I am all about the picnic right now. Sun on the skin, eating outside where food always tastes better, with the sound of birds and wind and leaves instead of the faint hum of all our indoor electronics.

To spiff up the table, here's a totally non-precious, no-sew project that you can whip up as the coleslaw is chilling. Cheery oilcloth placemats that stash a napkin and utensils inside for easy transport to your favorite meadow.  The placemats tie up with a sweet ribbon that you can slip off at the table, or tie into a bow to fancy up the table.

Add food, drinks, good company – and if you’re feeling inspired, a colorful tin and some shears to snip an on-the-spot centerpiece.

A link to the instructions and more photos right here. Hope your weekend includes gathering around a table with some of your favorite folks, preferably outside.