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Some of the best things we make are the ones we reach for every day. A stack of soft cloth napkins turns a little piece of fabric into something that belongs at the table, for ordinary breakfasts as much as special dinners.
This simple set uses straight cuts and folded hems. Choose a cotton you love, steep some tea, and give yourself a little time to sew.
What you’ll need
- 1 yard of 44–45" wide woven cotton or a washable cotton/linen blend.
- Matching thread; a hand-sewing needle or sewing machine.
- Ruler, scissors or rotary cutter and mat, pins or clips, and an iron.
Cutting list
All measurements are in inches. Cut measurements include the stated seam allowances. Measure fabric after washing and pressing.
| Piece | Quantity | Cut size |
|---|---|---|
| Napkins | 4 | 16½" × 16½" |
Right sides together means the fabric faces you want to show are touching. Secure the beginning and end of each assembly seam.
Let’s make it
1. Wash, press and cut
Wash and dry the fabric as you plan to care for the finished napkins, then press. Remove the selvages and square up the edges. Cut four 16½" squares. Two across and two down use a 33" square. If your washed fabric is smaller, cut four equal smaller squares; the finished napkins will be 1" smaller than the cut squares in each direction.
2. Press the first pair of hems
Put one square wrong side up. On the left and right edges, turn ¼" toward the wrong side and press. Turn each edge another ¼" and press again so the raw edge is enclosed. Pin or clip. Repeat on the remaining squares.
3. Stitch those two edges
Sew close to the inner folded edge of each hem, about ⅛" from that fold. By hand, use a small running stitch, taking an occasional backstitch to secure it, or use a slip stitch for a quieter finish. Secure the thread ends. These two sides should now be neatly enclosed.
4. Finish the other pair
Fold the top and bottom edges ¼" twice, just as before. At each corner, fold over the already finished side hem; these are simple square corners, so there is no need to miter them. Press and stitch close to the inner folds. Go slowly over the thicker corners.
5. Give them a final press
Clip loose threads and press all four napkins. Slight variations are part of a handmade set. Fold them into a little stack, tie with a fabric offcut if you are giving them away, or put them straight on the table.
Make it yours
Add a small line of running stitches in a contrasting color, or embroider an initial in one corner before hemming. Keep the stitches soft so the napkins stay pleasant to use.
Care
Wash according to your fabric’s care instructions. Cotton napkins often become softer with use; press them if you like, or enjoy them a little rumpled.
A little more making
There's no need to save your favorite fabric for a special project. Let this small project become part of the everyday.
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