Imagine your Thanksgiving table watched over by a pair of gnomes, their cozy plaid hats leaning forward as though they’re listening in on family stories.
These little figures carry the spirit of harvest season, blending rustic fabric, faux fur, and wood into a whimsical decoration.
Making them is as enjoyable as displaying them, you get to play with textures and patterns, turning simple supplies into tiny characters that spread warmth wherever they sit.
Materials Needed
- 2 pieces of plaid fabric, 12” × 12” each
- 2 wooden beads, 1” diameter
- Faux fur fabric, 6” × 8” piece
- Polyfill stuffing (about 1 cup per gnome)
- Hot glue gun and glue sticks
- Scissors
- Cardstock or felt (optional)
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut the plaid fabric into a triangle shape (about 12” high and 8” wide at the base) for each gnome hat. Then roll and glue into a cone.
Step 2: Stuff the cone lightly with polyfill to give it body and set aside.
Step 3: Cut a faux fur triangle about 6” long. You now glue it inside the hat opening so the fur drapes down like a beard.
Step 4: Attach a wooden bead at the top edge of the beard with hot glue to form the nose.
Step 5: Adjust the beard shape by trimming the fur slightly if needed. Finally, place the gnomes on a shelf, table, or mantel to complete the look.
Notes:
You can swap the plaid fabric for burlap or flannel for a rustic look. Try making a group of gnomes in different sizes to create a whimsical Thanksgiving centerpiece.