Crafts lend Thanksgiving homey flavor

If you’re looking for an activity to do with the kids while the turkey and fixings are cooking, consider some simple crafts. Paper projects are easy and inexpensive but can invoke a sense of gratitude for the day.

"Since we don’t have a fall season here, Thanksgiving gets skipped over," said Gloria Arias, craft coordinator at Ben Franklin Crafts in Pearl City. "But crafts give families a way to celebrate the holiday."

Pumpkin garland that’s strung on twine can be adorned with family names or photographs on each pumpkin.

Or simply write "Happy Thanksgiving" or reasons to be thankful. Cut three ovals out of orange card stock or construction paper and layer them (two in the back next to each other and one in the center) to create a pumpkin shape (an oval template and photo of the finished project is provided on Page D3). Use a dot of glue to add a small green stem and a curled strip of green for a vine. (Curl the green vine by wrapping the strip of paper tightly around a pencil, then release.) Small holes can be punched, and the pumpkins can be strung on the twine.

Share messages of gratitude by writing them on the feathers of a turkey’s tail. To create the turkey, cut two circles (see the template) to create the turkey’s body and face, and glue the smaller circle on to the larger one. You’ll need construction paper in a variety of colors to create tail feathers. Cut tail feathers using the pattern below. List the things your family is thankful for on each feather. Draw a face for your turkey or embellish with craft supplies (glitter, googly eyes, etc.). The tail feathers can be attached to the body with a paper fastener, glue or a staple.

These projects are a perfect way for the family to express thanks without spending a bundle on supplies.