40 DIY Thanksgiving Crafts for Adults That We Can’t Wait to Try

Introduction

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and creativity. While the holiday often revolves around food and feasting, adding handmade touches to your celebration can make it even more special. Whether you’re hosting guests or simply looking for ways to embrace the season’s cozy vibes, DIY Thanksgiving crafts are a wonderful way to express your creativity and personalize your space.

Over the years, I’ve explored countless Thanksgiving craft ideas, from rustic centerpieces to festive wall art, and I’m thrilled to share 40 of my favorites with you. These projects range from quick and easy to more intricate designs, ensuring there’s something for every skill level. So grab your crafting supplies, pour yourself a cup of cider, and let’s dive into these inspiring Thanksgiving crafts!

1. Painted Pinecone Turkeys

Transform pinecones into adorable turkey figurines by painting them in autumnal colors and adding felt feathers. Display them as table decorations or mantel accents.

Why We Love It: It’s a fun, kid-friendly project that adds charm to any space.

2. DIY Gratitude Jar

Decorate a mason jar with fall-themed embellishments like leaves, twine, and paint. Encourage guests to write down what they’re thankful for on slips of paper and drop them inside.

Pro Tip: Read the notes aloud during dessert for a heartwarming moment.

3. Handmade Leaf Wreath

Collect colorful fall leaves (real or faux) and glue them onto a wreath form. Add a burlap bow for a rustic touch.

Why We Love It: It’s simple yet stunning and perfect for welcoming guests.

4. Customized Napkin Rings

Create unique napkin rings using cinnamon sticks, twine, and small sprigs of greenery. They add a fragrant, seasonal flair to your table setting.

Pro Tip: Tie each ring with a handwritten place card for an extra personal touch.

5. Pumpkin Candle Holders

Hollow out small pumpkins and place tea lights inside for glowing centerpieces. Paint or carve designs into the pumpkin for added detail.

Why We Love It: These holders combine warmth and ambiance beautifully.

6. Rustic Wooden Sign

Stencil a Thanksgiving quote onto a piece of reclaimed wood, such as “Give Thanks” or “Welcome.” Hang it on your front door or above the fireplace.

Pro Tip: Use stencils and chalk paint for a clean, professional look.

7. Autumn Garland

String together dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and mini pumpkins to create a fragrant garland. Drape it across your mantle or dining table.

Why We Love It: It fills your home with the scents of fall while looking gorgeous.

8. DIY Cornucopia Centerpiece

Fill a wicker cornucopia basket with fresh fruits, vegetables, and gourds for a traditional yet elegant centerpiece.

Pro Tip: Add artificial flowers or greenery for extra color and texture.

9. Personalized Place Cards

Write guests’ names on small wooden slices or pressed leaves using metallic markers. Scatter them across the table for a thoughtful touch.

Why We Love It: Personalized details make guests feel valued and welcomed.

10. Felt Turkey Banner

Cut turkey shapes out of felt and sew or glue them onto a ribbon to create a festive banner. Hang it above your buffet or fireplace.

Pro Tip: Use puffy paint to add eyes and beaks for a playful finish.

11. Pressed Leaf Coasters

Press colorful fall leaves between two sheets of clear resin or laminate to create durable coasters. Perfect for serving drinks during dinner.

Why We Love It: These coasters are both functional and decorative.

12. DIY Burlap Table Runner

Sew or stencil a design onto a burlap runner, such as leaves, acorns, or a “Happy Thanksgiving” message. Lay it down the center of your table.

Pro Tip: Fray the edges slightly for a shabby-chic effect.

13. Acorn Votives

Glue acorn caps onto glass votive holders and fill them with candles. The natural elements pair perfectly with warm candlelight.

Why We Love It: This craft highlights the beauty of nature.

14. Thankful Tree Wall Art

Paint a tree silhouette on canvas and attach paper leaves where guests can write their gratitude messages. Display it prominently in your living room.

Pro Tip: Provide pens or markers so everyone can participate.

15. Homemade Potpourri Sachets

Mix dried herbs, spices, and flower petals in small fabric pouches. Tie them with ribbon and place them at each table setting as favors.

Why We Love It: Guests can take these sachets home as keepsakes.

16. DIY Pilgrim Hats

Craft miniature pilgrim hats using black construction paper, yellow buckles, and ribbon. Use them as napkin toppers or place card holders.

Pro Tip: Add a dab of glue to secure the buckle in place.

17. Mason Jar Luminaries

Wrap mason jars with twine or lace and insert battery-operated fairy lights. Arrange them along walkways or on tables for soft illumination.

Why We Love It: These luminaries are versatile and reusable.

18. Hand-Painted Gourds

Use acrylic paints to decorate small gourds with patterns, quotes, or scenes. Display them as part of your centerpiece or scatter them around the house.

Pro Tip: Seal the paint with a clear varnish for durability.

19. Thanksgiving Memory Book

Create a scrapbook-style memory book where guests can paste photos, write notes, or draw pictures. Save it as a cherished keepsake.

Why We Love It: It becomes a treasured memento of past Thanksgivings.

20. DIY Fall Wreath Kit

Assemble kits with pre-cut burlap strips, faux leaves, and wire frames. Give them to friends or family members as gifts to create their own wreaths.

Pro Tip: Include instructions and a few embellishments for inspiration.

21. Embroidered Fabric Napkins

Stitch simple embroidery designs, such as leaves or turkeys, onto plain fabric napkins. They’ll elevate your table setting instantly.

Why We Love It: Handmade linens add a touch of elegance.

22. Paper Bag Luminaries

Cut leaf or turkey silhouettes into brown paper bags and place LED candles inside. Line them up along your driveway or porch.

Pro Tip: Weigh down the bags with sand or pebbles to keep them steady.

23. DIY Feather Place Mats

Glue colorful feathers onto plain placemats in a fan-like pattern. Seal with Mod Podge for protection.

Why We Love It: These mats bring a whimsical, bohemian vibe to your table.

24. Thanksgiving Countdown Calendar

Make a calendar counting down to Thanksgiving Day. Each day reveals a small activity or treat to build excitement.

Pro Tip: Use tiny envelopes or boxes to hold surprises.

25. DIY Harvest Banner

Cut triangles from patterned paper or fabric and string them together to spell out “Harvest” or “Thankful.”

Why We Love It: Banners are lightweight and easy to hang anywhere.

26. Candlelit Pumpkin Arrangement

Arrange pillar candles surrounded by small pumpkins and gourds. Add moss or pinecones for texture.

Pro Tip: Use flameless candles for safety.

27. DIY Clay Trinket Dishes

Shape air-dry clay into small dishes and imprint them with leaf patterns. Paint them in metallic hues once dry.

Why We Love It: These dishes are perfect for holding keys, jewelry, or snacks.

28. Fall-Themed Pillow Covers

Sew or stencil fall motifs onto plain pillow covers. Switch them out seasonally for a cozy update.

Pro Tip: Use iron-on transfers for a no-sew option.

29. DIY Wooden Coasters

Sand and paint small wood rounds with Thanksgiving-inspired designs. Seal with a protective coat.

Why We Love It: These coasters double as rustic decor pieces.

30. Thanksgiving Photo Frame

Decorate a plain picture frame with autumn leaves, berries, or twine. Insert a family photo for a personalized display.

Pro Tip: Use hot glue sparingly to avoid damaging the frame.

31. DIY Scarecrow Door Hanger

Create a scarecrow face on a wooden board and attach a burlap hat. Hang it on your door for a playful welcome.

Why We Love It: It’s quirky and sure to make guests smile.

32. Autumn Leaf Garland

String pressed leaves onto fishing line or thread to create a delicate garland. Hang it in windows or across walls.

Pro Tip: Spray leaves with hairspray to preserve their color.

33. DIY Fall Scented Candles

Pour melted wax into jars and add cinnamon sticks, cloves, or dried citrus slices before it sets.

Why We Love It: These candles fill your home with cozy aromas.

34. DIY Turkey Treat Bags

Cut turkey shapes from felt and sew them into pouches. Fill with candy or small gifts for party favors.

Pro Tip: Use fabric glue instead of sewing for a simpler approach.

35. DIY Fall-Inspired Doormat

Stencil a festive design, such as “Gobble Till You Wobble,” onto a plain coir doormat.

Why We Love It: It sets the tone for your Thanksgiving gathering.

36. DIY Autumn Shadow Box

Fill a shadow box with fall treasures like acorns, pinecones, and pressed leaves. Add a quote or poem for extra meaning.

Pro Tip: Backlight the box with fairy lights for a magical effect.

37. DIY Fall-Themed Mason Jars

Paint mason jars in earthy tones and add stickers or decals of turkeys, leaves, or pumpkins.

Why We Love It: These jars are versatile—use them for utensils, vases, or storage.

38. DIY Rustic Table Numbers

Write table numbers on slices of wood or stones. Place them at each seating arrangement for a rustic touch.

Pro Tip: Use a wood-burning tool for a polished finish.

39. DIY Fall Leaf Lanterns

Mod Podge pressed leaves onto glass jars and insert candles. The light shining through creates a stunning effect.

Why We Love It: These lanterns are both beautiful and easy to make.

40. DIY Thanksgiving Banner

Cut pennant flags from burlap or cardstock and string them together with twine. Decorate with stamps or stencils.

Pro Tip: Add glitter or sequins for a festive sparkle.

Final Thoughts

These 40 DIY Thanksgiving crafts offer endless opportunities to infuse your home with warmth, creativity, and gratitude. Whether you’re crafting solo or involving the whole family, these projects will help you celebrate the season in style.

So roll up your sleeves, gather your supplies, and start creating! Not only will these crafts enhance your Thanksgiving celebration, but they’ll also leave you with lasting memories and cherished traditions. Happy crafting—and happy Thanksgiving!