I love the idea of beads at the table. Whether I'm shopping at a big box chain or my charming local kitchen store, I always stop to admire the baskets of beaded napkin rings. I'm amazed by the variety in colors and shapes—and at the cost. It's one of those items I always look at, but never buy. I know I can make them for less myself.
My quick-and-easy napkin ring idea appears in the December 2010 issue of Bead Trends in their "Under $15" section. Each napkin ring costs $1.78 to make (not including tax or shipping), assuming that you have no special coupons and pay full retail prices for your materials. The cost could be much less for savvy shoppers.
For this design, I used silver-plated filigree, jump rings, and crystal and pearl stickers from the scrapbooking section of the craft store.
More Napkin Ring Ideas
- For a vintage look, oxidize the silver-plated filigree. You could also use hot fix crystals in place of the stickers. Hot fix crystals come in a much wider variety of colors and shapes.
- Use stretchy cord to string beads and finish with a square knot. Dab a bit of jeweler's glue on the knot and tuck the knot into a large-sized bead.
- Beads strung on bracelet-sized memory wire ensure that the napkin ring keeps its shape.
- String large-holed beads on a pretty satin ribbon and tie a bow to close.
- Try beading wire, crimps, and a pretty toggle clasp. I did a version of this idea for Simply Beads a few years ago. The nice thing about this version is that if you make it bracelet-sized, it can double as a lovely party favor for your guests.
Do you decorate your table with beads for the holidays?