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Thanksgiving’s the perfect excuse to gather everyone around and dive into some creative, hands-on activities. Crafts have this way of making the holiday feel a bit more personal, and honestly, they’re a great excuse to decorate the house with something that doesn’t come from a store.
Whether you’ve got a crowd of kids or mostly adults, making things together just sticks in your memory and keeps everyone busy in the best way. I picked these 17 easy Thanksgiving crafts because they’re genuinely fun, straightforward, and work for any age.
You won’t need fancy supplies or special skills, so just about anyone can hop in. I hope you’ll find something here that fits your time, mood, and what you’ve got lying around—maybe it’ll make your Thanksgiving just a little brighter.
1. Handprint Turkey Craft
Handprint turkey crafts never get old for me. You just trace or paint your hand, then turn it into a turkey with a few quick details. It’s such a classic, and the finished turkeys always end up as keepsakes—especially if you write the year on the back.
2. Paper Plate Pilgrim Hats
Paper plate pilgrim hats are about as easy as it gets. Grab a few plates, some scissors, and glue, and you’re set. I like how you can dress them up or keep them simple, and it’s something both kids and grownups don’t mind doing together.
3. Gratitude Tree with Leaves
Making a gratitude tree is one of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions. Just cut out a bunch of paper leaves, and jot down something you’re thankful for on each one.
It’s a nice way to pause and really think about what matters. Plus, the tree looks great on display and works for any age.
4. Pom-Pom Turkey Decorations
Pom-pom turkey decorations are always a hit. You just need pom-poms, felt, googly eyes, and glue—nothing fancy. They’re quick to make, cute to look at, and everyone seems to enjoy making them.
5. Mason Jar Candle Holders
Mason jar candle holders are super simple and look surprisingly nice. I usually just grab a jar, pop in a candle, and decorate with a few leaves or some ribbon. They add a cozy touch to the table or just about anywhere you set them.
6. Leaf Rubbing Art
Leaf rubbing is a classic for a reason. Put a leaf under a sheet of paper, rub a crayon over it, and suddenly you’ve got a detailed print of the leaf’s veins and shape.
It’s a fun way to bring a bit of nature indoors, especially when the leaves are at their best. I’ve used these for cards and quick decorations—honestly, it’s hard to mess up.
7. Thanksgiving Wreath with Fall Leaves
Thanksgiving wreaths made from colorful fall leaves always look great. I like to collect leaves in all shades of red, yellow, and orange for a natural look.
Glue them onto a ring (paper or wire works), and you’ve got a simple, festive wreath. Kids and adults can both get creative with this one.
8. Pinecone Turkeys
Pinecone turkeys are quick to make and always get a laugh. Just grab a pinecone, add some paper feathers and googly eyes, and you’re done.
It’s one of those crafts that’s just as fun for adults as it is for kids.
9. Pumpkin Seed Mosaics
Pumpkin seed mosaics are a clever way to use up seeds from pumpkin carving. Arrange them into shapes like pumpkins or leaves, glue them down, and you’ve got instant fall art.
It’s good for fine motor skills, and honestly, it’s just kind of satisfying to see the designs come together.
10. Thankful Coloring Pages
Thankful coloring pages are easy to pull out when you need a quiet activity. With turkeys, pumpkins, and leaves, they fit the season perfectly. I like how coloring gives you a chance to slow down and think about gratitude, even if it’s just for a few minutes.
11. Paper Bag Turkey Puppets
Paper bag turkey puppets are a go-to for me. All you need is a brown paper bag, some paper shapes, and glue. They’re quick to make and perfect for playing around with kids.
12. Acorn Necklace Craft
Acorn necklaces are a little unexpected, but I really enjoy making them. You just need acorn caps, some string, and maybe a bead or two. It’s a nice excuse to get outside and collect materials.
Kids get to practice threading and tying, and adults can zone out a bit during the process. They make sweet, earthy gifts if you’re into that sort of thing.
13. Corn Husk Dolls
Corn husk dolls are surprisingly simple. You soak some dried husks, tie them into shape, and let them dry. They come together pretty quickly and make for charming, rustic decorations.
14. Button Leaf Garland
Button leaf garlands add a pop of color wherever you hang them. Just pick out buttons in fall colors, thread them onto string, and arrange them to look like leaves. I usually drape mine over the mantel or along a doorway.
15. 3D Paper Turkey Centerpiece
A 3D paper turkey centerpiece is easier than it looks. Cut out circles for the body and feathers, fold and glue them together, and you’ve got a festive turkey for the table.
All you need is some paper and glue, so it’s an easy project to do with kids. It definitely makes the table feel more festive.
16. Paper Straw Corn on the Cob
Paper straw corn on the cob is a quick, mess-free craft. Just cut up some colorful straws and glue them to paper to mimic corn kernels. Simple, but it looks cute when you’re done.
17. Foam Turkey Crowns
Foam turkey crowns are honestly a delight to put together. You’ll usually spot kits with all the bits included, so you don’t have to hunt for materials. Kids really get into it, but I’ve seen plenty of adults join in too—sometimes you just want an excuse to be a little silly around the Thanksgiving table. Adds a nice festive touch, doesn’t it?
