Nesting: Mismatched Cloth Napkins

So, you probably already knew this but... matching isn't really my thing. I love patterns. Too many patterns. Give me all of the patterns, I say! 

We have a set of matching, simple white cloth napkins that I bought one time for a dinner party. They're ok, but I wanted a fun set. And they're SO easy to make. So I started fabric shopping and this quickly became my favorite nesting project ever.Choosing fabric was my favorite part. I love picking out random textiles. But since I don't quilt (yet) I usually don't get to pick out a whole bunch of patterns for one project. I decided to go with mismatched napkins, so I could add to my stash over time. They will be useful for foodie photos we take for the blog too. Plus, who needs to match anyway? 

I ordered all the patterns I liked from an Etsy shop (Stash Modern Fabric). I bought a half yard of each one. I used a large square from each pattern and still have leftovers for more future projects.To sew each napkin, just cut a square and stitch a double hem all the way around. For the record, this was the first sewing project we learned in Jr. High Home Ec class. Still using that education. ;)Done and done. Easiest project ever! I can't wait to add to my collection of mismatched napkins over time. If you know any Etsy shops with an amazing (vintage or new) cotton fabric collection, let me know! Have you ever made your own napkins? xo. Elsie 

Comments

[Molly]

I love this project!! I actually made a ton of mismatched cloth napkins for my wedding this year using floral vintage fabric from a few different Etsy stores. I was able to crank out over a hundred of these if that's any testament to how easy they are to make. :) I absolutely love the mix of patterns you've put together! So whimsical but dramatic.

http://developingapattern.com/

[Sarah]

Pretty! This brings all the charm of the fabric store varying pattern rows to your dining room table.

http://sarahthearchitect.com/

[Jessica]

Yay! This reminds me of Spring and eating on the patio outside. Thanks for sharing http://plantingloveseeds.blogspot.ca/

[katie]

these fabric patterns are soooooo adorable. love them all, but especially the pink anchors, notebook paper/math equations and the polka dots.... beautiful. dinners would be so fun with these mismatching napkins

[Mary]

I love using cloth napkins for dinners to cut back on paper towel use. Plus, mismatched towels like this are so fun! Makes it harder to get bored with just one pattern.

[Daphne Mitra]

What a fantastic idea!:) My bf recently picked up sewing as a hobby (hahaha) and I think I might be able to sell him this idea pretty easy, he would definitely love it!

Needless to say, I love the fabrics and prints you have chosen.

[Kasia]

I exactly understand what you mean! I have plenty of fabric scraps, that I want to use in one project. The napkins seem to be a great idea:) I was thinking about making a quilt or add some more pattern to some of my tote bags.

http://esikfloresik.blogspot.com

[Kate]

I was wondering what you were going to use all that gorgeous fabric for! Looks great!

http://sourfawn.blogspot.com
http://whiskeybreakfast.blogspot.com

[melissa]

Lovely lovely! That wire basket is amazing by the way!

Melissa

http://shakeshakee.blogspot.com
http://etsy.com/shop/hexnailjewelry

[Sarah]

Do you know what nesting means??

[Kath]

We only use cloth napkins at our house! I started making them years ago because I love buying little bits of fun fabrics--- I double side mine... a different fabric on each side.. double the fun! We have quite a collection now! They get better with age... they become softer with each wash. Now I make mismatched sets for family & friends.
LOVE!!!!

[Joy]

What a fabulous idea! And a great exercise for perfectionists like me who get stuck in everything-needs-to-match mode :)

[Khushbu]

Lovely patterns I love to use them as my scarfs. Lovely.

[Francie]

I love having a basket of cloth napkins on the counter. I have made my own, but I am also fond of using the bandanas/handkerchiefs that they sell at the craft stores for less than a buck each. They are bigger than a standard napkin and way cheaper than making your own.

[heather]

cute idea!
and so many fabric stores have "scrap" piles that are fairly inexpensive & still cute!!

xo - heather
http://www.ThisLifeIsYours.com

[Novella - 9lla.it]

Ohhhh I love the idea!
Napkins are sooo sad and conventional!
These make me smile :-)

http://9lla.it/
A Fashion & DIY Blog...

[Allyson]

This fabric is AMAZING!

Allyson
http://allysonwonderlandphotography.com

[Carlee]

Such a good idea! I don't know why but I never though of making my own cloth napkins. Love it.
Carlee
http://almostendearing.blogspot.com/

[Rachel]

I really like this! Sometimes dining table linens can be so boring.

[Laura]

Great idea !
http://www.thestilettoholic.com/