Posts Tagged ‘green thanksgivng’

Yes, today we are going beyond the turkey to focus on the decorations. Centerpieces, napkin holders, table runners…you know homey little touches that can bring an Autumn feel to the house.

The difference in what we are going to look at here is that all of our Thanksgiving decorations are going to be upcycled. Now, for those who do not know what that means I’ll explain it. Upcycling and Upcycle are terms that was coined by German chemist Michael Braungart and American architect William McDonough in their book, Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things.

In order to “Upcycle” something you would take something that you already have and re-purpose it for another use. To really get into upcycling information read the “What’s Upcycling all About?” post.

1.  Upcycle some old newspaper around the house to create an autumn leaf garland.

You can check out the full instructions at the Life With Little Ones blog Newspaper Leaves post.

2.  Upcycle some old clothes and you can create a ton of craft projects. Things like tablecloths, napkins, chair covers, table runners, throw pillows and hand towels.

Featured to the left here is a fabric wreath with autumn appeal. For full instruction on how to make that wreath and other upcycled/recycled crafts click through to the Autumn Fabric Wreath by Recycled Crafts.

3.  Upcycle some natural items from outside for a snazzy centerpiece. Collect fall leaves, pine cones, twigs and even some fall flowers like Chrysanthemum. Clean out an old coffee can or other good sized container and create your own Thanksgiving centerpiece. For some ideas on how others have done this check out the following links:

About.com’s Fall and Thanksgiving Centerpieces You Can Make Yourself

Chica and Jo’s Natural Centerpieces

Craft: Magazine Modern Centerpiece with Natural Materials

Sierra Club’s The Green Life: Green Gatherings Decorations

EcoChild’s Play: Thanksgiving Centerpieces

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