Embroidered linen napkins with each guest’s first initial is not a quick project ( no siree!), but it is simple and heartfelt. It’s a beautiful way to personalise your reception or event, and adds a little something extra for each guest to take home – a lovely bonus!

Buy a bulk lot of napkins (or make your own!) and settle in with needle and thread. These embroidered napkins will look gorgeous styled on a reception table amongst clinking glasses and beautiful blooms, and better yet, your guests will love them!

What You Will Need:

  • Linen napkins – if making your own, the looser the weave in the fabric, the trickier the stitching will be. Stick to a tight weave for an easier project.
  • Sewing needle
  • Embroidery thread in chosen colour
  • Pencil/sewing chalk
  • Scissors

Step 1. Once you have chosen the colour of your napkins and thread, mark your letter on the corner of the napkin. Look up fonts online to find some lovely lettering, or sketch your own ideas.

Step 2. Thread your needle with the embroidery thread. Use 2 strands doubled over, tying a knot at the end. Use more strands for a thicker thread, or less for a finer effect.

Step 3. Bringing the needle through from the back of the napkin, and begin stitching over your pencil marking. You can employ a variety of different stitches, or stick to a simple stitch. Find what works well for you and continue with that!

Step 4. Continue stitching until you’ve covered your pencil marking. FInish on the back side of the napkin with a few knots, and trim the excess thread. If you’re unhappy with the letter, unpick and begin again. Press the napkin with a hot iron to finish.

This is a lovely project to make with friends, or even with family members who love to sew! If you’re feeling extra crafty, use different fabrics or colours, and be assured your table settings will look top notch!

Ms Zigzag says: Little details like this are what make black tie weddings extra special! I’d be keeping this little napkin as a memento from the wedding for many years to come! 

About Ms Honeycomb  – Hi, I’m Nicola, the florist and crafter behind rubyandjoy. I’m a gardening, fabric loving, mint tea drinking, brownie baking, book obsessed maker! I love a good adventure having just moved back from five years in Scotland (with my lovely Scottish husband).