15 Cheap and Easy DIY Thanksgiving Decor Ideas

Idea 1: Leaf Lanterns

Create a soft, autumnal glow that mirrors the season outside your window. Leaf lanterns are charming on mantels, dining tables, or windowsills.

• Materials: mason jars, fall leaves (real or pressed), Mod Podge or clear craft glue, paintbrush, tealight candles or LED tea lights, ribbon or twine.
• Steps: 1) Clean jars and dry completely. 2) Arrange leaves on the outside of the jar. 3) Brush a thin coat of glue over the leaves and jar to seal. 4) Let dry fully, then add a tealight inside. 5) Finish with a ribbon bow or twine handle for hanging or display.

Tip: use battery-operated tealights for safe, flame-free ambience.

“A little glow goes a long way.”

Idea 2: Pumpkin Vase Centerpiece

Tiny pumpkins can serve as vessels for seasonal florals, creating an instant centerpiece that feels festive without fuss.

• Materials: small pumpkins, fresh greenery (e.g., eucalyptus or ferns), water-filled floral foam or a makeshift damp oasis, fresh flowers, scissors.
• Steps: 1) Cut a small opening in the top of each pumpkin. 2) Remove seeds and place damp floral foam inside. 3) Arrange greenery and flowers for a rounded, natural shape. 4) Group a few pumpkins together for a fuller table display.

Note: faux foliage lets you reuse the centerpiece year after year. Beauty in simplicity is the idea here.

Idea 3: Burlap Table Runner with Mason Jar Candles

A rustic runner paired with warm jar lights instantly anchors the table with texture and scent.

• Materials: burlap ribbon or fabric, mason jars, tea lights, sand or dried beans (for stability), sprigs of fall foliage, optional hot glue.
• Steps: 1) Cut burlap to fit your table length. 2) Place jars at regular intervals along the runner. 3) Fill jars with a small amount of sand or beans and add a tealight. 4) Scatter foliage between jars for color. 5) Light or switch on LEDs for ambience.

Pro tip: if you’re hosting outdoors, place jars in metal or glass hurricane covers for weather protection.

“Texture plus warmth creates inviting spaces.”

Idea 4: Gratitude Garland

A garland filled with notes of gratitude adds a personal, heartwarming touch to any room.

• Materials: jute or twine, small punched cardstock leaves or tags, markers, scissors, clothespins or mini binder clips.
• Steps: 1) Cut lots of leaf-shaped tags. 2) Write a short gratitude message on each tag. 3) Clip or tie tags along the twine. 4) Drape across a mantle, doorway, or centerpiece.

Inspiration: invite guests to add their own note during the meal. What are you thankful for this year?

Idea 5: Cornucopia Basket Centerpiece

A classic symbol of plenty, the cornucopia centerpiece remains timeless and budget-friendly.

• Materials: a wicker cornucopia or horn-shaped basket, faux fruit (or real seasonal fruit), pinecones, gourds, greenery or eucalyptus.
• Steps: 1) Lay a liner or foil inside the basket. 2) Begin with a base of greenery. 3) Tuck faux fruit and gourds throughout. 4) Add pinecones as natural accents. 5) Center on the table and pair with a warm candle if desired.

Care: rotate the centerpiece as the day goes on to keep it looking fresh.

“Giving thanks is best served with a side of color.”

Idea 6: Pinecone and Cinnamon Potpourri

A fragrant, nature-inspired dish that doubles as decor.

• Materials: pinecones, cinnamon sticks, dried orange slices, whole cloves, a pinch of orange rind or essential oil, shallow bowls or a decorative tray.
• Steps: 1) Combine pinecones, cinnamon sticks, and citrus in a decorative bowl. 2) Lightly dust with cloves or a few drops of oil for scent. 3) Place on coffee table or entryway console.

Hint: swap in cranberry sprigs for a pop of color. Seasonal scent, seasonal charm.

Idea 7: Cinnamon Stick Napkin Rings

Simple, edible-scented napkin rings that add an earthy touch to place settings.

• Materials: cinnamon sticks, natural twine or jute, hot glue, small fall leaves or faux berries (optional).
• Steps: 1) Cut cinnamon sticks to fit around napkins. 2) Bind with twine, adding a leaf or berry accent if desired. 3) Slide napkins through and set at each place.

Note: consider spacing the rings with a fall-themed table scatter for a cohesive look.

“A small scent can spark a memory.”

Idea 8: Painted Paper Pumpkins

Create playful, cost-effective pumpkins from paper that work for place cards or table decor.

• Materials: orange construction paper or cardstock, scissors, glue, green pipe cleaners or paper stems, tape or Velcro for name cards.
• Steps: 1) Cut pumpkin shapes and assemble into a 3D pumpkin. 2) Add a green stem. 3) Use for name cards by attaching small tabs on the back or placing on mini stands.

Creative tip: mix patterns and shades of orange for a vibrant, friendly look. Color brings warmth to any gathering.

Idea 9: Cranberry and Citrus Garland

A bright, edible-inspired garland that can be draped over a mantel or table edge.

• Materials: fresh or dried cranberries, dried orange slices, twine or baker’s string, needle or poking tool, optional citrus zest.
• Steps: 1) Thread cranberries and orange slices alternately. 2) Space pieces evenly. 3) Hang along a rail, mirror, or centerpiece edge.

Budget note: dried fruit holds shape longer; fresh fruit adds color but reduces shelf life.

“Festive color, fresh flavor.”

Idea 10: Doily Runner with Leaves

A delicate, vintage vibe that blends lacey texture with the season’s color palette.

• Materials: white paper doilies, felt or faux leaf cutouts, double-sided tape or craft glue, a long table runner or kraft paper.
• Steps: 1) Lay doilies along the runner length. 2) Tuck leaves strategically between doilies. 3) Secure with a touch of glue or tape for stability.

Styling idea: intersperse small candle holders for intimate lighting. Textures tell a story.

Idea 11: Acorn Cap Lanterns

Tiny, whimsical holders that catch light beautifully on a low table or centerpiece.

• Materials: acorn caps, mini glass votives or LED tealights, hot glue, a small string of lights (optional).
• Steps: 1) Glue acorn caps around the rim of a small glass container. 2) Place a tealight inside. 3) Arrange in a row or cluster for a woodland vibe.

Safety: ensure the flame-free option is used if you’re not supervising the space.

“Whimsy shines softly when crafted with care.”

Idea 12: Twig Place Card Holders

Natural, rustic place cards that guests can take home as keepsakes.

• Materials: sturdy twigs or small branches, kraft or white card stock, scissors, hole punch, ribbon or string.
• Steps: 1) Cut twigs to a uniform length. 2) Notch or wrap the top to hold a card. 3) Write guests’ names on the cards and insert into the twig stand.

Decoration idea: tie a tiny sprig of greenery to each holder for a cohesive look. Elegant in its simplicity.

Idea 13: Vintage Book Page Pumpkins

Upcycle old pages into charming pumpkins that add literary whimsy to the table.

• Materials: old book pages, orange paint or tissue, glue, green pipe cleaners for stems, small sticks or wooden skewers for support.
• Steps: 1) Glue pages into a pumpkin shape (circular layers). 2) Paint lightly or crumple for texture. 3) Attach a green stem. 4) Set on a small pedestal or nest within other decor.

Note: this is an excellent way to honor beloved books while keeping decor thrifty.

“Every page tells a story of gratitude.”

Idea 14: Mason Jar Spice Lanterns

A scents-forward lantern that doubles as a warm fragrance source for the room.

• Materials: mason jars, cinnamon sticks, star anise, dried orange slices, LED tea lights, twine.
• Steps: 1) Layer spices inside the jar around a tealight. 2) Place a few cinnamon sticks upright or tied with twine. 3) Light LED tealight for soft ambiance.

Ambiance tip: place near entry or kitchen to welcome guests with aroma. Something small, something warm.

Idea 15: Thankful Banner

A handheld or wall-hung banner that centers the spirit of the season: gratitude.

• Materials: kraft paper or sturdy cardstock, string or ribbon, scissors, stamps or markers, hole punch.
• Steps: 1) Cut pennant shapes or leaf shapes. 2) Write “Thankful” or short messages on each piece. 3) Punch holes and string along a line. 4) Hang above the table or in entryway.

Personal touch: invite family members to add a message after the meal for a collaborative keepsake.

“Gratitude is the memory of the heart.”

Conclusion

These 15 ideas show how budget-friendly and easy DIY decor can still create a warm, festive atmosphere. By mixing natural elements with simple handmade touches, you can tailor your space to your home’s style and your guests’ comfort. Remember to prioritize safety with candles, lean on battery-powered options when possible, and embrace your own personality in every detail. A thoughtful corner of your home can become the heart of your gathering, reminding everyone that the best decor is time spent together.

If you try any of these ideas, share a photo or two and tell us which elements you loved most. For more inspiration, you can adapt these concepts to other holidays and seasons—just swap the materials and colors to fit the occasion.