By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. View our Privacy Policy for more information.

Easy and Creative DIY Thanksgiving Crafts: Make Your Own Festive Gourd Candles

Carl Heinrichs, owner of Quagga Designs.
Written by,

Carl Heinrichs

CEO of Quagga

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, expressing gratitude, and indulging in delicious food. It's also the perfect opportunity to unleash your creativity and add a touch of homemade charm to your celebrations. One easy and creative DIY project that will make your Thanksgiving table shine is making your own festive gourd candles. These enchanting candles are not only beautiful, but they also capture the essence of fall with their warm glow and natural elements.

DIY Gourd Candles: A Festive Fall Craft

If you're looking for a fun and creative way to decorate your Thanksgiving table, look no further than DIY gourd candles. These unique and stylish candles are made from real gourds, which add a touch of rustic elegance to any setting. The process of making these candles is surprisingly simple, and the final result is sure to impress your guests.

Imagine the warm glow of candlelight reflecting off the textured surface of a gourd, casting a cozy and inviting ambiance throughout your home. The natural beauty of the gourds combined with the flickering flame creates a captivating display that captures the essence of fall.

To get started, you'll need a few supplies:

  1. A selection of gourds in various sizes and shapes
  2. A sharp knife or pumpkin carving tools
  3. Candle wax or soy wax flakes
  4. Candle wicks
  5. A double boiler or a heat-safe container for melting the wax
  6. Essential oils or fragrance oils (optional)
  7. Decorative elements such as dried flowers or cinnamon sticks (optional)

Once you have gathered your materials, follow these simple steps to create your own breathtaking gourd candles.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making Gourd Candles

Step 1: Start by carefully cutting off the top of each gourd. Make sure to choose a size that will allow you to place a tealight or small votive candle inside. Take your time with this step, as a clean and precise cut will ensure a snug fit for the candle.

Step 2: Clean out the inside of the gourds, removing any seeds or fibrous parts. Use a spoon or a scooping tool to scrape the interior until it is smooth and clean. This will create a perfect space for the candle to sit securely without any obstructions.

Step 3: Melt the candle wax or soy wax flakes in a double boiler or a heat-safe container placed in a pot of boiling water. The gentle heat will slowly melt the wax, ensuring a smooth and even consistency. If desired, add a few drops of essential oils or fragrance oils to give your candles a delightful scent. Consider using scents like cinnamon, vanilla, or pumpkin spice to enhance the fall atmosphere.

Step 4: While the wax is melting, prepare your gourd candles by placing a candle wick in the center of each gourd. You can use a dab of melted wax to secure the wick in place. Ensure that the wick is centered and straight, as this will ensure an even burn and prevent any potential hazards.

Step 5: Once the wax has completely melted, carefully pour it into each gourd, making sure not to overflow. The wax will fill the hollowed-out gourd, creating a beautiful container for the candle. Allow the wax to cool and solidify before moving on to the next step. Patience is key here, as rushing this step may result in a lopsided or uneven candle.

Step 6: For an extra touch of elegance, you can add some decorative elements to your gourd candles. Press dried flowers or herbs onto the surface of the wax or insert cinnamon sticks around the wick for a festive touch. These embellishments will not only enhance the visual appeal of the candles but also infuse them with a delightful fragrance.

Step 7: Once the wax has completely cooled and hardened, trim the wick to a suitable length and light your beautiful homemade gourd candles. Sit back and enjoy the warm and inviting glow that emanates from these unique creations.

Now that you have created your own stunning gourd candles, it's time to display them and bask in the cozy ambiance they provide. Place them in the center of your Thanksgiving table or scatter them throughout your home to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. These candles also make thoughtful gifts for friends and family, spreading the joy and beauty of the fall season.

Elevate Your Thanksgiving with a Stylish Bar Cart

In addition to crafting your own gourd candles, another way to take your Thanksgiving celebrations to the next level is by setting up a stylish bar cart. A well-stocked bar cart not only adds a touch of sophistication to your gathering but also ensures that your guests will be able to enjoy their favorite libations throughout the evening.

When it comes to setting up your Thanksgiving bar cart, it's important to have a variety of essential items on hand. Here are some must-haves for a well-stocked Thanksgiving bar cart:

  • A selection of wine, beer, and spirits
  • A variety of mixers, including tonic water, club soda, and cranberry juice
  • An assortment of glassware for different types of drinks
  • Garnishes such as lemons, limes, and fresh herbs
  • An ice bucket and tongs for keeping drinks chilled
  • A cocktail shaker and strainer
  • Stylish napkins and cocktail stirrers
  • A selection of non-alcoholic beverages for guests who prefer not to drink

By having these essential items readily available on your bar cart, you'll be able to effortlessly mix up a variety of festive cocktails and ensure that your guests' glasses never run dry.

Imagine your Thanksgiving gathering, filled with laughter and joy, as your guests gather around the stylish bar cart you have set up. The soft glow of the candlelight dances off the glassware, creating an inviting ambiance. As your guests approach the bar cart, they are greeted by an impressive selection of wine, beer, and spirits. From rich red wines to crisp and refreshing beers, there is something to suit every palate.

But it's not just the variety of alcoholic beverages that sets your bar cart apart. You have also thoughtfully included a range of mixers, ensuring that your guests can enjoy their favorite cocktails. Tonic water, club soda, and cranberry juice are all at their fingertips, ready to be mixed with their spirit of choice. The possibilities are endless, from classic gin and tonics to festive cranberry mimosas.

As your guests browse the glassware on the bar cart, they are delighted to find an assortment of options for different types of drinks. From elegant wine glasses to sleek highball glasses, you have considered every detail. Each glass is carefully chosen to enhance the drinking experience, allowing your guests to fully appreciate the flavors and aromas of their chosen libations.

No cocktail is complete without a garnish, and you have not overlooked this important detail. Lemons, limes, and fresh herbs are artfully arranged on the bar cart, ready to add a burst of flavor and visual appeal to any drink. Your guests can experiment with different combinations, creating their own signature cocktails or adding a refreshing twist to a classic recipe.

Of course, keeping drinks chilled is essential, and you have taken care of this with an ice bucket and tongs. The ice glistens invitingly, promising to keep the beverages at the perfect temperature throughout the evening. Your guests can help themselves to ice as needed, ensuring that their drinks remain refreshingly cold.

For those who prefer their cocktails shaken, not stirred, you have included a cocktail shaker and strainer on the bar cart. This allows your guests to channel their inner mixologist and create their own masterpieces. The sound of the shaker fills the air, adding an element of excitement and anticipation to the festivities.

As your guests reach for their drinks, they are delighted to find stylish napkins and cocktail stirrers. These small touches add an extra layer of elegance to the bar cart, elevating the overall experience. The napkins are soft and luxurious, while the stirrers are sleek and modern. Every detail has been carefully considered to create a visually stunning and cohesive bar cart setup.

Finally, you have thoughtfully included a selection of non-alcoholic beverages for guests who prefer not to drink. From sparkling water to fruity mocktails, there is something for everyone. No guest will feel left out or excluded, as they can enjoy a delicious and refreshing beverage that suits their preferences.

With your well-stocked bar cart, you can effortlessly mix up a variety of festive cocktails and ensure that your guests' glasses never run dry. The bar cart becomes a focal point of the gathering, a place where friends and family can come together to celebrate and enjoy each other's company. It adds an element of sophistication and style to your Thanksgiving celebrations, making them truly memorable.

Explore Our Collection of Informative Articles

In addition to these easy and creative DIY Thanksgiving crafts, we offer a wide range of informative articles to help you make the most of this special holiday. Whether you're interested in learning new recipes, decorating ideas, or ways to express gratitude, our collection has something for everyone.

Thanksgiving is a time when families and friends come together to celebrate and give thanks. It's a holiday filled with traditions and customs that have been passed down through generations. One of the most beloved traditions is the Thanksgiving feast, where tables are adorned with delicious dishes and the air is filled with the aroma of roasted turkey and freshly baked pies.

But Thanksgiving is not just about the food. It's also a time to reflect on the things we are grateful for and to express our appreciation to those around us. That's why we have curated a collection of articles that delve into the deeper meaning of Thanksgiving and provide insights on how to cultivate an attitude of gratitude.

Our articles cover a wide range of topics, from the history of Thanksgiving and its cultural significance, to tips on hosting the perfect Thanksgiving dinner. We also have articles that explore the different ways you can give back to your community during the holiday season, whether it's through volunteering or donating to those in need.

For those who love to cook, we have a plethora of recipes that will inspire you to try something new this Thanksgiving. From traditional favorites like mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce, to innovative dishes that put a unique twist on classic flavors, our recipes are sure to impress your guests and leave them asking for seconds.

And let's not forget about the decorations! Thanksgiving is a time to create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your home. Our articles on Thanksgiving decor will provide you with plenty of inspiration, whether you prefer a rustic farmhouse look or a more modern and minimalist style.

So, whether you're a seasoned Thanksgiving host or a first-time celebrator, our collection of informative articles is here to help you make this holiday truly special. Explore our website and discover the wealth of knowledge and inspiration that awaits you.

From simple crafts to delectable dishes, Thanksgiving is the perfect time to unleash your creativity and celebrate the season. So, why not try your hand at making your own festive gourd candles or setting up a stylish bar cart? With a little bit of effort and a whole lot of imagination, you can create an unforgettable Thanksgiving experience for yourself and your guests.

As you embrace the spirit of Thanksgiving and the joy of DIY projects, consider extending that creativity to your bedroom with Quagga Designs. Our easy-to-assemble, MADE IN CANADA bed frames, like the innovative No-Fuss Plus and the versatile Tic-Tac-Toe, embody the same handcrafted ethos as your festive gourd candles. With no hardware required and assembly times under 10 minutes, you'll have more time to spend with loved ones. Our eco-friendly bed frames, crafted with natural soy-based glue and FSC Certified wood, not only support your mattress but also the environment. And with the ability to expand or customize to fit your style, Quagga Designs offers a sustainable and adaptable solution for your home. Experience the comfort and craftsmanship of our bed frames, shipped directly to you within 5-7 business days, and enjoy a 100 night sleep trial. This Thanksgiving, give thanks for a restful sleep and a healthier planet with Quagga Designs. Check out our products and discover the perfect foundation for your restful retreat.

Carl Heinrichs

CEO of Quagga
Carl Heinrichs is the Founder of Quagga, Canada's most innovative furniture design solutions that are easy to assemble and playfully made.

Recent Blog Posts