There’s more to napkins than just putting them out for dinners. By using a technique called decoupage, they can be used to cover flowerpots, candle holders and ceramic tiles. It’s an easy and inexpensive way to coordinate an entire party by using the same print pattern.
I found the perfect napkins at a dollar store with an Easter motif.
Learn more about decoupage and decorating Easter eggs using this method.
It is possible to buy all the supplies for this craft inexpensively. With the exception of buying the Easter napkins, I found all the other supplies in my house. A few leftover ceramic tiles from a repair job in my bathroom would become coasters and a cleaned out jar are perfect for a vase or a candle holder.
I have a product called “Mod Podge” that is a waterbase sealer. It is idealfor decoupage and is available at craft stores. It is quite expensive so ifyou don’t already have some on hand, I found I got similar results withwatered down white glue. This is a much less expensive way of doing decoupage.
Here’s how to make a candle holder or vase and a coaster.
You Will Need:
- Clear glass jar
- 4 inch or 10 cm. square tile
- Print paper napkins
- Mod Podge or watered down white glue
- Small sponge paint brush
Instructions:
- To make the jar into a vase or candle holder, wash and dry it.
- Separate the layers of napkins and use only the top print layer.
- To decorate the jar, use a sponge brush to apply a coat of the glue/Mod Podge to the outside surface.
- Work the paper onto the side of the jar, tearing off excess. Torn edges show less than scissor cuts. It is okay to overlap the design and don’t worry about paper wrinkles. If the paper tears, just apply another piece to fit.
- Apply a final coat of the glue/Mod Podge to the surface after it has been covered with the napkin.
- Let dry.
- To make the coaster, follow the same steps. Edges of the tile may be covered or left exposed. Apply several coats of the glue/Mod Podge and let dry.
I prefer battery operated votives but it is safe to use a real votive candle in your decorated jar.
You may want to decorate more than one jar so you can have a spare for a display of spring flowers.
[Photographs by Linda Dunbar. Reproduction prohibited]
