Easy Thanksgiving Favors: DIY To-Go Bags & Utensil Holders with Free Printables

Updated at: 22/03/2025

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, delicious food, and cherished company. But amidst the flurry of cooking and hosting, remembering thoughtful little gestures for your guests can often be overlooked. This year, simplify your Thanksgiving preparations and delight your loved ones with charming, personalized party favors that are both easy on the budget and a breeze to create! Forget expensive store-bought trinkets; we're diving into the world of DIY Thanksgiving to-go bags and utensil holders, perfect for sending guests home with leftovers or a sweet treat. These adorable, customized containers are surprisingly simple to assemble, even if you're short on time.

This guide provides you with free, printable designs to customize your favors, making them truly unique and reflective of your Thanksgiving celebration. We'll walk you through each step of crafting these delightful to-go bags and utensil holders, transforming simple materials into elegant and practical gifts your guests will adore. Get ready to create personalized keepsakes that perfectly encapsulate the warmth and joy of your Thanksgiving gathering! Let's get started!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Paper bags
  • Cardstock
  • Free printables from Online Labels
  • Glue runner
  • Scoring tool
  • Takeaway containers
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise children when using scissors, glue, or other craft supplies.
  • Ensure all food items placed in to-go bags are stored safely and at the correct temperature to prevent spoilage or foodborne illness. Consider using insulated bags for hot items.
  • If using any natural materials like twine or wood for the utensil holders, inspect them for splinters or sharp edges before handing them out.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Download & Print Thanksgiving Printables

    • Download free Thanksgiving printables from OnlineLabels.com. Search for "Thanksgiving" in their search bar.
    • Print the Thanksgiving message stickers onto clear sticker paper. Apply them to the utensil holder.
    Print the Thanksgiving message stickers onto clear sticker paper. Apply them to the utensil holder.
    Download & Print Thanksgiving Printables

  2. Create To-Go Bags for Leftovers

    • Print the "Gobble it up" sticker onto sticker paper. Apply it to a plain gift bag.
    • Prepare takeaway containers to put leftovers in.
    • Place the takeaway containers inside the decorated gift bags.
    Place the takeaway containers inside the decorated gift bags.Place the takeaway containers inside the decorated gift bags.Place the takeaway containers inside the decorated gift bags.
    Create To-Go Bags for Leftovers

  3. Make Utensil Holders

    • Cut a 12x12 sheet of cardstock to 4.5 inches wide.
    • Score the cardstock at the 3 3/4 mark and fold to create a utensil holder.
    • Apply glue to the edges of the cardstock and assemble the utensil holder.
    Apply glue to the edges of the cardstock and assemble the utensil holder.Apply glue to the edges of the cardstock and assemble the utensil holder.Apply glue to the edges of the cardstock and assemble the utensil holder.
    Make Utensil Holders

Read more: DIY Pantry Door Spice Rack: Organize Your Spices in Minutes!

Tips

  • Use Online Labels' craft paper for a more elegant look.
  • Add extra embellishments to the bags for a more personalized touch.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Glue Application

Reason: Uneven glue distribution leads to messy-looking to-go bags and utensil holders, potentially causing the contents to spill or the decorations to peel off.
Solution: Apply a thin, even layer of glue using a glue stick or a small brush for a neat and secure finish.

2. Poorly Measured or Cut Materials

Reason: Inaccurate measurements result in bags and holders that are too small or too large, impacting their functionality and appearance.
Solution: Carefully measure and cut materials using a ruler and sharp scissors for precise results.

FAQs

What kind of materials do I need to make these DIY Thanksgiving favors?
You'll primarily need paper bags (for the to-go bags), cardstock (for the utensil holders and printables), scissors, glue or tape, and your free printable designs. Optional additions include ribbon, twine, or stickers for decoration.
Are the printable designs customizable? Can I change the text or images?
Yes! Most printable designs allow for customization. You can easily adjust the text to include your family's name, a Thanksgiving message, or a date. Many programs allow you to edit images as well before printing.
How far in advance should I make these Thanksgiving favors?
Ideally, you should make them a few days before Thanksgiving to avoid last-minute stress. The process is fairly quick, but printing and assembling takes some time, especially if you are making several sets.