Creating a warm, elevated Thanksgiving table doesn’t have to mean spending a ton of money. With a few thoughtful touches, affordable DIYs, and strategic layering, you can create a table that feels styled, intentional, and holiday-ready — even on a budget.
Below, I’m breaking down exactly how to recreate this table setup, plus sharing simple variations, my favorite Dollar Tree DIYs to mix in, and a free printable to help you pull your whole tablescape together.
Updated: November 17, 2025
THE LOOK: Warm, Cozy, and Elevated
This tablescape leans into:
- Warm neutrals + soft greens
- Organic textures like kraft paper, rattan, and linen
- Pops of metallic gold
- Simple, layered place settings
- Easy, affordable centerpiece items (most from Dollar Tree or similar)
This style works beautifully for Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, or any cozy fall dinner party.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED: A few basic & affordable supplies
Base Layers
- Kraft paper table runner (grab from Dollar Tree)
- doilies (grab from Dollar Tree)
- Cloth napkins in a warm neutral (cream, clay, olive)
Centerpiece Elements
- Assorted fall stems + greenery
- Taper candles + holders
- Small pumpkins or gourds
Place Setting Details
- Champagne or gold flatware
- My printable Thanksgiving placemats (options shown below!)
RECREATE: easy DIY Thanksgiving Table
Step 1: Create your table runner by following my doily table runner guide
Step 2: Build your centerpiece:
- Lay a greenery base (real or faux).
- Add a few fall stems for dimension.
- Layer in 3–5 candles in varying heights.
- Fill gaps with pumpkins, pinecones, or wooden accents.
Step 3: Print and set your placemats:
- Download my printable placemats
- Print at home (use the settings as shown below), or at a local print shop
Step 4: Set your place settings
- Dinner plate
- Cloth napkin, folded or knotted (Check out a fun pumpkin fold below as an option!)
- Gold or champagne-tone flatware (adds a subtle festive feel without overwhelming the table)
- Pair with simple wine glasses or champagne coupes
OPTIONS: Elevate your Thanksgiving Table
Pinecone Place Card Holder
Add a personalized touch by sliding a simple name card into a pinecone. It’s effortless, natural, and brings instant fall charm to each place setting.
Pumpkin Napkin Fold
Turn a basic cloth napkin into a cute pumpkin using a small jar or votive inside. It’s an easy, festive detail that makes every plate feel special.
Learn how to create a pumpkin napkin!
DIY Oui Jar Votives
Upcycle empty Oui yogurt jars into cozy votive candles. Add a little twine, paint, or fall greenery to make them glow beautifully on your table.
RELATED POSTS YOU MAY LOVE:
If you’re hosting Friendsgiving or a big family dinner, these posts pair perfectly with your table setup:
🎉 Friendsgiving Games & Activities
🥧 Easy Thanksgiving Side & Dessert Ideas
🎃Create a pumpkin wine decanter for a fun conversation piece!
FREE PRINTABLE: Thanksgiving Table Placemats
These placemats tie your whole table together and make every place setting feel intentional and styled. Download them all using the form below!