6. To finish, turn under edges of opening; pin closed. Beginning and ending at one corner, edgestitch around runner. Press (avoiding felt with iron) if desired.
Click here to view a larger image of the completed autumnal table runner
Designer's notes:
• This technique could also be used, on a smaller scale, to embellish place mats.
• Don't like the look of felt? Try cutting the leaves from scraps of faux suede.
Five-minute napkin rings
These napkin rings are so quick to make, you can cut out enough of them for your Thanksgiving table in less time than it takes to make the pumpkin pie!
Click to view a larger image of the fall-themed napkin rings
You need:
Napkin ring pattern pieces
Piece of felt (8 x 25 cm/3 x 10 in) in fall colour (1 per napkin ring)
Straight or safety pins
Small, sharp scissors
To make:
1. Cut out actual-size pattern piece; centre on felt and secure with pins. Cut out felt around pattern using scissors. Remove pins and pattern.
2. Fold felt horizontally at centre and snip 1 cm (1/2-inch) cut through fold, about 1 cm in from base of right-hand leaf to make 2 cm (3/4-in) opening when unfolded. Repeat to make desired number of napkin rings.
3. To use, place napkin ring on flat surface with slit at right. Fold or roll napkin and place on top. Carefully push left-hand leaf through slit in felt.
Designer's notes:
• The simple leaf shape is appropriate for young kids; older ones will be up for the challenge of more intricate leaves.
Quick place card holders
Save yourself a choice spot next to the candied sweet potatoes with one of these place card holders.
Click here to view a larger image of the quick place card holders
You need:
Leaf pattern pieces
Scraps of felt (each at least 8 cm/3 in square) in fall colours
Straight or safety pins
Small, sharp scissors
Scrap paper
Wooden clothespins (1 per place card holder)
Heavy-duty white craft glue
To make:
1. Cut out actual-size pattern piece; centre on felt and secure with pins. Cut out felt around pattern using scissors. Remove pins and pattern.
2. Repeat to make two or three leaves per holder. Arrange leaves in desired pattern for each holder.
3. Lay scrap paper or newspaper over work surface. Spread glue thinly and evenly on one flat side of one clothespin. Carefully press leaves onto glue, keeping bottom edges of felt flush with bottom edge of clothespin, and adding small amount of extra glue where felt pieces overlap. Let dry completely, glue side up, for 24 hours.
| This story was originally titled "Bring the Leaf Motif to the Table" in the October 2009 issue. Subscribe to Canadian Living today and never miss an issue! |
Page 2 of 2 -- On page 1, find everything you'll need to make a festive fall table runner.
