The Wonder of Cloth Napkins

A few years ago we had a casual dinner in the home of some friends who have three children... and we used cloth napkins. I was helping their daughter set the table, and watched as she took a basket with cloth napkins and put them at each place. The five for their family each had a different napkin ring, identifying who the napkin belonged to. Jen, our hostess, explained since it was the same person's germs on their napkin, that they would use the same ones for several days (unless it got particularly dirty, ending up in the laundry.)

I have a thing for cloth napkins, and have a ridiculous supply.

But I had wanted to keep them unstained, so used them only for special occasions. But no more. After our visit to Jen's table, I started using those beauties regularly. And now a paper napkin seems so flimsy and worthless. I have discovered the many benefits to cloth napkins!

- they will actually clean your hands and mouth
- they really covers your lap and stays put
- they keeps all that paper out of a landfill
- they can be doubled as a bib for a child (and looks so cute... like a little bandana)
- they do a great job sopping up a spill
- they look so much nicer next to my place
- they really don't have to be washed after each use... unless you had barbecued ribs
- they end up less expensive in the long-term

And now I've been making lots of napkins myself, and having fun getting creative with them. We've got a good selection for sale... and more coming in the next few weeks. If you're into cloth napkins (or want to be) take a look.

 


PS: Here's a peek at three.

Now Available: Polka Dot Napkin

Happy Monday! We hope you had a great weekend. It was a beautiful 70+ degrees for us here in the bay area which means we spent quite a bit of time outdoors enjoying the sunshine. While we were indoors, however, we spent some time working on our shop. In fact, we added something new: super cute polka dot napkins! Have a look and enjoy your week!

Outdoor Brunch

The bay area weather has been so beautiful this week! It's made me anxious for the warmer months and especially outdoor merrymaking. I thought it would be fun to share some photos from my wedding shower two summers ago. It was set in my grandparent's backyard on a beautiful May day. My sister and dear friends designed an event that was absolutely perfect. From the tea sandwiches reminiscent of a ladies get together at Lovejoy's, to the mismatched plates and the bright ranunculus in colorful bowls, each detail made me smile. Enjoy the photos!

Etsy Wish List

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

January Uplift

Though I tend to prefer a clean, uncluttered kind of decor, sometimes after un-decorating Christmas, things can look a little plain or empty. But there are some very simple ways to refresh for January and the winter months. Like a new pillow on the sofa, or a simple vase of fresh flowers on the entry table.

What's your favorite quickie for refreshing your home?

 

Printable: 2012 Calendar

The new year will be here in a matter of hours! If you haven't had a chance to pick-up a 2012 calendar, we have a delightful (and free!) version for you to download and enjoy all year long.

Simply click here to download the PDF and cut each page in half for a final page size of 5.5" wide by 8.5" tall. The "x" on each page marks where you should punch a hole. Print, hang, and welcome 2012! Of course, if you'd like us to do the work for you, we have pre-printed calendars on sale here.

For the Love of Shelves

The kitchen in my studio has an old-fashioned charm but with the charm comes very little storage. Thankfully my dad is a generous and talented craftsman who created the perfect open shelf to hold some of my frequently used items and to display some of my favorite colorful pieces as well! Functional decorating is a necessity in any studio apartment and this shelf is the perfect way for me to do that. Thanks Dad!

PS, the red utensil print is available in our Etsy shop!