Cloth napkins

I like to use cloth napkins. To me they are a sign of luxury. I can easily wash and dry them in my machines. Since I sew regularly my iron is always out if I want them extra crisp.   This weekend my granddaughter spent a night with us, I was reminded how hectic life is with a little child underfoot. My day to day life isn’t like that any more – so I can enjoy little luxuries like cloth napkins.A few years ago, when I got my serger I made a set of 12. It felt better to use these cotton napkins that what ever I had bought, which clearly wasn’t cotton. Also wasn’t a print, just red napkins.

Then at Quiltcon this year I met Kay and Dede, from Picking Daisies in San Luis Obispo. They have created a thriving business making and selling the cutest cloth napkins ever. Their philosophy is simple – mix and match (or not) all kinds of adorable cloth napkins.My impetus to get cutting and sewing was having friends over for dinner.  It sure feels good to dive into my stash and throw together such luscious fabrics, not in a quilt but as mitered corner napkins.I’ll admit, I was getting very bored with my old serged ones.  In talking to Dede and Kay, they told me their story, how they started making napkins, first as gifts and then, people would ask to buy them. At one point they opened a store in downtown SLO and started selling the wonderful modern quilting fabrics many of us love. They never have a problem with leftovers – because what doesn’t sell off the bolt is made into napkins.They now are Elna sewing machine dealers, they offer all kinds of wonderful classes. They sell independent sewing patterns as well. I will certainly have to make a trip up north to visit their shop.  For those who don’t sew or aren’t in the central coast of California – of course they ship anywhere.

The more colorful the table the better. I like the idea of a simple table cloth and bright shots of color with flowers and napkins.  We all enjoyed the festive meal.