If you follow me on Twitter, you may have seen my recent confession: I’m not especially drawn to the typical fall and Thanksgiving DIY aesthetic. The abundant leaves, twigs, and muted autumn palette just aren’t my favorites — you’ve probably noticed from my bright, colorful, leaf-free projects. Once Halloween ends I’m often ready to jump straight into Christmas. That said, there is one element of autumn I truly love: gold. This season is the one time people wholeheartedly embrace gold as their metallic of choice, and I’m all for it. While I’ll share my own gilded DIY soon, here are five elegant gold projects you can make to elevate your Thanksgiving table next week.
1. DIY Gilded Bowls: These decorative bowls aren’t meant for serving food, but they’re perfect for holding pine cones, wrapped candies, or small seasonal accents on your table. The polka-dot detail adds a playful, modern touch that keeps the look fresh and festive.
DIY Gilded Bowls via Kelli Murray
2. DIY Monogram Gilded Glasses: Gilding isn’t just for grown-ups — kids love a little sparkle too. Personalize simple drinking glasses for the children’s table with monograms or initials, and use the same technique on wine glasses for the adults to create a cohesive, elevated table setting.
DIY Gilded Monogram Glasses via Mer Mag
3. DIY Gilded Gourds: There’s something delightfully whimsical about gilded gourds. While these particular examples are finished in copper tones, the same technique translates beautifully to gold leaf or gold spray paint. Arrange a few gilded gourds as a low centerpiece to add shine without taking up too much visual space.
DIY Gilded Gourds via Martha Stewart
4. DIY Gilded Tray: A gilded serving tray is a simple, high-impact piece that ties a tablescape together. Use it to present your gilded glasses, candles, or a small arrangement of seasonal items. A gilded tray is versatile — it works for Thanksgiving and will still look right at home for New Year’s entertaining.
DIY Gilded Tray via House of Fifty
5. DIY Gilded Flatware: I’ve always loved the idea of gold flatware — it feels luxurious and festive. While I’m still dreaming of registering for gold pieces someday, a DIY gilded-flatware project is an easy way to bring that look to your table now. Whether you gild the handles or add accents, gold flatware instantly elevates place settings and adds a cohesive shine across your holiday spread.
DIY Gilded Flatware by Hank + Hunt for The Sweetest Occasion