Fall Tablescape Tutorial
Creating a beautiful table centerpiece for your Fall or Thanksgiving dinner is easier than you think! This Fall Tablescape Tutorial will show you how to decorate your table with step-by-step photos.
We have a a little mix in this post…part Fall Decorating…part Pumpkin Carving!
When you think of Fall Decorating you probably think of pumpkins, gourds, leaves, etc. But how about fruit, vegetables and carved pumpkins?
As I was gathering ideas to add to my Fall Decorating Pinterest Board, I came across a Fall Tablescape that I loved and decided to put my spin on it. It’s perfect for your Fall parties, and would make a gorgeous Thanksgiving table centerpiece. This centerpiece would also be fine for an adult Halloween party, if you are looking for something a little more elegant.
Let’s begin with the base for our Fall Tablescape, the tablecloths…
I created a cozy, warm feeling by layering the tablecloths. I started with solid rustic gold, then added a warm plaid throw for texture and something a little different. On top of that came some ivory color burlap for more texture and interest.
Next came the wood, any piece of wood will work. We used a piece from the folks that we got the barn doors that Doug used to build amazing Office Desk.
On the wood, I laid down a base of Ornamental Grasses that I cut from the yard. If you don’t have them in your yard, you can usually find them along side the road, at the park or even in the floral department at craft stores.
Next the fresh pineapple was added to the center, and surrounded by candles.
Here’s a little tip to save money on candles, buy a shorter size and then place it on top of an inverted bowl or dish. It will give the candles different heights, without paying extra for the taller candle.
Now let’s chat about the Carved Pumpkins, we used Pie Pumpkins for our Fall Tablescape. Pie Pumpkins are the perfect size for the table. The skin is a little tougher than a regular pumpkin, so it took a little more time to carve. But I left that up to Doug and his strong arm.
Doug used 2 different Pumpkin Carving tools. The Power Saw worked well, the only problem he had was keeping the bottom on, but he just taped it closed. The Deluxe Scraper Scoop has teeth on the end making it easier to clean out the pumpkin.
Here is our #1 Tip for Carving Pumpkins…cut a circle out of the bottom to clean it out, then the stem is still intact and looks better and it’s also easier to light the candle or turn on the light.
Now it was time to start filling in with smaller items. Just keep in mind, when you are creating a centerpiece, you want your guests to be able to see each other. I used…
- Gourds
- Apples
- Artichokes
- Grapes
- Silk leaves
- Ivy from the Yard
- Mini Pumpkins
- Tall taper candles
After you have your foundation built, it’s just like putting together a puzzle. Just fill in the empty holes.
For the Taper Candles, I used a mini terra cotta pot and simply glued them in with hot glue.
Fall Tablescape Resources:
- Tablecloths, Blanket and Burlap – had on hand
- Solid color plates, glasses and silverware – had on hand
- Printed smaller plates – from Walmart
- Napkins – from Walmart
- Pumpkins, Gourds, Vegetables and Fruit – from Walmart
- Pumpkin Carving Tools – from Walmart
- Dried materials and Ivy – cut from the yard
- Candles – from Walmart
- Wood – free from our friendly neighborhood gentlemen
The table is set…would you like to come over for dinner? I’d LOVE to have you!
These are so pretty but I have always wondered – where do you put the food? Do you remove the centerpiece before eating (defeats the purpose in my opinion) or do you serve from the stove or sideboard?
Hi Ann, with a centerpiece like this, you would serve the food on a buffet or sideboard.
Beautiful tablescape! I especially love the stars on the pumpkin!
I LOVE the tablescape you created! Using things on hand makes it so much better!!! The little plates are so pretty & I LOVE the way you carved the small pumpkins. I didn’t do much fall decorating this year as I am in the middle of a lot pf remodeling & I have so much “STUFF” sitting around & moving from room to room. But, fall just is so beautiful I love to look at all the blog posts out there & put out a few favorites. Thanks for sharing!
Charlene
So pretty!! love it.
Hi Liz, just discovered your site tonight, everything you do is so beautiful.
We’re hosting my bf’s work Christmas party at our house this year (only about 10 people). Any suggestions for decorating the table? Something elegant and sophisticated. It will be the middle of Summer here in Australia so we will be dragging our 10 – 12 seater timber dining table outside onto our alfresco area.
Oh how fun! You could do red and silver ornaments, ribbon and wrapped little presents. That is the first thing that pops into my head. Let me think a bit and get back to you. When is the party?
~Liz
The party is on the 22nd Dec (Saturday) so still have plenty of time. We are preparing a 4 course meal.
I’m going to put some fairy lights out on the alfresco area and light fire torches between the bamboos all along the back fence (provided there isn’t a fire ban).
Popped over here from The Inspired Room and think this is one of the prettiest tablescapes I’ve seen! Love the layering and warmth it conveys.
Seriously LOVE this!! The fruit, gourds, and pumpkins remind me of a cornucopia and nothing says Thanksgiving like a cornucopia! I also love your tips and tricks with the pumpkins and the candles! Why have I never thought to cut the bottom out of a pumpkin instead of the top???
I’m thrilled you like the tablescape, Tricia! Thanks for stopping by!
~Liz
Now that is impressive! In fact, I’m sitting here with my mouth open. It just looks amazing. Thank you for sharing step by step what you did.
Truly a lovely tablescape! Now I’m wondering why I have never used ivy for fall centerpieces…..it’s the perfect extra touch!
Your centerpiece is so lovely! I love the stars cut into the pumpkin. Very pleasing ambiance.
<3 Christina at I Gotta Create!
Wildly Original linky party is open
Your table looks so pretty!
This looks so pretty, Liz! Great job, lady!!
Gorgeous!
Looks absolutely beautiful!
You ROCK!!! This is awesome! But, then, I LOVE everything you do/make!!!
Keep it up!
Thanks!!!
You totally made my day!! Thanks so much for stopping by!
~Liz