There are less than two weeks to make Thanksgiving preparations and if you haven't had the chance to come up with decorations for your dining table, here are some easy and inexpensive ideas.

1) Keep Thanksgiving centerpieces simple, but elegant.

A centerpiece doesn't need to be complex as simple decorations done elegantly can be impressive. The idea is to put up a centerpiece that doesn't look sloppy. One of the easiest centerpieces to do is to put a candle in a glass case, such as a mason jar filled with popcorn kernels and beans. Tie the jar with a golden ribbon for a more dramatic effect.

2) Layer different fabrics and dinnerware to deliver a cozy, but luxurious look.

Using different textures of fabric add to the visual presentation, so you can layer the thick cotton tablecloth with a jute or burlap runner and a set of nice placemats. You can also layer dinnerware using different patterns or colors based on a theme. Take notice of the shape and size of the table, though, and gauge when you have too much layering going on, according to author and lifestyle expert Mary Carol Garrity via The Olympian.

3) Create your own fall-accented flatware for colorful table accents.

If you haven't invested in silverware, you can use your regular fork and spoon and create a marvelous twist with it by dipping them in spray, chalk or mineral paint. Pick shades that match your table's theme, which most likely feature fall colors. Below is the DIY instruction for improving flatware from Hometalk.

Materials:

Clean and dry silverware

Chalk paint or Fusion Mineral Paint

Wax paper

Light sand paper

Procedure:  One by one, dip the silverware into the paint up to a certain point or line. Make this even for the rest of your items. Set on dry wax paper for 12 to 18 hours. Sand the edges lightly to get rid of the rough spots or excess paint.

4) Consider adding place cards.

This is not hard to do as decorative fall-themed place cards are usually available at craft stores or, make your own using actual leaves and spray paint. Having place cards is also helpful if you are expecting many guests at the dinner table, according to The Daily Meal.

5) Have a "Thankful Tree."

This can either be your centerpiece or placed by buffet table next to the food. As an added bonus, you can let your guests hang their thank you notes on the tree that you prepared with DIY instructions from Simply Vintage Girl.

Materials:

Jar

Sticks, branches or twigs

Colorful scrapbook paper cut into different shapes and hole-punched

Ribbons

Pen

Procedure: Arrange the branches in different heights inside the jar. On the paper, write what you're thankful for and then hang the paper on the branches with the ribbons.