How to Make Your Own Linen Napkins

Linen napkins are a classy alternative to paper napkins that anyone can use in a variety of ways. Though you could purchase linen napkins in a store, there’s nothing like the feeling of using something you created with your own skills and effort. 

Plus, these linen napkins make a great gift, and they’re easy to create with a sewing machine. 

Supplies Needed 

In addition to your sewing machine, you’ll need:

• One to two yards of fabric, either linen or linen blend (1.5 yards makes approximately nine napkins)
• Sewing tools
• An ironing board and iron

With a list of supplies this short, it’s no wonder these linen napkins are such an easy craft to make. Remember that fabric with a grid, stripe, or plaid pattern makes it easier to cut and hem. 

Instructions 

1. Cut your fabric into large strips about 18 inches tall and as wide as the fabric’s width.

2. Cut each fabric strip into squares that are 18 inches around.

3. To create a ¼ inch double roll hem, cut a triangle of about half an inch off each corner. You can measure this by cutting ½ an inch from the corner’s point at a 45-degree angle. This step helps reduce bulk at the corners of your napkins and creates a more seamless hem.

4. Press each edge in with your iron at ¼ inch and then again at another ¼ inch. You can also do this by starting with a ½ inch fold and then folding the edge of the fabric into itself to create that ½ inch double fold hem at the edges.

5. Fold each corner by ¼ inch and press with your iron. You’ll notice several fold lines crossing each other at the corners. Make sure to do this before you fold the hems on each side.

6. Press all of the napkin’s hems into place to create neat corners with sharp points.

7. With your sewing machine, sew the hem into place along the inner fold going all around the napkin. This step shouldn’t take too long as your sewing machine can quickly make its way around the perimeter of each napkin.

Having guests over this Saturday? Use your custom linen napkins at lunch or dinner! Holiday coming up? Gift them to a friend. Find more easy DIY crafts, sewing machine supplies, and other creative inspiration at Goldstar Tool. Contact us if you have any questions!