rugs, and Pillows

To bring it all together, you’ll want to add some soft, cozy textiles. Fall is the perfect season for chunky-knit throws, plaid blankets, and soft wool pillows in shades of burnt orange, mustard, and deep green. Layer these on couches, benches, and even draped over vintage chairs to soften up the look and make your space feel warm and inviting.

Vintage quilts, if you can find them, make for stunning couch throws or even wall hangings. Their patterns and colors are usually perfect for fall, and they add a sense of history and warmth that no modern throw can quite capture. Place a couple of vintage or faux-fur pillows on your couch to add texture and make everything look irresistibly cozy.

8. A Final Touch: Seasonal Scents and Sounds

You’ve decorated visually, but what about the ambiance? Bring in a fall-scented candle with notes of cinnamon, clove, or pine, or try simmering a pot of apple cider with a couple of cinnamon sticks on the stove. Add some mellow background music (think acoustic guitar or soft folk tunes), and your home will feel like the perfect autumn retreat.

The combined effect of antlers, vintage pieces, and warm fall decor creates an inviting atmosphere that’s perfect for gathering with friends or family. Imagine curling up with a blanket, a cup of cider, and a good book in a room filled with pieces that feel like they were made for the season.

Your Fall Haven Awaits

Incorporating antlers and vintage finds into your fall decor is more than just decorating—it’s about crafting a space that feels warm, welcoming, and a little nostalgic. With a few unique pieces, some cozy layers, and a bit of creativity, you can create a space that celebrates the season and feels like an invitation to relax and stay awhile.

So go ahead, embrace a little rustic charm and make your home feel like the coziest corner of a cabin in the woods. After all, fall only comes once a year—let’s decorate like we mean it!

Please Share this Article with your Friends or Colleagues.

About the Author: Earnest Sherrill

Earnest Sherrill is a passionate outdoor enthusiast and writer who resides in the warm and breezy state of Texas. With a deep love for nature, Earnest enjoys exploring the great outdoors and sharing his experiences through his writing. He writes about various aspects of outdoor life and the intriguing happenings of everyday experiences. When not writing, Earnest cherishes spending time with his youngest grandchildren, who bring vibrant energy and robust attitudes to his life. Stay connected with Earnest to discover more about the wonders of the outdoors and the joys of life's adventures.

Other Projects

Gear Up for Your Next Outdoor Adventure! Get the best hunting and fishing gear to make your outdoor experience unforgettable. Durable and reliable Perfect for all weather conditions. Enhance your hunting success.
Check out our top picks of Hunting Gear:on Amazon!

High-quality rods and reels Ideal for freshwater and saltwater Catch more with top-rated gear.
Check out our top picks of Fishing Gear: on Amazon