Craft: Napkin Self Portraits

by Jennifer Cooper, posted on May 12th, 2010 in The Food Issue

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When we share a meal as a family, we share more than just food. We share our stories—what we’re thinking, what’s happened that day. While the memories of conversations may fade over time, pictures are long lasting. Here’s a simple craft that helps capture a family moment in time and adds a touch of whimsy to your next sit down meal.

These napkins were inspired by David Lebovitz’s discussion on how the french do napkins.

For four napkins you’ll need:
4 8.5 x 8.5 inch squares of pre-washed white 100% cotton fabric
8 10 x 10 inch squares of contrasting pre-washed 100% cotton fabric (I used seersucker for the napkins pictured)
water soluble fabric marker
fabric markers

1. Take the water soluble marker and mark a 1/2 inch border around the white squares. This will serve as a border to draw inside of. Any drawing that is outside of the 1/2 inch border will not be seen.
2. Distribute fabric markers and have everyone draw a self portrait and sign their names on the white fabric squares.
3. Follow manufacturer’s instructions for the markers. Some may need time to dry.
4. Working one at a time, take self portraits and lay them right side down on your ironing board. Fold one side in 1/4 inches and press. Fold again and press. Do the same thing on the three remaining sides.
5. Place portrait on top of one piece of larger contrasting fabric square. Center it. Pin to secure.
6. Use a zig zag stitch around the portrait to secure it to the larger fabric square.
7. With right sides together, place contrasting fabric together (one will have a portrait on it, the other will not). Pin.
8. Sew around fabric 1/4 inch in leaving a 2 inch opening at the top.
9. Turn fabric right side out through opening.
10. Press, tucking in edges of opening.
11. Use a zig zag stitch around the entire napkin, making sure to seal the opening as you go.

These also make wonderful gifts and are perfect to tuck in with a packed lunch.

Don’t sew? Have no fear! You too can have custom designed napkins. Just purchase a pack of 100% cotton white cloth napkins (found here or here) and a set of fabric markers. Then let the art party begin.

Want more options? Visit the purl bee to find tutorials and inspiration for making a variety of napkins.

Feeling extra crafty? Visit Charlotte’s Fancy where every Monday, you’ll find a new craft to try.

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