40 Fun DIY Thanksgiving Crafts for Kids, From Preschoolers to Big Kids

When it comes to Thanksgiving, your meal menu may be all that’s on your mind, but make sure you (and your little helpers) don’t get stuck all day in the kitchen. Your turkey day should also be about having fun, so plan some Thanksgiving crafts for kids to do too! From gathering supplies to creating turkey placeholders or handmade banners, any DIY projects you have them do will be a hit this holiday season.

Having Thanksgiving crafts for kids to do won’t only be a way to get their creativity flowing, but it’ll be a great family bonding experience as well. You can even start a tradition of making crafts year that you can continue to do for years to come. 

Related: The Best Thanksgiving Movie for Kids 

So what are you waiting for? Gather up some paint, glue sticks, sequins and paper and follow the steps from one (or more!) of the 40 Thanksgiving crafts for kids ideas below from some of our favorite DIY blogs.

Related: Oprah’s Favorite Things Are on Sale for Black Friday 2023 — Here Are the 10 to Buy Before They Sell Out

Best Thanksgiving Crafts for Kids

<p>Crafts Unleashed</p><p>Kids love being involved, so let them cut out some colorful felt letters to spell out a word like “gather” or “thankful.” Check out <a href="http://blog.consumercrafts.com/seasonal/fall/thanksgiving-decorations-seasonal/gather-easy-diy-garland/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Crafts Unleashed;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Crafts Unleashed</em></a> to see this project’s step-by-step instructions.</p><p><strong>Related: </strong><strong>50 <a href="https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/50-fun-thanksgiving-games-kids-100044918.html" data-ylk="slk:Family Thanksgiving Games;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;" class="link  yahoo-link">Family Thanksgiving Games</a></strong></p>
<p>From ABCs To ACTs</p><p>Are you hosting Thanksgiving this year? If so, let the kids that come make some turkey décor for you by following directions to these adorable turkey pots by <a href="https://fromabcstoacts.com/thanksgiving-flower-pot-turkey/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:From ABCs To ACTs;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>From ABCs To ACTs</em></a>.</p>
<p>Sometimes Creative</p><p>Who knew you could use leaves to make custom artwork? Follow <a href="https://sometimescreative.blogspot.com/2010/12/thanksgiving-crafts.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Sometimes Creative;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Sometimes Creative</em></a> for more details on how you and your youngsters can create this leaf turkey!</p>
<p>Handmade Charlotte</p><p>Your little helpers will like going outside to collect rocks that they can turn into a masterpiece with this craft from <a href="https://www.handmadecharlotte.com/painted-rocks-leaves-thanksgiving-table/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Handmade Charlotte;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Handmade Charlotte</em></a>. It’s beyond cute!</p>
<p>The Craft Train</p><p>Don’t worry about buying flowers for your centerpiece; this floral arrangement can be made with paper towels! Go to <a href="https://www.thecrafttrain.com/how-to-make-a-rose-from-paper-towel/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:The Craft Train;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>The Craft Train</em></a> for more info.</p>
<p>I Heart Crafty Things</p><p>Kids can play with paint to create this festive paper plate turkey from<a href="https://iheartcraftythings.com/plump-and-perky-turkey.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:I Heart Crafty Things;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em> I Heart Crafty Things</em></a>! Not only is it adorable, but it’s not expensive to make.</p>
<p>Studio DIY</p><p>This turkey DIY is pretty simple! Just have each kid pick out a balloon and then write “I am thankful for…” or another Thanksgiving phrase on it with gold paint. Then, tie some colorful ribbons to it, like <a href="https://studiodiy.com/diy-i-am-thankful-for-balloon/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Studio DIY;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Studio DIY</em></a> did, and wrap it around a chair at your table.</p>
<p>Ella Claire & Co</p><p>You’ll want to steal this placemat idea from <a href="https://www.ellaclaireinspired.com/thanksgiving-coloring-placemats-free-printable/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Ella Claire & Co;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Ella Claire & Co</em></a> for your own Thanksgiving table. It’ll let kids be involved in your holiday decorating in a big way!</p>
<p>Fireflies and Mudpies</p><p>Thanks to <a href="https://www.firefliesandmudpies.com/scrap-ribbon-pinecone-turkeys/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Fireflies and Mudpies;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Fireflies and Mudpies</em></a>, you can make the cutest little turkeys this November. All you need are a few items, including a pinecone and some ribbon.</p><p><strong>Related: </strong><strong>50 </strong><a href="https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/50-funny-thanksgiving-jokes-kids-192725492.html" data-ylk="slk:Best Thanksgiving Jokes;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;" class="link  yahoo-link"><strong>Best Thanksgiving Jokes</strong></a></p>
<p>Oh Happy Day</p><p>Kids will have a ball cutting turkey feathers out of paper! You can find the tutorial for this craft on <a href="https://ohhappyday.com/2017/11/feather-place-cards-diy/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Oh Happy Day;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Oh Happy Day</em></a>. For a more magical touch, add glitter paint to them!</p>
<p>Typically Simple</p><p>Everyone will wish this sweet craft from <a href="https://typicallysimple.com/tissue-paper-candy-corn/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Typically Simple;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link ">Typically Simple</a> was edible! You can hang it up in the window, on the wall or from the ceiling when it’s done.</p>
<p>Create Craft Love</p><p>These maple leaf mason jars aren’t hard to make, but they’ll make a big statement! You can place a candle in it or some flowers. Head over to <a href="https://www.createcraftlove.com/mason-jar-fall-luminary/?crlt.pid=camp.yJYqBpOcAR0k" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Create Craft Love;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Create Craft Love</em></a> for details on how to make them.</p>
<p>Oh My Creative</p><p>Forget the paintbrush, this craft is perfect for young kids to do because they just need their thumb to do it! <a href="https://www.ohmy-creative.com/holiday-crafts/thanksgiving/14-thanksgiving-turkey-projects/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Oh My Creative;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Oh My Creative</em></a> has all the tips on how to create it.</p>
<p>Paging Super Mom</p><p>It’s no secret that pie is a staple piece at Thanksgiving! That’s why this paper plate pie garland is the perfect kids' craft. Check out <a href="https://pagingsupermom.com/paper-plate-pie-garland/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Paging Super Mom;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Paging Super Mom</em></a> for more info.</p>
<p>Handmade Charlotte</p><p>If you have ever dreamed that your Thanksgiving turkey was filled with candy, this craft will make it a reality! See how easy this piñata is to make by heading over to <a href="https://www.handmadecharlotte.com/mini-turkey-roast-pinatas/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Handmade Charlotte;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Handmade Charlotte</em></a><em>.</em></p>
<p>One Little Project</p><p>How lovable are these yarn pumpkins by <a href="https://onelittleproject.com/yarn-pumpkins/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:One Little Project;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>One Little Project</em></a>? Kids will be all about this craft because it involves balloons and lots of glue!</p>
<p>The House That Lars Built</p><p>This craft from <a href="https://thehousethatlarsbuilt.com/2018/10/gratitude-tree-acorn-favors.html/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:The House That Lars Built;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>The House That Lars Built</em></a> is all about giving thanks! You just have to gather up some sticks and then cut out leaf shapes on colorful paper so everyone can write down something they are thankful for on them.</p><p><strong>Related: </strong><a href="https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/100-funny-clever-thanksgiving-instagram-103552237.html" data-ylk="slk:Thanksgiving Instagram Captions;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;" class="link  yahoo-link"><strong>Thanksgiving Instagram Captions</strong></a></p>
<p>Happiness Is Homemade</p><p>Don’t toss out the tin cans you used to whip up your Thanksgiving feast. Why? Your little ones will need them for this whimsical DIY by <a href="https://www.happinessishomemade.net/thanksgiving-kids-craft-turkey-windsocks/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Happiness Is Homemade;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Happiness Is Homemade</em></a>.</p>
<p>123 Homeschool 4 Me</p><p>Gobble, gobble! Having kids create some turkey cups will make everyone who sees them smile. Check out <a href="https://www.123homeschool4me.com/simple-turkey-craft_39" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:123 Homeschool 4 Me;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>123 Homeschool 4 Me</em></a> for more deets.</p>
<p>Easy Peasy And Fun</p><p>Take a break from all the turkey DIYs and try a scarecrow-themed one from <a href="https://www.easypeasyandfun.com/scarecrow-mason-jar/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Easy Peasy And Fun;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Easy Peasy And Fun</em></a>. It’s something you can keep for years to come.</p>
<p>Hello, Wonderful</p><p>Kids will be obsessed with this enchanting craft! Follow the steps at <a href="https://www.hellowonderful.co/post/unicorn-turkey-craft/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Hello, Wonderful;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Hello, Wonderful</em></a> to see how these unicorn turkeys can be made.</p>
<p>Mom Dot</p><p>What kid wouldn’t want to make (and wear) this Thanksgiving headband? Get the tutorial at <a href="https://www.momdot.com/thanksgiving-turkey-hat-tutorial/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Mom Dot;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Mom Dot</em></a><em>.</em></p>

Mom Dot

What kid wouldn’t want to make (and wear) this Thanksgiving headband? Get the tutorial at Mom Dot.

<p>Made To Be A Momma</p><p>A few apple slices can be turned into a pumpkin stamp that kids can make art with! Follow <a href="https://www.madetobeamomma.com/apple-stamping-pumpkin-craft/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Made To Be A Momma;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Made To Be A Momma</em></a> to see how.</p>
<p>A Kailo Chic Life</p><p>While this craft may not involve actual pumpkin carving, it’ll be just as fun (and way less messy) to create. For instructions, check out <a href="https://akailochiclife.com/2018/09/diy-large-pom-pom-pumpkins.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:A Kailo Chic Life;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>A Kailo Chic Life</em></a>.</p>
<p>Crafty Morning</p><p>Kids can wear their masterpieces after they make this hat that’s made from their own handprints that they cut out of construction paper. Visit <a href="https://www.craftymorning.com/make-handprint-turkey-hat-thanksgiving-craft/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Crafty Morning;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Crafty Morning</em></a> for all the DIY details.</p>
<p>Design Improvised</p><p>Little ones won’t dare let this craft float away—they’ll want everyone at Thanksgiving dinner to see it. To find out how it’s made, see the tutorial at <a href="https://designimprovised.com/2014/11/thanksgiving-kids-crafts.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Design Improvised;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Design Improvised</em></a>.</p><p><strong>Related: </strong><strong>150 <a href="https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/150-best-thanksgiving-quotes-celebrate-104333847.html" data-ylk="slk:Thanksgiving Quotes;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;" class="link  yahoo-link">Thanksgiving Quotes</a></strong></p>
<p>Minnie Mama</p><p>Kids of all ages can show off their art skills with this project by <a href="http://minne-mama.blogspot.com/2014/10/fall-leaf-painting.html?m=1" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Minnie Mama;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Minnie Mama</em></a>. Afterward, you can even frame it for them and hang it up. </p>
<p>Purely From the Heart</p><p>What’s not to like about this craft? It involves bubble wrap to make ears of corn that can be arranged into a Thanksgiving-themed wreath. <a href="http://1pureheart.blogspot.com/2011/10/corn-wreath.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Purely From the Heart;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Purely From the Heart</em></a> can tell you how to do it.</p>
<p>Buggy and Buddy</p><p>If you’ve got some coffee filters in your house, you should consider having the kids come over to make these! Everything you need to know about how to make them can be found at <a href="https://buggyandbuddy.com/thanksgiving-crafts-kids-coffee-filter-turkey/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Buggy and Buddy;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Buggy and Buddy</em></a>.</p>
<p>Make and Takes</p><p>This is the perfect fall craft for kids! They’ll enjoy writing everything they are thankful for on paper and watching it spin around in the wind after they cut it out. Check out <a href="https://www.makeandtakes.com/thankful-wind-spinners" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Make and Takes;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Make and Takes</em></a> for all the steps.</p><p><strong>Related: </strong><strong><a href="https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/50-fun-thanksgiving-trivia-questions-211027871.html" data-ylk="slk:Thanksgiving Trivia;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;" class="link  yahoo-link">Thanksgiving Trivia</a></strong></p>
<p>Project Kid</p><p>These little acorns aren’t hard to make. Head over to <a href="https://projectkid.com/a-boho-thanksgiving/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Project Kid;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Project Kid</em></a> to learn how you can make them so you can display them on your table this Thanksgiving.</p>
<p>The Joy of Sharing</p><p>Can you believe it only takes a handful of materials to create this festive craft? You can find the tutorial at <a href="https://www.thejoysharing.com/2017/11/thanksgiving-turkey-craft-for-kids.html?m=1" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:The Joy of Sharing;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>The Joy of Sharing</em></a><em>.</em></p>
<p>Today’s Creative Ideas</p><p>Talk about cuteness overload! This fall DIY from <a href="https://todayscreativeideas.com/popsicle-stick-scarecrow-magnet/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Today’s Creative Ideas;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Today’s Creative Ideas</em></a> is something both kids and parents will have fun making.</p>
<p>Glued To My Crafts Blog</p><p>This craft from <a href="https://www.gluedtomycraftsblog.com/2015/10/cheerio-corn-on-the-cob-kid-craft.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Glued To My Crafts Blog;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Glued To My Crafts Blog</em></a> is sure to be a hit! It’s easy to make and lets whoever is making it munch on cereal while they’re doing it.</p>
<p>Chic and Jo</p><p><a href="https://www.chicaandjo.com/thanksgiving-clothespin-wreath/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Chic and Jo;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Chic and Jo</em></a> shows you how to make a unique wreath that has a very special message! This project not only looks pretty, but it also lets all your guests write what they’re thankful for on it. </p><p><strong>Related: </strong><strong><a href="https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/50-funny-thanksgiving-jokes-kids-192725492.html" data-ylk="slk:Thanksgiving Jokes;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas;outcm:mb_qualified_link;_E:mb_qualified_link;ct:story;" class="link  yahoo-link">Thanksgiving Jokes</a></strong></p>
<p>The Party Animal-Blog</p><p>No, these aren’t edible! However, they are a cool place setting that kids will get a kick out of making for your table this year.You can learn how to create them by going to <a href="https://thepartyanimal-blog.org/thanksgiving-paper-bag-turkey-leg-place-settings/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:The Party Animal-Blog;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>The Party Animal-Blog</em></a>.</p>
<p>That’s What Che Said</p><p>This delicious craft will be a winner for kids and adults this Thanksgiving! Follow <a href="https://www.thatswhatchesaid.net/thanksgiving-turkey-snack-bags/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:That’s What Che Said;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>That’s What Che Said</em></a> to see just how it’s done.</p>
<p>Growing Up Gabel</p><p>You can use yarn, pipe cleaners and cardboard to make this adorable turkey. Head over to <a href="https://growingupgabel.com/pom-pom-thanksgiving-craft/" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Growing Up Gabel;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Growing Up Gabel</em></a> to learn how to build this DIY project.</p>
<p>Cutesy Crafts</p><p>Kids can play with beads to create this must-have Thanksgiving food by <a href="https://cutesycrafts.com/2013/11/pony-bead-indian-corn.html" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:Cutesy Crafts;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>Cutesy Crafts</em></a>. Tip: If you want to make larger bead corncobs, use extra-long pipe cleaners.</p>
<p>The Spruce Crafts</p><p>Kids won’t need glue for this craft! They can learn how to make an origami turkey by following the directions from <a href="https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/how-to-make-an-origami-turkey-4147194" rel="nofollow noopener" target="_blank" data-ylk="slk:The Spruce Crafts;elm:context_link;itc:0;sec:content-canvas" class="link "><em>The Spruce Crafts</em></a>.</p>

Next, try one these fun Thanksgiving activities to do with kids.