DIY Easy Watercolor Napkins

For my Mediterranean inspired party (see photos here), I wanted to use some funky, abstract art napkins to match my relaxed blue tablescape.

But it wasn't meant to be, so I had no choice but to make my own! The technique is super easy and works a treat for re-purposing old fabrics or thrift store linens you may have around the house.

For this tutorial I used a stained white tablecloth I had at home (I'm so glad I kept it now - it pays to be a hoarder!), but you can use old linens, thrift store sheets or simple white napkins too.

Materials:

* White tablecloth or linen fabric

* blue fabric paint

* a plastic bowl

* optional: needle and thread or sewing machine for hemming

Directions:

1) Start by cutting your fabric to size. I used a fabric napkin for size guide. Fill a bowl with enough water to dip half the napkins in and add a little fabric paint. Soak each napkin in the water halfway.

2) Squeeze out the excess water from the napkins and splash a little more fabric paint on each of the wet halves and squeeze with your hand to help spread the paint and create the abstract patterns. You can use an old toothbrush to help you create a splatter pattern too, or just eye ball it! Hang them out to dry.

3) Hem the edges of each napkin with a sewing machine or by doing a running stitch by hand. 

TIP: Can't sew? Then use heat-adhesive tape to hem the napkins - you can find it most craft or sewing stores.

4) Iron the napkins to set the color in. They're ready to be used! To care for your watercolor napkins, simply wash by hand and hang to dry.