Ribbon-laced linens

Dress up your table for entertaining with this easy idea using plain hemstitched linens and organdy ribbon. A large needle makes lacing simple. The trick is to not pull the ribbon too tightleave it loose to create little poufs. Play with the looseness in the ribbon and the spaces between each pouf to achieve different looks.

You can find 1 1/4inch-wide organdy ribbon in a variety of colors. Measure the length and width of your place mat or napkin, and purchase one and a half times that amount of ribbon. You will need a large craft needle, a small sewing needle, and thread the color of your ribbon.

Step 1: Thread the craft needle with ribbon. Beginning at one corner, weave the ribbon through the hemstitching over and under, jumping approximately six holes each time. (The woven pattern looks best when each corner is alike, so you might need to adjust spacing to five or seven so that the poufs are evenly spaced and stop at each corner.)

Step 2: Finish by folding the ends of the ribbon under and handstitching them together with a small sewing needle and thread. Be sure to secure the raw edges to prevent raveling. Wash on the gentle cycle in cold water, and lay flat to dry. Iron linen when still damp, being careful not to scorch ribbon.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Jul 1998
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