A Cheap, Colorful Alternative to Cloth Napkins

published Feb 16, 2017
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(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

The party problem: You’re throwing a Southern-themed brunch or dinner and aren’t quite sure how to set the table.

The party trick: Use bandanas as napkins.

(Image credit: Lauren Volo)

We adore cloth napkins at the table, but we’re not blind to how much they can cost. It’s especially hard to justify when you want something fresh and colorful for a special occasion — it’s not exciting to drop $10 apiece on new napkins! And sure, paper napkins are inexpensive options and come in all sorts of colors, but then, well, you’re using paper napkins.

Enter our favorite secret for colorful napkins with character: bandanas!

Somehow, bandanas are way cheaper than actual cloth napkins. And they’re super colorful, which makes them a great, inexpensive way to brighten up a table.

More Napkin Talk

To make the bandana look dressy and party-ready: Fold each bandana into a triangle and place your stacked flatware (one fork, knife, and spoon) in the middle. Then, fold the left side of fabric over the flatware and start rolling. Put one bundle at each setting, add some flowers to the center of the table, and you’re done!

If you’re feeling this bandana idea, you can go all out and use them in other ways to decorate for a party. For example, you can use pins to connect a bunch (in a quilt-like fashion) and make a quick tablecloth or table runner. You can also fold them into triangles and tie the ends together to make a super-cute party banner. Or you can fill each one with candy and tie them up for a sweet parting gift.

Buy: 20-by-20 Bandanas, $9.50 for 12 assorted