DIY Thanksgiving Table Accessories

Table decorations that will impress your guests this Thanksgiving don't need to be expensive or store bought. Instead of heading to the store, walk around your nearest oak tree and gather some acorns to make cute and easy napkin rings and center pieces!

Napkin Rings

What you'll need:

• 9 – 10 acorns per ring
• Thin wire
• Drill with small bit
• Pliers
• Wire cutters

Instructions:

Drill tiny holes through the center of each acorn. Carefully thread the wire through each hole alternating which direction the top of the acorn is facing. Use the wire cutters to snip the wire to size, leaving a bit extra on either side of the last acorns. Twist the ends of the wire together with the pliers to complete the ring. Slide them over napkins and when conversation gets dull, use them as a talking point!

Photo courtesy of Little Birdie Secrets

Acorn and candle centerpiece

What you'll need:

• Clear glass vase
• Acorns
• Candle(s)
• Ribbon or twine
• Scissors

Instructions:

Fill the vase ¾ of the way full with acorns. Insert the candle(s) and re-situate the acorns to position the candle(s) upright. To add a bit of embellishment, wrap twine around the center of the vase and use a piece of clear tape to keep it in place. If you prefer more exciting embellishment, you can also use a ribbon to make a bow.

To make sure the acorns you use for both of these projects are bug free, you may want to clean them first. One acorn crafter recommends soaking the acorns in water, lying them flat in a single layer on foil covered cookie sheet and baking them at 200 – 250 degrees Fahrenheit for an hour. Check periodically to make sure they do not burn.