Cloth Napkins: DIY and Why with Tutorial (Sew and No-Sew instructions)

We have been using cloth napkins for several months, some store-bought, and some home made ones. I thought I would do a little tutorial to show how I made them. They are super easy, and most definitely cheaper than buying them, especially if you already have the fabric.
First, I will explain why we use cloth instead of paper napkins. It started out being cost, but once we used them for a little while, I really preferred them. I know paper napkins are not expensive, but once I left my teaching job to be a stay-at-home-mom, I have looked for little ways to stretch our one income. Cutting out paper products was a pretty easy one. It make not make a big difference, but every little bit adds up....and we actually prefer the cloth. We just use them and throw them in the wash with clothes, towels, or whatever is being washed. We can usually use them for a couple days before they need washing, too.


We still buy paper towels, but one huge pack from Sam's will last us for a whole year. I mostly use them when I don't want whatever is being cleaned to end up in my washing machine next to our clothes and linens.




So anyway, here is the tutorial.

Our finished product

Start by ironing a piece of cotton fabric a little bigger than you would like your napkin to be. I had some already (not homemade), and I wanted them to be about the same size, so I used one of those as a guide. Make sure that you leave about an inch extra for your seam allowance. I cut my fabric to 16 in. by 18in. for a napkin that is about 15in by 17in. Once you have cut the fabric, go ahead and iron it again.

 Fold up the edges one time (about a quarter inch), and iron as you go, all the way around the fabric. Once you've done that, you are going to do the same thing again, all the way around so that the edges are nice and clean. 

As you go around the second time, pin the corners to keep it folded for when you sew. If you prefer a no-sew option, this is when you will want to use the iron-on adhesive. Just run the tape along the inside edge as you fold and iron. The adhesive should be completely covered and encased in the fabric. If you plan to sew, go on to the next step. If you are using adhesive, you are done when the sides are folded up and ironed all the way around.

If Sewing: Once you have finished ironing the sides up for the second time, it is time to sew. I just did a single, basic stitch all the way around.

This is how mine looked finished. Not gorgeous, but just fine for a napkin.