Monday, August 24, 2015

Taking Notes


If you look W-A-Y B-A-C-K in the recess of my kitchen cupboard there's a pile of abandoned festive napkins.  Designs for every special occasion or season imaginable, from Halloween to the Fourth of July.   For birthdays,  anniversaries and  everything in between.  If I wasn't so smitten with the new fanciful prints that sway me into purchasing them, I might use up the plethora in my stash.  My excuse....I may not have enough napkins for any upcoming event!  Which really is only a problem if I planned on entertaining several banquets at one time!  We'll, I'm here to save the stray designer napkin from a terrible fate... of being used for that quick clean up of a common spill.




We're  winding  down the summer and winding up the  holiday season.

What you'll need~Glad Press'n Seal


along with over sized (scored & folded) index cards or blank stationary cards
This is the basic technique, which we'll be creating a few items with, but you'll find so many more uses.... placards, tags, monograms and invitations.



Each pack of napkins is labeled with the number of ply's,
which comes in quite handy when you start separating each layer.


STEP 1
Separate each
 napkin layer.



STEP 2

Cover your index card with the Press'n Seal sticky side down.

 With the palm of your hand smooth  out any wrinkles to release any air bubbles.



STEP 3


Place the single ply (napkin) print side up over the card that's been covered with the Press'n Seal
Smooth out any remaining wrinkles.


 Optional Step
The napkins that have three ply's usually have a layer with  faded print, it can be used on the  inside of the card (writing surface).



Use parchment paper to protect your iron and work table.I cover my table with a heatproof pad before laying down the parchment.
You can reuse the parchment paper over and over again.



STEP 4
Press with high heat and no steam iron.
Let cool, then trim off the excess.
Fold and repress with the iron, creating the crisp crease fold.

**if you get a spot that didn't fuse, lift it back up while hot and insert a little  scrap of Press'n Seal over the area, reposition your napkin and re-iron.**




Stationary cards completed in just a couple steps.The cards have a wonderful linen feel, smooth to the touch.



I would recommend using either a napkin with bold colors and or  a booklet with a lighter print cover.




 To avoid the red book cover from showing through
I applied two individual napkin layers & the Press n Seal.




There are several inexpensive notebooks that don't have much appeal on their own, but can be transformed into a lovely pocket journal.


This poor notepad had a run in with a stubborn label that couldn't be removed without pulling half the cover off.
It was a mess!!




Now it's a notepad with a beautiful purpose.
This method would be a fun way to decorate and personalize a school notebook.
I prefer the texture of the napkins untreated because it has the feel of fabric.
A coat or two of Mod Podge can be applied for added strength and durability.



This French(tin) postcard pocket was ideal for holding a few stationary cards.
It has an adorable cupid surrounded with romantic french writing.
There's a printed post card on the reverse side




I placed my Parisian Pocket on the night table of the guest room
 (pen included).
My friends and family can use them to jot down notes to family at home or make a list of sights they'd like to see while in town.



I like to surprise my company as they leave 
with a lil' gift of cards and tags wrapped up with a ribbon.  Either in a cello bag or a box to match.
Let me know in the comments what you'll be creating with you napkins.

XO Sara




64 comments:

Wendy said...

Sarah, This is awesome! I have a ton of mismatched napkins in the very back of our china cabinet! I knew there was a reason for saving them! Thank you so much...can't wait to make some cards :)
Wendy

Kristina P. said...

This is so cool! You are a wealth of information!

Florence said...

Thanks for sharing Sarah, I love napkins and seem to collect them I am going to have to try that technique. Florence

Lori said...

oh my goodness!!! that is just too darn clever...thanks for sharing this cool technique!!!

The Kay Family said...

Awesome, Aunt Sara!! I wonder if this technique would work with fabric too? (I'm scared is mod podge, so this might be my way around it?!?!). Love it, and love you!'

Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions said...

What a great idea, Sara! Your designs came out so pretty! I do have those paper design napkins in the back of one of my cabinets. I don't have as pretty ones though {maybe a few with Christmas designs}, and poker chips and playing cards just wouldn't do for this project! Guess I'll be looking for some designer napkins on clearance or the dollar store.

Chatty Crone said...

I am excited beyond your imagination - this is utterly utterly cool. Who in world knew this?

I am keeping this craft and I am going to do it.

Thank you so much.

One (dumb) question - I guess the press and seal - both layers stay on the paper too - you didn't mention pulling it off.

Thanks.
Sandie

Anonymous said...

How lovely! You are SO DARN CLEVER!
And I have often admired the prettiness of napkins...

Cora said...

Wow...this is so cool! What a wonderful idea! Like everyone else I have extra napkins floating around somewhere!
Thanks for sharing this awesome napkin saver!

Yvonne @ StoneGable said...

Sara this is a wonderful post! I have never seen this, and it makes beautiful cards etc. Oh, I have so many lovely napkins that would look fabulous as a card. I am amazed! I can't wait to try this!
Yvonne

Megan said...

These are so cute and a wonderful way to use up those napkins. There is such pretty ones out there. Bravo to you!!!

Debbie said...

What a great idea! I have a drawer of napkins like that.

Maria said...

Oh my goodness Sarah! This is amazing...

Everything came out so beautiful! I'm always finding leftover napkins...
I just found rocket ship napkins and invitations from when my son, Jason was 8 years old! {He's 22 now}

Such a great post... so glad I stopped over and so very glad you're enjoying your frother!
take care!
~Maria

Unknown said...

Hey Sara! I am soooo impressed. I have bought and kept a few napkins for years just because the pattern was so pretty. I love every one of yours. I knew they was something I could do with them. I just didn't want to do a clear glass plate. This is absolutely something I'd like to do. I just love the note cards and the note books. The trim is so cute on the books. I'm totally a tactile person and love texture.

Is that beautiful coral flower an amaryllis? It's gorgeous. I love the color.

Thanks for stopping by. Hope your Sunday is beautiful and relaxing.

Hugs...Tracy :)

BellaRosa said...

Sara amor, Thank you so much for visiting me again and leaving me such a lovely birthday wish for my mama :) I'm going to print them all out for her :) She will love it! I am also so sorry to hear of the loss of your mama..In March it was 1 year since we lost my dad, and we lost my Ita (abuelita)3 yrs ago, but it still feels like yesterday..she is very missed and still much loved :) I Love this lil tutorial that you did, I saw something like this before, but didn't write down what blog I had found it on, your steps seem easier though, and even then, I more than likely will have lots of questions :) So your name is Rosa too? It is my first name, middle is Julietta :) when you say my whole name...sounds so Italian :) I tried to leave you a comment the other day, after you had first visited me, but Blogger was acting up and I couldn't leave comments on anyone's blog, this was the first chance to come visit again, weekends are my visiting time :) May I ask what part of So Cal your family is from? I am near the South Bay area, grew up here my whole life :) I am a latin beach girl :) I hope you keep visiting with me, and I will do the same...looking forward to getting to know you better :) Besos, Rose

BellaRosa said...

Wow, that was long :) Sorry, I tend to write like I talk :) long and winded :) Hope you have a beautiful weekend! Besos, Rose

The Vintage Kitten said...

I have mismatched napkins too, this is a brilliant idea X

MedaM said...

Your are very creative and your blog is really beautiful and interesting. I collected napkins when I was a little girl. I remember that they were all beautiful and different of various colors designs and quality of paper. Thanks for reminded me of those happy days. This idea of yours is great and so creative.
Thanks for sharing.

wendy said...

HOLY CRAP--are you kidding me. Awesome!!

I always buy colorful, fun napkins for my folks, they like all the different ones I surprise them with..

Wsprsweetly Of Cottages said...

Wow, I have been away from crafting for awhile and had NO idea that such a thing exisited as those press and seal things. Where do you buy them? Are they very expensive. They look like something you would pick up in the super market. Are they? How delightful these idea's are...:)
I am just so excited about all this. I can't wait to see what's next and to get some of these...
I shall return.
Hugs,
Mona

Julie said...

Very clever. If only you wrote letters!

Sara's Sweet Surprise said...

Oh Miss Julie...I'm hoping to inspire you to. Then I'll write back.

Sweet wishes,
Sara

Wsprsweetly Of Cottages said...

p.s. I bought a little red helmet and I HATE it! :( I am trying not to as I know it makes you safer..but at this age...no I won't say that. But I do hate it!!

Cindy (Applestone Cottage) said...

That is amazing Sarah! But now, I have to add to my to do list. hehe.
You have a beautiful blog Sarah, I will be back. Hope your tootsies get better soon. Cindy

Ceekay-THINKIN of HOME said...

How in the world did you figure this out? amazing. I also have a stack of pretty napkins in the back of my cupboard. I will have to try this!

Ceekay-THINKIN of HOME said...

Sarah, I just wanted to stop and tell you that anyone is more than welcome to read my Teal blog. I started it to help anyone understand what someone living with cancer is dealing with...my first blog, thinkinofhome, I try to keep mainly of a journal of the fun things of life and home. Please visit as much as you would like to either site...thanks for your encouragement!

Rosie said...

WOW, you are "the queen of creativity"...these are amazing...thanks so much for your visit. I will definitly be back... smile on Rosie

Anonymous said...

Hi Sara! Oh, you are so talented! These cards and little notebooks are so pretty! Who would have thought a napkin could do all this!
Thank you for popping in to see me.
I hope your family members can move closer to you too. Wish mine would, especially my new little grand daughter! :)
Be a sweetie,
Shelia ;)

koralee said...

No way...I am in awe...this is the most pratical DIY ever..and yes I think I can do it. Thank you so so much..I will give it a try. I adore your blog and I will be back soon..{any ideas what can I do with all those extra papercups that match my napkins..I have a few of those hanging around too} xoxoxo

Yellow Rose Arbor said...

What a wonderful idea! Thanks for the tutorial! I need to try this, I have a lot of napkins too!

Katherine

Becky said...

Wow thanks for visiting my blog! Love yours and yes, I think we have similar tastes in decor and baking ect. You are sweet to leave me such kind words...
Come by often, I Will return the sentiment :)

Becky

Unknown said...

Good morning to Sara!
As I read your comments on my Auntie Jacquelines blog I discovered one important thing. I could dream and imagine with you. Isn't that a beautiful thing? The raspberries, tomatoes and the garden was there. Linked at the mind through imagination we travel.
Now...the next thing. I see many idea's in blog land but what strikes me like a red hot arrow is that you can teach us so simple. I really do want to make those note cards.
Thank you for your inspiration and your simple ways...I appreciate that about you. ~Jacqueline~

Lydia said...

Dear Sara,

Thanks for stopping by my blog. Nice to meet you! Love your blog and your great ideas:)

I do something similar, but different with my napkins in my cupboard. (Thank you Home Goods for your wonderful assortment of beautiful napkins:) ) I may paint a little over the napkin lightly, but I wax over them onto journals/composition notebooks. I love the texture after the layers of wax. Sometimes I collage other items into the wax (encaus†ic).

Lucky you to have an Angel in your midst:) Right now my sweetie and most polite Kiska is on my lap whilst I am typing here.

Enjoy your day. I do so enjoy your blog!

Lydia

PS-The cards are gorgeous too!

Unknown said...

What a fabulous idea! I have to see if they sell the press n seal in Canada! Enjoy the spring flowers my friend :)

Sandy xox

Glenda/MidSouth said...

Great idea - Thanks for the tutorial!
I ran across some left over from Thanksgiving just recently. I have no clue why I don't just go on and use them up what is left over.
Thanks for dropping by.

Creations by Marie Antoinette and Edie Marie said...

Hello my dear Sara,
This is just so fantastic.I love these.How kool is this!!!I love them all.You come up with the neatest things for sure.
I haven't been blogging much.My hubby just retired and we are still adjusting to everything...LOL.
I'm not use to having someone around me all day ...days on end...LOL
Take care Hon,XXOO Marie Antionette

The Quintessential Magpie said...

Sara, this is amazingly creative! You are so talented!!! Thank you for sharing this idea with us. I have huge stacks of napkins, and this is a wonderful idea! Thank you SO much! :-)

I am taking a break from my workmen for the day, and I hope I will be back to blogging in the near future. Miss you!

XO,

Sheila :-)

Secondhandrose said...

What fun! I love learning new techniques like this. Thanks. Come for a visit.

karen

bj said...

Well, Sara....this is the COOLEST thing I've seen in awhile. What a great idea!! I am surely going to try this. I am so so not good at anything like this...but, I'm still going to try it.

Thanks for coming by and leaving such sweet words...I love it when you visit..
xo bj

Mary Bergfeld said...

What a clever idea. You are a goldmine of suggestions and information. I'll have to give this a try. Blessings...Mary

FILIGREE MOON said...

Oh, Sarah! You have inspired me to create something I've never tried. Love your floral creations...and such a wonderful tutorial! I know you just visited my blog...I was posting a new Friday's Florals photos with morning glories and Fairy roses that you might find uplifting and springy! Thank you for your sweet comments and visit. ~ Angela

{Bellamere Cottage} said...

Oh. My. Gosh. You are one creative girlie! I LOVE this idea...and it will make me feel a whole lot less guilty about all of those yummy napkins I bought years and years ago to cover baskets. :-) See, this proves it. NEVER throw anything away. I'm going to tell my Hubbs that that garage full of stuff? IMPORTANT!

Huggies,
Spencer

Jean Tuthill said...

These are very pretty. I will need to try this! I love them. Who knew? Thanks and have a great weekend.

Tanza said...

Hi Sara,
good morning Sweet friend !! okay !! this is amazing ... how fun this would be .. What a creative, fun friend you are !! thansk for sharing such an inspirational, fun thing to do !! these are prettier than buying some !! I'm going to play when I get home this afternoon !! This is why I LoVe my bloggy friends .. You all are AMAZING ~
Happy day
~tea~ xo

~CC Catherine said...

Sweet Sara, What a lovely tutorial of how to make the SWEETEST stationary cards! I Love it! I need the press n seal though first! I've been wanting one anyway to ship some scones out. Totally this is really going to be a blast to make! Thanks so much! ~Hugs ~CC Catherine

Rettabug said...

Sara, that is positively BRILLIANT!! I, like you, have TONS of beautiful napkins, some so pretty that I hate to use them. I will be trying this very, very soon since I have Press 'N Seal in the sewing room.
Thanks for sharing!!!

Mimi Sue said...

Oh My Gosh! What a wonderful idea! I have a little drawer of napkins myself and I'll be trying this project for sure. Thanks for the great inspiration. Mimi

Anonymous said...

Hi Sara...

i'm now following you...

you were right...you did have a great tutorial that I truly was inspired by!
thanks for inviting me over to see it..and I will definately try this out sometime soon!!!
what brilliant creative inspiration!

thanks again..

come by anytime...to either
creative or conversational carmelina

ciao bella
xoxo

Lorna ~ Lace and Ivy Cottage said...

OMGosh, Sara, that's incredible! You never cease to amaze me with your creativity. Yet another cool project to add to my to do list! Thanks for stopping by my blog and for the kind words. All my tea accoutrements are thrifty finds from thrift shops, yard sales, and sometimes antiques shops. Home Goods also has great teapots and teacups for very reasonable prices. Hope that helps when you're ready to start collecting! Have a great week. Talk to you again soon!

Tara said...

What a genius idea for napkins! I usually end up throwing the extras out after they have been shoved to the back of a drawer or cupboard and come out all wrinkled and icky. This would certainly help "save the napkins" in a beautiful way!

Florence said...

Those are great ideas, I have a serious addiction when I see pretty napkins I can't resist. Florence

Bargain Decorating with Laurie said...

This is so brilliant! They look beautiful! Thanks for sharing this fab idea. laurie

Jennifer Juniper said...

This is so interesting - I had no idea that Press and Seal could be used this way!

w said...

um. i was gonna say use your napkins as hand towels in the bath... but man. your idea is way better. and totally awesome.

A Bite of Country Cupcakes said...

WHO'D HAVE THOUGHT!!!!!?????
hat is very impressive indeed!

Carrie @ Cottage Cozy said...

Wow~fantastic....genius!

The French Bear said...

What a great idea, neat trick, and so easy...well I haven't tried it yet. Thanks for sharing this one!!!!
Hugs,
Margaret B

Kathleen Ellis said...

What an awesome idea, Sarah! These are beautiful! So creative you are!
I have loads of those "leftover" napkins, too! I usually mix them up a bit with other compatible patterns but I still end up with just a few here and there of one pattern! Now I know what to do with them!
Thanks so much for stopping by...it was so nice to hear from you!
Have a beautiful day!
;-D Kathleen

Melissa Miller said...

I have never seen this before Sara. It's just beautiful!

Thank you very much for your sweet comment my friend. I have never done any online consulting or any other before. I am very flattered that you asked. You just made my entire week. Yay!

Our kitties are the best aren't they. *Smiles* ~Melissa :)

Anonymous said...

Sara this is such an neat idea!! I too have lots of those gorgeous napkins and this if just sounding like too much fun! I will have to try it!!

Hope all is going well for you!

bee blessed
mary

Justine said...

Are you friggin' kidding me? How did you even come up with this idea? It's brilliant!!!!!

And holy crap, you've got a lot of comments here!

J :o )

Jess @ Frugal with a Flourish said...

Those are beautiful! I am so glad you stopped by so I could come find your wonderful blog!

Traci@ Beneath My Heart said...

What a great idea! I have loved looking through your blog. Those eggs are to die for! I will be bookmarking these ideas.
Blessings,
Traci

sanjeet said...

I love napkins and seem to collect them I am going to have to try that technique.
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