How To Make Thanksgiving Garlands

Imagine transforming your home into a warm and festive Thanksgiving haven by simply adding Thanksgiving garlands throughout your space. These easy-to-make decorations not only bring a touch of autumn beauty, but also create a cozy atmosphere for you and your loved ones to enjoy. Whether you’re a seasoned DIY enthusiast or a novice crafter, this article will guide you step-by-step on how to make stunning Thanksgiving garlands that will impress your guests and make your holiday celebration truly special. Get ready to unleash your creativity and add a seasonal charm to your home with these delightful decorations.

Understanding the Basics

Knowing what is a Garland

Before diving into the process of making Thanksgiving garlands, it’s important to understand what a garland actually is. In its simplest definition, a garland is a decorative arrangement of items that is typically hung or draped in a curved or looping fashion. Garlands can be made from various materials such as leaves, flowers, fruits, nuts, paper, and more. They are commonly used to add a festive touch to celebrations and occasions, including Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving Themes for Garlands

When it comes to Thanksgiving, there are several themes that you can incorporate into your garland designs. Traditional fall elements such as leaves, pumpkins, and gourds are always popular choices. You can also opt for a rustic look by using dried fruits and nuts, which adds a cozy and natural vibe to your Thanksgiving decorations. If you prefer a more modern style, consider using paper and glitter to create a contemporary and eye-catching garland.

Gathering the Materials

Choosing the Base Material

The choice of base material for your garland depends on the overall look you want to achieve. For a classic and elegant feel, consider using a string of artificial vines or ivy as your base. If you prefer a more rustic and organic look, burlap can be a great option. Alternatively, you can also use a length of twine or ribbon as a simple yet versatile base for your garland.

Selecting Embellishments

Once you have determined the base material, it’s time to select the embellishments that will bring your garland to life. For a leaf garland, choose a variety of fall-colored leaves, such as maple or oak leaves, either real or artificial. If you’re going for a fruit and nut garland, gather a selection of dried fruits like oranges, cranberries, and apples, as well as an assortment of nuts like walnuts, almonds, and pecans. For a paper garland, you’ll need colored paper in various shades and patterns, along with glitter and glue to add sparkle.

Identifying Necessary Tools

To successfully create your Thanksgiving garland, you’ll need a few basic tools. These may include scissors or a craft knife for cutting materials, a hole punch or needle for stringing components together, and adhesive such as glue or tape to secure elements in place. It’s also helpful to have a ruler or measuring tape to ensure accurate spacing and length for your garland.

Choosing Your Design

Going Traditional with Fall Leaves

If you prefer a traditional Thanksgiving look, a garland made from fall leaves is the perfect choice. Start by collecting a variety of leaves in different colors and shapes. Once you have gathered your leaves, allow them to dry by pressing them between heavy books for a few days. Once dry, use a hole punch or needle to create small holes near the stems of the leaves. Thread a length of twine or ribbon through the holes, alternating the colors and sizes of the leaves. Continue until you have achieved the desired length, and then hang your leaf garland across a fireplace mantel, doorway, or table for a festive touch.

Opting for a Rustic Look with Dried Fruits and Nuts

For a cozy and rustic Thanksgiving garland, dried fruits and nuts make a charming choice. Start by drying slices of oranges, apples, and cranberries in the oven at a low temperature until they are completely dry. Next, gather an assortment of nuts, such as walnuts, almonds, and pecans. Using a large needle or toothpick, carefully thread the dried fruits and nuts onto a piece of twine or jute string, alternating between the different elements. Make sure to leave enough space between each item to create a balanced and visually appealing garland. Once complete, hang your fruit and nut garland on a wall, across a window, or along a banister to imbue your space with a warm and inviting feel.

Choosing a Modern Style with Paper and Glitter

If you’re aiming for a more modern and glamorous Thanksgiving garland, paper and glitter are your go-to materials. Start by cutting out shapes from colored paper, such as leaves, turkeys, or pumpkins, using scissors or a craft knife. You can keep the shapes simple or add intricate details depending on your preference. Once the shapes are cut, use a hole punch or needle to create small holes near the top of each piece. Next, apply a thin layer of glue to the shapes and sprinkle glitter over them for a dazzling effect. After the glitter dries, thread a length of string or ribbon through the holes and arrange the paper pieces in a pattern of your choice. Hang your glittery paper garland on a wall, across a mirror, or along a staircase to add a touch of modern elegance to your Thanksgiving decor.

Creating a Leaf Garland

Collecting and Drying Leaves

To create a leaf garland, start by venturing outdoors to collect fallen leaves. Look for leaves in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes to add visual interest to your garland. Once you have collected the leaves, gently rinse them under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Lay the leaves between two sheets of absorbent paper, such as paper towels or newsprint, and place heavy books on top to press them. Leave the leaves to dry for several days until they are completely dry and flat.

Attaching Leaves to the Base

Once your leaves are dry, it’s time to attach them to the base of your garland. If you have chosen a string of artificial vines or ivy as your base, simply use a small piece of twine or floral wire to secure each leaf to the base. Tie the twine or wire around the stem of the leaf and then wrap it around the vine or ivy, ensuring it is securely fastened. Repeat this process with each leaf, spacing them evenly along the length of the base.

Finished Product Care and Display

To ensure your leaf garland stays looking its best, it’s important to handle it with care. Avoid squeezing or crushing the leaves when handling or storing the garland. When it comes to display, consider draping your leaf garland across a fireplace mantel, hanging it around a doorway, or using it as a table centerpiece. Remember to keep the garland away from direct sunlight and moisture, as this can cause the leaves to fade or deteriorate over time.

Making a Burlap Garland

Cutting and Arranging Burlap Pieces

To create a burlap garland, start by measuring and cutting a length of burlap to your desired size. The width of the burlap can vary depending on the look you want to achieve, but a width of 3 to 4 inches usually works well. Cut multiple strips of burlap to create enough pieces for your garland. Once you have your strips ready, fold each one in half lengthwise and secure the ends with small dabs of glue or by stitching them together. Continue this process with each strip until you have a collection of folded burlap pieces.

Adding Fall Floral Embellishments

To enhance the rustic feel of your burlap garland, consider adding fall floral embellishments. Look for artificial flowers that capture the colors and textures of autumn, such as sunflowers, dahlias, or chrysanthemums. Use a hot glue gun to attach the flowers to the folded burlap pieces, arranging them in a visually pleasing pattern. You can also incorporate additional elements like small pinecones, twigs, or berries to further enhance the fall theme. Allow the glue to dry completely before proceeding to the next step.

Hanging and Display Suggestions

Once your burlap garland with fall floral embellishments is complete, it’s time to hang and display it. Consider draping the garland along a staircase railing, across the back of a dining room chair, or even on a blank wall. You can secure the garland in place with small nails or adhesive hooks. To add an extra touch, consider pairing the garland with string lights for a warm and inviting ambiance. As with any garland, avoid exposing the burlap to excessive moisture or direct sunlight, as this can cause it to deteriorate over time.

Assembling a Fruit and Nut Garland

Preparation of Fruits and Nuts

To create a fruit and nut garland, you’ll need to prepare your chosen elements beforehand. Start by drying slices of oranges, apples, and cranberries in the oven at a low temperature until they are completely dry. This process can take several hours, so be patient. As for the nuts, simply gather a selection of walnuts, almonds, and pecans. Make sure they are clean and free from any shell remnants.

Stringing and Arranging Elements

Once your fruits and nuts are prepared, it’s time to string and arrange them to form a beautiful garland. Start by threading a large needle or toothpick through the fruit slices, making sure to leave enough space between each piece. This spacing will allow your garland to hang gracefully without looking cluttered. Next, repeat the process with the nuts, alternating between the different types to create a visually pleasing pattern. Once you have assembled your garland, make sure to tie a knot or secure each end to prevent the elements from sliding off.

Storage and Display Tips

To prolong the life of your fruit and nut garland, proper storage is crucial. After Thanksgiving, carefully remove the garland from its display area, taking care not to damage any of the elements. Store the garland in a cool, dry place to prevent the fruits from molding or the nuts from becoming stale. When it’s time to display the garland again, gently untangle any knots or tangles that may have formed during storage. Hang it in a prominent place in your home, such as on a banister or along a window frame, to showcase its natural beauty throughout the autumn season.

Crafting a Paper Garland

Cutting Shapes from Colored Paper

To create a striking paper garland for your Thanksgiving decor, start by selecting colored paper in various shades and patterns. Determine the shape you want for your garland, whether it’s simple circles, leaves, turkeys, or pumpkins. Use scissors or a craft knife to carefully cut out multiple shapes from the colored paper. Depending on your desired length and design, you may need a large quantity of shapes. Be sure to take breaks as needed to avoid hand fatigue.

Stringing and Arranging Paper Pieces

Once you have cut out all your paper shapes, it’s time to string and arrange them into a stunning garland. Depending on the size of the shapes, you can use a hole punch or a needle to create small holes near the top of each piece. Thread a length of string or ribbon through the holes, alternating between different shapes and colors to create a visually appealing pattern. As you string the shapes, adjust their position and spacing to achieve the desired look. Once complete, hang your paper garland across a wall, above a doorway, or along a window frame to add a vibrant and festive touch to your Thanksgiving celebrations.

Variations and Display Ideas

The beauty of a paper garland lies in its versatility. You can experiment with different shapes, sizes, and colors to suit your personal style and the overall aesthetic of your Thanksgiving decor. For a more whimsical look, consider cutting out patterns like acorns, turkeys, or even mini pumpkins. Additionally, you can explore different textured papers, such as metallic or glitter papers, to add an extra sparkle to your garland. Display your paper garland in creative ways, such as draping it along a staircase banister, across a fireplace mantle, or even as a vibrant table runner. Let your imagination guide you as you bring a cheerful and festive atmosphere to your Thanksgiving gathering.

Adding Personal Touches

Incorporating Family Photos

To add a sentimental touch to your Thanksgiving garland, consider incorporating family photos into the design. Select some of your favorite family photos from past Thanksgivings or precious memories and print them in small sizes. Create mini frames by cutting out squares or circles from colored paper or cardstock, and then glue the photos onto the frames. Attach the framed photos to your garland using small clothespins or strings, spacing them out evenly along the length. This personalized touch not only adds warmth and nostalgia to your Thanksgiving decor but also helps to create a sense of togetherness and celebration of family bonds.

Adding Handmade or Personal Items

Another way to infuse your Thanksgiving garland with a personal touch is to incorporate handmade or personal items that hold sentimental value. For example, you can create small handcrafted yarn pompoms or fabric flowers to intersperse among the garland elements. If you have special trinkets or keepsakes that remind you of cherished memories, attach them to the garland using tiny hooks, ribbons, or strings. These personal items can serve as conversation starters and evoke meaningful conversations during your Thanksgiving gathering, creating a unique and memorable atmosphere.

Using Special Trinkets or Keepsakes

In addition to handmade items, you can also use special trinkets or keepsakes as decorative elements in your Thanksgiving garland. Look for small and lightweight items that relate to the themes of gratitude, harvest, or family. For example, miniature pumpkins, wooden acorns, or small ceramic turkeys can be paired with the garland to add a touch of charm and whimsy. Attach these trinkets securely using small hooks or strings, and arrange them in areas where they can be easily seen and appreciated. By incorporating these special objects into your garland, you’ll create a truly personalized and meaningful display for your Thanksgiving celebrations.

Involving the Kids

Choosing Child-Friendly Materials

If you want to make the Thanksgiving garland crafting experience a fun and inclusive activity for the whole family, it’s important to choose child-friendly materials. Opt for materials that are safe and easy for kids to handle, such as colorful construction paper, child-safe scissors, non-toxic glue sticks, and washable markers or crayons. Consider using pre-cut shapes or templates to simplify the process and minimize the need for intricate cutting or handling of sharp tools. By selecting child-friendly materials, you’ll ensure that the kids can actively participate in the garland-making process and contribute to the overall Thanksgiving decor.

Kid-Safe Garland Ideas

When involving kids in creating Thanksgiving garlands, it’s helpful to choose age-appropriate and engaging garland ideas. One idea is to have kids cut out hand shapes from colored paper and write what they are thankful for on each hand. String these hand-shaped cutouts to create a garland that represents the gratitude of each family member. Another idea is to have kids create fabric or felt turkeys by cutting out turkey shapes and decorating them with fabric markers or craft supplies. These turkeys can be strung together with colorful beads for an adorable and festive garland. Remember to provide guidance and supervision when working with younger children to ensure their safety and enjoyment throughout the garland-making process.

Making Garland Crafting a Thanksgiving Tradition

Involving kids in the garland-making process can be a wonderful way to create lasting memories and establish a Thanksgiving tradition in your family. Set aside a specific time each year, such as the weekend before Thanksgiving, to gather as a family and create Thanksgiving garlands together. Encourage creativity, storytelling, and laughter as you work on your garlands. Display the garlands with pride once they are completed, and take the time to appreciate the unique contributions of each family member. Celebrating the tradition of garland crafting can strengthen family bonds and provide a cherished activity that everyone looks forward to each year.

Can Thanksgiving Mantel Decorations Double as Garlands?

Yes, Thanksgiving mantel decor ideas can double as garlands. Incorporating fall foliage, pinecones, and cozy accents can create a seamless transition from the mantel to the rest of the room. Adding a string of lights or some vintage banners can also enhance the overall effect.

Maintaining Your Garland

Cleaning and Storing Post-Thanksgiving

Once Thanksgiving has come to an end, it’s important to clean and store your garlands properly to ensure their longevity. Start by gently dusting or wiping the garlands with a soft cloth or feather duster to remove any loose debris. For garlands made from delicate materials, such as dried fruit slices or paper, use a low-powered handheld vacuum cleaner or a can of compressed air to remove dust and particles. If needed, spot clean any stains or spills with a mild detergent and a soft cloth, taking care not to saturate the garland. Allow the garlands to air dry completely before storing them in a clean and dry place, away from moisture and direct sunlight.

Checking for Damage or Wear

Before putting your garlands into storage, it’s important to inspect them for any signs of damage or wear. Check for loose or missing elements, such as fallen leaves, detached fruits, or torn paper pieces, and make any necessary repairs. If you notice extensive damage that cannot be easily fixed, consider replacing the affected elements or retiring the garland altogether. It’s better to identify and address any damage early on to prevent further deterioration and maintain the overall quality and appearance of your garland.

Upcycling or Recycling Old Garlands

If you find that some of your garlands are no longer suitable for display or have become worn out over time, consider upcycling or recycling them instead of simply discarding them. Old garlands can be repurposed into smaller decorative items, such as wreaths, napkin rings, or even framed artwork. Get creative with your materials and think of ways to breathe new life into the components of your old garlands. If upcycling is not an option, check local recycling guidelines to see if the materials can be recycled responsibly. By responsibly managing the disposal or repurposing of your old garlands, you contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly approach to crafting and home decor.

Now that you have a comprehensive guide on how to make Thanksgiving garlands, it’s time to gather your materials, choose a design, and get creative! Whether you go for a traditional leaf garland, a rustic burlap garland, a fruit and nut garland, or a vibrant paper garland, let your imagination guide you in creating a beautiful and festive display for your Thanksgiving celebrations. Remember to involve the whole family, add personal touches, and take care of your garlands so that they can be enjoyed year after year. Happy garland crafting and happy Thanksgiving!