This DIY turkey decor idea is perfect for the beginner DIY maven who wants to start working with wood! PLUS – I have the most amazing new (to me) product to help you with all your wood crafts. Let’s get this fun turkey project started with a free turkey pattern for you to follow. Then wait and see the two precious ways you can style this turkey decor for fall! Thank you to Rust-Oleum for sponsoring this fun project and introducing me to Varathane Less Mess Wood Stain.
I am all about classic, timeless decor, and this little turkey is one for the books. I had a similar turkey set a while back in my store that was made from metal and absolutely adorable, but it sold out and I never even got one. I decided I could easily make this out of wood for a staple fall decor piece I could use for years to come. You can make it too, I’m gonna give you a free pattern and all the details! It’s also a complete win that you could make a whole slew of these for a fraction of the cost – have your own flock of Thanksgiving turkeys if you want!
I must admit this project turned out just as I pictured it in my head (which does NOT always happen) but most of all I felt really accomplished in creating it. I believe we are never too old/young/wise/talented/untalented/crafty/not-crafty to learn something new. Something new might be how to use a new tool, try out a new product, or just be plain okay with failing if a project doesn’t turn out as you’d hoped. While this one turned out for me, I learned how to use a new tool AND learned about a new (to me) product that I am now a complete fan of. I literally smiled the whole time I was making this wooden turkey because it felt good to stretch myself. I hope you will do the same.
To make this versatile DIY turkey you’ll need a few supplies. Here is the list, with links so you can grab exactly what I used:
As Thanksgiving approaches, many people look for festive ways to decorate their homes One fun DIY project is making a wooden turkey decoration With minimal supplies, you can create an adorable handmade turkey that serves as a personalized holiday centerpiece.
In this step-by-step tutorial, I’ll explain how to make a wooden turkey from start to finish
Supplies Needed
Constructing a wooden turkey requires just a few simple materials
- 1 small wooden cutting board (6.5″ x 4.5″)
- 1 round wooden circle (6.5″)
- 5 large craft sticks
- 1 half wooden bead (1″)
- Hot glue gun + glue sticks
- 3 wooden clothespins
- Paint brush
- Gel stain in walnut color
- Gold rub ‘n buff paste
- Scissors or wire cutters
These supplies can be purchased affordably at craft stores. The wood pieces form the base of the turkey’s body.
Step 1: Cut and Stain the Craft Sticks
To start, cut each large craft stick in half so you have 10 smaller sticks total. Use scissors or wire cutters to slice them. Later, these will become the feathers.
Stain all 10 halved sticks with a walnut gel stain and let them dry fully. Staining first prevents drips when gluing.
Step 2: Stain the Remaining Wooden Pieces
Next, apply the walnut stain to the wooden circle, cutting board, half bead, and clothespins. Allow time to dry before assembling.
Step 3: Cut One Clothespin
Trim one clothespin by removing 1/4 inch from the bottom using wire cutters. This modified clothespin provides support.
Step 4: Glue the Body
Adhere the cutting board to the circle’s center with hot glue and press firmly.
Glue the half bead to the cutting board’s top edge to form the head.
Step 5: Glue the Feathers
Attach the 10 stained sticks vertically around the circle’s edge using hot glue. Arrange in a feathered pattern.
Step 6: Add the Clothespins
Glue one full clothespin to each side near the bottom for feet.
Then glue the trimmed clothespin to the back for support.
Step 7: Add Metallic Details (optional)
For a shiny metallic effect, apply gold rub ‘n buff paste to the feathers with a fingertip.
You can also paint/stain the back for a finished look.
That completes your handmade wooden turkey! Display it as a Thanksgiving centerpiece or mantel decor. Add embellishments like bows, faux leaves, or place cards.
Customize Your Turkey
The best part of this project is customizing your turkey. Use wood pieces on hand or customize the size. Play with paint, paper, glitter, and other materials to make each turkey unique.
Simplify by eliminating staining for a quicker craft. The natural wood still looks great accented by the feathered sticks.
Make several turkeys for a flock effect. They also make wonderful Thanksgiving hostess gifts!
Crafting a wooden turkey decoration makes for a fun DIY holiday project using supplies you probably already have. In just a few steps, you can create an impressive centerpiece to display throughout the season.
Add your artistic flair and get creative with embellishments. Even if time is short, you can still make abasic turkey by focusing on the key elements like the feathered tail.
I hope you’re inspired to make your own fabulously festive turkeys! Display your handcrafted creations proudly and enjoy the many compliments sure to come your way.
DIY Wood Turkey Supplies
Sheet wood – 1/4″ plywood, you can get small inexpensive sheets at the hardware store
Or you can find Varathane Less Mess Wood Stain Here
Fabri Tac or Wood Glue