Summer is the perfect time to host a backyard get together or party, and the warm weather pairs perfectly with bright colorful patterns to bring on the fun.  I love cloth napkins.  When you set the table for guests and add a fun napkin,  the meal instantly feels like a special occasion.
I’ve been itching to play with bleach pens for a while now. I love dip dying and tie dying looks, so this seemed like a project that was right up my alley. These very easy to make napkins cost under $10 to make a set of 4.  They have a fun handmade look to them without the mess of dying.         Â
Here’s what you’ll need:
- a bleach pen or 2 (depending on how intricate your designs are)
- 100% cotton napkins (I found these are Target)
Start by laying the napkins flat on a hard surface, that won’t be damaged by bleach. Decide on your patterns. Â I chose to keep mine very simple and just repeat the same shape all over the surface of the napkin. Â I didn’t worry about being perfect with my shapes. Â Imperfections are what make these look handmade!
Allow the bleach to sit on the fabric for at least 20 mins. Â I found that the lighter colors bleached out faster then the darker colors. Â If you turn over the napkin, you can get an idea of how much the fabric has bleached. Â
When the napkin patterns are as light as you want, rinse them well in cool water. Â Work quickly to remove the excess bleach, so that it doesn’t bleach other areas on the napkin. Â Then run the napkins through a normal washing and drying cycle.Â
This would be a great way DIY to have kids help with. Â I’m ready to get my hands on some more cotton napkins and add to this fun, colorful set.Â
Wonderful! Thank you <3
Can you tell me where to find the flatware? Love it and it´s hard to find in Germany :/