With Thanksgiving just two weeks away, I put together a Thanksgiving dinner setup featuring DIY ideas you can use for any upcoming hosting or entertaining. These projects are simple, stylish, and adaptable for other holidays or casual gatherings.
I’ve partnered again with Seven Daughters to share seven DIY entertaining projects. Some take a little more time, others are quick and easy, but all are great for Thanksgiving and beyond.
Included here are a charcuterie board table runner, dyed tablecloth, sewn denim napkins, geometric string art, a hand-lettered menu, yarn surprise ball favors, and a simple grocery-store floral arrangement. Read on for step-by-step concepts and tips to make your table look welcoming and effortless.
1. Charcuterie table runner: Start with a long piece of scrap wood—think of it as a stretched cutting board. Oil the wood to bring out the grain and protect the surface, then arrange an assortment of meats, cheeses, nuts, fruits, and crackers directly on it. A long charcuterie runner is excellent for greeting guests as they arrive and encourages mingling along the table.
When choosing items, pick flavors that pair well with red wine and Thanksgiving dishes. Turkey, ham, and cured meats match nicely with medium-bodied reds like Pinot Noir or a red blend. Include a mix of textures—creamy cheeses, firm cured meats, crunchy nuts, and fresh fruit—for a balanced spread.
2. Dyed tablecloth: Dyeing an existing cloth is a quick way to refresh your table setting. For a subtle, worn-in look, dip a stained tablecloth briefly into black dye, then rinse and dry. The result is a faded gray tone that feels curated and relaxed. This technique hides minor stains and adds depth to your table décor without buying new linens.
3. DIY denim napkins: Upcycle an old pair of jeans into sturdy, reusable napkins. Cut squares from the denim, hem the edges, and press them for crisp corners. Denim napkins are durable, machine-washable, and lend a casual, homey feel to large family dinners. They’re especially handy for gatherings where spills are likely.
4. Geometric string art backdrop / photo booth: Create an easy geometric backdrop with pushpins or small nails and colorful yarn. Map out a loose pattern on a wall or foam board, place the pins, and wrap yarn between them to form intersecting shapes. This makes an eye-catching photo booth backdrop or a graphic accent behind the dessert or drink station.
5. Hand-lettered menu: A large, hand-lettered menu sets the tone and builds anticipation. Use a sheet of kraft paper or heavy watercolor paper and a friend with lettering skills—or try a brush pen yourself—to list the evening’s dishes. Place it near the entrance or on an easel so guests know what to expect and can note dietary items at a glance.
6. Yarn surprise ball party favors: For a playful favor, wrap small gifts in layers of yarn to create “surprise balls.” Guests toss them home and unwrap the layers to reveal a few small treats—like candy, mini gadgets, or a handwritten note. These are fun for both Thanksgiving and winter holidays and add an interactive element to the evening.
7. Grocery-store florals: You don’t need an expensive florist to make a beautiful centerpiece. Pick up mixed stems from your local grocery store and arrange them loosely in a low vase or jar. A freeform bouquet placed off-center near the charcuterie board or at one end of the table keeps sight lines open and feels modern and casual. Remember: florals can be placed anywhere, not just in the middle.
Those are seven simple, stylish ideas to help you host with confidence this season. Mix and match projects—use the charcuterie runner with denim napkins and grocery-store florals, or combine the string-art backdrop with hand-lettered menus for a playful photo area. These touches make entertaining feel personal without adding stress.
Photography Amelia Tatnall Lawrence
Styling Brittni Mehlhoff
Giveaway: If you’re 21 or older, there’s a chance to win $500 cash and a Friendsgiving prize pack chosen by bloggers and hosts. Prizes include entertaining essentials to make hosting easier and more festive.
What are your favorite Thanksgiving traditions for food and entertaining? Do you have a go-to DIY idea you add to your holiday routine? Share your favorites in the comments.
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This post is in partnership with Seven Daughters. All opinions are my own, and I appreciate the brands that help support Paper & Stitch.