When you’re planning your next al fresco shindig, forget about those styrofoam plates, red cups, and plastic tablecloths, and go for something with a little more style. I’m a huge fan of bamboo picnic-ware these days. Not only does it look incredibly stylish, but it’s easy to clean up, and it’s a littler friendlier to ol’ Mother Nature.
If you want to add even more style to your picnic table, these cutlery pouches are a cute and easy way to do it. You’ll need a sewing machine and a crafty spirit, but I promise it’s simple to do. I’m a very novice sewer myself so, if I can do it, anyone can!
Start with plain 5 x 7.5 inch kraft bags, using a paper cutter to remove the top flap. Then cut the bags in half vertically.
Use a pencil to create a tiny dot in the upper corner on the cut side of the bag. This is where your zig zag seam will start. When you’re ready to sew, align the bag under your sewing needle, and lower the needle directly onto the dot. Then drop your presser foot, and sew a zig zag seam down the length of the bag. You’ll want to adjust your needle so that the first stitch of the zig zag goes in the direction away from the edge. Do not sew a knot at the beginning or end.
Once you’ve sewn the edge, lift the presser foot, and snip the thread to remove the pouch from the machine. Flip the pouch over so that you are looking at the backside of the seam. Lift the thread protruding from the top backside so that it pulls through a loop of the front thread.
Pull on the loop to bring the front thread through to the back side. From here, tie a knot. Snip the ends, and repeat with the loose threads at the bottom.
Once you’re done with the sewing, you can roll up a set of cutlery in a napkin to be inserted into the pouch. I liked the simple look of bamboo cutlery and white napkins for this project, but feel free to get creative. There are endless options for different colors and patterns, which would also make these great for bridal or baby showers.
Melissa is the blogger behind Serving Seconds, a food blog dedicated to the yummy and the beautiful. When she’s not in the kitchen, you can find her wandering the aisles of the craft store, instagramming at the dinner table, or exploring every foodie nook she can find in her beloved city of San Francisco. She’s got a penchant for anything mini, modernized comfort food, and stellar hospitality. In her “Setting the Table” series, Melissa will share unique and creative ways to add a little fun to your table and make your guests feel extra special. From a weeknight dinner to a girls’ night in, there’s always a reason for theme parties, signature cocktails, and gathering with friends.
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Twitter: @ServingSeconds
Blog: www.ServingSeconds.com
Twitter: @ServingSeconds
Blog: www.ServingSeconds.com
How fun and creative!! I love that all the utensils are in a pouch. Love it!!
They look so cute!! Thanks for sharing, it inspired me to make these.