Accent paper napkins bring a unique touch to holidays, garden parties, and wedding showers. After the event, they often end up forgotten in drawers. They’re too special for a regular Tuesday dinner, so what can you do with them? Instead of throwing them out, explore a variety of creative ways to repurpose these paper napkins. You’ll be surprised by the possibilities.
Many of these inventive ideas involve the art of decoupage, a technique that uses glue to attach paper (such as decorative napkins) to surfaces for decoration. While any paper can be used for decoupage, napkins are particularly suitable due to their affordability and thinness. They come in numerous fun patterns and are often available in packs, making it easy to cover large areas. These projects are perfect for beginners, offering a stress-free and low-risk DIY experience.
For decoupage, many people use Mod Podge Matte Sealer Glue and Finish, which serves as both glue and sealer, eliminating the need for an additional top coat. You’ll notice that napkins have several layers; for these projects, simply remove the bottom layers and use the top ply with the design. Whether crafting with kids or enjoying a solo craft afternoon, these projects are fun and low-pressure.
Decorate wax candles with napkins
Customize candles using paper napkins and heat. Wrap the napkin around the candle with the design facing outward, then cover with wax or parchment paper. Use a blow-dryer or heat gun to warm the wax paper. As the candle wax melts, it will absorb the napkin design, creating a personalized candle. Use your candles as usual; they will burn just fine.
Make a candle holder with a glass vase and napkins
If you don’t have a wax candle, make a stunning candle holder instead. This simple beginner’s DIY involves applying glue to a glass candle holder (or vase, jar, or glass), then delicately placing a napkin on top and adding another glue layer. Once dry, insert a candle. The napkin’s colors will create a glowing effect, adding style and personality to your space.
Upcycle a serving tray
Find affordable serving trays at the Dollar Store, often used for catering and events. If you have leftover trays from a party, paint them with chalk paint and use napkins with the decoupage technique. Cover the entire tray or create accent designs. These trays can hold trinkets by the door, adding a stylish touch.
Use napkins to scrapbook and journal
Preserve memories from special events using napkins in scrapbooks or journals. Whether saved from birthdays, baby showers, or graduations, they make beautiful mementos. Tear napkins and glue pieces into journals with photos and notes, or add them to photo albums for a personal touch that brings memories to life.
Transform old ornaments
Refresh aged ornaments showing scratches and marks with napkins. Use decoupage glue to cover ornaments with napkin pieces. Once dry, enjoy new decorations. For spherical ornaments, work with small napkin pieces to avoid wrinkles. This technique isn’t limited to Christmas; create beautiful spring and summer decorations for garden parties.
Make a trinket dish with a seashell
Transform seashells into unique trinket or ring dishes using napkins and decoupage. Add gold paint around edges for a pop of color. Perfect for emptying pockets by the door or holding rings while washing hands or doing dishes.
Make some beautiful Easter eggs
Decorate DIY Easter eggs with napkin details. Wash and hollow eggs, then cover with patterned napkins or cut out specific designs like bunnies or flowers. Apply with decoupage glue, even on painted eggs, for a fun and creative Easter decoration.
Make some fall decor by covering a pumpkin
Use napkins for unique fall décor by covering pumpkins instead of carving or painting them. Paint pumpkins white to highlight napkin patterns, then apply napkins using the decoupage technique. Remember, Mod Podge isn’t edible, so keep these pumpkins away from wildlife.
Make a custom lamp stand
Revamp an old or thrifted lamp with decorative napkins and decoupage glue. Transform plain ceramic lamp bases into statement pieces. For larger projects, use napkins with repetitive patterns to minimize visible seams between napkin sections.
Make a vase to match your flowers
Create a custom vase to complement your home style and favorite spring flowers. Find a simple glass vase at a thrift store, apply light-colored paint, and cover with decorative napkin sections. For easier application, choose vases with straight edges when possible.
Cover a canvas to paint on
Enhance your painting projects by applying napkins with decoupage glue to create a beautiful canvas background. Once dry, paint over the napkin-covered canvas as usual. This technique saves time, especially with intricate patterns, and is ideal for adding chic décor to your walls, even for beginners.
