I love a beautifully set table, and pretty napkin rings are one of those little details that can pull everything together. These look surprisingly elegant, but they’re made with simple supplies you may already have at home.
I realized that empty paper towel and toilet paper rolls are about the same width as a napkin ring, which immediately got me thinking about ways to use them as a form. For this project I used a paper towel roll, basic cooking twine, and inexpensive washable glue.
Cooking twine has a smooth texture that works really well for this project, but you could also experiment with jute twine or thin yarn for a different look.
One thing to know before you start: these do take a little time because of the drying process, but the actual project is very simple. Here’s how to make them.
Supplies
Empty paper towel or toilet paper roll
Twine or thin yarn
Scissors
Plastic wrap
Basic washable glue
Cornstarch
Water
Bowl
Whisk
Newspaper or drop cloth
Paint, optional
How to Make DIY Twine Napkins Rings
1. Wrap an empty paper towel roll with plastic wrap.
2. Measure the amount of twine you’ll need by wrapping it around the roll until you get the look you want. Unwrap it and use that piece as a guide for cutting the remaining twine. I used roughly 228 inches of twine for each napkin ring, but you can use more or less.
3. Wrap the twine around the roll once and tie a knot.
4. Continue wrapping the twine in a single layer until it reaches the width of a typical napkin ring. This first layer will act as your guide.
5. Continue to wrap the twine around in a random pattern on top of the first layer and leave a small tail.
6. Take the tail of the twine and loop it under another piece of twine.
7. Then pull it tight to create a knot. It’s best to make your new knot on the same side as the original knot. Both knots will be the back of the napkin ring and hidden.
8. Trim the knot ends shorter and tuck the little string edges under, pushing on the roller if necessary.
9. Continue each step until you reach the desired number of napkin rings needed. I was easily able to slide and adjust my wrapped twine bundles along the roller. I was able to comfortably fit 6 rings per roller.
Make the Glue Mixture
10. In a bowl, combine:
1/4 cup glue
1/4 cup cornstarch
2 tablespoons water
11. Whisk together until smooth.
Note: This amount was enough for approximately eight napkin rings. If you’re making more, you may want to double the mixture.
Coat and Dry The Napkin Rings
12. Working over newspaper or a drop cloth, use your fingers to press the glue mixture thoroughly into each twine napkin ring. Gently squeeze and shape the edges as you work so the twine feels even and secure.
Think of this step a little like papier-mâché, only with twine. You want the fibers to be thoroughly saturated.
Cover and save the remaining glue mixture because you’ll need it again.
13. Stand the paper towel roll upright while the napkin rings dry so they don’t stick to your work surface.
14. After about 2–3 hours, apply another light coat of the glue mixture. Let the rings dry completely, approximately 12–24 hours.
Once they are fully hardened, twist and slide them off the paper towel roll. If needed, you can crush or cut the cardboard roll to make removal easier.
If you see any hardened glue along the edges, gently scrape it away with scissors.
Don’t Skip The Inside
15. Once the rings are removed, coat the inside with another layer of the glue mixture.
This step is important because the friction from sliding napkins in and out can loosen the twine over time.
16. Use plenty of glue as you work so your finger doesn’t catch and pull the twine loose. You can also use a small craft brush instead.
Let the napkin rings dry completely once again. When finished, they should feel firm and sturdy.
Paint Your Napkin Rings
Now comes the fun part!
I used gold spray paint because I already had it on hand, and I love how dressy it made them look. You could use any paint color you like, though. Bronze, silver, black, or even a fun seasonal color would all be pretty.
You can also leave the twine natural if you prefer a more casual or rustic look.
Once the paint is dry, your napkin rings are ready to use.
I love how each one turns out a little different. They look much more expensive than they are, and they’re an easy way to add something special to a table setting.
These would also make a sweet handmade gift. If you love tablescapes and folding napkins read my 8 Simple Ways to Fold Napkins for a Beautiful Table blog post.
If you make your own, have fun experimenting with different twine textures and paint colors. There are so many ways to make them your own
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