Home Tips: 10 Home Décor Crafts to Turn Your Home Into an Autumnal Oasis

Transforming your home into an autumnal oasis could be as simple as focusing on the small accents you’re bringing into each room of your home. When it comes to the changing of seasons, there is nothing more exciting than when summer fades into fall. The leaves are changing, the weather is cooling down, and your coffee order changes from iced to hot. Fall is a time to put your beach towels back in storage, and get back into regular routines. Thus, making it the ideal opportunity to return to your crafting room with these 10 Fall DIY crafts in mind.

1. Fabric Pumpkins

Fabric pumpkins are a fresh way to display seasonal gourds. You can pair sewn faux pumpkins among real ones (some of which you can spray or sponge paint) during this fall season. Imagine — spare branches, scattered leaves, and these pumpkins displayed in your home. Autumnal oasis dreams.

Home Décor Craft: Sew linen, silk, and velvet into adorable faux pumpkins that can be displayed and reused every year.

2. Wheat Cluster

For an easy, lightweight decoration that still evokes the glorious fall harvest, try these dried wheat bundles.

Home Décor Craft: Begin by bundling together three to ten stalks of wheat. Then, wrap the stalks of wheat together in twine. Leave about three feet of twine hanging off the bunch in a tail. Next, cut the stalks to approximately three-inches in length. Repeat for as many bundles as desired. Then, push the separate tails on the twines through a chosen bead, loop all at the end, and tie it into a knot. Hang it upside down on your front door as a creative way to say hello to the fall season!

3. Rustic Woven Lanterns

Thinking of dressing your dinner table with fresh center pieces this holiday season? Look no further with this eco-friendly and chic way to upgrade your dinner table.

Home Décor Craft: Upcycle old mesh placemats by cutting & rolling them into tubes and stitching them along the seams. Place cylinder shaped votives around candles. Wax, soy, or electric candles – your guests won’t be able to spy the difference! Candlelight will gracefully flicker through the loose weave of the hurricane lanterns as you entertain over dinner.

4. Soft Seats

With this DIY craft, dinner isn’t going to be the only warm thing at your table. With these simple slipcovers, you can instantly reinvent dining chairs at your formal dining table over the holidays.

Home Décor Craft: To start, simply drape a finished sheepskin over the back of the chair before securing it with Ultrasuede-tape or cord. Extra fall points for choosing a contrasting cord color. Next, finish securing them to the chair by threading the tie through the sheepskin on each side with a tapestry needle (that will help you create a cuff over the chair’s top). Knot the ends and let them hang loose. Voila!

5. Gingham Knit Blanket

Believe it or not, you don’t need to be an expert knitter to tackle this DIY project; you can make this cozy throw blanket with quick-to-knit strips.

Home Décor Craft: Gather scarves in the colors you want, and sew them together. That’s it! Below, scarves of alternating stripes are sewn together to create a unique gingham pattern.

6. Harvest Branches

We love how easy these fleeced branches are to put together. Specifically how they have the power to add a touch of warm color to any setting you place them in.

Home Décor Craft: Simply pull a bit of fleece roving off a ball, and then press the end of the fiber against the branch. Start wrapping tightly, gently pulling the fleece apart (without tearing it) as you go. Wrap the branches until the piece of fleece runs out. Add more fleece as needed to cover the branch. When adding, wrap over the last inch of wrapped fleece with e.

The friction of your fingers on the fibers and the natural oils form your skin help the fleece stay on the branch and adhere to itself.

7. Pumpkin Spice Scented Candles

If you’re among the camp that counts down the days until you can sip a classic pumpkin spice latte once again, these homemade candles are for you. Poured into orange-tinted mason jars, they throw off an especially autumnal glow in any area you might have in mind.

Home Décor Craft: Hot glue candle wick to bottom of festive colored jar. Bring water to a boil in a pot (filled half way). Reduce to a simmer. Place a different jar with broken up candle wax inside into the pot of simmering water. Water should be about 1/2 way up the side of the jar. When the wax becomes liquid add a heaping tablespoon of pumpkin pie spice. Mix. Carefully pour the liquid wax into the festive colored jar. If the candle wick starts to tilt, secure the wick between two sticks or pencils. Set aside to cool overnight. Trim the wick. Light it up!

8. Nut Wreath

Celebrate fall’s abundance of almonds, hazelnuts, pecans and walnuts with this festive decoration. Use any hard-shelled nuts, including acorns you gather from your own backyard.

Home Décor Craft: Gather all your nuts, small and large. Begin hot gluing the large ones together to form the shape of your wreath. Add in the small nuts as you go to fill in the spaces. Let cool, and hang on door. Ta da!

9. Embroidered Throw Pillows

Upgrade a pair of store-bought wide-weave cushions by tricking them out with bright neutral yarns sewn directly into the weave.

Home Décor Craft: Grab some of your favorite colored yarn and sew in fun patterns and fringe with a tapestry needle. That’s it. Truly. 

10. Block-Printed Linens

Block-printed linens are costly to buy, but surprisingly simple to make. With some textile paint, muslin fabric, and woodblock stamps, you can create linens that are exclusive and unique.

Home Décor Craft: Begin by layering a paper towel on top of a foam sheet; lay pre-washed muslin fabric on top, and smooth out any wrinkles. Then, pour your choice of textile paint on a plate. Next, dab a sponge in the paint and smooth it evenly onto a wooden printing block with a unique pattern. Stamp it on the muslin fabric. Let dry. Pictured are indigo shades, but you can substitue for any color of your choosing.

LA Eats: Fathers Day Edition

Father’s Day will be here before you know it! With that in mind, don’t wait until the last minute to book the best bites and brews for Dad. While most of our fathers will opt for a backyard BBQ as opposed to a seated dinner, we’re recommending ditching the DIY celebration. Elevate your Fathers Day on June 16 with our selection of dining choices that are almost certainly “Dad Approved”. 

Spago

Location: 176 N. Canon Drive, Beverly Hills

Surrounded by Ed Ruscha art and beneath the stars is a Beverly Hills Gem. No we’re not talking about the most recent celebrity abode listing. Spago has set the scene for what is sure to be an extraordinary evening this Fathers Day. Their BBQ and Blues set menu is all that it seems and more. With a 3-course line-up of savory flavors that only Wolfgang Puck could succeed at, is a “dinner with dad” no brainer. Enjoy a barrel aged cocktail bar while listening to the soulful tunes of the Gary Allegreto Band. We could go on but it’s best you click below before tickets run out for this fête of bbq and blues fun. Fathers Day at Spago will be nothing short of a ‘Good Time’.

View the menu here.

Click here to book.

The Queen Mary

Location: 1126 Queen HWY, Long Beach

On June 16th, bring the entire family aboard the World Famous Queen Mary and treat Dad to something special! A local favorite, the Queen Mary Royal Sunday Brunch always lands on our holiday list as they take you on a worldwide culinary adventure and features over 50 unique dishes from around the globe. And if brunch isn’t Dad’s thing, enjoy dinner at the award-winning Sir Winston’s Restaurant and Lounge or Chelsea Chowder House.

Click here for more info.

Faith & Flower

Location: 705 W. 9th, Los Angeles, CA 90015

This Californian rustic cuisine offers an International Rib Festival-themed menu for Father’s Day. Be sure to book your brunch or dinner reservation at Faith & Flower!

Click here for more info!

Nick + Stef’s Steakhouse

Location: 330 S. Hope St., Los Angeles, CA 90071

This restaurant features a Father’s Day special and cocktails at Nick + Stef’s Steakhouse.

Click here for more info!

Salt’s Cure

Location: 1155 N. Highland Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90038

Enjoy a prix-fixe menu this Father’s Day at Salt’s Cure. Treat dad to fresh ingredients and custom-made deserts or cocktails!

Click here for more info!

Lucques

Location: 8474 Melrose Ave., West Hollywood 90069

Experience the cozy décor of brick and newly renovated garden at Lucques. This restaurant is offering a special Father’s Day dinner which highlights the best in season from the Farmer’s Market.

Click here for more info!

A.O.C.

Location: 8700 W. 3rd St., Los Angeles, CA 90048

On Father’s Day, A.O.C. offers weekend brunch served on their patio or vibrant dining room. Families can enjoy classic meal sharing plates with more than enough to go around!

Click here for more info!

La Dolce Vita

Location: 9758 Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills, CA 90210

La Dolce Vita restaurant offers a Father’s Day experience you won’t want to miss! This Beverly Hills landmark offers classic dishes from 5-10pm.

Click here for more info

Toscana

Location: 11653 San Vicente Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90049

Indulge in Toscana’s Father’s Day specialties along with the restaurant’s a la carte menu. Choose from four different specials for dinner and pair your meal with a cocktail.

Click here for more info

Tavern

Location: 11648 San Vicente Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90049

Tavern provides some of the finest California and Mediterranean dining and conversation! Bring dad to their Father’s Day brunch or dinner to enjoy their special menu.

Click here for more info

LA Eats: Valentine’s Day 2019

As Angeleno’s we know LA has no shortage of places to grab a bite from am to pm. On this holiday of love, our favorite spots will be raising the bar and prices for their Valentines Day offerings. Whether your preference is pre-fix or simply exquisite cuisine, we’ve rounded up the best places to dine with your special someone.

Inn of the Seventh Ray

Location: Topanga

Forget the Topanga stereotypes of burning sage and healing crystals (OK, they sell those here, too). Off Old Topanga Road, love-stricken diners can enter a bucolic, wooded city escape: a multi-tiered outdoor dining space draped in lights, lilac and oak trees—and, yes, the wafting scent of incense that hits you on your way in. Take in the serene, creekside surroundings under heat lamps and twinkling stars. This idyllic setting will be offering both Brunch and Dinner for the Hallmark holiday of love. Menu’s are pre-fix(with some a la carte dinner options) and can be viewed here.

One Pico

Location: Santa Monica

Escape to Nantucket at this beachside destination seducing lovers and landlubbers alike, where you can grab front-row seats overlooking the Pacific. If that’s not enough to impress your sunset-discriminating friend, cozy up to the roaring fire over surf and turf plates such as fresh pasta with lobster, seared scallops with bok choi and soy caramel, 24-day–aged rib eye and Sunday-night prime rib dinner served table-side. The quiet dining room jazzes up, literally, come nightfall with live piano and jazz in the hotel’s Living Room lounge, perfect for graduating on to cocktails and more fireside canoodling. View there Valentine’s Day Dinner Menu here.

Cafe Pinot

Location: DTLA

Transport yourself to another place and time at this Downtown bistro where it’s all about the outdoor patio. Settle under olive trees decked in twinkling lights and a towering skyline overhead, with the Art Deco Central Library as your up-close-and-personal view. When it comes to the menu, expect an extensive wine list, eclectic flavors and elegantly-composed plates from this Patina-owned restaurant. Those seeking romance can pine over the lavish Valentine’s Day pre-fixe menu which can be viewed here.

Chateau Hanare

Location: West Hollywood

Soft, flattering lighting that bounces off the delicate gold wallpaper? Check. An artful, at times decadent, menu that’s perfect for sharing bites with your date? Double check. Traditional Japanese technique meets California flavor at this intimate bungalow on the edge of Chateau Marmont. Pro tip: For an even more intimate experience, huddle over sake and cocktails at the front bar. For next Wednesday they’re offering a stunning Valentines version of their Kaiseki menu. Click here for more information.

Little Beast

Location: Eagle Rock

There’s romance even in the story of this Eagle Rock gem. The cozy Craftsman bungalow turned bistro is run by—of course—a husband-and-wife team. Chef Sean Lowenthal and Deborah Schwartz-Lowenthal cook up a hyper-seasonal New-American menu romance filled setting. Share your way through braised meatballs, duck liver mousse with sherry gastrique, and charred flat iron steak. Outdoors, the lights flip on when the sun goes down, providing an intimate patio that glows as much as your date will. For more information click here.

The Bazaar by Jose Andres

Location: Central LA

This Valentine’s Day, plan a night as unique as your romance. With three outstanding José Andrés experiences to chose from, the way to the heart begins with a feast for the senses. There are multiple dining rooms, each with a different menu focus and ambience. Dine dangerously in the more masculine, matador-themed banquettes or opt for comfy-yet-modern seating. For more information on their menu options click here.

Wolfgang Puck at Hotel Bel-Air

Location: Bel Air

Since opening its doors in 1946, Hotel Bel-Air has been the site of Old Hollywood’s (then-new) city escapes. From honeymoons to camping out in the secluded hills away from the lights. The Mediterranean-influenced menu sees glimpses of old and new with updated Puck favorites. Finish with a stroll by the fabled Swan Lake for a fairy-tale ending. Click here to view their Valentine’s Day menu offerings.

Scopa Italian Roots

Location: Venice

Oh, Scopa, what are you doing to us? Those crispy squash blossoms and house-made meatballs are making our hearts melt. Not to mention the intoxicating glow of the fully-stocked liquor bar that lights up the restaurant. Couples canoodle in dark booths, sharing plates of rigatoni in vodka sauce and fusilli tossed with capers, olives and anchovies. Chef Antonia Lofaso has a knack for churning out quality comfort food in a date-worthy atmosphere. End the night with a fried fluffernutter (trust us). To view their menu click here.

Melisse

Location: Santa Monica

Ask anyone in L.A. what the best fine-dining spot is, and Mélisse always comes out toward the top of the list. Serving dinner only, suited waiters bring course after course. You can opt for the basic four, seven or 10 courses, plus caviar service—of artfully-composed plates of pure decadence. (If that doesn’t seduce you, we don’t know what will.) While two private dining rooms offer a more intimate setting, the main dining room hosts couples, who should request a booth. To view their pre-fixe menu options click here.

Elf Cafe

Location: Echo Park

Because vegetarians are lovers, too. This Echo Park haunt is a date night go-to for vegetarians and omnivores alike. Fall for the Middle Eastern and Mediterranean menu that changes with the season. Call ahead to claim a spot with your date inside the cozy, matchbox-size dining room. Sip on any number of wines—all natural wine, of course—and toast over vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. Click here to view their menu options.

Firefly

Location: Studio City

Firefly may be the closest thing to a modern-day secret garden in L.A., walls of tangled ivy included. The fine-dining restaurant offers Modern-American cuisine in a romantic, cozy setting. Their heated, fire-lit patio is decorated in candles and twinkling lights, while the library-like bar area offers an ideal date-night vibe. In this secret garden, you’ll be fed exquisitely constructed dishes off their pre-fix Valentine’s Day menu which can be viewed here.

mar’sel

Location: Rancho Palos Verdes/Rolling Hills Estates

When the parsley sprinkled over the house-made pasta you’re eating has come from a garden right outside the restaurant’s doors, you know you’re eating fresh. Such is the case at the picture-perfect mar’sel, where an onsite herb-and-vegetable garden is mere steps from the kitchen, its goods incorporated throughout the menu. Overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean, mar’sel is the perfect place to impress your date. Their menu options can be viewed here.

Il Cielo

Location: Beverly Hills

If a restaurant could make you weak at the knees, Il Cielo would have diners dropping left and right. Serving dinner under a canopy of twinkling lights, the romantic Italian eatery aims to be a “country restaurant in the city”. Bubbling fountains and white tablecloths create a darling ambiance to rival a Tuscan trattoria. Their decadent Valentine’s Day menu is sure to rival other as well and can be viewed here.

Cliff’s Edge

Location: Silver Lake

This hidden gem’s patio is one of the prettiest on the east end of the city. An open structure that’s outfitted in hanging lights and a fireplace under a huge banyan-like tree. The menu reads like an exotic escape—to the Mediterranean or Asia, perhaps—with a California influence. Enjoy menu items like French butter lettuce with radish, quinoa, or whole branzino with papaya salad and nuoc cham. To view their full menu click here.

Lucques

Location: West Hollywood

Long heralded as one of the top restaurants in the city, Melrose Avenue’s Lucques continues to draw foodies and the fashionable set. The menu takes cues from the season with local farmers’ market ingredients highlighted on the plate. While the bar menu features a separate selection of eats and seasonal concoctions, another experience and reason to visit. Indulge by flickering candlelight over a bottle—the well-curated wine selection features worlds both old and new—and don’t skimp on desserts. View their seasonal menu here.

Courtesy of: Time Out LA

L.A. Eats of the Week

By: Samira Murphy

With as many restaurants as there are Bird scooters, we’ve decided to simplify your options of the week by dishing out the best places to grab a bite from power lunches to elegant fare. Read below for our nosh worthy eats throughout L.A.

“Breakfast is the most important deal of the day…”

Republique
Republique

République

Having likely made your dinner hot spot list, be advised that Republique is serving a breakfast worth taking note. Republique is said to be the former home of Golden Era Comedian Charlie Chaplin. Brimming with rustic chicness and delectable eats, the french eatery superbly succeeds. From their outstanding example of French toast to poached egg-topped kimchi fried rice, whats not to j’adore.

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Breakfast by Salts Cure

Breakfast by Salt’s Cure paints a story of unsupervised adolescent cooking turned career solidified by the success of its Chef and star Chris Phelps. Chef Phelps opened Breakfast as an homage to his already famous Griddle Cakes, a family recipe that serves as the highlight of the menu. Meant to offer diners the simplicity of building their own breakfast, nothing could be more perfect to start your day. Indulge in their Chocolate Chip Griddle cake made with 60.5% TCHO DARK COUVERTURE. And no worries if your in a hurry, the fast-paced  eatery is bustling, with enough time for you to make it to that 9am meeting your already dreading.

Lunch, Brunch, 2nd Breakfast!

1 Pico

Find yourself seaside or merely wish for a bit of ocean breeze to start your day? 1 Pico is idyllic. Forbes recommended and located in Shutter’s on the Beach, a Cape Code style hotel brimming with nautical charm.  Most noteworthy is the setting. Guest are treated to quintessential california cuisine while sitting within view of the nearby ocean. Try the Wagyu Burger sandwiched between a brioche bun, Caramelized onion, tomato, and truffled cheese. On the lighter side is their refreshing Watermelon Salad or Grilled Branzino. No matter, your midday preference, nothing’s more perfect than an afternoon at the beach.

Brunch @ Ocean Prime
Brunch @ Ocean Prime

Ocean Prime

New to the L.A. brunch scene, Ocean Prime unveiled over the weekend a menu worth savoring for. Located at the perfect corner spot within the Golden Triangle, the restaurant is already most notable for their seafood selection. Combing that with brunch time classics proves to be quite the culinary success. Start off with Bottomless Blood Orange Mimosas and indulge in the Chef’s Omelette selection of the day paired with crispy arugula salad and fresh fruits. Or try The Lobster & Avocado Toast, Butter Poached with a Sunny Side Egg, Sweet Pea Avocado Spread, Preserved Lemon & Arugula Salad. 

“Whats for dinner?”

Barbette

New to the already bustling West Hollywood restaurant scene, Barbette is a bonded star. A mixture of regionally sourced ingredients and delicacy of Southern France cuisine, Barbette delivers a magnificent dining experience. Having began his career at the Michelin starred Spotted Pig, in NYC, Executive Chef Robert Flaherty shines. The Moules Mariniere is the perfect course to pair with their signature Barbette Sourdough. Or opt for the classic french entree, Steak Frites drizzled in chimichurri sauce. If you leave room for dessert the Buttermilk Panna Cota is a perfect ending to your Parisian fete.

71 Above

Offering unparalleled views 950 feet from the ground, DTLA’s 71 Above is a highflying hit near Pershing Square. Chef Vartan Abgaryan‘s take on modern American cuisine is served in three unique dining settings. Chose between the buzzing bar, lively main dining area, or chefs table with front row view to the culinary action. After taking your seat, indulge in their three course menu with offerings that include a tantalizing Fois Gras or spiced Diver Scallops. Take your night and taste buds to new heights.

L.A. Eat’s of the Week

By: Samira Murphy

With as many restaurants as there are Bird scooters, we’ve decided to simplify your options of the week by dishing out the best places to grab a bite from power lunches to elegant fare. Read below for our nosh worthy suggestions.

“Breakfast is the most important deal of the day…”

Brioche French Toast @ Squirl L.A.
Brioche French Toast @ Squirl L.A.

For a less traditional but still foodie-worthy breakfast we suggest venturing out of your morning norm and opting for Squirl. Dishing out global inspired dishes for breakfast and lunch, you’ll leave feeling as if your tastebuds traveled the world and back in time to beat the 2nd rush hour if the day. Try The Hash– a mouth watering blend of roasted Milliken Sweet Potato & Wieser potato hash mixed with urfa dusted poblanos & finished with a charred shishito green sauce and a fried egg. Or opt for their take on the household favorite-a Buckwheat and Cactus Flour Pancake, featuring Cocoa Nibs Pudding, Toasted Coconut, Fresh Fruit.  Located at720 Virgil Ave #4
M-F 6:30a-4p & S-Su 8a-4p.

Breakfast @ Petit Trois
Breakfast @ Petit Trois

Craving a Petit déjeuner? Petit Trois is serving up their take on Parisian fare. A French bistro co-owned by chefs Ludo Lefebvre, Jon Shook, and Vinny Dotolo, Petit Trois the perfect breakfast rendezvous. There is everything from the Croque Monsieur-a tasteful pairing of Parisian ham, bechamel, and Swiss cheese to the more risqué Steak and Eggs topped with Escargot butter and a finely selected ribeye. Arrivé at their Valley location for breakfast or venture to Highland for lunch. Hours in the Valley are 8a-10p. Located at 13705 VENTURA BLVD, SHERMAN OAKS.

Lunch, Brunch, 2nd Breakfast!

Baroo Los Angeles
Baroo Los Angeles

If your not too full from breakfast then save room for Baroo-a free style experimental kitchen offering seasonal menu items sourced locally and produced organically. If you happen to stop by when they are offering their House-fermented Kombbucha–the Elderfower is an ideal pairing alongside the Kimchi Fried Rice or signature Ragu. Stay current on their lunch offerings by clicking here, and visit them at 5706 Santa Monica Blvd Los Angeles. Tu-Sa 12PM – 3PM / 5PM – 9PM. Sun – Mon : Closed.

Brunch @ Animal
Brunch @ Animal

Staying on the adventurous side, Animal is a favorite as well hit from Petit Trois Chefs Jon Shook and Vinny Dotolo. A James Beard awarded restaurant, one would not find themselves disappointed at any selection off the carefully curated brunch selection. Try the Eggplant Katsu-a blend of yuzu kosho aioli, togarashi, kombu marinated cucumber. Or satisfy your sweet tooth with the Cheesecake Pudding made with guava, passion fruit, and graham. You’ll have to hold tight through the week as brunch is only offered Saturday-Sunday from 10:30a-2:30p…but its well worth the wait. Located at 435 NORTH FAIRFAX, LOS ANGELES.

“What’s for dinner?”

Scratch Bar & Kitchen
Scratch Bar & Kitchen

Not your average dinner selection, Scratch Bar & Kitchen is staying on the L.A. trend of tasting menus and winning at it. Offering selections that fit almost every dietary need from Pescatarian to Vegetarian, and the fish or meat eaters in between. The courses change by the month and are anywhere from Bone Marrow to Blue Fin. If your up for the choice menu, it is priced at $145 per person and advance deposit is required. To peek at what’s on the selection this month go here. And if you so happen to wish in partaking in their seasonal fare make a reservation here. Open 5:30-10p and located at 16101 Ventura Boulevard, Encino.

 

Pizza with House Cured Smoked Salmon @ Spago BH
Pizza with House Cured Smoked Salmon @ Spago BH

So they say the story goes… During the era of big hair and bigger attitudes—a couple rockstars walked into the Original Spago on the Sunset Strip. They wanted a bagel and lox. It was sometime near midnight and they were fresh out of the breakfast bread of choice. The Chef de Cuisine not shying away from the challenge, threw together what they could. On thin crisp bread and a delectable layer of Creme Fraiche the Smoked Salmon Pizza was born and thus a Spago favorite. Available whenever your cravings desire, we recommend trying this legendary dish to start off your evening.

If you’d rather chose more traditional dinner options there is everything from the perfectly seasoned Jidori Chicken to Pecking Duck for two. There’s nothing more Iconic than rockstar pizza and the award winning bites of Wolfgang Puck in the heart of Beverly Hills. Dinner begins at 6p M-W, and 5:30p Th-Su. Located at 176 North Canon Drive Beverly Hills.