Every year, as we plan our Thanksgiving meal, my daughters and I look for new and creative ways to decorate our table. Sometimes we try folding our napkins in new and fancy ways, or arrange flowers in a variety of vases. For our centerpiece this year I decided to see what I could come up with using items I picked up at Dollar Tree.
**I was compensated for this post, although the ideas and craftiness are 100% mine. This post also contains affiliate links and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links.**
As we wandered the aisles, my daughter and I found plenty of inspiration but settled on the idea of decoupaging a piece of scrap wood, using it as a base for candles and accessories. This way we can get some variety and extra use out of all the pieces in our little vignette.
To create this centerpiece grouping, you’ll need:
- 2 candle sticks
- 2 votive candles
- a paper napkin (with Christmas coming, you might try these napkins)
- a wooden plaque, tray or frame
- white school glue (or mod podge)
- sponge brush applicator
- accessories to fit the season
Using a sponge brush applicator, coat the surface of your board with a coat of the white glue.
After deciding how the design of the paper napkin should be placed on teh base, spread a single layer onto the damp glue. Take care to smooth the surface and remove air bubbles. When the paper is dampened with the glue it becomes a bit fragile, but with a gentle touch you’ll have no trouble.
Trim the excess, leaving enough to turn over the edge and tuck underneath. If you prefer, trim your paper to fit before you adhere to the board.
Working with one edge at a time, apply a thin, smooth layer of glue and fold the paper over. Press firmly but gently.
Apply a thin layer of glue on the underneath side, pressing the excess paper to finish off.
To seal the project, use the sponge brush applicatorto spread a thin layer of glue (or mod podge) over the whole board, covering all the paper on all edges. If glue seems too thick, thin with water. This gives a layer of protection as well as a bit of a sheen, making it all useful and beautiful.
Now it’s time to assemble and personalize the centerpiece/vignette. I placed two metal/glass candle sticks on my newly decoupaged platform. We chose cranberry votives for a little color and tucked adorable little wax leaves underneath. These scented wax pieces are made to be used in a warmer but they fit perfectly and their subtle aroma added something special.
A cream-colored porcelain pumpkin is center stage, with silk leaves tucked in at corners. The buckeyes gathered by my children are a family tradition this time of year, so of course they had to be included.
Since we never do things the same way twice, I don’t like to invest too much money or time for something we may only use once. All the pieces in the grouping can be used in a variety of ways on many different sorts of occasions. Flexibility and Versatility – love it!
While it is a lot of fun browsing the aisles and choosing our supplies in person, it’s also convenient to visit the Dollar Tree online store – did you know you can shop and have your items delivered to your door? Makes it easy, right?
How will your Thanksgiving table be decked out? What will you be serving?
Some of my blogging friends and I have have teamed up to create some terrific posts that will help you get your Thanksgiving meals on the table and your celebration easy and festive using items we found at Dollar Tree. You’ll want to visit them to see all their hints, tips and delicious recipes!
- DIY Centerpiece for Your Thanksgiving Table by Apron Strings and Other Things
- DIY Dollar Tree Fall Floral Centerpiece by Daily Dish Recipes
- Grandma’s Pink Cherry Salad by Day to Day Adventures
- Homemade Holiday Planner by Family Around the Table
- Gnocchi with Pumpkin Sauce by Our Good Life
- Homemade Stuffing- With Ingredients You Can Get From The Dollar Tree by The Farmer’s Lamp
- Cranberry Pecan Pie Crust Cookies by Tip Garden

Very lovely!
I love this!! What a sweet centerpiece, it’s new but has elements of tradition.
Love this center piece. Thanks for sharing your tutorial.