Oak & Lo

Let’s Make some memories

One of my favorite parts of fall is bringing back little traditions from my childhood and passing them on to my kids. When I was little, I remember my mom making a scarecrow every fall , the smell of hay, the laughter, and how proud we were of our little creation sitting in the yard. Now that I have my own kids, those memories come rushing back, and I wanted to recreate that same magic with them, starting our own family fall tradition.

🍁 What You’ll Need

This DIY is simple, budget-friendly, and perfect for a cozy weekend project:

• 1 hay bale (you can find these at local farms or garden centers)
• An old pair of jeans
• One of your husband’s flannel shirts (the cozier the better!)
• A white T-shirt (for the face)
• A Sharpie marker (for drawing the face)
• String or yarn (to tie off the arms and legs)

✨ How to Make Your Scarecrow

1. Start with the hay bale — this will be your scarecrow’s body.
2. Stuff the jeans with hay and sit them in front of the bale.
3. Add the flannel shirt on top and button it up.
4. For the head, draw a face on the white T-shirt with your Sharpie — eyes, nose, and a big smile. Tie it off and tuck it into the top of the flannel.
5. Use yarn or string to tie off the ends of the sleeves and pant legs to make “hands” and “feet.”
6. Pull out some extra hay here and there to give it that perfectly imperfect look.

My mom used to save the same clothes each year and rebuild our scarecrow every fall — I love that idea and plan to do the same. It’s a sweet way to watch the tradition grow with your family.

🎃 Make It a Family Tradition

The best part? Let your kids help! They’ll love stuffing the hay, drawing the face, and giving your scarecrow a name. It’s messy, cozy, and full of laughter — exactly what fall memories are made of.

Once your scarecrow is done, add it to your porch or garden and check it off your Fall Bucket List!

👉 Grab your Free Fall Bucket List Printable [here] and start making memories all season long.