25 Easy Thanksgiving Crafts for Kids and Adults
Did you know that approximately 9 in 10 American adults celebrate Thanksgiving? There's something magical about gathering around the table with scissors, glue, and construction paper while the turkey roasts in the oven. From my experience as a mom of 5, these moments often become the most treasured memories.
Thanksgiving crafts aren't just about keeping kids busy – they're about creating memories and adding personal touches to your celebration. Over my years of managing holiday chaos with five little ones, I've learned there are projects for every skill level, from simple five-minute activities to elaborate centerpieces that'll have guests asking, "Where did you buy that?"
These thanksgiving crafts will transform your home into a cozy harvest haven while creating precious family moments. For more creative inspiration year-round, check out my guide to crafts for kids.
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Getting Started with Thanksgiving Crafts
Simple Turkey Crafts That'll Make You Gobble with Joy
I've made countless paper plate turkeys over the years. My first attempt was a disaster – too much glue and sliding feathers. But these turkey crafts are forgiving, and even wonky ones become treasured keepsakes.
The classic paper plate turkey works perfectly for kids aged 3-8. You'll need:
2 paper plates per turkey
Construction paper in brown, red, orange, and yellow
Googly eyes (buy the big pack – they disappear fast)
Markers or crayons
Cut one paper plate in half and staple it to the back of the whole plate to create a pocket. This gives the turkey dimension. Let kids go wild with the feathers – messier is better.
Handprint turkey keepsakes are pure magic, especially when you do them year after year. Use washable paint and press little hands onto cardstock. The thumb becomes the turkey's head, and each finger is a colorful feather. Have wet wipes ready – paint gets everywhere.
For something fancier, try pine cone turkey centerpieces. Collect pine cones during autumn walks and glue felt pieces for the turkey's head and tail feathers. These look professional but only take 15 minutes each. These preschool crafts are perfect for creating lasting memories with your little ones.
Turkey finger puppets keep little ones entertained during dinner prep. Cut finger-sized holes in small paper cups, decorate with feathers and googly eyes. Kids play with these for hours, creating elaborate turkey soap operas.
Turkey decorations from toilet paper rolls are surprisingly sturdy and look great on mantels. Paint them brown, add construction paper tails, and use orange triangle beaks. Perfect for kids too young for scissors but old enough to paint.
Gratitude and Thankfulness Projects to Warm Your Heart
These projects aren't just decorations – they're conversation starters and memory makers.
The thankful tree is my favorite Thanksgiving tradition. Find a bare branch and place it in a weighted vase. Cut leaf shapes from cardstock in autumn colors. Throughout November, family members write what they're grateful for on leaves and hang them on the tree. By Thanksgiving Day, your tree is full of heartfelt messages. We read them aloud before dinner – it's become a beautiful ritual.
Gratitude jars are perfect for families wanting something different. Decorate mason jars with burlap, twine, and fall leaves. Throughout the month, drop in notes about things you're grateful for. On Thanksgiving, read them together. This project builds anticipation – you're collecting gratitude all month long.
Thankful placemats keep kids busy while you cook. Give each child large cardstock and let them decorate the borders with fall designs. In the center, they write what they're thankful for. Laminate them at an office supply store for personalized placemats that'll last years.
Blessing banners add warmth to dining rooms. Cut triangle shapes from burlap or felt, have family members write blessings on each one, and string them together with twine. The natural materials give it that cozy farmhouse vibe.
Gratitude journal covers are perfect for kids who love to write. Buy plain composition books and let kids decorate the covers with fall designs, pressed leaves, or family photos. Encourage them to write one thing they're grateful for each day leading up to Thanksgiving. These types of easy crafts help build meaningful family traditions.
Fall Leaf Crafts That Capture Autumn's Beauty
Working with natural materials is therapeutic, and the colors are incredible. Plus, they're free!
Leaf garland is simple but stunning. Collect leaves in various sizes and colors during walks. Slightly dried leaves work better than fresh ones – they're more flexible and less likely to tear. Thread them onto fishing line, spacing them 2 inches apart. Don't make your garland too heavy – start with 3-4 feet sections.
Pressed leaf bookmarks make perfect teacher gifts. Place leaves between wax paper and heavy books for a week. Once flat and dry, sandwich them between clear contact paper or laminate them. Add a ribbon at the top. Oak leaves press better than maple leaves because they're thicker.
Fall leaf wreaths can use real or artificial leaves, depending on longevity. Use a wire wreath form and attach leaves with floral wire or hot glue.
Leaf bowls with Mod Podge are magical. Place leaves around a glass bowl and brush with Mod Podge. After drying, carefully remove the glass bowl for a delicate leaf bowl perfect for holding keys or small decorations.
Autumn leaf crowns are huge hits with kids, especially for Thanksgiving photos. Collect large, sturdy leaves and attach them to cardboard sized to fit around the child's head. Add small flowers or berries for extra flair. Add small flowers or berries for extra flair. For more seasonal inspiration, check out our collection of fall crafts that celebrate autumn's beauty.
Thanksgiving Table Decorations and Centerpieces
Homemade centerpieces always get more compliments than store-bought ones. Handmade touches feel more welcoming.
Mason jar centerpieces are versatile and easy to customize. Fill them with autumn flowers like mums, sunflowers, or yard branches. Tie burlap ribbon around the middle and add a "Give Thanks" tag. For evening dinners, drop in battery-operated fairy lights for amazing warm glow.
Pumpkin vases are easier than you'd think. Cut the top off a medium pumpkin and scoop out the insides. Place a glass jar inside to hold water, then arrange your flowers. These look magazine-worthy but cost less than $10.
Corn husk placemats take more time but are worth it. Buy dried corn husks at Mexican grocery stores. Soak them in warm water for 30 minutes, then weave them together. It's relaxing once you get the hang of it.
Acorn and pinecone table runners bring natural, organic feel to your table. Collect materials during fall walks, then arrange them down the table's center with battery-operated string lights woven through. Add small candles for extra ambiance.
Napkin rings are perfect for using up craft supplies. Wrap napkin rings with burlap, attach small artificial leaves or berries for custom table accessories that tie everything together. These simple crafts add elegant touches without breaking the budget.
Pumpkin and Gourd Craft Ideas Beyond Jack-o'-Lanterns
No-carve decorating is more fun because you don't worry about rotting, and the possibilities are endless!
No-carve pumpkin decorating offers unlimited options. Try painting designs with acrylic paint, wrapping them in yarn or twine, or covering them with fabric using Mod Podge. Create a whole family of pumpkins with different personalities!
Decoupage technique works well on pumpkins. Choose fabric or decorative paper matching your fall decor, cut into pieces, and brush Mod Podge over the pumpkin surface. Apply the fabric, then seal with another coat.
Mini pumpkin place cards are adorable and functional. Write guests' names on small white pumpkins with gold or silver marker. These double as take-home gifts.
Gourd birdhouses extend your fall decor into winter. Use a drill to create entrance holes (1.5 inches for most birds), clean out the insides, and add a small perch. Hang them in your garden for possible feathered visitors. After Thanksgiving, you can transition these decorations into winter crafts that last through the colder months.
Pumpkin planters work great for fall flowers. Drill drainage holes in the bottom, add gravel, then plant your fall flowers. These look amazing on porches and patios.
Painted pumpkin family portraits are hilarious and heartwarming. Paint faces on pumpkins to represent each family member. The wonkier they are, the more character they have.
Thanksgiving Wreaths and Door Decorations
Your front door is the first thing guests see. Homemade wreaths always get more compliments than store-bought ones.
Burlap and felt autumn wreaths are forgiving for beginners but look professional. Start with a wire wreath form from the craft store. Cut burlap into strips and tie them around the frame – don't worry about perfection. The messy look adds character! Add felt leaves in autumn colors, small pumpkins or acorns, and finish with a beautiful bow. Wired ribbon works better than regular ribbon because it holds its shape.
Corn husk wreaths give serious farmhouse vibes. Soak dried corn husks in warm water for 30 minutes to make them pliable. Wrap them around a wire frame and secure with floral wire. The natural texture is gorgeous and looks expensive. Work with corn husks outside if possible – they make a bit of a mess.
Twig and berry wreaths are perfect for the rustic look. Collect sturdy twigs during walks and form them into a circle. Secure with floral wire, then add artificial berries, small pinecones, or battery-operated lights for evening display.
Paper turkey door hangers are huge hits with kids and look adorable from the street. Cut a large turkey shape from cardboard, let kids paint and decorate it, then hang it on your door with colorful ribbon.
Fall garland works beautifully around door frames or porch railings. String together leaves, berries, and small pumpkins with fishing line. Vary the textures and colors – don't make it too uniform. These fun crafts bring joy to the whole family while decorating your home.
Native American Inspired Crafts (Respectful Cultural Appreciation)
Approach these crafts with respect and understanding. These aren't costumes or stereotypes – they're ways to learn about and appreciate Native American culture while creating meaningful projects.
Corn necklaces have deep significance in many Native American traditions, representing abundance and sustenance. Use dried corn kernels and string them on strong thread. Talk with kids about why corn was important to Native American communities and how it's still vital today. Working with natural materials like corn kernels connects you to the earth in a way plastic beads can't match.
Dream catchers are sacred to many Native American tribes, originally meant to protect sleeping children from nightmares. When making these with kids, explain the cultural significance and encourage them to think about what they want protection from. Use embroidery hoops, sinew or strong thread, and feathers. The traditional technique creates a web pattern that catches bad dreams while allowing good dreams to pass through.
Friendship bracelets in earth tones make wonderful gifts and teach kids about the importance of relationships in Native American culture. Use browns, oranges, and reds – colors representing the earth and autumn harvest.
Feather painting with natural materials connects kids to the spiritual significance of feathers in Native American traditions. Use real feathers and natural paints made from clay or vegetable dyes. Each feather becomes a unique piece of art.
Simple weaving projects introduce kids to traditional Native American textile techniques. Use a small cardboard loom and yarn in natural colors. The repetitive motion is calming, and kids love seeing their patterns emerge.
Edible Thanksgiving Crafts for Sweet Memories
Edible crafts are amazing because you get to play with your food AND eat the results. Perfect for kids aged 3 to 13, and they make great gifts for neighbors and teachers.
Turkey cookies are classic and delicious! Use basic sugar cookie recipe or buy pre-made dough. Cut out turkey shapes or use round cookies and decorate them to look like turkeys with chocolate chips for eyes and candy corn for beaks. Buy squeeze bottles of frosting instead of making your own – it's easier and kids can manage the bottles with less mess.
Candy corn bark is ridiculously easy and looks impressive. Melt white chocolate, spread it on a parchment-lined pan, and sprinkle with candy corn pieces while warm. Once hardened, break into pieces. Adding a tiny bit of orange food coloring to the white chocolate makes it look more festive. If you enjoyed making treats before Thanksgiving, you might also love our Halloween crafts that use similar techniques.
Pumpkin pie play dough is perfect for little ones who want to help but aren't ready for real cooking. Mix 2 cups flour, 1 cup salt, 2 tablespoons cream of tartar, 2 tablespoons oil, and 1 cup water with pumpkin pie spice. Cook on the stove until it forms a ball, then let it cool. It smells incredible and keeps for weeks in the fridge.
Thanksgiving trail mix is great for kids who love to measure and pour. Mix nuts, dried fruits, chocolate chips, and maybe popcorn in a big bowl. Let kids create their own combinations and package them in decorated bags for gifts. Be careful about nut allergies if giving these away.
Apple stamping with cinnamon creates beautiful fall artwork that smells amazing. Cut apples in half, dip them in washable paint mixed with a little cinnamon, and stamp onto paper. The natural apple texture creates interesting patterns, and the cinnamon scent lasts for days.
These holiday crafts bridge the gap between Thanksgiving and the upcoming winter celebrations, while our summer crafts collection offers year-round creative inspiration for when you want to continue crafting beyond the fall season.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the easiest Thanksgiving crafts for toddlers?
Handprint turkeys, finger painting fall trees, and paper plate crafts. Use glue sticks instead of liquid glue for easier handling.
How can I make Thanksgiving crafts with materials I already have at home?
Use paper plates, toilet paper rolls, construction paper, mason jars, and items from your recycling bin for decorations.
What Thanksgiving crafts can the whole family do together?
Gratitude trees, family handprint projects, decorating pumpkins, and creating thankful placemats work for all skill levels.
How far in advance should I start making Thanksgiving crafts?
Start 2-3 weeks before Thanksgiving. Begin gratitude jars earlier to collect more meaningful messages.
Are there Thanksgiving crafts that can double as gifts?
Yes! Try homemade candles, decorated picture frames, gratitude journals, or baked goods in decorated containers.
Final Thoughts on Thanksgiving Crafts
Creating Thanksgiving crafts isn't just about the final product – it's about the laughter, messy kitchen counters, and your child's pride in their handmade turkey. These 25 craft ideas help build cherished family traditions.
Remember, the most beautiful craft is made with love, not perfection. Embrace the glitter explosion and start crafting your way to a meaningful Thanksgiving celebration. You'll treasure pulling out those handmade decorations year after year, each telling a story of gratitude and togetherness.
Pick one or two crafts that match your family's style and skill level. Happy crafting!
