Thanksgiving Tablescape Tutorial by Dorrie Buccafusca

Creating an inexpensive, “traditional with a twist”, Thanksgiving tablescape is easier than you think. Here’s a sampling of what you’ll need to get started. Depending on the size of your table, you will want to adjust your supplies accordingly.

Our table measures 88×45, so I opted to flank my tablescape with five cinderalla pumpkins. One large pumpkin in the center, two medium and two small. If orange isn’t your thing, there is also a muted blue variety that is very pretty and neutral.

Once your pumpkins are placed, it’s time to add a little warmth by cozying in some burlap. Folding the burlap in half, I secured the center point under the middle pumpkin and worked the burlap under the remaining pumpkins, making sure to keep the bunching natural. Some of you are probably wondering why the burlap was placed after the pumpkins. Good question! Having tried it both ways, I found the burlap was easier to manipulate with the weight of the pumpkins on top of it. If burlap isn’t your thing, corduroy, flannel or linen are great alternatives.

Now it’s time to start layering in the actual place setting starting with the chargers. Because my table is so dark and heavy feeling, I decided to go with unconventionally shaped chargers so they would standout against the rich tones of the wood while adding some visual interest.

It’s always fun to add an unexpected element of surprise. This year, instead of using my traditional, formal china, I decided to switch things up. I used every day dinnerware and incorporated a fun, vibrant dinner plate that visually connected my centerpiece and existing dishes. Mixing and matching or simply adding a new dish or bowl is a very inexpensive way to give and older place setting an updated look.

I decided to layer in my grapevine at this point. There’s really no right or wrong method for doing this. Some people find the grapevines easier to work with after they’ve been soaked in water for a bit. After unravelling mine, I really liked the natural, flowing look I was left with and didn’t find wetting necessary. The grapevines were fairly easy to spread out and manipulate. Make sure you fan the grapevines enough so that guests seated on all sides of the table can see them.

Next up is flatware and glasses. Years ago, I was given some older, mismatched flatware. It had sat untouched for over 15 years. Instead of using my formal flatware, I gave my vintage cutlery a much needed polish and decided perfect imperfection was exactly what our table needed. The glassware was a combo of our everyday drinking glasses and our more formal stemware.

Want to take it a step further? How about welcoming guests to your table with a sweet note card filled with heartfelt sentiments about why you’re thankful for them? Place the note card in a bowl, or put a mini pumpkin in the bowl and place the notecard on the plate.

Voila! Your tablescape is done! Now all that’s left to do is enjoy your Thanksgiving feast!