Family Portrait Cookies for Mother’s Day

If you’ve been looking for a cozy, budget-friendly craft that doubles as a heartfelt gift, this Thanksgiving Tea Bag Tree is the perfect project. Using Twinings Orange & Cinnamon Spice tea bags, a fall-themed mug, and just a few embellishments, you can create a festive centerpiece that’s as practical as it is pretty.

I make several of these every year and take them to the local nursing home where my daughter works. The residents love them — not only do they brighten the tables, but the tea can be shared by everyone. It’s a thoughtful, affordable gift that brings people together over a warm cup. And here’s my thrifty secret: I buy the wrapped tea bags when they go on sale throughout the year and stash them away until holiday season.

Supplies You’ll Need

• Twinings Orange & Cinnamon Spice tea bags (about 12–20, depending on the size of your tree) 
• A sturdy fall-themed mug (look for ones with leaves, pumpkins, or gratitude quotes like “Thankful” or “Give Thanks”) 
• Thin ribbon in autumn shades (orange, brown, gold, or plaid) 
• Hot glue gun or double-sided tape 
• Small fall embellishments (mini felt leaves, acorns, or faux berries) 
• A decorative topper (a glitter star, pumpkin, or rustic bow) 

How to Make a Thanksgiving Tea Bag Tree

Step 1 – Prep your base
Start with your mug. This will be the “trunk” of your tree, so choose one with an autumn vibe.

Step 2 – Create your tree layers
Stack the tea bags in a cone shape. Begin with the largest layer on the bottom and work your way up to a single tea bag at the top. Slightly overlap each bag for a full look.

Step 3 – Secure with ribbon
Tie a piece of ribbon around each layer to hold it snug. I recommend orange satin or plaid ribbon for that Thanksgiving touch.

Step 4 – Add decorations
Hot glue mini pom-poms, faux berries, or tiny felt leaves between the tea bags to give the tree a decorated look. This makes it look more festive and less “stacked.”

Step 5 – Finish with a topper
Top your tea tree with a bow, star, or even a small faux pumpkin. This is what gives the tree its charming holiday character.

Step 6 – Add a personal touch
Slip in a gift tag with a note like, “Grateful for you — enjoy a cozy cup this Thanksgiving.”

Variations to Try

• Mixed Flavors Tree: Combine Orange & Cinnamon Spice with Chai or Apple Cinnamon for variety. 
• Rustic Farmhouse Style: Use burlap ribbon and a wooden star topper. 
• Christmas Version: Swap out the mug and ribbon for red and green tones — perfect to carry this idea into December. 

Why This Project Works

This isn’t just a pretty gift — it’s a way of sharing warmth. The Twinings Orange & Cinnamon Spice tea bags give off a cozy autumn flavor that’s perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. And because the tree is built from individually wrapped bags, it’s ideal for sharing in group settings like workplaces, classrooms, or nursing homes.

It’s quick, inexpensive, and full of heart — which to me is exactly what handmade gifting is all about.