Introduction

Thanksgiving is one of the warmest and most cherished holidays of the year. Families gather around the table, share delicious meals, and express gratitude for the blessings in life. While food often takes center stage, the way you decorate your home sets the tone for the entire celebration.

The good news? You don’t need to spend hundreds of dollars to make your home festive. With a little creativity, some budget-friendly supplies, and a DIY spirit, you can create beautiful decorations that add charm and coziness to your Thanksgiving gathering.

This guide will walk you through 25 cheap and easy DIY Thanksgiving decor ideas that are practical, fun to make, and guaranteed to impress your guests.

Why DIY Thanksgiving Decor?

Before we dive into the list, let’s quickly highlight why DIY decorations are such a smart choice:

• Budget-Friendly: Store-bought holiday decor can be expensive. DIY saves money while giving you unique results.
• Personalized Touch: Handmade decor reflects your style and makes your gathering feel more personal.
• Fun Activity: Crafting with friends, kids, or family can be a fun bonding experience.
• Sustainable: Many DIY projects use recycled or natural materials, making them eco-friendly.

According to a 2023 survey by the National Retail Federation, Americans spend an average of $325 on Thanksgiving celebrations, with decor taking up a significant portion. By choosing DIY projects, you can cut that cost in half while still making your home festive.

1. Mason Jar Candle Holders

Mason jars are inexpensive and versatile. Add a tea light candle inside, wrap twine or burlap around the jar, and scatter some autumn leaves for a rustic glow.

• Cost: Under $5 each
• Best For: Dining table centerpiece or mantelpiece

2. DIY Leaf Garland

Collect colorful fall leaves (real or faux), punch small holes, and string them together with twine. Hang the garland across your fireplace, staircase, or doorway.

• Easy for kids to help with
• Adds instant seasonal charm

3. Painted Pumpkins

Skip carving this year and paint pumpkins instead. Use metallic paint for a modern touch, chalkboard paint for messages, or simple stripes for elegance.

• Budget tip: Buy mini pumpkins in bulk at local farms or dollar stores.

4. Thanksgiving Centerpiece with Natural Elements

Gather pinecones, acorns, and branches from outside. Arrange them in a wooden tray or basket with candles in between. It’s free and looks stunning.

5. DIY Napkin Rings

Cut cardboard rolls into small circles, cover with burlap or ribbon, and add a faux leaf or cinnamon stick. Slip them onto napkins for a festive table setting.

6. Gratitude Tree

Place branches in a vase, and provide paper leaves for guests to write what they’re thankful for. Hang the leaves on the branches to create a meaningful display.

• A family activity that doubles as decor

7. Burlap Table Runner

Burlap is cheap and gives a farmhouse feel. Cut a long strip, stencil “Give Thanks” or leaf patterns on it, and place it down the center of your table.

8. Pumpkin Vase

Hollow out a medium-sized pumpkin, place a jar inside, and fill it with flowers or dried wheat stalks. It makes a show-stopping Thanksgiving centerpiece.

9. Pinecone Place Cards

Write guest names on small cards, then attach them to pinecones. Place one at each setting for personalized seating.

• Low cost and eco-friendly

10. Corn Husk Wreath

Use dried corn husks to create a wreath for your front door. Glue them to a wire base in layers for a rustic look.

11. Thanksgiving Banner

Cut triangle flags from scrapbook paper or burlap. String them together with twine and write festive words like “Thankful” or “Gather.”

12. Apple Candle Holders

Hollow out the top of an apple, insert a tea light candle, and arrange several on the table. They smell amazing when warmed by the flame.

13. DIY Chalkboard Signs

Buy a small chalkboard or paint a wooden board with chalkboard paint. Write Thanksgiving quotes or menu items in fun handwriting.

14. Wheat Bundle Centerpiece

Tie together dried wheat with ribbon or twine, and stand it upright in a vase. Simple, cheap, and elegant.

15. Paper Leaf Wall Art

Cut leaves from colored paper and arrange them into a wreath or tree shape on your wall. Great for kids’ rooms or kitchen decor.

16. Pumpkin Candle Holders

Carve out small pumpkins just enough to hold votive candles. Arrange them down the dining table for a cozy, glowing effect.

17. DIY Acorn Garland

Thread acorns on a string and hang them along shelves or staircases. If you like, paint them gold for extra shine.

18. Thanksgiving Memory Jar

Place a decorated jar on the counter where family members can drop in notes about their favorite Thanksgiving memories. Open and read them next year.

19. Rustic Crate Display

Stack wooden crates at your entryway and fill them with pumpkins, hay, and lanterns. It creates a farmhouse vibe instantly.

20. DIY Paper Pumpkins

Cut strips of orange cardstock, loop them into circles, and secure with brads. Stack them to form pumpkin shapes. Perfect for kids to make.

21. Gilded Pinecones

Spray paint pinecones in gold, silver, or copper. Place them in a bowl as a centerpiece or scatter them across the table.

22. DIY Candle Tray

Arrange candles of varying heights on a wooden tray with faux leaves, acorns, and berries. It looks elegant and costs very little.

23. Fabric Pumpkins

Sew small fabric pouches, stuff with cotton, and tie at the top to create soft, reusable pumpkins. A budget-friendly craft for sewing lovers.

24. Thankful Chalkboard Wall

If you have a chalkboard wall or board, dedicate it to gratitude messages. Family and friends can add what they’re thankful for throughout the evening.

25. Simple Twine-Wrapped Bottles

Take old glass bottles, wrap them with twine or yarn, and place flowers or wheat stalks inside. They make perfect rustic vases.

How To Keep DIY Thanksgiving Decor Cheap and Easy

Decorating on a budget doesn’t mean cutting corners on beauty. Here are some smart tips:

1. Use Natural Materials: Leaves, pinecones, branches, and pumpkins are free or very cheap.
2. Shop Dollar Stores: They carry faux leaves, candles, and jars at unbeatable prices.
3. Repurpose Items: Old jars, wine bottles, and crates can be transformed into stylish decor.
4. Keep It Simple: Minimal designs often look more elegant and cost less.
5. Do It Together: Making decor as a family saves time and adds fun.

Decorating Every Space For Thanksgiving

Entryway

• Corn husk wreaths
• Rustic crates with pumpkins
• A “Give Thanks” banner

Living Room

• Mason jar candle holders
• Leaf garlands
• Gilded pinecones in bowls

Dining Table

• Pumpkin vases
• DIY napkin rings
• Gratitude tree centerpiece

Kitchen

• Chalkboard menu sign
• Paper leaf art for walls
• Apple candle holders

By dividing your decorations by space, you’ll create a cohesive and welcoming holiday atmosphere.

The Emotional Value of DIY Thanksgiving Decor

Beyond saving money, DIY decor carries a deeper meaning. Every handmade wreath, garland, or candle holder is infused with care and thoughtfulness. Guests can feel that personal touch, and children will remember being part of the process.

In fact, studies on family traditions show that shared activities like decorating strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. So your DIY efforts aren’t just about making your home pretty — they’re about building traditions.

Conclusion

Creating a festive atmosphere doesn’t have to drain your wallet. With these 25 cheap and easy DIY Thanksgiving decor ideas, you can transform your home into a warm, inviting space that celebrates gratitude, family, and togetherness.

From mason jar candle holders to gratitude trees, each idea is affordable, simple, and filled with charm. Whether you’re hosting a large dinner or enjoying a quiet evening with family, these projects will make your Thanksgiving celebration even more special.

So grab some twine, leaves, and pumpkins — and let your creativity shine this holiday season!