cloth napkin question

[luckygreen713]

I want to make a bunch of napkins for my family for everyday, casual use. I have a bunch of fabric scraps that I planned on using, since I really can't afford to buy fabric right now, and I'd like to put my scraps to use. But, all of my scraps are prints with a "right" side and a "wrong" side. Is that ok? I mean, I know I can make them however I want, but will they look silly? Should I make them 2 ply so each side looks nice? I just need some opinions. Thanks!!

[sunnysandiegan]

I have three sets of purchased cloth napkins.
1. Both sides look identical and the edges are serged. Look nice no matter what.
2. Both sides look identical, but the edges are turned under and stitched. If you look closely, you can tell which is the "nice" side and which is the "underside". Still look nice.
3. One side is clearly the "right" side of the fabric and one side is "different". The edges are like #2. They still look nice.

I fold them all to have the nicest part on the outside where anyone can see them. Once they are in use, though, it doesn't really matter. IMO, the way you treat the edges makes a bigger difference. Either serge the edges with a small, tight stitch (or 3-thread overlock the edges) or take the time to fold and press the edges nicely and stitch them close to the seam.

[luckygreen713]

I think I will fold the edges and stitch them. I will just make them 1 ply to make my scraps go farther. I'm pretty new at sewing, and I don't have a serger, so this is probably my best option, right? Thanks for your advice, sunnysandiegan!

[Katie T]

I have some of both as well and honestly dont really care either way, I would do as you plan to, cause I think you will be excited to be using cloth napkins no matter what. If you desired and had company a lot you could always make 1 set of 2 sided ones but really when in use it doesnt matter, no one pays attention and they do the job, and look cute while doing it. Have fun!

[Michigan Mama]

nak. ita w pp!

[sunnysandiegan]

Originally Posted by luckygreen713

I think I will fold the edges and stitch them. I will just make them 1 ply to make my scraps go farther. I'm pretty new at sewing, and I don't have a serger, so this is probably my best option, right? Thanks for your advice, sunnysandiegan!

You are welcome! Yes, your best option is to fold the edges. A double-fold will hold up the longest, look the best, and be the easiest for you. You can do opposite sides first, then the remaining opposite sides. The final corners may be really thick, so you can hand stitch them if your machine won't go through. Or, you can trim the fabric at the corners before doing the double-fold. They are just napkins, so have fun and play around with the options!

[junewedding02]

plus if you did make them 2 sided - they would wrinkle and not lay just right - i would think they would need to be 'quilted' so the 2 layers wouldn't shift. just my opinion i too would go with single layer, folded over edges cloth napkins are fun!

[Carhootel]

i feel like just a single layer of cotton wouldn't be very napkin like, what about flannel on one side and a print on the other? or terrycloth and flannel? that might be too thick...

I need to make some of thse and I'm just not sure what to use.