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Looking for a simple, low-mess Thanksgiving craft for the kids? This clothespin turkey craft is colorful, fun, and easy to create with basic supplies you probably already have at home. It’s perfect for a Thanksgiving-themed playdate, classroom craft, or even to add some homemade charm to your holiday table décor.
Plus – we’re offering a FREE printable feather template to make this project even easier! Grab your copy by signing up for our email list below.
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Free printable turkey feathers template
Supplies You’ll Need
To make your own clothespin turkey, you’ll need:
- 1 wooden clothespin
- Brown paint (we used burnt sienna acrylic paint)
- Small paintbrush
- Construction paper (various bright colors)
- Black marker
- Scissors
- Glue or tape
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Paint the Clothespin
Start by painting your clothespin brown. This will be the turkey’s body. Set it aside to dry completely.
2. Create the Turkey Face
Cut two small white circles for eyes.
Then cut:
- A small yellow triangle for the beak
- A red squiggly piece for the wattle
Glue the eyes near the top of the clothespin, then add the beak and wattle underneath.
Use a black marker to draw the pupils.
3. Make the Feathers
Using our free printable template, trace and cut out colorful feathers from construction paper. We used red, orange, yellow, green, and blue for a fun, rainbow turkey!
📌 Tip: Cut out two of each feather shape for a full, layered look.
4. Assemble the Turkey
Arrange the feathers in a fan shape and glue them together in the center.
Then, attach the feather bundle to the back of the clothespin. You now have an adorable turkey ready to gobble up some compliments!
Printable Template Reminder!
This craft is even easier with our free printable feather template – no guessing or freehand cutting required. Sign up for our email list below and we’ll send it right to your inbox.
NOTE: This file is for PERSONAL USE ONLY. You may NOT sell the digital file or sell the printed work. You may NOT redistribute the digital file or printed work.
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