Thanksgiving is more than turkey and pie. It’s about warmth, creativity, and gratitude.
This year, bring your celebration to life with these easy Thanksgiving crafts for adults that add handmade charm to your home. No fancy skills needed. No expensive supplies required.
These projects use what you already have: leaves from your yard, jars from your pantry, fabric scraps from that drawer. Each craft takes minimal time but creates maximum impact.
From simple candle wraps to full table settings, you’ll find ideas for every style and skill level.
Ready to make this Thanksgiving feel more like home? Let’s start creating.
What’s Special About These Thanksgiving Crafts
Before you start crafting, here’s what makes these projects different from typical holiday DIY ideas. These aren’t just activities to fill time. They’re thoughtful, practical ways to add personal touches to your celebration without stress or big spending.
Why These Crafts Work:
- Adult-friendly: These projects are designed with grown-up taste in mind. You won’t find glitter explosions or cartoon turkeys here.
- Easy yet impressive: None of these crafts requires special skills or expensive equipment. With basic supplies and simple techniques, you can create pieces.
- Budget-conscious: Most projects are natural materials from your backyard, items from the dollar store, or things you’d normally toss can become beautiful décor.
- Relaxing & rewarding: Crafting is a form of self-care during the busy holiday season. These projects let you slow down, use your hands, and create something meaningful while your mind takes a peaceful break.
Thanksgiving Crafts: Tools & Materials You’ll Need
Here’s a quick reference guide to help you gather supplies before you start. Most items are already in your craft drawer or are easy to find at any dollar store.
| Category | Tools | Materials |
|---|---|---|
| General | Scissors, glue gun, paintbrush | Paper, fabric, jars, twine |
| Table Décor | Wire cutters, floral tape | Candles, greenery, pumpkins |
| Wreaths | Floral wire, glue gun | Wheat, leaves, berries |
| Candles & Scents | Wax pot, wicks | Wax, spices, essential oils |
| Paper Crafts | Printer, hole punch | Cardstock, kraft paper |
| Textiles | Fabric glue, needle | Felt, cotton, linen |
| Clay & Ceramic | Rolling pin, molds | Air-dry clay, paint |
| Wood & Nature | Sandpaper | Pinecones, acorns, moss |
| Upcycling | Spray paint | Old sweaters, tin cans, corks |
| Gifts & Party | Markers, tags | Small jars, bags, ribbon |
Pro Tip: Start with what you have. Many of these projects need just scissors and glue to get started.
Table Décor & Centerpieces Thanksgiving Crafts for Adults

Your Thanksgiving table deserves more than store-bought decorations. These handmade centerpieces bring warmth and personality to your holiday spread without breaking the bank.
1: Pumpkin & Eucalyptus Runner
Create a fresh, organic table centerpiece using mini pumpkins and eucalyptus stems.
How to make it:
- Arrange small pumpkins down the center of your table and tuck fresh eucalyptus branches between each one
- Add votive candles in glass holders for soft lighting
- Finish with scattered acorns or cinnamon sticks for extra texture
This design works for both casual and formal dinners. The eucalyptus stays fresh for weeks and fills your home with a subtle, calming scent.
2: Cinnamon Stick Candle Trio
Wrap plain pillar candles with cinnamon sticks for a rustic, fragrant display.
How to make it:
- Select three pillar candles in cream or ivory and cut cinnamon sticks to match candle height
- Use hot glue or raffia to secure sticks around each candle
- Tie with twine or ribbon for a finished look
The warmth from the candles releases the natural cinnamon scent. Group candles in odd numbers for the most visually pleasing arrangement.
3: Gilded Leaf Vase Wraps
Convert simple glass vases into golden statement pieces with real leaves.
How to make it:
- Collect fresh leaves in various shapes and paint one side with gold acrylic paint
- Press painted leaves onto clean glass vases while still wet
- Seal with clear spray once dry
This technique works on jars, bottles, and even drinking glasses. Use different metallic colors like copper or bronze for variety.
4: Wheat Sheaf Arrangement
Bundle dried wheat stalks into a classic harvest centerpiece.
How to make it:
- Gather 15 to 20 dried wheat stems and wrap stems tightly at the base with floral wire
- Cover wire with burlap ribbon or jute twine
- Place in a ceramic crock or wooden box
Wheat represents abundance and gratitude in many cultures. This timeless design can be reused year after year if stored properly.
5: Apple Tealight Holders
Hollow out small apples to create natural candle holders.
How to make it:
- Choose firm apples with flat bottoms and core the top center using an apple corer or knife
- Test fit with a tealight candle
- Arrange multiple apple holders down your table
Replace apples every few days to keep them looking fresh. The fruit adds a pop of color and a subtle sweet scent to your table.
6: Dried Citrus & Herb Garland
String together dried orange slices and herb bundles for a fragrant table runner.
How to make it:
- Slice oranges into thin rounds and dry in the oven at 200°F for 3 hours
- Bundle small sprigs of rosemary and sage with twine
- Thread dried oranges and herb bundles onto a jute string and drape along the center of your table
This garland can be made days ahead and stored flat. The combination of citrus and herbs creates a fresh, welcoming aroma.
7: Layered Burlap & Lace Runner
Combine textures for a farmhouse-chic table covering.
How to make it:
- Cut burlap to the desired table runner length, and cut lace trim slightly narrower than the burlap
- Use fabric glue to attach lace down the center
- Fray burlap edges for a relaxed finish
This no-sew project takes less than 30 minutes. The contrast between rough burlap and soft lace adds visual interest to any table.
Wreaths & Door Décor Thanksgiving Crafts for Adults

Welcome guests with handcrafted wreaths that set the tone for your celebration. These designs range from simple to statement-making, all using natural materials.
8: Wheat & Ribbon Hoop Wreath
Attach bundles of wheat to a metal hoop for a minimalist harvest wreath.
How to make it:
- Start with a 12-inch metal craft hoop and bundle wheat stems in groups of 5 to 7
- Wire each bundle to the hoop, overlapping slightly
- Finish with a velvet ribbon bow at the top
This modern take on traditional wheat wreaths suits contemporary homes. Hang it on your door or above your mantel for a clean, organic look.
9: Corn Husk Circle Wreath
Layer dried corn husks for a textured, monochrome door decoration.
How to make it:
- Purchase a foam wreath form and soak corn husks in warm water for 10 minutes
- Wrap and glue husks around the form, overlapping edges
- Let dry completely before hanging
The neutral tones work with any color scheme. Add a few dried flowers or berries for extra color.
10: Leather Leaf Cutout Wreath
Cut leather scraps into leaf shapes for a modern, durable wreath.
How to make it:
- Draw leaf templates on paper and trace onto leather or faux leather
- Cut out leaves and use hot glue to attach them to a wire wreath frame
- Layer in different directions for depth
Leather adds an unexpected element to fall décor. This wreath can withstand the weather if you use treated leather.
11: Grapevine & Greenery Mix
Build on a grapevine base with fresh or faux autumn foliage.
How to make it:
- Start with a pre-made grapevine wreath and tuck in sprigs of eucalyptus, olive branches, or fall leaves
- Add small berry clusters for color
- Secure with floral wire as needed
Swap out the greenery through the season to keep it looking fresh. This base wreath can transition from fall to winter with simple changes.
12: Paper Quill Leaf Ring
Roll colorful paper into quilled leaf shapes for a lightweight wreath.
How to make it:
- Cut cardstock into thin strips in fall colors and roll strips into coils
- Pinch coils into leaf shapes and glue leaves onto a cardboard ring base
- Add paper berries or acorns for variety
Quilling creates beautiful dimension without adding weight. This technique is perfect for renters who need lightweight wall décor.
13: Dried Orange & Cinnamon Burst
Combine citrus slices with cinnamon sticks for a fragrant door piece.
How to make it:
- Dry orange slices in the oven at 200°F for 2 to 3 hours and wire cinnamon sticks into small bundles
- Attach both to a foam or straw wreath form with hot glue
- Add star anise for extra detail
The scent greets guests before they even reach your door. This wreath looks beautiful and smells like holiday baking.
14: Copper Leaf Monogram
Spray paint a wooden letter and surround it with metallic leaves.
How to make it:
- Choose a large wooden initial from a craft store and spray paint it in copper or bronze
- Cut leaf shapes from cardstock and paint them the same color
- Glue leaves around the letter and hang it on the door
Personalize your entryway with your family’s initial. The metallic finish catches light beautifully on sunny autumn days.
Candles, Scents & Soaps Thanksgiving Crafts for Adults

Fill your home with the cozy smells of fall using these handmade candles and scent projects. Each one doubles as décor and creates a welcoming atmosphere.
15: Pumpkin Spice Beeswax Candles
Melt beeswax and add pumpkin spice oil for a classic autumn candle.
How to make it:
- Melt beeswax pellets in a double boiler and add pumpkin spice essential oil (10 to 15 drops per cup)
- Pour into small jars with pre-tabbed wicks
- Let cool completely before trimming the wick
Beeswax burns cleaner and longer than regular wax. These candles make perfect hostess gifts when tied with twine.
16: Clove-Studded Oranges
Press whole cloves into fresh oranges for a natural air freshener.
How to make it:
- Choose firm, unblemished oranges and use a toothpick to pre-poke holes in patterns
- Press whole cloves into each hole
- Display in bowls or hang with ribbon
These pomanders last for weeks and dry naturally over time. Create patterns, such as spirals or stars, for added visual appeal.
17: Simmer Pot Mix
Combine spices, citrus, and herbs in a jar for a stovetop scent blend.
How to make it:
- Layer dried orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and cranberries in a mason jar
- Add whole cloves, star anise, and rosemary sprigs
- Include instructions to simmer contents in water on low heat and tie with ribbon
This mix can be simmered multiple times before losing potency. It makes your home smell like you’ve been baking all day.
18: Cinnamon Fire Starters
Roll pinecones in wax and cinnamon for functional, fragrant fire starters.
How to make it:
- Tie twine around the top of each pinecone for a handle, and melt old candle wax or paraffin in a pot
- Dip pinecones in wax, then roll in ground cinnamon
- Let dry on wax paper
These help start fires while releasing a wonderful spice scent. Store in a basket near your fireplace for easy access.
19: Rosemary Olive Oil Soap
Make melt-and-pour soap bars infused with fresh rosemary.
How to make it:
- Melt clear glycerin soap base according to package directions and stir in a few drops of olive oil and chopped fresh rosemary
- Pour into silicone molds
- Let it harden for 2 hours before removing
The rosemary adds both scent and gentle exfoliation. Wrap finished soaps in parchment and tie with herb sprigs.
20: Bay Leaf Candle Rings
Wrap dried bay leaves around pillar candles with twine.
How to make it:
- Lay dried bay leaves flat around a pillar candle and wrap twine around leaves to hold them in place
- Make 2 to 3 passes with the twine for security
- Trim leaves to even height if needed
Bay leaves release a subtle herbal scent when warmed by candle heat. This project takes just minutes but looks professionally done.
21: Wax Sachets with Dried Herbs
Pour scented wax into molds with embedded herbs for drawer sachets.
How to make it:
- Melt soy wax and add lavender or cedar essential oil, then place dried herbs in small silicone molds
- Pour wax over herbs and let it set
- Pop out and wrap in muslin bags
These sachets freshen drawers and closets for months. The wax slowly releases fragrance without needing heat.
Paper & Printables Thanksgiving Crafts for Adults

Paper crafts are quick, budget-friendly, and perfect for last-minute table touches. These projects work well for both kids and adults to enjoy together.
22: Watercolor Place Cards
Paint simple autumn designs on folded cardstock for personalized seating.
How to make it:
- Fold cardstock into tent-style cards and paint small pumpkins, leaves, or acorns with watercolors
- Write guest names in calligraphy or print
- Set one at each place setting
Even simple watercolor washes look beautiful and artistic. Let cards dry completely before writing names to avoid smudging.
23: Paper Bag Luminaries
Cut designs into lunch bags and add battery candles for pathway lighting.
How to make it:
- Use brown paper lunch bags and draw or trace leaf patterns on the sides
- Cut out designs with a craft knife
- Fill the bottom with sand and add LED tealights
These luminaries create a warm welcome for evening guests. The sand keeps bags stable in light wind.
24: Printable Gratitude Jar Prompts
Design and print small cards with thankfulness prompts for guests.
How to make it:
- Create cards with prompts like “I’m grateful for…” on your computer and print on cardstock
- Cut into strips and place in a mason jar with pens nearby
- Let guests fill out and share during dinner
This activity prompts everyone to think about gratitude. Save the cards to read again next year.
25: 3D Paper Pumpkins
Fold and glue paper strips into dimensional pumpkin decorations.
How to make it:
- Cut 8 to 10 strips of orange cardstock (1 inch wide, 8 inches long) and stack strips
- Punch holes at both ends and thread a brad through each hole to connect
- Fan out strips to form a pumpkin shape
These pumpkins add height and dimension to flat surfaces. Make them in different sizes and cluster them together.
26: Leaf Garland from Colored Paper
Cut paper leaves in fall colors and string them into a hanging garland.
How to make it:
- Print or draw leaf templates and cut leaves from red, orange, yellow, and brown paper
- Punch a hole at the stem end of each leaf
- String onto twine with small spaces between
This project is perfect for using up scrap paper. Hang the garland across windows, doorways, or mantels.
27: Map Paper Cornucopia
Roll vintage map paper into a cornucopia and fill with paper fruit.
How to make it:
- Cut a large semicircle from old map or book pages and roll into a cone shape
- Secure with glue and trim the wide end evenly
- Fill with crumpled tissue paper shaped like fall produce
The vintage paper adds character and nostalgia. This makes a unique centerpiece that tells a story.
28: Book Page Leaf Art
Press real leaves onto old book pages and frame for wall art.
How to make it:
- Collect and press fresh leaves for 1 week, then glue pressed leaves onto vintage book pages
- Frame in simple wooden or black frames
- Hang in a group of 3 or more
The text showing through creates a layered, literary look. Choose pages with meaningful passages if possible.
Textiles & Needlecraft Thanksgiving Crafts for Adults

Soft, handmade textiles add comfort and charm to any Thanksgiving gathering. These fabric projects require minimal sewing skills and create lasting keepsakes.
29: No-Sew Fleece Blanket
Tie the edges of two fleece layers for a cozy throw blanket.
How to make it:
- Layer two pieces of fleece (1.5 yards each) in fall colors and cut 4-inch slits around all edges, every inch
- Tie the top and bottom strips together in double knots
- Trim any uneven edges
This project requires no sewing machine or special skills. The blanket is reversible and machine washable.
30: Stamped Linen Napkins
Use fabric paint and stamps to decorate plain linen napkins.
How to make it:
- Wash and iron linen napkins, then apply fabric paint to foam or rubber stamps
- Press stamps onto one corner of each napkin
- Heat set with an iron once dry
Create a matching set or let each napkin have a different design. Stamped napkins add style to even a simple table.
31: Embroidered Gratitude Hoop
Stitch the word “Thankful” onto fabric in an embroidery hoop.
How to make it:
- Stretch linen or cotton fabric in a wooden hoop and transfer “Thankful” lettering with a water-soluble pen
- Embroider letters using backstitch or chain stitch
- Trim excess fabric and display on an easel
Embroidery is meditative and creates heirloom-quality pieces. Add fall leaves or wheat stalks around the lettering for detail.
32: Felted Wool Coasters
Cut and layer wool felt into thick, absorbent coasters.
How to make it:
- Cut 4-inch circles from wool felt in autumn shades and stack 3 to 4 layers per coaster
- Stitch around edges with embroidery floss
- Add a leaf or acorn design in contrasting thread
Wool naturally absorbs moisture and protects surfaces. These coasters are both practical and pretty.
33: Plaid Table Runner (Old Scarf)
Repurpose a long plaid scarf into an instant table runner.
How to make it:
- Find a scarf that’s at least 60 inches long and press it with an iron to remove wrinkles
- Lay down the center of your table
- Add fringe to ends if desired
This zero-waste project takes seconds to complete. Look for scarves at thrift stores for even more budget-friendly options.
34: Appliqué Leaf Pillow Cover
Sew fabric leaf shapes onto a plain pillow cover.
How to make it:
- Cut leaf shapes from patterned fabric scraps and arrange on a solid-color pillow cover
- Pin or fuse leaves in place with iron-on adhesive
- Stitch around edges with a zigzag or straight stitch
Mix different fabric patterns for a scrappy, folk-art look. This changes plain pillows into seasonal décor.
35: Crochet Mini Pumpkins
Hook small pumpkins using orange yarn and basic crochet stitches.
How to make it:
- Crochet a flat circle in orange yarn, then continue rounds to form a dome shape
- Stuff lightly with fiberfill and cinch the top
- Add a brown stem made from yarn or a twig
These little pumpkins work as bowl fillers or ornaments. Various sizes from tiny to palm-sized for visual interest.
Clay, Cement & Ceramic Thanksgiving Crafts for Adults

Work with moldable materials to create lasting, functional pieces for your table. These crafts have a modern, artisan feel and make great gifts too.
36: Air-Dry Clay Leaf Dishes
Press real leaves into clay to form small trinket dishes.
How to make it:
- Roll out air-dry clay to 1/4 inch thick and press a large leaf firmly into the clay
- Cut around the leaf shape, leaving a border
- Drape over a bowl to dry in a curved shape
These dishes hold jewelry, salt, or small treats. The leaf veins create a beautiful natural texture.
37: Cement Candle Cups
Pour cement into small containers to make industrial-style candle holders.
How to make it:
- Mix quick-set cement according to the package and pour it into paper cups or silicone molds
- Press a smaller cup into the center to form the well
- Remove molds once set and sand rough edges
Concrete adds a modern, minimalist touch to fall décor. These holders are heavy enough to use outdoors without tipping.
38: Polymer Clay Napkin Rings
Shape and bake polymer clay into custom napkin rings.
How to make it:
- Condition the polymer clay in fall colors and roll into ropes
- Form into circles and add texture or leaf designs with tools
- Bake according to package instructions
Polymer clay is easy to work with and comes in endless colors. Make a set of 8 to 12 to complete the table.
39: DIY Ceramic Marked Mugs
Use ceramic markers to draw autumn designs on plain white mugs.
How to make it:
- Clean mugs with rubbing alcohol and draw leaves, pumpkins, or “Give Thanks” messages with ceramic pens
- Let dry for 24 hours
- Bake in oven to set (follow marker instructions)
These mugs become keepsakes that your guests can take home. Personalize each one with a guest’s name.
40: Clay Acorn Place Holders
Sculpt tiny acorns from clay and add name flags.
How to make it:
- Roll small balls of brown clay for acorn bottoms and add textured caps using a tool or toothpick
- Insert a wire or toothpick into the top before drying
- Attach paper flags with guest names
These charming place holders double as party favors. Guests will love the handmade detail.
41: Textured Leaf Tiles
Roll clay flat and imprint with leaf textures for wall art.
How to make it:
- Roll clay into 4-inch squares and press fresh leaves into the surface
- Carefully remove leaves to reveal patterns
- Dry flat, then paint with acrylic if desired
Create a collection of different leaf impressions. Display them in a grid or scattered arrangement.
42: Marbled Clay Coasters
Twist together different clay colors for a marbled effect.
How to make it:
- Choose 2 to 3 complementary clay colors and roll into ropes
- Twist together and roll flat with a rolling pin
- Cut into circles or squares and bake
No two coasters will look exactly alike. The swirled colors create one-of-a-kind pieces.
Wood, Natural & Foraged Thanksgiving Crafts for Adults

Bring the outdoors in with these nature-inspired projects. A simple walk outside can provide most of the materials you need.
43: Wood Slice Chargers
Sand and seal wood rounds for rustic plate chargers.
How to make it:
- Purchase or cut wood slices 12 to 14 inches across and sand all surfaces until smooth
- Apply food-safe mineral oil or polyurethane
- Let dry completely before using
Wood chargers add warmth and texture under your dinner plates. Look for slices with interesting grain patterns or bark edges.
44: Branch “Thankful” Sign
Write on a flat branch with paint markers for a natural wall sign.
How to make it:
- Find a smooth, flat branch or piece of driftwood and clean it completely
- Write “Thankful” or “Grateful” with a paint pen
- Attach twine or wire for hanging
Each branch is unique, making every sign one-of-a-kind. This rustic piece works in any room of your home.
45: Pressed Leaf Frames
Sandwich pressed leaves between two panes of glass for floating frames.
How to make it:
- Press leaves in a book for 1 to 2 weeks, then place the pressed leaf between two matching glass panes
- Tape edges with copper foil tape
- Add a ribbon loop for hanging
The glass preserves the leaf’s color and detail. Hang in windows where light can shine through.
46: Acorn Garland
Drill small holes in acorn caps and string them together.
How to make it:
- Collect acorns and remove caps, then drill tiny holes through each cap
- Thread onto twine or thin wire
- Hang above a mantel or doorway
This garland brings the forest inside. Mix in wooden beads or dried berries for more color.
47: Moss Center Bowl
Fill a wooden bowl with preserved moss for a natural centerpiece.
How to make it:
- Choose a shallow wooden or ceramic bowl and fill it with preserved sheet moss
- Tuck in small pumpkins, pinecones, or candles
- Mist lightly to refresh if the moss dries out
Moss adds instant texture and a woodsy feel. This centerpiece requires no water and lasts all season.
48: Pinecone Place Cards
Attach paper name tags to pinecones with wire.
How to make it:
- Collect large, open pinecones and write guest names on small paper tags
- Wrap floral wire around tags and pinecone bases
- Set one at each place setting
Pinecones are free and plentiful in autumn. Let guests take them home as natural party favors.
49: Walnut Shell Candle Boats
Fill walnut shell halves with wax and wicks for tiny floating candles.
How to make it:
- Crack walnuts in half carefully and remove nuts, then melt candle wax
- Pour wax into shells and insert short wicks before the wax sets
- Float in a bowl of water for display
These miniature candles create a magical, fairy-tale atmosphere. Use them as place settings or in centerpiece bowls.
Upcycled & Sustainable Thanksgiving Crafts for Adults

Give new life to items you already have at home. These eco-friendly projects prove that beautiful décor doesn’t have to cost anything.
50: Sweater Sleeve Vases
Slide old sweater sleeves over glass jars for cozy vases.
How to make it:
- Cut sleeves from old sweaters and slip sleeves over clean glass jars or bottles
- Fold or roll the top edge for a finished look
- Fill with fresh or dried flowers
This project rescues stained or damaged sweaters from the trash. The knit texture adds warmth to any bouquet.
51: Wine Cork Pumpkin
Glue wine corks together in a pumpkin shape.
How to make it:
- Collect 30 to 40 wine corks and draw a pumpkin outline on cardboard as a guide
- Glue the corks standing upright within the outline
- Add a twig or cinnamon stick for the stem
Start saving corks now, or ask friends and restaurants. This project turns wine memories into festive décor.
52: Tin Can Herb Pots
Paint tin cans and plant fresh herbs for table décor.
How to make it:
- Clean and remove labels from tin cans, then paint with chalk paint in fall colors
- Punch drainage holes in the bottom
- Plant parsley, sage, or rosemary
Fresh herbs smell wonderful and can be snipped for cooking. These pots cost nothing but look like designer pieces.
53: Fabric Scrap Pumpkins
Stuff fabric scraps into gathered circles for no-sew pumpkins.
How to make it:
- Cut a large circle from fabric (12 to 16 inches) and place fiberfill or fabric scraps in the center
- Gather edges and tie tightly with a string
- Add a cinnamon stick or twig stem
Use up leftover fabric from other projects. Mix patterns and textures for a collected, homey look.
54: Book Page Leaf Wreath
Cut leaves from old book pages and attach to a wreath form.
How to make it:
- Tear or cut pages from damaged books, and cut out leaf shapes in various sizes
- Glue leaves to a foam or cardboard wreath form
- Overlap and layer for fullness
The aged paper creates a vintage, literary feel. This wreath is lightweight and perfect for apartments.
55: Jar Lid Pumpkin Place Cards
Paint mason jar lids orange and add name tags.
How to make it:
- Clean metal jar lids and rings, then paint with orange acrylic paint
- Let dry and add a green ring at the top for a stem
- Write names on small tags and glue them to the center
Save jar lids all year for this project. They’re sturdy enough to stand upright without tipping.
56: Paper Tube Corn Husk Flowers
Cut and shape toilet paper tubes into flower petals.
How to make it:
- Flatten and cut toilet paper tubes into petal shapes, then paint in cream or tan
- Glue petals in a circular pattern
- Add a button or bead center
This zero-waste craft turns trash into treasure. Make several flowers for a full arrangement.
Personalized & Favors Thanksgiving Crafts for Adults

Send guests home with something special or give handmade gifts to your host. These projects show thought and care without requiring advanced skills.
57: Photo Block Centerpieces
Glue family photos to wooden blocks for nostalgic table décor.
How to make it:
- Print small family photos (3×3 inches or smaller) and cut wooden blocks or use small wooden cubes
- Mod Podge photos onto all sides of each block
- Stack or arrange on the table
These blocks spark conversation and celebrate family history. Guests love seeing throwback photos from past Thanksgivings.
58: Stamped Tea Towels
Print autumn designs on plain cotton tea towels.
How to make it:
- Wash and iron white or cream tea towels, then use fabric ink with leaf or pumpkin stamps
- Stamp designs along one edge or corner
- Heat set with an iron
Handmade tea towels are always appreciated by hosts. They’re practical gifts that get used throughout the season.
59: Cranberry Sugar Scrub
Mix sugar, oil, and dried cranberries for a festive body scrub.
How to make it:
- Combine 1 cup sugar with 1/2 cup coconut oil and add dried cranberries
- Mix in a few drops of orange essential oil
- Spoon into small jars and add labels with ribbon
This scrub smells good enough to eat but leaves skin soft. Package in 4-ounce jars for individual gifts.
60: Wood-Burned Cutting Board
Use a wood-burning tool to personalize a small cutting board.
How to make it:
- Purchase a plain wooden cutting board and sketch your design lightly with a pencil
- Trace design with a wood-burning pen
- Seal with food-safe mineral oil
Add family names, dates, or meaningful quotes. This lasting gift becomes a kitchen heirloom.
61: Spiced Nuts Cones
Fill paper cones with homemade spiced nuts.
How to make it:
- Roast nuts with cinnamon, sugar, and cayenne, then roll parchment paper into cones
- Secure with tape or glue and fill with cooled nuts
- Tie with a ribbon
Guests can snack on these during the ride home. The sweet-and-spicy combination is addictive.
62: Herb-Infused Olive Oil Bottles
Layer herbs and spices in small bottles of olive oil.
How to make it:
- Sterilize small glass bottles with corks and add sprigs of rosemary, thyme, and dried chili
- Fill with quality olive oil
- Label with ingredients and date
These oils look beautiful on a windowsill and taste delicious. They’re perfect for home cooks and foodies.
63: Mini Thank-You Candle Gifts
Pour small candles into votive holders and add thank-you tags.
How to make it:
- Melt soy wax and add fall scents, then pour into small glass votive cups with wicks
- Let cool completely
- Tie a “Thank You” tag around each with twine
Candles are universally loved and appreciated. Choose scents like apple cider, pumpkin, or cinnamon.
Entertaining & Party Prep Thanksgiving Crafts for Adults

Make hosting easier and more memorable with these party-ready projects. From menu boards to photo backdrops, these ideas keep guests engaged and comfortable.
64: Chalkboard Menu Board
Paint a wooden board with chalkboard paint for a reusable menu display.
How to make it:
- Sand a wooden board or frame backing and apply 2 coats of chalkboard paint
- Let it cure for 24 hours
- Write menu items with chalk or chalk markers
This board can be wiped clean and used year after year. Guests appreciate knowing what dishes to expect.
65: Folded Leaf Napkins
Fold cloth napkins into leaf shapes for place settings.
How to make it:
- Start with square cloth napkins and fold diagonally to form a triangle
- Fold left and right corners toward the center
- Roll from the bottom and tuck to hold shape
This simple fold adds a special touch without extra supplies. Practice once before dinner to get the technique down.
66: Gratitude Conversation Cards
Print discussion prompts on cards for meaningful dinner conversation.
How to make it:
- Write or print prompts like “Share a favorite memory” and cut cardstock into card-sized rectangles
- Punch a hole in one corner and thread onto a ring
- Place on the table for guests to use
These cards prevent awkward silence and deepen connections. They work especially well with mixed generations.
67: Pumpkin Ice Bucket
Hollow out a large pumpkin to hold ice and drinks.
How to make it:
- Choose a large, sturdy pumpkin and cut off the top
- Scoop out all insides and line with a large plastic bag
- Fill with ice and beverages
This natural cooler is both functional and festive. It keeps drinks cold for hours during your gathering.
68: Harvest Cocktail Station
Set up a DIY drink station with fall mixers and garnishes.
How to make it:
- Arrange bottles, mixers, and glassware on a tray or cart
- Provide recipe cards for signature cocktails and add fresh herbs, citrus, and cinnamon sticks
- Label everything with small chalkboard signs
A self-serve station lets guests mix their own drinks. It also frees you to focus on other hosting duties.
69: DIY Photo Backdrop
Hang fabric, leaves, or paper fans to create a photo area.
How to make it:
- String a curtain rod or rope between two points and hang burlap, fabric, or a fall-themed sheet
- Attach paper leaves or fans with clothespins
- Add props like chalkboard signs or hats
Guests love taking photos in a designated spot. These pictures become treasured memories of your gathering.
70: Autumn Candlelight Pathway
Line your walkway with luminaries to guide guests to the door.
How to make it:
- Fill glass jars or paper bags with sand and place battery-operated candles inside
- Space evenly along pathway or steps
- Light just before guests arrive
This warm welcome makes guests feel special from the moment they arrive. The soft glow creates a magical entrance.
71: Thankful Tree Display
Create a small tree where guests can hang notes of gratitude.
How to make it:
- Place a large branch in a weighted vase or pot, and cut leaf shapes from cardstock
- Punch holes and add string loops
- Set out markers so guests can write and hang their thoughts
This interactive activity gives everyone a chance to reflect. The filled tree becomes a beautiful reminder of shared blessings.
Conclusion
These easy Thanksgiving crafts for adults prove that creativity doesn’t need to be complicated.
With a few everyday supplies and a little time, you can fill your home with handmade warmth that no store can sell.
The best part? Each project carries your personal touch and the memories you made creating it. Start with just one craft today. Pick something simple, gather your materials, and see where it takes you.
Which project will you try first? Drop a comment below or share your finished crafts with us on social media. We’d love to see what you create.
Happy crafting and happy Thanksgiving!