DIY Thanksgiving Crafts for Children
Thanksgiving is more than just turkey and pumpkin pie—it’s a time for families to gather, express gratitude, and make lasting memories. For parents and caregivers, keeping children entertained while prepping for the big meal can be a challenge.
That’s where DIY Thanksgiving crafts come in! Not only do these projects keep little hands busy, but they also spark creativity, teach gratitude, and add a personal touch to your holiday décor.
At Hollow Woodworks, we believe in the power of hands-on learning and playful creativity. Our sturdy, child-friendly stools are the perfect perch for young crafters as they dive into festive projects.
Ready to transform your Thanksgiving into a celebration of color, imagination, and family bonding? Here are some delightful DIY crafts to try this season.
Turkey Paper Plate Masks
A classic Thanksgiving craft, paper plate turkey masks are simple, affordable, and endlessly customizable. Gather paper plates, colored construction paper, glue sticks, and markers.
Let kids cut out feathers, beaks, and eyes, then assemble their own turkey faces. Add a popsicle stick handle for a fun puppet show after dinner!
This project develops fine motor skills and allows children to express their creativity with bold shapes and colors.
Thankful Trees
Encourage gratitude with a 3D Thankful Tree centerpiece. Use construction paper to create a tree trunk and branches, then cut out leaf shapes in autumn colors.
Ask children to write something they’re thankful for on each leaf and attach them to the tree. Display the finished tree on your Thanksgiving table as a heartfelt reminder of the season’s spirit.
Coffee Filter Turkeys
Coffee filter turkeys are a hit with kids of all ages. Color coffee filters with washable markers, then spritz with water to create a tie-dye effect.
Once dry, glue the filters to a paper turkey body and add googly eyes and a beak. This craft is budget-friendly and perfect for preschoolers, offering a sensory experience and a splash of color for your holiday décor.
Gratitude Stones
Take the fun outdoors with gratitude stones. Have children collect smooth rocks, then paint and decorate them with words or images representing what they’re thankful for.
These rocks make wonderful keepsakes and can be displayed in planters or around the yard, spreading positive messages throughout the year.
DIY Thanksgiving Garland
Create a festive atmosphere with a homemade Thanksgiving garland!
Cut out shapes like pumpkins, leaves, and turkeys from colored paper. String them together with twine and hang across doorways or mantels.
Kids will love seeing their artwork displayed, and the garland doubles as cheerful décor for the whole month.
Fingerprint Turkey Napkin Rings
Add a personal touch to your Thanksgiving table with fingerprint turkey napkin rings.
Use cardstock to create rings, then let children decorate them with fingerprint turkeys using washable ink pads.
Each napkin ring will be unique, making guests feel extra special at your holiday feast.
Pumpkin Pie Paper Crafts
No Thanksgiving is complete without pumpkin pie—even if it’s made of paper!
Cut out pie shapes from orange and brown construction paper, then layer with tissue paper and cotton balls for a realistic look. Kids can “serve” their creations or use them as playful table decorations.
Tips for Crafting Success
- Set up a dedicated craft space: Find a table or desk and a comfortable, sturdy seat (we recommend a handcrafted puzzle stool).
- Stock up on supplies: Keep construction paper, glue sticks, markers, and kid-safe scissors on hand.
- Encourage creativity: Let children personalize their crafts with colors, textures, and messages that reflect their unique interests.
- Celebrate together: Display finished projects around your home and share photos with friends and family.
Crafting Memories That Last
As the holiday season approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind of preparations and traditions. But when we pause to create together, whether it’s a colorful turkey mask, a gratitude-filled tree, or a playful garland, we’re doing more than just making crafts.
We’re building memories, nurturing creativity, and teaching children the true meaning of gratitude and togetherness.
Each project becomes a story: the laughter shared over spilled glue, the pride in a finished centerpiece, the warmth of seeing a child’s artwork displayed for all to admire. These moments, surrounded by loved ones, are the heart of Thanksgiving Day.
They remind us that the holiday isn’t just about what’s on the table, but who’s gathered around it.
This year, let your DIY crafts be the spark that brings your family closer together. Celebrate the joy of making, the beauty of imperfection, and the bonds that grow stronger with every shared experience.
With Hollow Woodworks supporting your little artists, you’ll create not just decorations, but cherished traditions that will last for years to come.
Happy Thanksgiving, and happy crafting!
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