Hosting Thanksgiving dinner is not only a lot of work, it can also be an expensive affair — between the turkey, side dishes, drinks, and more. We hear ya! But, when it comes to decorations, your budget can take a break. Look to your own backyard for Thanksgiving decorating ideas and you’ll be able to save lots of money for the tasty things … like an extra pumpkin pie or two. When decorating your home for any important occasion, you don’t have to break the bank to add a bit of holiday cheer to your tablescape and living area. With a little creativity, you can turn the things you find in your backyard into impressive Thanksgiving decorations such as Oak Leaf napkin rings or shimmering branch vases. Below are 4 easy, natural, and cost-effective Thanksgiving decorating ideas you can use to spruce up your home!
Editor’s Note: Jennifer Lutz writes about home décor at blog.christmastreemarket.com. A mother of four lively children, she has quickly become a shortcut guru, making each holiday a memory-filled event. Not able to throw a Thanksgiving dinner party? Checkout Jennifer’s fall entertaining ideas for help hosting a fabulous autumn-themed bash.
Thanksgiving Decorating Ideas From Your Backyard
1. Shimmering Branch Vases
Some see ugliness when winter has stripped away trees’ leaves, but we see the potential for a striking centerpiece. Simply collect a handful of sculptural branches and coat them in metallic spray paint to create an eye-catching seasonal display that will last through the new year. To get started, gather a bundle of branches from your garden, your choice of vase or jar, and a can of metallic spray paint e.g. gold and glitter paints.
- Step 1 — Trim the branches to a size that will fit your vases. The ends don’t have to be even, as this will add texture to your décor.
- Step 2 — Lay out a large sheet of paper or plastic on the surface where you plan to spray the branches, preferably outdoors. Place the branches on it, then spray the paint back and forth over the branches using long, even motions. Let the paint dry before spraying the other side of the branches.
- Step 3 — Dry the branches thoroughly, then arrange them in your vase to create tabletop display that’s equal parts rustic and glam.
2. Fruit Wreath
Seasonal fruits and vegetables like apples, pears, and pumpkins are perfect for adding a touch of fall to your décor. To make a seasonal wreath to welcome guests, you’ll need: branches, a bunch of leaves in various shapes and sizes, pine cones, fruit, wire, wire cutter, spray paint, and a hot glue gun.
- Step 1 — Trim the branches and make sure to remove any thick limbs so that they’re easier to bend. Bundle the branches by twisting wire around their ends and mid-section. Bend the branches to create a circle, then wire the ends together.
- Step 2 — Arrange the fruit, leaves, and pine cones using hot glue. Heavier objects may require the use of wire as well.
- Step 3 — Hang your welcoming Thanksgiving wreath on the door and wait for your guests to arrive!
3. Leaf Napkin Ring
Bring a bit of the outdoors in by using colorful leaves at each place setting. To come up with this charming tablescape, you’ll just need: maple leaves, acrylic coating spray in gloss finish, colored ribbons, and a hot glue gun.
- Step 1 — Spray both sides of each leaf with the acrylic coating spray. This will ensure that the leaves retain their color and shape.
- Step 2 — To make a pretty napkin ring, tie the stem of a few leaves with a ribbon, and then tie it around the cutlery.
4. Berry Mantel
Make a pretty candle and fruit arrangement for your mantel using seasonal berries. For this project, you’ll need: some berries (cranberries work especially well), dried leaves, a cutter, and your choice of candles.
- Step 1 — As you harvest your berries, be sure not to pull the fruits straight off the shrub and tree. Using a cutter, cut at the base of the twig to keep the berries intact.
- Step 2 — Arrange the fruits, leaves, and candles on a tray, and then put your display on the mantel.
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