How I Stenciled Napkins for a Pretty, Custom Look

Lately I’ve been wanting to do something with dish towels, napkins, pot holders, etc. I’m not sure why … I just thought it would be a quick and easy way to add some prettiness to the kitchen and dining room. So I broke down and took a trip to Hobby Lobby for some inspiration and now I have a tutorial on how I stenciled napkins. A wide variety of stencils are out there for the choosing, so there’s really no limit on what you can do for your next gathering of family or friends.

I’m sharing 2 different stenciled napkin designs. You’ll have to let me know which is your favorite!

Both are very simple. Like I said, not a lot of work for a pretty, custom look.

 

I started with plain white napkins. They come in packs of 4 for $7.99.

Before you start stenciling, wash the napkins.

 

Find a stencil design that you like. I’m going to use both of these border patterns.

Tape the stencil in place close to the edge of your napkin. The tape keeps the stencil from slipping.

 

Be sure to use fabric paint for this project since you’ll be washing the napkins over and over. You can use foam or bristle brushes. Use a light amount of paint and hold your stencil firmly in place. I used a stabbing motion to minimize any paint seeping underneath the stencil. Carefully peel the stencil away from the napkin and let the paint dry thoroughly before using.

 

You can then fold your napkins however you wish.

I folded this one so both edges of the border would show, creating a pocket for the silverware.

 

Most of my dinner napkins are a solid color. I can never find the right patterns.

Stenciling napkins lets me create the pattern I want in the color scheme I need.

 

A lace bow adds a bit more femininity to each place setting.

And now for the second pattern …

 

A simple floral border with blue flowers and orange centers.

I love to use yellow with blue and happened to have sunny mums on hand.

 

I’m really craving the color yellow right now.

Maybe because I need warmth and sunshine during the rainy month of April.

 

Note: Be sure to wait 72 hours after stenciling before washing your napkins again.

So for little money and time, I got sweet little stenciled napkins for my dinner table.

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