Decorating with items from nature is wonderful because it always brings a calming, down-to-earth tone into a home. But what makes it even better is that the items are free! I love collecting pine cones in the summer when they are all over the ground and then cleaning, painting, and using them for great holiday crafts.
To make these pine cone napkin holders, you will need:
-Pine Cones
-Spray Paint (Silver, Gold, Red, or whatever color you like)
-Ribbon (thin ribbon works best)
You will first want to clean your pine cones really well. You can scrub them in soapy water, rinse and then spray with rubbing alcohol to kill any bugs that may be hiding in them. Let them dry in the sun. You can also line them on aluminum foil on a cookie tray and bake them in the oven at 200 F for 30 minutes to kill any bugs and melt any sap. Never leave these unattended in the oven.
Once they are completely dry, spray paint them in a well ventilated area. I like to let the painted cones air dry for a week or two before using.
Take your ribbon and tie it around your pine cone tucking it into the scales so it’s hidden.
Next, flip your cone and ribbon over and place on top of folded napkin with ribbon pieces laying flat on both sides of napkin.
Carefully flip everything over so you can tie a bow with the ribbon on the back of the napkin.
Carefully flip back over so your pine cone is resting securely on top of your napkin.
You are now ready to place finished product on top of your plate for decoration.
You could tuck your silverware under the ribbon bow in the back on your napkin if you like or place alongside your plate in the standard manner. This is a fun, almost-free way to spruce up your holiday table.
[sc:Jill ]
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