Table Dressing

You can creatively use table linens to transform any table with color, texture, or embellishments, and add instant festivity. Dress up your table with some of my classic tips for layering, napkin folding, and choosing adornments. After reading this article, visit my site at www.adriennecc.com for some other creative projects and tips.

Napkin Pocket Fold

1. Fold a basic napkin in half, and then fold in half again.


2. With the closed side facing right, fold down the top layer from point a to point c.


3. Flip the napkin over. Fold the left side and then the right side 1/3 towards middle.


4. Flip the napkin back with the front side facing up. Slide in cutlery, flowers, menu card, etc. into the pocket, and lay napkin flat.

 

Napkin Envelope Fold

1. Fold a standard dinner napkin in half so that the open end is facing away from you.


2. On the right hand side of the napkin, fold both corners towards the center to form two triangles.


3. Fold the left side of the napkin over in half to meet the base of the triangles.


4. Fold both triangles over to create an envelope

 

Creative Layering
So many aspects of table linens enable creativity and personality on the table. A basic tablecloth can be a simple dressing, standing alone and creating a clean, crisp look. Top with a table runner, table covering, placemats, or a combination according to your taste. Choose linens and toppers based on the type of gathering you are hosting. Colors, prints, metallics, and textures all have the ability to dress up your table.

Think outside the box; table coverings do not have to be store-bought linens. For example, purchase fabric from a fabric store for a tablecloth, top with a quilt or burlap, use wrapping paper for a runner, scrapbook paper for placemats-the possibilities are endless!

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Wrapping Style Add instant personality to a place setting with creative napkin rings. Using basic white dinner napkins you already have, this technique is affordable and easy to customize for any occasion. Solid fabric napkins can be bought in bulk at home stores and create the perfect canvas for embellishments. In addition to a simple rolled napkin, try pinching in the center or folding into a basic rectangle. Possibilities abound with basic household items, purchases from a craft store, items from your closet-the list goes on and on. Use remnant fabric to tie a bow, twist a knot, or loop around the center. I like bold graphic prints. Try adding lace, ribbon, or other sewing supplies for a layered look.

Fashion accessories make festive napkin rings. Wrapping costume jewelry, bracelets, and cuffs around basic napkins can add sparkle, color, and texture to your table. Hair accessories help achieve a specific look, such as a bold flower, whether glittery or solid. A wrap is also a great way to incorporate a party favor, allowing guests to take home the accessory.

Paper products such as card stock and scrapbook paper are easy ways to customize and add graphics and color to the place setting. Clip a small card to a curtain clip and loop another piece to create a simple cuff. Embellish by gluing buttons to the paper, writing names for place cards, or wrapping ribbon and yarn around the paper.