Table of Contents Show
Thanksgiving’s that rare time where everyone gathers around the table, and honestly, the centerpiece sets the mood. A homemade one? It just feels more personal and welcoming, at least in my experience.

If you want to decorate your table without spending a lot, DIY centerpieces are a great choice. They let you get creative with stuff you probably already have at home.
Here are 15 ideas that’ll help you make your table festive and a little more “you.”
1. Pumpkin and Gourd Arrangement with Candles

I grab a few small pumpkins and gourds, then tuck in some candles for that cozy glow. The natural colors and soft light just work for Thanksgiving.
2. Rustic Pinecone and Twig Centerpiece

I gather pinecones and twigs, arranging them in a wooden bowl or on a tray. It’s simple, a little messy, but honestly, it always looks warm and inviting.
3. Mason Jar with Fall Leaves and Berry Sprigs

I start with a clean mason jar and glue or press colorful leaves around the outside. Then I stick berry sprigs inside. It’s not fancy, but it does add a festive touch.
4. Mini Pumpkin Votive Candle Holders

I take mini pumpkins, cut off the tops, and pop in a small candle. It’s so easy, and the table feels instantly cozier.
5. Autumn Leaf Garland Table Runner

An autumn leaf garland makes a great table runner. I just string together real or fake leaves, sometimes mixing in a few pinecones or berries. It’s easy to match the colors to whatever else you’ve got going on.
6. Chinoiserie Painted Pumpkin Display

I painted pumpkins with blue and white chinoiserie patterns. It’s surprisingly simple—just some paint and a steady-ish hand. The look is classic and calm, and honestly, it stands out from the usual orange.
7. Lantern with Pinecones and Fairy Lights

I fill a lantern halfway with pinecones, then add some fairy lights. The warm glow feels homey, and the pinecones keep it rustic.
8. Wooden Crate Filled with Seasonal Fruits

I grab a wooden crate, fill it with apples, pears, maybe a pumpkin or two. It’s quick, looks fresh, and just feels right for Thanksgiving.
9. Sunflower and Wheat Bundle in a Vase

Sunflowers and dried wheat always look good together. I tie them with twine and drop them in a clear vase. The sunflowers pop, and the wheat keeps it grounded.
10. Acorn and Burlap Table Scatter

I paint real acorns with a bit of metallic gold, then scatter them over a burlap runner. It adds texture and a little shine. Super easy, and it plays well with other fall stuff.
11. Candle Trios on Mirrored Tray

Three candles, all different heights, on a mirrored tray—such a simple setup. The mirror bounces the light around, making everything look brighter.
Sometimes I toss in pinecones or small pumpkins for a bit of nature. It’s not complicated but really does the trick.
12. Dried Orange Slice and Cinnamon Stick Bouquet

I use dried orange slices and cinnamon sticks, bunching them together for a bouquet. The scent is amazing, and it sticks around for weeks. Plus, it looks rustic without trying too hard.
13. Farmhouse Corn Husk and Eucalyptus Wreath

I weave together corn husks and eucalyptus for a wreath. The husks keep it rustic, and the eucalyptus adds a fresh scent. It’s simple, fits that farmhouse style, and looks kind of elegant.
14. Metal Bucket with Mixed Fall Flowers

A metal bucket makes a great base. I fill it with sunflowers, mums, maybe toss in a small pumpkin or two. It’s easy, lasts through the holiday, and doesn’t need much fussing.
15. Stacked Books with Pumpkins and Lanterns

I like stacking old books with warm colors to add some height to my centerpiece. I’ll top them with small pumpkins and lanterns, which feels just right for fall. It’s a simple, slightly quirky display—honestly, it works well for Thanksgiving, even if it’s not fancy.