Well, hours after writing that last post, I crumbled. I rushed into a new-to-me fabric store just before they closed Wednesday night and bought supplies to sew a new tablecloth and 12 napkins.

I couldn’t help it. I liked the napkin rings I posted about, but they just didn’t cut it for me. Of course, I worked up my math on the fly and consequently under-bought fabric. So the overhang on tablecloth was a little short and the napkins were a little petite. But I learned how to miter a corner and wound up thankful for our dining room’s new look – along with many, many other less superficial things that top this year’s grateful list.

Hope your holiday was wonderful.

I am a deadline girl, and often motivation doesn’t hit until say, the night before the holiday. This can be a little inconvenient. For instance, all of a sudden, I am gripped with a sudden desire to make a new tablecloth and napkins…but we’re hosting tomorrow and hoping to do a lot of pre-cooking tonight. So stitching up a few of these fluffy fringe rings may have to satisfy my sudden crafting desire.

This is the brooch I made for my mom’s poncho – only a little bigger so it fits a napkin. This is a really simple project, but I put together a little photo tutorial over here. I used a fringe called brush fringe that you can find in the upholstery trim section of a fabric or craft store.

I don’t usually use napkin rings, but what can I say? Maybe I’m finally becoming a grown-up. Or a dork. Either way, have a wonderful Thanksgiving!
 

For this month’s Washington Post column, I created a project you can customize with images of family, friends, or special places for a meaningful holiday table. Simple materials and the sewing is optional. Check it out over here.