This month for our #12MonthsOfDIY challenge we’re working with vinyl. I used the heat transfer vinyl from Expressions Vinyl and made some custom napkins. They were really easy to make and I love how they turned out.
Vinyl is such a versatile material, there are endless things you can do with it. I thought it would be fun to do something with the iron-on vinyl and add some text to fabric napkins. I added “life is a party” to mine -I love how fun and festive they are.
This is a really easy, inexpensive way to add a special detail to entertaining.
I already had a cutting machine -gathering dust in the basement. I have an old Cricut -I think the last time I really used it might have been for my Fall Subway Art. They’ve changed since I got mine about 6 years ago, but I plugged it in and it worked great. They’re actually really easy to use too.
I used the cartridge that came with the machine -Plantin SchoolBook. I cut out my letters in 3/4” size and used this chart from Expressions Vinylt to figure out my cutting speed, pressure and blade depth (med., med., 3 in my case).
On my first attempt, I flipped the text, but didn’t realize I also needed to type it backwards. Second attempt I flip cut and typed the letters backwards and it worked out great. (This is because you’re cutting on the flip side of the vinyl).
I cut out all four together, and weeded them all together (that’s what they call removing all the negative pieces of vinyl in the cut-out).
Next, I used scissors to cut out each phrase individually.
Then you just iron it onto your napkins. I used some pieces of linen look fabric I actually picked up at the dollar store. I like their colour and texture. I used them for this tablescape, and then washed them. I liked the frayed edges, so decided against hemming them, making this a super simple project.
I love how they turned out -I made four, but I think I just might need to make this into a set of twelve.
You could customize the napkins with anything…think holidays, weddings, names, manners, conversations starters. The sky’s the limit.
With customized “life is a party” Napkins, life really is a party!
Now it’s time to see the rest of the DIY vinyl project ideas from my Canadian blogging friends!
From the top left, they are:
Number Subway Art from Love Create Celebrate
DIY Upcycled Faux Geometric Mosaic Tile Serving Tray Using Vinyl from Sustain My Craft Habit
Personalized Shoes from Brooklyn Berry Designs
Vinyl Otomi Chargers from PMQ for Two
DIY personalized throw pillow – home is where the heart is from Vin’yet Etc.
DIY Decorated Rain Barrel Using Fun Vibrant Colours from Time With Thea
Child’s Memory Box with Hand-Cut Vinyl Decals from Woman in Real Life
DIY Striped Carafe from Lifeovereasy
Life is a Party Napkins from Life is a Party
Vintage Inspired DIY Office Sign from Heather in Heels
Easy Strawberry Jam with Printable Vinyl Labels from The DIY Mommy
Dannyelle! This is perfect! What an adorable setting and a great project. Love it!
These napkins are beautiful. What a classy touch. I could see them with last names, initials, etc. too. Thanks for the inspiration.
these are just the prettiest!!! I love how simple they are, but how much awesome they add to the table:)!
Thanks Ariel.
Thanks Brooke, I think the possibilities are endless, so much fun.
Thanks Heather, a little awesome is always a good thing. 😉
Wow Dannyelle! I absolutly love these napkins and can we talk please, I need you to give me a tutorial on table scaping, ahhhmazing! Oh and that urn, I may have to steal it! Beautiful job!
These are awesome! I LOVE the linen look fabric, and from the dollar store, too? Double love 🙂
I love the fabric you chose for your napkins and the lettering really makes them special!
This is so creative! What a great project idea! At dollar store prices, you could make these for any party!
Thanks Laurie, you’re so sweet! And, what if I told you that the urn was my garage sale find of the summer, at only $1. Sometimes a girl gets lucky. 😉
Thanks Dani, got love dollarama!
Thanks Joann!
Thanks Lindi, yes there may end of being many, many versions of this little project. 😉
Dani, I love every one of your posts but I have to admit this one is my latest favourite. I loved reading your narrative, I loved your photography but I really love your napkins! To think you bought them at the dollar store and now they look so stylish and high end. I also love your suggestion that they can be customized for any season or special event. You are right. The possibilities are endless. Well done!
So simple and lovely! It’s true what they say that it’s all in the details. I’d love to eat at that table:).
I’d love to have you eat at that table! We should meet in real life.
Dannyelle