Product Introduction: Tree Napkins

If I had to pick the one product that motivated me to finally make The Feline Fedora a real endeavor, it would be our Tree Napkins. It is just one of those projects that clicked for me. 

Rewind a year ago, I was looking for simple sewing projects on YouTube when I came across a Jordan Fabrics video titled FASTEST LAS MINUTE CHRISTMAS TREE NAPKINS! I was convinced that this easy project would be perfect for me. I dragged my friend out to do some fabric shopping and found some very nice contrasts. Then set to work! 

Now, up to this point, I wasn't the greatest seamstress. Sewing was something I dabbled in. I had wanted to take up the mantle of quilter, but after a couple of quilt square classes, trying my hand at making my own squares, and a decent attempt to piece it together, I wasn't so gung-ho about quilting anymore. 

I had also tried my hand at sewing clothing,  a pair of pants and a couple of skirts. But they didn't look right or feel right (or even look good on me).  So, needless to say, I was a bit skeptical if this was even worth the effort!

I wish I would have captured that moment when I put the final press on the first napkin I ever made. It was a proud moment. It's not often that something turns out exactly like you envisioned, but this one did. And with just that little hit of success dopamine, I was hooked on Tree Napkins!

Since then, I've made well over a hundred napkins and don't think I will stop. I like hunting the discount racks and last chances bins to find fabric matches. Or hunting on Facebook Marketplace for people cleaning out their fabric stores. It's a great opportunity to rescue and reuse fabric that would otherwise be tossed at the end of season. 

The most challenging part of making them is finding fabric matches. At times, I don't think some colors will look good or a pattern is too "busy" for an elegant napkin. But all that doubt washes away with each stitch. When I put in that final press, I'm often surprised by how nicely they have come together. Not only do they make great gifts, but also, add a festive touch to your holiday tablescape.   

How I make them...

I created a template out of cardboard. I marked it with with all the needed measurements and seam allowances. It's so easy to lay it down on the fabric, trace, and sew! 

I tend to cut out all my fabric right away. Although I generally match before cutting, sometimes color combos just pop out at me when they are in the preliminary state. So, it helps me to visualize the final product even if I don't think the colors really go together.

Folding Instructions

The hardest part about the napkins is folding them. That's where the real magic happens! I created a How-to Fold video just for this reason. I've provided my tips and tricks to ensuring the napkins look like trees in the end. Please follow our YouTube tutorial. 

Care Instructions

While most of our napkins are cotton fabric, we recommend for best results to hand wash or machine wash, separately on a cold gentle cycle with mild detergent. Use spot remover as needed. Do not Bleach. 

Machine dry separately on low setting. Iron dry fabrics on medium setting.