With many home-owners favouring minimalist interior styling, it makes sense that Scandinavian style is a source of inspiration. Combining clean lines, uncomplicated designs and pared back colour schemes with the warmth of wooden textures, Scandi style is a hit with those who prefer simplicity but still want their homes to feel cosy and welcoming.
Despite the opposing weather conditions — Christmas in Scandinavia is freezing cold — Scandi-style still works great for Australian Christmas, adding a traditional feel that doesn’t feel stuffy. Perfect for a summer’s day. A simple way to incorporate Scandi style onto your festive table is to do something nifty with your napkins. It’s quick, easy and could impress the pearls off your mother-in-law.
Here, we’ve used linen napkins. It’s a special occasion, after all! But keep the everyday paper ones around for mopping up spills on the kids’ table. You can pick up reasonably priced napery at most department or homewares stores.
Here’s our step-by-step guide to creating festive napkins.
What you’ll need:
- Linen or thick cotton napkins (x number of guests at your table)
- Small festive ornaments with twine or ribbon (these little ceramic stars are from Adairs)
- Springs of rosemary (remember it’s nice to ask permission before you start pruning your neighbour’s rosemary bush)
- Spare twine or ribbon (optional)
Step 1
Fold your napkin into a square then roll it up diagonally.
Step 2
Thread your rolled napkin through the loop of an ornament. Make sure it’s loose enough for the rosemary to slide through; otherwise, use your own twine/ribbon to tie a bigger loop.
Step 3
Arrange your ornament to lay flat on top of the napkin.
Step 4
Slide a sprig of rosemary between the napkin and the ornament.
Step 5
If it looks a bit sparse or if you really love the scent of rosemary, add another spring. Brush away any bits of rosemary that may have broken off.
Step 6
Stand back and admire your Christmas table setting. How easy was that?
NB: If ornaments aren’t your thing, or you need to make sure Aunty Marg doesn’t end up sitting next to Uncle Simon, create some simple name tags instead. Cardboard, scissors, a hole-punch, felt-tip pen and some twine is all it takes. (It helps if you have nice hand-writing.)
For more tips and tricks for decorating your home, head to our blog, Home Truths, or check out the gallery for more inspiration.
