DIY Containers


Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Decoupage Napkins for Vases & Containers
Flower Arrangements, Straws, Stirrers, Utensils, Napkins & Decorations
Transform everyday containers into a waltz of whimsy and style to match the vibrant patterns & colors of your event and party napkins at the bar, buffet, and dinner table.

All it takes is a few simple steps to get you started transforming 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.
Coordinate Flowers, Supplies, Vases, & Napkins

- This is where budget meets brilliance!
- Where those looking to dazzle without denting their wallets find their sanctuary.
Potential Vases

- The possibilities are endless.
- Virtually any size, shape or material will do.
- If it needs to hold water, glass works too!
Create a harmonious and engaging atmosphere by thoughtfully integrating the design of napkins and containers throughout your event.
Have fun!