Going with a theme

DIY Ideas for your holiday table setting

The most important element is setting the tone and look for your table. Choosing a theme is crucial! Here are a few to consider, A brighter take on the traditional red and green, or perhaps an existing element in the room will be your inspiration – such as the polka-dotted window valance in this picture which was the inspiration for this colorful holiday theme. Dots appear everywhere and are accented by real oranges on the table and the tree.

Next thing to consider is your table itself. Oh….wait…. don’t forget your chairs! Be sure to add some holiday flair to your chairs with this festive chair back idea. This is a quick decoration on the back of your dining-room chair that is also super easy. Just tie on a big red-ribbon bow along with a wire sprig of greenery and a glittering white snowflake ornament and – VOILA - it’s pretty and simple - your guest can even take the sprig home as a little gift!

Now for your linens….try a ribbon table runner. Simply set the table for a festive meal by layering color, texture, and materials. Purchase runners or make them by cutting lengths of fabric and pressing the edges under. In addition to the runner you can make these pretty napkin rings and place mats. Punctuate a napkin with a ribbon-covered button made using a button kit. A length of ribbon tacked with thread forms the napkin ring, which is topped with the button and second ribbon loop. To add designer details to a purchased place mat, apply a length of ribbon using no-sew adhesive fabrics tape.

Let’s move along to place settings….

Create a special place at the table for each guest with these 3 easy to make ideas:

Elegant Ribbon Roses

Make ribbon roses to fill oversize bowls. For the roses, start with 5-inch-wide wired ribbon cut 60 inches long. Pull the wire on one side of the ribbon, roll it into a rose shape, and tack the ends.

Ribbon-Accented Table Setting Colorful ribbon projects add a festive punch to this holiday table. Simply wrap a ribbon around two plates to create an elegant place setting.

Holiday Place Settings Dress up each place setting with a keepsake ornament. Just replace the metal hook with a pretty ribbon tie.