DIY No-Carve Monogram Pumpkin. Create a stylish, no-carve monogram pumpkin for fall using gold thumbtacks and decoupaged florals cut from napkins—perfect for adding a personal touch to your seasonal decor!

DIY No-Carve Monogram Pumpkin is the Easiest Pumpkin Craft

Fall is all about pumpkins! Whether you’re decorating your front porch, adding a touch of fall to your mantel, or looking for a fun crafting activity, pumpkins are the ultimate fall decor item. Over the past 17 years that I’ve been blogging and creating content, I’ve crafted literally hundreds of pumpkin projects. From painted pumpkins to fabric-covered pumpkins, I’ve tried it all. But this project? It’s one of my favorites! Not only is it super simple and quick to make, but it’s also a perfect craft to do with family or friends. I recently made these DIY no-carve monogram pumpkins with my mom and sisters, and we had the best time together. If you’re looking for a fun, personalized fall craft that requires minimal supplies, this is it!

Six Best DIY Pumpkin Crafts

And today I am joining five friends who are sharing the prettiest pumpkin to make! Be sure to scroll down and PIN the tutorials to make later!

Supplies You Will Need

One of the best parts about this DIY project is how few supplies are needed. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Faux pumpkin
• A napkin with a design you love
• Matte Mod Podge
• Gold thumbtacks
• Pencil

That’s it! These are probably items you already have around the house or can pick up at your local craft store. It’s budget-friendly, which makes it even better.

Step 1: Trace Your Monogram

The first step is to trace the letter you want to monogram on your pumpkin. You can either freehand it or print out an example of the letter to trace. I like to use a straight edge for any straight parts of the letter and something round, like a cup or small plate, for the curves. Here’s a helpful tip: don’t center the letter! When you place your pumpkin on the floor or a surface, the top part of the pumpkin is the most visible. To ensure your monogram is seen, trace the letter slightly higher than the center of the pumpkin.

Step 2: Apply the Thumbtacks

Once your letter is traced, it’s time to start applying the thumbtacks! This step is incredibly satisfying. I’ve found that it’s easiest to center the thumbtack on the lines instead of trying to line up the edge of the thumbtack with the line. This technique makes the lines appear much straighter. Another tip – to make it easier to control, you can put the pumpkin between your knees to steady it while you insert the thumbtacks (see my cute mom below).

Start at the top of your letter and work your way down and across. You can choose between two different methods for applying the thumbtacks:

• Uniform Rows: Follow the traced line and apply the thumbtacks in straight, even rows. Place the second row so that the edges of the thumbtacks just meet.
• Mermaid Scale Rows: Start with one row of thumbtacks along the traced line. Then, for the second row, slightly overlap the first row, giving a layered “mermaid scale” effect.

Both methods look beautiful, and you can decide which one you prefer! In the photos of my pumpkins, you’ll see that one of the “J” monograms has straight, uniform rows while the other “J” features the mermaid scale look. Both give a unique touch!

Step 3: Cut and Prepare the Napkin Design

Now that your monogram is done, it’s time to move on to the decorative part of the pumpkin. Pick a napkin design that you love. Florals work beautifully for this project, but any design will do. Before you cut out your design, be sure to peel off the backing of the napkin so you’re left with the top, printed layer.

Once you have peeled the napkin, carefully cut around the design. If you’re working with florals, cutting around the individual flowers and leaves gives the pumpkin a more intricate and delicate look.

Step 4: Apply the Napkin with Mod Podge

With your cut-out napkin design ready, it’s time to adhere it to your pumpkin using Mod Podge. Here’s a key tip: use matte Mod Podge instead of glossy. Matte Mod Podge dries clear, while glossy can leave a shiny residue if any goes outside the edges of your napkin.

Start by applying a thin, even layer of Mod Podge slightly smaller than the napkin cutout. Press the napkin onto the pumpkin, smoothing it out as you go. Then, fold back the edges of the napkin, apply more Mod Podge to the pumpkin’s surface, and press the edges down. This ensures that the entire napkin is securely adhered and lies flat on the pumpkin.

Repeat this process for all of the napkin designs you want to apply, whether it’s one large design or a few smaller ones placed around the pumpkin.

Step 5: Let It Dry and Enjoy!

Once you’ve finished applying the thumbtacks and napkin designs, let your pumpkin dry completely. It usually takes a few hours for the Mod Podge to dry, but once it’s set, you’re left with a beautiful, personalized pumpkin that’s perfect for fall.

I love how versatile this project is! You can create a monogram for each family member or experiment with different napkin designs for a truly unique look. The combination of the gold thumbtacks and the delicate napkin art adds a touch of elegance to your fall decor.

A Fun Craft for Kids and Friends

One of the things I love most about this project is that it’s perfect for a group craft. Whether you’re doing it with your kids, friends, or family, it’s an easy, fun, and mess-free activity. Imagine hosting a fall girls’ night and everyone going home with their own personalized pumpkin! Or, this could be a sweet gift idea for someone with a fall birthday or a thoughtful present for a teacher.

Final Thoughts

This DIY no-carve monogram pumpkin is a quick, creative, and beautiful fall decor idea that’s fun for all ages. I hope you give it a try! Don’t forget to check out the pumpkin projects my friends have made!!

Blogger’s Best DIY Pumpkin Crafts

Decoupage Pumpkins with Fall Leaves | Most Lovely Things

Make decoupage pumpkins with fall leaves for an earthy tablescape.

Pottery Barn-Style Pumpkin Wreath | My Sweet Savannah

Fall is the perfect time to embrace cozy, seasonal decor, and what better way to welcome the season than with a beautiful pumpkin wreath? Inspired by Pottery Barn’s stylish designs, I decided to craft a DIY knockoff that’s not only eye-catching but also budget-friendly. Here’s how you can recreate this charming wreath using items from Dollar Tree for a designer look at a fraction of the cost!

Pumpkin with Flowers DIY | Happy Happy Nester

Transform your autumn decor with a beautiful Pumpkin with Flowers DIY project that blends seasonal pumpkins and colorful blooms. This simple yet stunning craft makes a perfect centerpiece for your fall gatherings or a pretty touch to your home. With just a few materials and a little creativity, you’ll have a gorgeous floral pumpkin arrangement in 15 minutes or less.

Painted Pumpkin Floral Arrangement | Craftberry Bush

A gorgeous Fall Floral Arrangement using a painted pumpkin as a vase.

DIY Rose Painted Pumpkin Craft | My 100 Year Old Home

It’s fun to make handmade decorations for your home. My latest pumpkin craft transformed a faux white pumpkin into a stunning piece of art.

DIY No Carve Monogram Pumpkin | Tatertots and Jello

Create a stylish, no-carve monogram pumpkin for fall using gold thumbtacks and decoupaged florals cut from napkins—perfect for adding a personal touch to your seasonal decor!

More DIY Pumpkin Crafts

Here are a few other pumpkin crafts I’ve made over the years!

Mason Jar Lid Washi Tape Pumpkins

Washi Tape Mason Jar Lid Pumpkin. Upcycle your mason jar lids and display your favorite washi tape by making this sweet and colorful pumpkin!

DIY Sweater Pumpkins

How to make easy fall sweater pumpkins. Use inexpensive dollar store pumpkins and transform them into beautiful decor with thrifted sweaters!

18 DIY Pumpkin Crafts to Make This Fall!

18 DIY Pumpkin Ideas for Fall! Celebrate the beginning of fall by creating some beautiful pumpkins to display!

Which one do YOU want to make first??

xoxo

The post DIY No-Carve Monogram Pumpkin appeared first on Tatertots and Jello.

18 DIY Pumpkin Ideas for Fall

I love this time of year. The weather is beginning to cool down and fall is just around the corner. One easy way to bring fall into your home is by creating some pretty pumpkins! Over the years I’ve shared so many DIY pumpkin tutorials. I thought it would be fun to round them all up into one post so you can see the different ideas and pick your favorite pumpkin to make!

Early Fall Ideas

If you are visiting from Open Doors Open Heart, welcome!! I just adore Aliya’s style and home. Aren’t her ideas decorating with Queen’s lace so beautiful?? I’m excited to join some very talented friends, hosted by Pasha Is Home, who are sharing their favorite ways to welcome early fall! If you scroll down you can see the ideas and click over!

18 DIY Pumpkin Tutorials

Here are a few of my favorite pumpkin tutorials I’ve shared!

Yarn Pumpkin Garland

I shared our fall mantel last week and I love the way it looks! The DIY Yarn Pumpkin Garland was so easy and fun to make! You can use it in so many ways for early fall — on a mantel like I did, on a shelf, over a doorway, etc!

Colorful Pumpkin DIY Ideas

When we lived at daybreak I created a colorful pumpkin porch and it’s still my favorite! I spray painted pumpkins, created a DIY pumpkin garland for over the door and a DIY ombre pumpkin rainbow wreath. I have the details on those pumpkin projects on the post that is linked above!

DIY houndstooth pumpkin wreath

Take houndstooth material and create little houndstooth pumpkins! You can make them in any size you want. I made some small ones and created a warm and cozy pumpkin wreath!

DIY gold geometric pumpkins

Turn carvable pumpkins into gold geometric pumpkins. They look so pretty at night!

Embroidery Hoop and Paper Pumpkins

Turn embroidery hoops and pretty paper into the most adorable pumpkins. I used paper from my American Crafts line and I love the little house paper in that line!

Gilded Leaf Pumpkins

Gild fall leaves and decoupage them onto pumpkins for a fresh and beautiful take on fall!

3-D Pumpkin Art Wall

For this easy craft, I used dollar store frames which I spray painted, then cut foam pumpkins in half and mounted them inside the frames on scrapbook paper. I used command hooks so I didn’t have to put any nails in my wall!

Stacked Pumpkin Topiary

This is one of my favorite pumpkin tutorials. I painted pumpkins white and black, then stacked them to create this fun topiary!

Polka Dot Pumpkin Tutorial

Turn plush minky material into the softest pumpkins with this tutorial. I even made a giant one to use as a pumpkin pillow!

Gold Glitter and Grout Pumpkins

I covered foam pumpkins with a layer of plaster and then added gold glitter to create a concrete-looking pumpkin. I loved the contrast between the matte plaster an the sparkle!

Plaid Pumpkin and Ruffle Wreath

One of my favorite wreaths I’ve ever made! I used raw silk material to make the ruffles, then cut a foam pumpkin in half and decoupaged grey and white gingham fabric on top and ended with a silk bow! I might have to make a new one this year!

Ruffled Pumpkins

You don’t have to use traditional halloween colors when you are creating pumpkins! I used some of my favorite bright material to create these ruffled pumpkins and I love how bright and happy they all look together!

Dollar Store Crackled Pumpkins

This is an oldie but a goodie. Turn dollar store pumpkins into crackled pumpkins. You can paint the pumpkins white and put a color over the top so that the white comes through.

Fresh Sweater Pumpkins

Use inexpensive dollar store pumpkins and transform them into beautiful decor with thrifted sweaters! I need to make some PINK ones this year!

Painted Autumn Pumpkin Mantel

Another favorite! I took craft pumpkins, spray painted them white and painted wood letters that spell AUTUMN. I loved how simple it was on our fall mantel.

Easy Scrap Wood Pumpkins

Take scrap pieces of wood and turn them into cute pumpkins! n easy and inexpensive idea.

Elevated Toilet Paper Pumpkins

Transform toilet paper into the cutest pumpkins for fall in FOUR different shapes and customize them for YOUR decor!

Glittered Dollar Store Pumpkins

Turn dollar store pumpkins into the prettiest and sparkliest pumpkins and tie them up with velvet ribbon!

Next Stop on The Tour!

Thanks for stopping by and be sure to hop over to Jen’s home at Midwest Life and Style to see the gorgeous ideas that Jen is sharing to help you transform your home from Summer to Fall!

Early Fall Inspiration from 17 Talented Bloggers

Fall Decor Ideas // My Sweet Savannah

Beautiful Early Fall Decor Ideas with Queen Anne’s Lace // Open Doors Open Hearts

15 DIY Pumpkins Ideas for Fall // Tater Tots and Jello

7 Simple Ways To Transition From Summer To Fall Decor // Midwest Life and Style

Four Fun Ideas for How to Decorate for Fall // Pasha is Home

5 Cozy Farmhouse Console Table Decor Ideas for Fall // She Gave It A Go

Early Autumn Decorating Ideas for Your Porch // Simply 2 Moms

15 Ideas for Fall Decorating Outdoors // The Ponds Farmhouse

How to Make an Easy Fall Lantern // Cottage in the Mitten

17 Fall Decor Accessories for Your Home // Robyn’s French Nest

Early Fall Decor Ideas Before Pumpkins // White Arrows Home

7 Easy Ways to Transition your Home to Fall // A Life Unfolding

Easily Transition Summer To Fall – Guest Bedroom // A Stroll Thru Life

Countertop Decor for a Cozy Fall Kitchen // Eleanor Rose Home

10 Fall Decor Ideas for your Entryway // Trueman’s Treasures

How to Create a Beautiful Lakeside Fall Table Setting // Peacock Ridge Farm

6 Easy Ways To Transition Your Porch From Summer To Fall // White Lilac Farmhouse

Which one will you make first?

xoxo

The post 18 DIY Pumpkin Ideas for Fall! appeared first on Tatertots and Jello.

Apple Slab Pie with Streusel Topping

Looking Forward to Thanksgiving: Pie Night Tradition

Every year as Thanksgiving approaches, I get so excited about the traditions that make this season so special. One of my favorite Thanksgiving traditions is our “Pie Night.” My kids look forward to it every year!! And it is a really awesome tradition to start, especially if you have teens or adult kids.

The BEST Fall Pie Recipes

I am sharing this Pie Night Apple Pie recipe today and I am joining some friends who are also sharing their favorite Fall Pie recipes, perfect for Pie Night, Thanksgiving and the holiday season. Be sure to scroll down to the bottom of the post and HOP over and PIN these amazing pie recipes!!

What is “Pie Night”?

The night before Thanksgiving, friends and family gather at our house for a fun-filled evening of pie-making. We always kick off the night with pizza (another type of “pie”!), and then we all dive into creating a variety of delicious pies to enjoy the next day. I keep my pantry stocked with pie-making essentials—fillings, pre-made pie crusts, and all the ingredients for those who prefer homemade crusts. Everyone lets me know in advance what pies they’d like to make, so we’re fully prepared for the night.

Today, I’m excited to share one of my all-time favorite pies to make—Apple Slab Pie with Streusel Topping. This pie is perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering because it’s big enough to feed a crowd, and the flavor is simply irresistible. Let’s get started!

Why Apple Slab Pie Is Perfect for a Crowd

A slab pie is essentially a larger, flatter version of a regular pie, making it the ideal dessert to serve at a big Thanksgiving feast or any fall party. It offers the same comforting flavors of a classic apple pie but in a size that’s perfect for serving lots of people. Plus, the streusel topping adds a delicious, buttery crunch that elevates the whole dessert. You can also serve it with a sweet glaze or a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra special touch.

Apple Slab Pie Ingredients

For this apple slab pie, you can either make your own pie crust or use store-bought crusts for convenience. I personally like to have both options available, especially on Pie Night when things can get busy!

Crust:

• 5 pie crusts (store-bought or homemade; here’s a link to my favorite homemade pie crust recipe – Martha Stewart has a great Homemade Pie Crust Recipe)

Streusel Topping:

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup packed light-brown sugar
• 1 cup quick oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, cold and diced

Apple Filling:

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup packed light-brown sugar
• 4 Tbsp all-purpose flour
• 1 1/4 tsp Apple Pie Spice (or substitute with 1 tsp cinnamon and 1/4 tsp nutmeg)
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 4 Tbsp fresh lemon juice
• 4 lbs peeled, cored, and thinly sliced crisp apples (I like to use a mix of varieties for a richer flavor)

Egg Wash

• 1 egg

Streusel Glaze:

• 1 cup powdered sugar
• 2 Tbsp whipping cream or half and half

Our favorite way to ear this pie is warm with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream – yummmmmmmmm!

Preparing the Pie Crust

Let’s start by preheating your oven to 425°F. While the oven is heating, get your pie crusts ready. If you’re using store-bought crusts, remove them from the packaging and lightly dust your work surface with flour. Stack the crusts on top of each other and roll them out into a 17 by 12-inch rectangle. This will fit perfectly into a 15 by 10 by 1-inch sheet pan.

Fold the crust in half, and then fold it in half again to make it easier to transfer to your pan. Unfold it carefully and press the crust into the pan, making sure to fit it along the edges. You can fold the edges under and decorate as you like—using a fork to crimp the edges is a simple yet elegant option. Once your crust is in place, pop the pan into the refrigerator to chill while you prepare the filling and topping.

Making the Streusel Topping

Now let’s move on to that cinnamon streusel topping. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, quick oats, flour, and salt. Add the chilled butter cubes and mix until the mixture becomes crumbly. Once it’s well combined, place the topping in the refrigerator to keep it cold while you work on the filling.

Preparing the Apple Filling

In a large bowl, toss your peeled and sliced apples with fresh lemon juice to keep them from browning and to add a little zing to the flavor. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, Apple Pie Spice (or your cinnamon-nutmeg substitute), and salt. Pour this sugar mixture over the apples and toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated.

Arranging Store-Bought Pie Crusts on the Baking Sheet

For this apple slab pie, I used four store-bought pie crusts to cover the large sheet pan. To do this, lay each crust on top of the baking sheet so that the edges overhang the sides by about 2 inches. The pie crusts will overlap each other, and that’s perfectly fine! Once you have the crusts arranged and covering the entire pan, use kitchen scissors to trim off any excess crust. Then, use a fork to press down on the overlapping edges to fuse the crusts together, forming one large pie crust that fits the shape of the pan.

For an extra touch, you can lightly brush a little water under the edges where the crusts overlap, helping to bind them more securely. Just be careful not to overwork the dough—handle it as little as possible. Overworking the pie crust can cause it to lose its flakiness, and we all want that light, buttery texture in our pie! Once your crust is assembled and trimmed, use your fingers to fold the overhanging edges into a pretty scalloped design, adding a touch of elegance to the pie.

Assembling the Pie

Take the chilled crust out of the refrigerator and pour the apple filling over it, spreading it out into an even layer. Press the apples down gently to make sure they’re snug in the pan. Next, grab your streusel topping from the fridge and sprinkle it evenly over the apples.

Adding Decorative Elements to Your Slab Pie

One of the fun parts about making a slab pie is getting creative with the decorations! I like to use an extra pie crust just for embellishments. For my Pie Night slab pie, I used letter-shaped cookie cutters to spell out “PIE NIGHT” across the top, giving it a personalized touch. I also hand-cut small leaves from the dough and arranged them around the letters for an extra fall-inspired element. You can use cookie cutters, a knife, or even stencils to create shapes like leaves, pumpkins, or other festive designs. It’s a fun way to make your pie even more special, and it adds a beautiful finishing touch when the pie is baked and golden brown! So get creative and make your pie a centerpiece for the dessert table!

Making and Applying an Egg Wash

Before popping your slab apple pie into the oven, one final step ensures that your crust comes out golden and beautifully browned: applying an egg wash. To make the egg wash, whisk together one large egg with about 1 tablespoon of water until it’s smooth. Once mixed, use a pastry brush to lightly coat the exposed edges of your pie crust with the egg wash. This simple step helps the crust bake up with a rich, golden-brown color and gives it a slight sheen. Be careful not to overdo it—you just want a light, even layer. Once your crust is brushed and ready, your pie is good to go into the oven!

Baking the Slab Apple Pie

Slide the pan into the preheated oven and bake the pie for about 33 to 38 minutes. You’ll want to keep an eye on it—tent the pie with foil during the last 10 minutes if it starts to brown too much. The pie is done when the apples are tender (you can check by piercing them with a toothpick). Remove the pie from the oven and let it cool until it’s warm.

Optional Glaze or Serve with Ice Cream

If you want to add a little extra sweetness, whisk together powdered sugar and whipping cream or halp-and-half in a small bowl to make a glaze. You can adjust the thickness by adding more half and half, a teaspoon at a time. Once the glaze is smooth, transfer it to a resealable sandwich bag, snip a small corner off the bag, and drizzle the glaze over the warm pie.

If you prefer, you can skip the glaze and serve the pie with a big scoop of vanilla ice cream—it’s a classic pairing that everyone loves!

Printable Slab Apple Pie with Streusel Topping Recipe

Print

Apple Slab Pie with Streusel Topping

Apple Slab Pie with Streusel Topping. A crowd-pleasing dessert featuring a buttery crust, tender spiced apples and a crunchy oat streusel perfect for Thanksgiving or fall gatherings.

Course Dessert

Cuisine American

Keyword apple pies, apple streusel pie, slab apple pie, slab pie, Thanksgiving pie, Thanskgiving Dessert

Prep Time 20 minutes minutes

Cook Time 32 minutes minutes

Ingredients

Pie Crust

• 5 pie crusts homemade or store bought

Streusel Topping

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 1 cup quick oats
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, diced

Apple Filling

• 1/3 cup granulated sugar
• 1/3 cup light brown sugar, packed
• 5 Tbsp all purpose flour
• 1 1/4 teaspoon Apple Pie Seasoning (you can also use 1 tsp. cinnamon and 1/4 tsp. nutmeg)
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 4 Tbsp. lemon juice
• 4 lbs. peeled, cored and sliced apples. I like to use a variety for richer flavor.

Streusel Glaze

• 3 cups powdered sugar
• 2 Tbsp. whipping cream or half-and-half

Egg Wash

• 1 egg (and water(

Instructions

• Let’s start by preheating your oven to 425°F
• Get crusts ready.
• Arrange crusts on baking sheet and crimp crusts.
• Make Streusel Topping. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the granulated sugar, brown sugar, quick oats, flour, and salt. Add the chilled butter cubes and mix until the mixture becomes crumbly. Once it’s well combined, place the topping in the refrigerator to keep it cold while you work on the filling.
• Prepare the apple filling. In a large bowl, toss your peeled and sliced apples with fresh lemon juice to keep them from browning and to add a little zing to the flavor. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, flour, Apple Pie Spice (or your cinnamon-nutmeg substitute), and salt. Pour this sugar mixture over the apples and toss everything together until the apples are evenly coated.
• Arrange the pie crusts on the baking sheet. For this apple slab pie, I used four store-bought pie crusts to cover the large sheet pan. To do this, lay each crust on top of the baking sheet so that the edges overhang the sides by about 2 inches. The pie crusts will overlap each other, and that’s perfectly fine! Once you have the crusts arranged and covering the entire pan, use kitchen scissors to trim off any excess crust. Then, use a fork to press down on the overlapping edges to fuse the crusts together, forming one large pie crust that fits the shape of the pan.
• Assemble the pie. Take the chilled crust out of the refrigerator and pour the apple filling over it, spreading it out into an even layer. Press the apples down gently to make sure they’re snug in the pan. Next, grab your streusel topping from the fridge and sprinkle it evenly over the apples.
• Add decorative elements like words, leaves or anything else.
• Add 1 egg and 1 Tablespoon of water and whisk together. Brush the egg wash on any exposed pie crust and embellishments.
• Bake the pie at 425-degrees or 33-35 minutes. Use tent foil the last 10 minutes or so to ensure the crust doesn't get too brown.
• Make glaze. If you want to add glaze, whisk 1 cup of powdered sugar and 2 tablespoons whipping cream or half-and-half.
• Serve warm and with a scoop of ice cream!

Choosing the Right Apples for Your Slab Apple Pie

One of the things I love most about making apple pie is experimenting with different varieties of apples. Each variety brings its own unique flavor and texture, which can really elevate your pie. For this slab apple pie, I recommend using a combination of apples to create a more complex flavor profile. For example, Granny Smith apples are tart and firm, which helps balance out the sweetness of the streusel and filling, while Honeycrisp or Fuji apples are sweeter and add a juicy, crisp texture. Mixing these varieties gives the pie a delightful balance of sweet and tart.

However, it’s important to remember that different apple varieties bake at different rates. Some, like Granny Smith, take longer to soften, while others, like Golden Delicious, become tender more quickly. To ensure all the apples bake evenly, you’ll want to slice the slower-cooking varieties a little thinner than the faster-cooking ones. This way, you won’t end up with some apples still firm while others are mushy. This small adjustment makes a big difference and ensures that every bite of your pie has perfectly tender apples!

Serve and Enjoy!

Once the pie has cooled slightly, slice it into squares and serve it warm. The combination of tender apples, buttery crust, and crunchy streusel makes this slab apple pie an absolute crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re making it for Pie Night or your Thanksgiving dinner, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone at the table!

Blogger’s Best Thanksgiving Pie Recipes

Amazing Spiced Peach Pie with Sourdough Pie Crust | Twelve on Main

This is the perfect peach pie just in time for Thanksgiving. With a sweet peach filling and a buttery sourdough pie crust it is the perfect combination of flavors your family will love

Brown Sugar Maple Pie | My Sweet Savannah

Brown Sugar Maple Pie is a rich and indulgent dessert featuring a luscious filling made with brown sugar and pure maple syrup, nestled in a buttery pie crust. With its sweet, caramel-like flavor and hint of vanilla, this pie is a perfect blend of cozy fall spices and classic comfort, making it an irresistible treat for any occasion.

Costco Pumpkin Pie Recipe (Copycat) | Happy Happy Nester

Costco Pumpkin Pie Recipe copycat is a must-try if you love that rich, creamy, perfectly spiced slice of pie from Costco. This homemade version brings all the fall flavors you crave, with the bonus of making it right in your kitchen. Prepare to impress your family and friends with a pie that tastes like the original!

Apple Slab Pie with Streusel Topping | Tatertots and Jello

Apple Slab Pie with Streusel Topping. A crowd-pleasing dessert featuring a buttery crust, tender spiced apples and a crunchy oat streusel perfect for Thanksgiving or fall gatherings.

Pumpkin Pie with a Biscoff Cookie Crust & Toasted Marshmallow | Most Lovely Things

A traditional pumpkin pie, but with a Biscoff cookie crust with toasted marshmallow on top.

Apple Pie with Flaky Sourdough Pie Crust | My 100 Year Old Home

This Apple Pie recipe combines the tangy richness of sourdough with the classic apple pie … a flaky sourdough pie crust with layers of buttery goodness and a tender, flavorful apple filling.

The post Apple Slab Pie with Streusel Topping appeared first on Tatertots and Jello.

Spring Brunch Tulip Toast

Hi, friends! Can you believe that Spring is just DAYS away?? I can’t wait for warmer weather, working in my yard and garden, long walks in our historic neighborhood and spring parties and brunches!! Today I am sharing a sweet and easy recipe that will be a highlight on your spring brunch table OR so easy to make to brighten up your morning anytime!

Easy Brunch Recipe

Tulip toast is an idea that you can whip up in MINUTES! I found this idea through MacKenzie Biehl while looking at ideas on Pinterest. All you need is a toaster. Gather the ingredients and make some for Easter brunch or for any spring weekend! Your kids are going to love making these pretty tulips out of cherry tomatoes.

Ingredients to Make Tulip Toast

• small french bread loaf
• Cherry tomatoes – red and orange.
• Cream cheese spread – I used whipped chive cream cheese spread.
• Chives.
• Oregano leaves or basil for flower leaves.

How to Make Tulip Toast

It’s so easy to make tulip toast. Here’s how to do it!

Print

Spring Brunch Tulip Toast

Spring Brunch Tulip Toast. Tulip toast will look beautiful on your Spring brunch table and it's so easy to make!

Course Breakfast

Cuisine American

Keyword brunch recipe, brunch toast, easy brunch, easy brunch recipe, kids recipe, spring brunch

Cook Time 2 minutes minutes

Servings 6

Ingredients

• 6 slices bakery bread
• 1/2 cup whipped cream cheese
• 10 long chives
• 24 pieces herb leaves – used Oregano but you can also use Basil.
• 13-14 cherry tomatoes

Instructions

• Slice 6 slices of bread (you can make more or less, depending on how many people you are making these for)
• Toast the bread.
• Once cooled, spread whipped cream cheese on toasted slices.
• Add chives on top of the cream cheese. These will be the stems of the tulips. I put 2-3 stems on each piece of toast.

Make Tulip Heads

• Take each cherry tomato, make slices at the top of the round side of the tomato. Make one slice going horizontal across the top. Then make anther slice going horizontally,. You can also make three or four slices, having all of the slices intersect at the middle.
• Scoop out the seeds inside of each tomato.
• Add a tulip head (tomato) at the top of each chive.

Add Leaves

• Place leaves connecting to the chives to look like tulip leaves.
• Enjoy!

• Cut french bread into slices.
• Toast bread.
• Spread cream cheese on toasted bread slices.
• Cut cherry tomatoes. Make a horizontal slice and a vertical slice. at the round end of the tomato.
• Scoop out the seeds.
• Lay the chives as stems and trim them to size with kitchen sheers.
• Put the red and green cherry tomatoes at the top of the chives.
• Add oregano or basil leaves to the tulip flowers.
• Enjoy!

Kids Will Love Making Tulip Toast

This is a fun idea that kids will love! Let them experiments and make their own beautiful tulip creations!

Spring Tulip Toast Video

I made a little Instagram reel sharing how to make this easy recipe! Hop over and check it out — How to Make Spring Tulip Toast! And let’s connect on Instagram – it’s a fun place where I share behind-the-scenes ideas and inspiration. I love communicating in real time there! Let’s connect!

More Easter Brunch Recipes

Here are a few easter brunch recipes for inspiration!

Easy Paper Bunny Bags

Simple Easter Bunny Treat Bags. Celebrate Spring and Easter with the simple bunny bags you can create in minutes!

Easy Easter Dinner Ideas

How to host the perfect Easter dinner without the stress. Throw a gorgeous and delicious dinner and save time in the kitchen so you can spend it with your loved ones!

20 Easter Recipes

Spring is the perfect time to get baking! Here are 20 amazing Spring recipes that are so festive to make for Spring and Easter.

Easter Morning Casserole Recipe

One of my favorite traditions at Easter is a yummy brunch with my family. Here’s my favorite Easter brunch casserole. Fluffy eggs are surrounded by hash browns and spring vegetables. It’s so good!

Bunny Cheese Ball

Everyone loves a cheese ball. Make a bunny shaped cheese ball to celebrate easter or spring.

What are YOU most excited about for Spring?

Share with me in the comments!

xoxo

The post Spring Brunch Tulip Toast appeared first on Tatertots and Jello.

DIY Spring Flower Lanterns

Spring is almost here, and there’s no better way to bring the beauty of the season into your home than with a simple and charming DIY project!! These easy DIY Spring Flower Lanterns capture the essence of blooming flowers and glowing candlelight, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. This project is perfect for crafters of all skill levels and only takes about 30 minutes to complete!

Spring Flower Lantern Supplies

To create these delicate lanterns, you’ll need just a few basic supplies:

• Dried flowers
• Matte Mod Podge
• A paintbrush
• Lanterns
• Battery-operated candles

How to Make DIY Spring Flower Lanterns

The dried flower packages come in several different color schemes, allowing you to customize your lanterns to match your decor. I bought two different packs of flowers, and I still have about half left over, so one package is plenty for decorating up to three small lanterns. The best part? Each pack of flowers comes with tweezers, making placement super easy!

Step 1: Prepare Your Work Area

Before you begin, set up your workspace with all your supplies within reach. Pour a small amount of Mod Podge into a container for easy application. Make sure your lanterns are clean and dry so the flowers adhere properly.

Step 2: Apply the First Layer of Mod Podge

Using a paintbrush, apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to one side of the lantern. Be sure to use even strokes in one direction for a smooth and polished finish. The Mod Podge dries clear, but it will create a rippled texture, giving the lantern a gorgeous stained-glass effect!

Step 3: Place the Dried Flowers

While the Mod Podge is still wet, carefully place the dried flowers onto the lantern. Use the included tweezers to position them exactly how you want. Gently press down so the flowers adhere to the surface. The flowers are delicate, so handle them with care to prevent tearing or crumbling.

Step 4: Seal the Flowers with Mod Podge

Once your flowers are arranged, brush another layer of Mod Podge over them. This will seal them in place and protect them from peeling or lifting over time. Be gentle with your brush strokes to avoid damaging the fragile petals.

Step 5: Repeat on All Sides

Turn the lantern and repeat the process on each remaining side. Apply Mod Podge, press on the dried flowers, and seal them with a topcoat. Continue this process until all sides are complete. Allow the Mod Podge to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

Step 6: Add Your Battery-Operated Candles

Once your lantern is dry, place a battery-operated candle inside. The soft glow of the candlelight shining through the pressed flowers creates a stunning effect, making these lanterns a gorgeous addition to any space in your home.

Where to Display Your Flower Lanterns

These DIY Spring Flower Lanterns are incredibly versatile! Here are some ideas for where to place them:

• As a centerpiece: Arrange them on your dining table for a beautiful spring-inspired tablescape.
• On a shelf: Add them to a bookshelf or mantel to brighten up your decor.
• In the kitchen: Place one on your countertop to bring a touch of spring to your cooking space.
• On a nightstand: Use them as a soft and dreamy nightlight in your bedroom.
• On a covered porch: You can also use outdoor mod podge and display these lanterns on your porch!

Final Thoughts

Creating these DIY Spring Flower Lanterns is such a fun and easy way to welcome the season into your home. The delicate pressed flowers combined with the soft candlelight make for a truly magical look. Plus, this project is beginner-friendly and budget-conscious—one package of dried flowers goes a long way!

Spring Flower Crafts

Here are some more fun spring flower crafts to make!

More DIY Spring Projects

Blogger’s Best Spring Craft With Flowers

DIY Flower Garland | Happy Happy Nester

A DIY flower garland is an easy and beautiful way to add charm to any room. This specific garland is made from paper flowers and a bay leaf base! It’s a fun, creative project suitable for any season, whether you want bright blooms for spring or warm tones for fall. You can drape it across a mantel, use it as a table runner, or display it over a shelf for a cozy touch. With just a few basic supplies—crepe paper flowers and some string—you can create this homemade floral garland that looks effortlessly beautiful and lasts a long time.

Easy Rose And Floating Candle Centerpiece | Craftberry Bush

This easy to put together centerpiece would be beautiful for any occasion but a great way to welcome spring.

DIY Stenciled Terracotta Pot | My 100 Year Old Home

There’s something so satisfying about transforming a simple terracotta pot into a custom, one-of-a-kind decorative piece. I treasure my beautiful flower pot.

How to Make Beautiful Flowers Using Coffee Filters | Most Lovely Things

Make beautiful paper flowers to use on gifts for bridal showers, Easter & Mother’s Day.

Affordable Spring Floral Art | My Sweet Savannah

Create beautiful, affordable spring floral art with this easy DIY project! Using simple materials and free downloadable patterns, you can make stunning floral artwork that fits perfectly with your neutral home decor. Get started today and add a touch of spring to your walls!

And here are a few more DIY ways to bring the feeling of Spring into your home!

DIY Spring Bunny Treat Bags

Simple Easter Bunny Treat Bags. Celebrate Spring and Easter with the simple bunny bags you can create in minutes!

Spring Clay Mushroom Stakes

Anthropologie-Inspired Clay Mushroom Plant Stakes. Make these adorable clay mushroom stakes to add to planters and for Spring!

Spring Mushroom and Moss Wreath

Celebrate Spring by making this DIY wreath with wooden mushrooms, butterflies and moss!

What projects are YOU working on for Spring?

xoxo

The post DIY Spring Flower Lanterns appeared first on Tatertots and Jello.

Tissue Paper Valentine Tree Centerpiece

I love an inexpensive and easy centerpiece. Today I am sharing how to create this sweet tissue paper valentine tree centerpiece. All it takes is a few supplies and minutes to create!

Introducing the Handcrafted Society

Introducing The Handcrafted Society!! A collaboration of talented bloggers ready to revolutionize the DIY world with their brilliant ideas. On the first Tuesday each month, you can find eight unique ways to make something special from a shared theme or medium – and that’s not all! We’ll also be featuring an invited guest monthly to share their talents with you. Get inspired and join us on this creative journey! You can find us on the blog, Instagram and Pinterest. This month we are all sharing HEART ideas!! If you are here from Sonata Home Design, welcome! Aren’t Missy’s paper heart cones so beautiful??

How to Make a Tissue Paper Heart Tree Centerpiece

Here’s how to make this easy centerpiece idea!

Use Branches

To create the tree, use real or faux branches. I had a olive leaf garland that I found on sale, so I just cut that apart to make branches. You can cut some branches from a tree in your yard or use faux branches. Find a container to use. I used a simple white vase. Then put your branches in your vase.

Cut Tissue Paper Hearts

I used two different colors of PINK hearts for my tree. I used about 8 layers of tissue paper and cut out three different sizes of hearts out of both colors of the pink tissue paper. But you can use ANY color or multiple tissue paper colors for your project. White would also be beautiful!

Attach the Hearts to Your Branches

Once I had the hearts cut out, I used hot glue to attach the hearts to the branches. If you don’t want to use hot glue you can use glue dots or even a dot of regular white glue.

Distribute the Different Sized Hearts on the Tree

I used the largest size of hearts first. Once I had those attached, I worked my way through the hearts by ize, ending with the smallest size hearts. I love using tissue paper for this project because the tissue paper is so thin and the light comes through the tissue paper hearts which I think is so pretty!

Display Your Tissue Paper Heart Valentine Tree

This valentine tree is so fun as a centerpiece for a coffee table or dining room table, but it would also be so pretty on a kitchen counter or island or even on a entryway console or bedroom dresser. The possibilities are endless!

8 Adorable Heart DIY’s!

Now it’s time to hop over to Kim at Perfecting Places to see how she made her beautiful framed paper hearts!

More Heart DIY Projects

And here are a few other heart paper projects for inspiration!

Heart and Arrow Paper Valentine Art

Cut out paper hearts and use glue dots to attach them to red paper for a fun Valentine’s spin on specimen art!

Easy 10-minute valentine’s day wall art

Easy 10-Minute Valentine’s Day Wall Art. Make some easy art for Valentine’s Day with a free template, scrapbook paper and rolled paper flowers!

Free valentine’s Day Printable Post Cards

Adorable Valentine Postcards – Free Printables! Brighten up someone’s day with a sweet postcard sharing why they are important to you!

Have a Creative Day!

xoxo

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How to Host a Magical Cookie Exchange Party + DIY Snow Globe Cookies

I’ve been hosting cookie exchange parties for over 15 years, and it’s one of my very favorite holiday traditions!! There’s something so special about gathering friends together, swapping homemade cookies, and kicking off the season with creativity, laughter, and a whole lot of sugar

This year, I wanted to bring something extra fun to the table, so I made DIY Snow Globe Cookies — and they were a total hit. They’re festive, easy to make, and perfect for a cookie exchange.

Cookie Exchange Party Tips I Swear By After 15+ Years

After hosting cookie exchanges year after year, I’ve learned that the best parties are simple, organized, and cozy. A little planning goes a long way and makes hosting feel joyful instead of stressful.

I share all of my tried-and-true hosting advice in this post:

8 Tips to Help You Host the Ultimate Cookie Exchange Party

A few of my favorite tips:

• Send invitations early so guests can plan ahead
• Be clear about how many cookies each person should bring
• Ask guests to bring containers for taking cookies home
• Encourage guests to share recipes
• Keep party food simple so the focus stays on the cookies and conversation

These small details make a big difference and help everything run smoothly.

Why Snow Globe Cookies Are Perfect for a Cookie Exchange

When you’re bringing cookies to a cookie exchange, they need to be easy to transport, sturdy enough to stack, and eye-catching on a cookie table.

Snow globe cookies check all the boxes. They look impressive, but they’re surprisingly simple to make — and everyone wanted to know how I made them

The Thick Sugar Cookie Recipe I Always Use

For these cookies, I used a copycat Swig/Crumbl-style sugar cookie recipe that makes super thick, soft cookies with thick frosting that holds decorations beautifully.

Here’s the exact recipe I used:
https://cookingwithkarli.com/crumbl-sugar-cookies/

This recipe is perfect for decorated cookies because the cookies bake up thick, sturdy, and incredibly soft.

Snow Globe Cookie Decorations (What You’ll Need)

These are the elements that turn a regular sugar cookie into a snow globe cookie. I’ll add links to all of these supplies later — this is just the ingredient list for the snow globe part of the cookies:

• Clear plastic ornaments that screw apart (use one half per cookie)
• Edible cupcake sugar decorations (Santas, reindeer, wreaths, snowmen, stockings, etc.)
• Fresh rosemary (cut into small tree shapes )
• Thick vanilla frosting (from the cookie recipe)

How to Assemble DIY Snow Globe Cookies

Once the cookies were baked and completely cooled, I frosted each cookie with a thick layer of frosting. Next, I added the edible sugar decorations and cut small pieces of rosemary into tiny tree shapes, pressing them gently into the frosting.

To finish, I placed one half of a clear plastic ornament over each cookie to create the snow globe effect. That’s it — simple, festive, and so fun

Printable Snow Globe Cookie Recipe Card (PDF)

I’ve created a one-page printable PDF recipe card for these DIY Snow Globe Cookies so you can easily save it, print it, or share it. It’s perfect for baking days, cookie exchanges, and holiday gifting.

Click here to download the printable Snow Globe Cookie Recipe Card

DIY Snow Globe Cookie Recipe (Printable Versio

DIY Snow Globe Sugar Cookie

Soft, thick sugar cookies decorated like festive snow globes. These cookies are perfect for cookie exchanges, holiday parties, and gifting

Cookie Base Recipe
This is my favorite copycat Swig/Crumbl-style sugar cookie recipe:
https://cookingwithkarli.com/crumbl-sugar-cookies/

Ingredients

• Sugar cookie dough (from recipe above)
• Vanilla frosting (from recipe above)
• Edible sugar decorations
• Fresh rosemary
• Clear plastic ornament halves

Instructions

1. Bake cookies according to recipe instructions and cool completely.
2. Frost each cookie with a thick layer of frosting.
3. Decorate with edible sugar decorations and rosemary trees
4. Place one ornament half over each cookie to create the snow globe effect.
5. Store cookies in a single layer or bakery box until ready to serve or gift.

Tips

• Use thick, sturdy cookies so the ornament sits flat
• The cookies can be kept in a dry storage container with a lid for up0 to 4 days before using OR frozen for up to 2 months.
• Assemble shortly before gifting for the best presentation
• Transport cookies in shallow bakery boxes

More Cookie Exchange Recipes on Tatertots & Jello

If you’re building a cookie exchange spread, you’ll find lots of favorite cookie recipes right here on Tatertots & Jello. I’ll update this section with direct links soon:

• Classic holiday sugar cookies
• Frosted Christmas cookies
• Easy no-bake holiday treats
• Festive cookies perfect for gifting

Why Cookie Exchanges Are One of My Favorite Holiday Traditions

Cookie exchanges are about more than cookies — they’re about tradition, friendship, and slowing down during a busy season. After more than 15 years, this is still one of my favorite ways to celebrate the holidays, and I hope this inspires you to host one of your own.

Cookie Exchange Recipes

Here are a few of my favorite cookie exchange recipes!

• Candy Cane Swirl Frosted Cookies
• Holiday Blossom Cookies
• Double Chocolate Bisquick Cookies
• Cowgirl Cookie Bark
• Grandma’s Favorite Sugar Cookies
• Four-Ingredient Orange Milano Cookies

Happy baking

xoxo

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Make an Easy Giant Christmas Bow

Make an Easy Giant Christmas Bow. Turn inexpensive table runners into a show-stopping giant Christmas bow with this easy step-by-step tutorial.

How to Make an Easy DIY Giant Christmas Bow (Using Table Runners!)

For years I’ve loved the look of giant Christmas bows — they’re whimsical, oversized, and look like something straight out of a holiday storefront window. They make such a statement whether you hang them on a front door, over a fireplace mantel, or even on a Christmas tree. But every time I looked up a tutorial, they seemed complicated and SO expensive. Most of them call for yards of fabric, interfacing, stabilizer, or pricey materials I didn’t want to buy. And this tutorial is NO SEW!!! I wanted something simple, affordable, and easy to make, so I decided to come up with my own version — and I’m obsessed with how it turned out!

Hobby Lobby’s Christmas Department is 50% off!

I’ve been partnering with Hobby Lobby for over 10 years, and honestly, they’re still my go-to spot every single holiday season. They just have the best selection for everything — not only Christmas décor and crafting supplies, but also Christmas entertaining. Their aisles are filled with greenery, ornaments, ribbons, runners, bells, entertaining essentials, baking supplies, and tableware. And because their Christmas department is 50% off right now, it’s so easy to pick up everything I need for holiday projects without running all over town. It’s truly one-stop Christmas magic.

Why I’m Using Table Runners for This DIY Giant Christmas Bow

As I wandered through the Christmas department looking for fabric, I spotted the Christmas table runners — and instantly knew they were the perfect solution. They’re long, fully hemmed, sturdy, structured, and come in the cutest patterns. Even better? They were $10.99, but with the Christmas sale at 50% off, they came to $5 each. Instead of spending $60+ on materials, I made this entire giant bow for around $25 — and it looks so high-end. Truly the easiest shortcut ever. I used the plaid version, but there are a few different patterns to choose from!

Giant Christmas Bow Supplies

• 5 Table Runners
  • 1 for the bow top
  • 2 for each of the long tails (4 total for the tails)
• Medium-gauge wire
• Hot glue gun + glue sticks
• Zip ties (optional)

Make the Top of the Bow

Step 1: Thread Wire Through Both Long Seams

• Cut tiny holes at the top and bottom of each long seam, only through the back side of the seam.
• Next, make a small loop at the end of your wire so it doesn’t snag and flatten it so it is as small as possible..
• Thread wire through each seam, leaving about 3″ sticking out on both ends.

Step 2: Shape the Bow Loop

• Flip the runner to the back.
• Fold both long edges toward the center.
• Twist the wire ends together to attach the ends together.
• Flip it back over to the front.

Create the Bow Center

Add a piece of material in the center of the runner to create a bow shape.

Step 3: Cut an 8″ Strip From One of the Tail Runners

• This becomes your bow “knot.”

Step 4: Finish + Wrap the Center

• Fold raw ends under and glue.
• Wrap around the bow center and glue on the back.

Make the Long Tails

I wanted the tails to be as long as my doorway, but you can use only ONE runner per tail if you don’t need as long of tails.

Step 5: Glue Two Runners Together Per Tail

• Create two long tails (two runners each).
• We will hide the seam will be hidden later.

Step 6: Attach Tails to Bow

• Gather the top of each tail.
• Hot glue them to the back of the bow.

Hang Your Giant Bow

Now hang up your bow where you want to display it – on top of your doorway, on a wall or on your tree!

Step 7: Attach the Top of the Bow

• Use wire, ribbon, or zip ties.
• I threaded a 10″ wire piece through the back and twisted it onto the screw above my door.

Step 8: Secure Each Side

• Now poke wire through the top corners of each bow loop.
• Next, Attach to screws/hooks (or branches if you’re hanging it on a Christmas tree).

Attach and Drape the Tails

Step 9: Create Cascading Sections

• Add a zip tie wherever you want a draped ribbon “tier.”
• Now attach that zip tie to your garland, hook, or branch.
• Repeat 2–3 times to create a soft cascading effect.

Step 10: Hide the Attachment Points

• Blouse the fabric over each zip tie to keep the drape looking smooth and natural.

Trim the Tails

Step 11: Even Out the Lengths

• Because of the cut center strip, your tails won’t match at first — trim them to be even.

Step 12: Cut the Tail Shape

• I cut mine into a V-shape, but diagonal or straight works too.

Coordinating Porch Decor

Step 13: Add Greenery Garland

• Mine is from the Hobby Lobby Christmas department. I layered the pine Norfolk garland and the Cedar Garland. Along with Twinkle Lights! And I added some brown ball picks that reminded me of gingerbread houses!

Step 14: Hang a Gingerbread-Themed Wreath

• Wreath + gingerbread cutting board = Christmas aisle.
• “Gingerbread cookies” = wooden snowflakes painted like cookies in the craft section of the Christmas Department.
• Wire from the ribbon dpartment.
• Here’s a link to the Gingerbread Christmas Wreath – with all of the links to the supplies I used and info!

Step 15: Layer a Buffalo Plaid Rug

• Festive red + white buffalo check rug — which is also from the Christmas department.

Step 16: Paint a Galvanized House Into a Gingerbread House

• Paint one of the galvanized Christmas houses with craft paint for the cutest porch accent. I’ve linked a sweet Gingerbread House below.

Shop My Favorite Porch Items From Hobby Lobby’s Christmas Department

Christmas Table Runners | Christmas wood Lanterns | Christmas Sled | Buffalo Check Rug | Pine Garland | Cedar Garland | Twinkle Lights | Gingerbread Wreath | Gingerbread house

Below are some of my very favorite holiday porch items from Hobby Lobby that helped bring this whole festive look together. I’ll link everything here so you can recreate the same cozy, Christmas-y vibe at your own home!

Thank You, Hobby Lobby!

A huge thank you to Hobby Lobby for sponsoring this project. And right now, Hobby Lobby’s entire Christmas department is 50% off right now, so it’s the perfect time to grab everything you need for holiday decorating! — Grab everything you need, from table runners, greenery, ribbon, to galvanized houses, wreath supplies and everyting in between.

And be sure to follow Hobby Lobby on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and TikTok for endless inspiration.

Show Me Your Bows!

I LOVED creating this giant Christmas bow, and I would absolutely love to see yours! I’d love to have you tag me on Instagram @tatertotsandjello so I can see your creations and share them on my page. It seriously makes my whole day seeing what you make. I hope you’re getting excited for Christmas — let’s connect and make this season magical!

xoxo

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Whimsical Holiday Home Tour with Gingerbread Houses & DIY Decor

This holiday season, I’m thrilled to invite you into my home for a whimsical holiday home tour with DIY Christmas and gingerbread ideas! I’m also joining some amazing friends who are sharing their holiday homes, so be sure to scroll down to the bottom of the post and hop over to see their gorgeous holiday homes and creative DIY projects. This year, I’ve gone all-in on a gingerbread theme to transform our space into a cozy and festive Christmas dream. Let’s dive into all the gingerbread-inspired ideas!

A Gingerbread Kitchen Wonderland

In our kitchen, the gingerbread theme comes to life with warm and cozy gingerbread touches. I started by transforming galvanized houses into a charming gingerbread village. These hand-painted houses are perched on our kitchen shelves surrounded by a blanket of faux snow and accented with twinkle lights, creating a magical glow.

Above the stove, I hung a cheerful Gingerbread Cookies sign that sets the tone for the space. On the kitchen hood, I added a show-stopping DIY gingerbread wreath. The wreath features a large gingerbread man, which I crafted by painting a gingerbread-shaped cutting board, and I adorned it with painted wood snowflakes and battery-operated lights for a cozy and festive touch.

A Festive Christmas Dish Cabinet

In the kitchen, I repurposed a vintage gun cabinet, adding modern tile for a fresh, updated look, and installed it as a stylish storage solution for cups, glasses, and dishes.

For the holiday season, I transformed it into a festive Christmas dish cabinet. I brought out my collection of Santa mugs, Christmas plates, and red bakeware, creating a cheerful display. To add an extra festive touch, I lined the shelves with holiday McKenzie-Childs tartan napkins, making the cabinet a charming focal point in the kitchen.

A Plaid Christmas Kitchen Nook

Adjacent to the kitchen, our dining nook is dressed in cozy plaid. A tiered tray filled with festive treats and ornaments sits atop a tartan throw, creating a warm and inviting holiday scene.

Across from the nook is our little reading corner, where I added some mini Christmas trees, a festive pillow, and another tartan throw. This cozy spot is perfect for sipping hot cocoa and enjoying a holiday book.

Gingerbread-Themed Christmas Tree

The centerpiece of our holiday decor is our main Christmas tree, decked out in all things gingerbread. I crafted DIY gingerbread house ornaments and added velvet bows in warm, rich tones.

Gingerbread-shaped ornaments complete the look, turning our tree into a sweet and whimsical focal point. It’s a gingerbread lover’s dream come true!

Colorful Gingerbread Village Mantel

The mantel is another area where the gingerbread theme shines. I painted colorful gingerbread houses that line the mantel, adding a playful and cheerful touch.

A Norfolk pine garland draped across the mantel is adorned with velvet bows and faux candle lights that mimic the flicker of real flames. The combination of greenery, soft lights, and bright gingerbread details makes this space truly magical.

Gingerbread-Themed Dining Room Glow

In the dining room, I created a stunning DIY gingerbread village centerpiece. Painted and decorated gingerbread houses sit on cake plates of varying heights, surrounded by paper trees and twinkle lights.

A lighted branch centerpiece in the middle adds height and an ethereal glow. Seeing the dining room illuminated in the evening is a highlight of the season, making it the perfect spot for festive dinners with family and friends.

And on the buffet, behind the table, I added some sweet Christmas decor. I love this little mirror.

Sparkling Disco Ball Tree

One of my favorite additions this year is our DIY disco ball tree. Adorned with shimmering disco balls, it’s a modern, playful twist on holiday decor. To tie the look together, I added a pinkish mauve ribbon that complements the color of the rug and brings a cozy warmth to the sparkling display.

When the sunlight streams through the windows, it dances off the disco balls, creating a magical, light-filled moment that never fails to make me smile. It’s a glamorous yet cozy addition that perfectly complements the rest of our holiday theme.

Spiraling Staircase Showstopper

Our spiral staircase is dressed to impress this year with festive garland. I added velvet ribbons, gilded branches, and wooden ornaments to create a cohesive and elegant look. This eye-catching display wows visitors the moment they step into our home and ties together the gingerbread theme with a touch of classic holiday charm.

Hop Over for More Holiday Inspiration

Thank you for joining me on this whimsical holiday home tour! I hope these DIY gingerbread ideas inspire you to bring a little extra sweetness to your holiday decor. Don’t forget to scroll down and visit my friends’ holiday homes. Each one is brimming with unique and creative ideas to make this season magical. Be sure to pin these beautiful Christmas home ideas for your holiday inspiration board!

Happy Holidays and happy decorating!

Bloggers’ Best Holiday Home Tours

This week I am joining some of my blogging friends for the Bloggers’ Best Holiday Home Tours. Twenty talented and creative women will be opening their homes up for you to tour all week long. You can visit each holiday home tour by clicking the links below. Be sure to pin the ideas to make later!

Monday’s Tours

Lazy Girl’s Garden Club / This Is Simplicite / Amy Sadler Designs

Cottage In the Mitten / The Ponds Farmhouse / DIY Beautify

Tuesday’s Tours

Midwest Life and Style / Robyn’s French Nest

Sonata Home Design / StoneGable / Thistlewood Farms

Wednesday’s Tours

Living Large In a Small House / Shiplap & Shells / She Gave It a Go / Southern Home & Hospitality

Thursday’s Tours

Pasha Is Home / A Hundred Affections

tatertots & jello / Returning Grace / Perfecting Places

Find All the DIYs and Products I Used

To make recreating these festive ideas easy, I’m linking all of the products and DIY tutorials I used in our Christmas home BELOW. From the DIY gingerbread village, turning galvanized houses into DIY gingerbread houses, Gingerbread Snowflake Wreath, Gingerbread Houses Wreath, Disco Ball Wreath, DIY Gingerbread Houses Ornaments, DIY Gingerbread Cookie Ornaments, DIY Gingerbread Gift Bags, DIY Gingerbread Baking Soda Ornaments, you’ll find everything you need to bring these holiday touches into your own home. Be sure to check out the links for detailed tutorials and to shop for the supplies to make your Christmas magical!

• DIY Gingerbread Village Centerpiece
• DIY Disco Ball Wreath
• Turn Galvanized Houses into Gingerbread Houses
• DIY Gingerbread House Ornaments
• DIY Gingerbread Cookie Ornaments
• Gingerbread Gift Bags
• Gingerbread Man Salt Dough Ornaments
• Anthropologie-Inspired Bottle Brush Tree Centerpiece
• How to Tie the Perfect Velvet Bows
• DIY Scandinavian Snowflake Ornaments

And I hope to connect with you on Instagram (@tatertotsandjello) where I share my latest projects and finds!

Have a Festive Day!

xoxo

The post Whimsical Holiday Home Tour with Gingerbread Houses & DIY Decor appeared first on Tatertots and Jello.

I love decorating our home with inexpensive ideas that make a big impact. One of my favorite projects to bring the spirit of Christmas into any space is DIY paper bag snowflakes. They are easy to make, customizable, and absolutely stunning. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner, these snowflakes are a perfect addition to your holiday decor.

Festive Paper Gingerbread Snowflakes Anywhere

You can make these snowflakes to decorate almost any space in your home. Hang them over your dining table, above your mantel, or in your entryway. I hung mine over our front door, adding a whimsical touch. Just be sure to keep them dry if displayed outdoors on a covered porch.

A Craft I Love

I’ve been making paper bag snowflakes for years, and this time, I added a gingerbread-inspired twist. The charming details made them extra festive, and I love how they turned out!

Snowflake Designs

Here are the snowflakes before I hung them up!

Gingerbread Snowflake Supplies

Gather these simple supplies to make your snowflakes:

• Large paper bags
• Glue sticks or hot glue
• Scissors
• Clear fishing line
• A white paint pen

Choose a Snowflake Design

Start by deciding on your snowflake’s look. Add gingerbread-style details, like dots and squiggles, with your paint pen.

Prep the Paper Bags

Cut 12 paper bags using your design. Stack them neatly and take one bag from the stack.

Glue the Bags

Apply glue across the bottom and center of the first bag. Lay the next bag on top, aligning the edges. Repeat for all 12 bags.

Assemble the Snowflake

Pull the first bag up and glue it to the twelfth bag to form a circle.

Add a Hole for Hanging

Punch a hole at the top of the snowflake for hanging. Reinforce with tape to prevent tearing.

Finishing Touches

Once assembled, add extra details with your paint pen to personalize your snowflake.

Display and Enjoy

Hang your snowflakes using clear fishing line. They look beautiful above tables, mantels, and doorways!

Share Your Creations

I’d love to see your snowflakes! Tag me on Instagram at @tatertotsandjello so I can admire your work.

Try this simple, budget-friendly craft to add festive magic to your home this Christmas!

More Gingerbread Ideas:

• DIY Gingerbread Village Centerpiece
• DIY Disco Ball Wreath
• Turn Galvanized Houses into Gingerbread Houses
• DIY Gingerbread House Ornaments
• DIY Gingerbread Cookie Ornaments
• Gingerbread Gift Bags
• Gingerbread Man Salt Dough Ornaments
• Anthropologie-Inspired Bottle Brush Tree Centerpiece
• How to Tie the Perfect Velvet Bows
• DIY Scandinavian Snowflake Ornaments

Have a Festive Day!

xoxo

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