Transform everyday containers into a waltz of whimsy and style to match the vibrant patterns & colors of your event & party napkins.
Several weeks ago, I suggested turning used cylinder containers into vases that complement your paper napkins at events & parties. Now, I have a few more ideas for containers you can decoupage to align your décor with your food and beverage service.
I've reposted the steps at the end.
Straws
Coffee & Drink Stirrers
Cutlery & Napkins
Tissue Paper Decorations
...and flowers, of course
Just a few easy steps are all you need to start turning the throwaway into the talk of the town!
Materials Used
- Cylindrical container for vase
- White acrylic or chalk paint
- Mod Podge Decoupage Glue*
- Paper napkin
- Plastic food wrap
*You can make your own Mod Podge by mixing 1 cup of white glue with 1/2 cup of water.
Paint vs. No Paint
- Depending upon the look you want, most surfaces will need to be painted before applying the napkin.
- Printed text and color will show through the thin single napkin ply.
- To match the look of the napkin, paint the cylinder surface with white acrylic or chalk paint.
- Two coats may be necessary to hide everything including brush marks.
- Another option is to let the container show through by not painting the surface.
- This is effective on metal, wood, shells and other natural surfaces.
- The end result is a more integrated appearance of image and container.
Separate Napkin
- Separate the top ply of an unfolded beverage napkin by gently flattening one of the embossed corners with your fingernail.
- Paper napkins are typically made from 2 or 3 layers of tissue called ply, which are embossed to hold them together.
- The napkin artwork is only printed on the top layer.
Glue Napkin
- Determine where you want the napkin to be on the cylinder.
- Apply glue in a small strip from top to bottom of the container about 2 inches wide.
- Position the napkin over the glued section's surface, ensuring it is straight.
- Optionally, trim off some of the napkin at the top and bottom.
- Leave a little overhang to allow for straightening as you go.
Smooth Wrinkles
- Cover with plastic food wrap and smooth out all the wrinkles. (I like deli wraps for this)
- Continue applying glue and smoothing napkin in sections 1-2 inches wide.
- Work your way around the cylinder to the napkin ends.
- Cut off any overlap at the ends, or add a napkin section to fill a gap.
- Let it dry, then gently file off any excess around the top or bottom with a sanding stick or sandpaper.
- Seal the deal with a coat of decoupage glue over the new napkin surface.
Sustainable Style
- This is where budget meets brilliance!
- Where those looking to dazzle without denting their wallets find their sanctuary.
Create a harmonious and engaging atmosphere by thoughtfully integrating the design of napkins and containers throughout your event.
Check out our selection of paper napkins featuring artwork from artists around the world here...
Have fun!