DIY: A Holiday Plate With Insta-style

With Christmas entertaining and holiday cheer there's bound to be a few hosting tricks up my sleeve! I grew up in a family that was always entertaining, and there were definitely new table settings and decor happening for different occasions, but when I went off to study I was on a budget! There was no time for anything other than to hit the books, and when I could throw a proper dinner party or three I used my dexterous gift of sewing to explore my options. 

Oi! Tis the season of big spending and free-shipping, right? But, what if you simply aren't in the mood for dishing out more cash? Well, here's a suggestion: grab your scissors and trimmings lovelies, because it's getting crafty in the Haus of Fashion Tales! Glistening glitter, ribbons sparkling, and the holiday music has begun!


I have been creating several projects and gifts in my spare time ... well, you know, whatever that is! So, instead of showing you all of those beauties I decided to add another task of creating napkin rings. This is all very easy and such a great way to both save money, and make a themed setting for your guests. 

I have made several different versions below by using woven ribbon, wire ribbon, and other motley trim. View the series of mobile images below! As for our gathering, this setup was for a simple and light dinner that we had with family friends from Vancouver, and Edinburgh. I also used fabric that I already had, then cut and sewed them to make napkins. 


Materials:
Spools of seasonal ribbon (sheer, satin, wire or grosgrain)
Dinner napkins
Needle and thread
Sewing machine (optional)
Scissors
Buttons or other trim
*An upbeat holiday tune-absolutely recommended


To start, cut your ribbon approx. 15 cm or the length that will secure your napkins. I used a thin napkin, and a wide napkin so that you can see the difference. Next, fold the ribbon in half (face side to face side) and start sewing the open ended seam closed, pulling the end threads to create a gathered effect. Then, embellish away!


You may use a button for closure if you prefer as well. Finger press. Turn the ribbon inside out so that the sewn seam is facing inside. That's it! Now, the fun begins! Start folding your napkins and setting your table ambiance.

Of course, this is merely a quick and easy way to make the most of what you have without breaking the bank. You can save pulling out your fine china and table linens for the actual day of Christmas or whatever your occasion might be!