20 Creative Thanksgiving Place Card Holder Ideas

And Amazon Unique Alternatives for Those don’t have Time for DIY

As Thanksgiving approaches, we’re all getting ready for the big day—from buying the turkey to preparing dishes, cleaning the house, and, of course, setting up a beautiful Thanksgiving table that will be remembered for years.

Thanksgiving is a time to gather around the table with family and friends, sharing delicious food and unforgettable stories. And what better way to make your guests feel extra special.

One special touch that can leave your personal mark on the celebration is creative, handmade decorations. A DIY Thanksgiving place card holder not only keeps things organized and helps guests find their spots easily but also adds a charming, custom look to your table.

Making a place card holder is simple, and with your guest list mostly set, now based in Thanksgiving preparation timeline, the perfect time to start crafting! Depending on your table theme and overall decor, you can design a place card holder that will leave a lasting impression on your guests, making this Thanksgiving one to remember.

Let’s dive into some charming and easy DIY ideas that’ll add a warm, personal touch to your Thanksgiving table.

1. Mini Pumpkin Holders

Pick up mini pumpkins from a local farmer’s market, carve out a tiny notch on top, and tuck in a name card. It’s cute, earthy, and you can even let guests take them home. Last year, I spray-painted mine gold for an extra festive flair. Or you can replace real pumpkins with decorative one available in different colors.

  1. White Pumpkin With Dried flower Design Place Card Holders, Set of 4 – $35.55
  2. 16 Sets of Green Thanksgiving Table Decor Pumpkin Place Card Holder – $23.99
  3. 20 Sets Orange Resin Thanksgiving Mini Pumpkin Place Card Holders – $31.99 (available in 2 Colors)
  4. Corn Husk Pumpkin Name Card Holders, Set of 3 – $26.99
  5. 6 Sets of unique and Decorative Turkey perched on a Pumpkin Place Card – $31.46
  6. Thanksgiving Table Decor White Pumpkin Place Card Holders, 6 pcs- $9.99

2. Rustic Pinecones

Use a small pinecone, stand it up, and place the card snugly between the scales. This idea is perfect if you love that cozy, rustic vibe. Gather the pinecones yourself for a personal touch, or mix in some faux snow for a wintery twist.

3. Twine and Cinnamon Sticks

Take three cinnamon sticks and tie them together with twine. Slip a card in between for a fragrant holder that doubles as a memento. Guests loved the little cinnamon touch I used last year—they make great car fresheners afterward!

4. Cork Creations

wine corks using for thanksgiving place card holder

If you have a collection of wine corks, cut a small slit on the top of each and insert the name card. To make them extra festive, I painted little Thanksgiving-themed designs on mine—turkeys and pumpkins were a hit!

5. Miniature Cornucopias

Fill small cones (like waffle cups or craft versions) with nuts, and berries. Rest a name card on top or use floral wire to secure it at the opening. These cornucopias add a Thanksgiving classic to each place setting.

6. Natural Wood Slices

A small wood slice, available at most craft stores, can act as a name card. Use a Sharpie to hand-letter names directly onto the wood, or attach a mini clip for a more polished look.

7. Leaves and Twigs

Grab a few fallen leaves, write your guest’s name in metallic marker, and attach them to twigs or acorns. This idea feels effortless and brings a bit of nature to your table.

8. Burlap

Use burlap or another rustic fabric, tuck the name card inside, and tie them with twine. These have a cozy, farmhouse feel, and I love how they can double as little note holders for sweet messages to your guests.

9. Wheat and Ribbon Napkin Ring Card Holder


Create a charming napkin ring that doubles as a place card holder for a festive Thanksgiving table setting. Wrap a napkin with a bundle of wheat stalks, secured by a delicate ribbon, and attach a card with “Happy Thanksgiving” or each guest’s name. The wheat symbolizes abundance and pairs beautifully with the holiday theme, adding a rustic, heartfelt touch that welcomes your guests warmly.

10. Washi Tape Clothespins

Decorate plain clothespins with washi tape or paint in autumn hues, and clip them to small pumpkins or sprigs of herbs. Last Thanksgiving, these added such a pop of color, and they’re budget-friendly too!

11. Twig Bundles

Bundle up a few twigs with twine, and slip a name card into the bundle. This earthy approach is simple but adds an organic charm to any table.

12. Mini Chalkboards

Chalkboards are timeless, and mini versions are perfect for place settings! Write each guest’s name in chalk or chalk marker for a personalized touch they can reuse.

13. Herb Sprigs

Tie rosemary, thyme, or sage sprigs around the name card with twine. This look is not only beautiful but also adds a lovely fragrance to the table. Guests loved the herbal aroma at my last gathering.

14. Painted Acorns

Use vibrant autumnal colors to paint acorns, then attach each one to a card with a dot of glue. You can even mix metallics for an extra sparkle. Just a small detail that guests appreciate!

15. Miniature Frames

small Frame Thanksgiving card holder

Tiny photo frames can hold place cards and add a polished touch to your table. Plus, they can become little keepsakes for your guests to use at home!

16. Wooden Spool Holders

wooden spool Thanksgiving card holder

Find a few vintage spools, wrap them in twine or ribbon, and tuck the name card into the top. They add a quaint charm that feels timeless.

17. Feathers with Gold Tips

Use feathers as the base, dipping the ends in gold or copper paint for a chic finish. Secure the name card to the feather with a tiny clothespin or ribbon.

18. Cranberry Clusters

Thread fresh cranberries onto floral wire, twist them into a small ring, and tuck in a name card. Not only are they pretty, but they’re also a fun nod to Thanksgiving’s star berry.

19. Mini Gourds

Use small gourds as name card holders by either tying a card around the stem or placing the card directly on top. Gourds add color and a festive vibe without much effort.

20. Sliced Oranges with Clove Designs

Cut orange slices, stick cloves into them, and use them as the base for a name card. The citrus scent mixed with cloves adds an amazing aroma to the table. You can also use dried slice fruits like orange or apple as base to hold your card.

Each of these ideas can make your table feel festive, personalized, and welcoming. Whatever you choose, it’ll show your guests you’ve thought of every detail!

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