Inexpensive Thanksgiving Table Decoration Ideas

How do you decorate your Thanksgiving table if you don't have a lot of money or time? These five ideas take very little time or money, but make a beautiful Thanksgiving table that people will be talking about through the holidays!

1. Mini Pumpkin Place 'Cards'

Mini pumpkins are very inexpensive and very cute. Simply write the person's name in the front of the mini-pumpkin with a silver or gold Sharpie in pretty cursive, and set upon their salad plate for a charming place-saver. They can take the mini pumpkin home as a gift.

2. Seasonal Centerpiece

This centerpiece is beautiful, cheap, and is inspired by nature and by the wonderful fruits and vegetables that are in season. A medium basket is filled with beautiful fall leaves taken from outside in shades of red, rust, orange, and gold and are arranged inside. Sitting atop the bed of leaves you can decoratively place wild corn, apples, large chestnuts, mini-pumpkins and squash. An alternative is to make two or three much smaller versions and place at intervals along the middle of the table.

3. Frugal Fall Table Runner (no sewing!)

To make a frugal but festive table for your Thanksgiving meal, simply put a solid color tablecloth on your table. These are very inexpensive. Then, in a coordinating color or pattern, go to a discount fabric store and get a yard or two of autumn fabric. Wal-Mart has fabric at $1 a yard, and Jo-Ann fabrics has their seasonal fabric on sale well before the holiday. Simply fold the fabric in on each side so both edges are underneath, then attach with fabric tape. Place your centerpiece (s) along the table runner. Use cloth napkins that can be easily gotten at a secondhand store for a formal look.

4. Easy Napkin 'Rings'

Napkin rings to go around your cloth napkins and cutlery can be expensive. Why not try this simple, inexpensive idea for napkin 'rings' that will add that special touch to your Thanksgiving table. Simply purchase discount ribbon in fall colors that correspond with the colors in your table runner or table cloth. Tie the ribbon around the cloth napkins and slip a small autumn leaf in the front of each.

5. Apple Candles

This is a great, frugal idea with a real 'wow' factor. Cut the top of an apple off, then carefully remove the inside of the apple. Leave plenty of room on each side, taking care not to puncture the apple. Then, place a tea candle inside and place a few on your Thanksgiving table for a colorful and seasonal punch!

Have fun decorating your Thanksgiving or autumn party table with these frugal, easy, and creative ideas!