Creating a Festive Christmas Tablescape: How to Use Cedar to Decorate Your Napkins
When it comes to designing a beautiful Christmas tablescape, every detail matters. From the dinnerware to the centerpieces, each element contributes to the overall holiday ambiance. One small yet impactful detail that can truly elevate your holiday table is the napkin decoration. Instead of the usual ribbon or ring, why not incorporate the natural beauty of cedar to add texture, fragrance, and a touch of nature to your festive setting?
Cedar is a timeless evergreen that is synonymous with winter holidays. Its rich green color and fresh, woody scent evoke the warmth and charm of the season. In this blog post, we’ll show you how to creatively use cedar to decorate napkins for your Christmas tablescape, adding a natural, rustic elegance to your festive dining experience.
Why Cedar?
Cedar is an excellent choice for holiday decorating for several reasons:
- Natural beauty: The deep green of cedar sprigs adds a lush, festive touch.
- Aromatic charm: Cedar has a refreshing, woodsy scent that will infuse the air with holiday spirit.
- Longevity: Cedar holds its shape well, even when used in small arrangements, making it a perfect choice for napkin decor.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Fresh cedar sprigs (you can gather these from your backyard or purchase them at a local florist like You Floral)
- Cloth napkins (in classic holiday colors like red, white, or green)
- Twine, ribbon, or jute (for a rustic touch)
- Scissors or Pruners (scissors are likely not sharp enough to cut the cedar)
- Optional: Small pinecones, berries, or sprigs of holly for added decoration
Step-by-Step Guide to Decorating Your Napkins with Cedar:
1. Choose Your Napkin Color and Style
Start by selecting cloth napkins that complement your Christmas table theme. Classic red, white, or even plaid napkins work beautifully with the natural green of cedar. If you’re going for a more rustic, woodland look, natural linen or a deep forest green will add warmth and depth.
2. Prepare the Cedar Sprigs
Cut small sprigs of cedar from the larger branches. Aim for 3–4 inches in length, ensuring the leaves are vibrant and fresh. You don’t need a lot of cedar to create a beautiful effect—just a few sprigs will make a big impact.
3. Roll or Fold the Napkin
To create a neat and tidy look, either fold your napkin into a simple square or roll it tightly, depending on your preference. A classic fold (e.g., the triangle fold or the simple square) will create a clean backdrop for the cedar and other embellishments.
4. Attach the Cedar to the Napkin
Take your sprigs of cedar and arrange them on top of the napkin, at one corner or along the center, depending on the style you’re going for. If you want to go for a more sophisticated look, you can layer a few sprigs, mixing longer and shorter pieces for a balanced arrangement.
5. Secure the Cedar
To keep the cedar in place, tie a piece of twine, ribbon, or jute around the napkin. Wrap the twine around the napkin a few times to secure it and create a rustic, organic look. If you’re using ribbon, you can tie a simple knot or bow for an elegant touch.
6. Add Additional Embellishments (Optional)
For an even more festive touch, consider adding small decorative elements such as:
- Tiny pinecones, which pair beautifully with cedar and enhance the woodland theme.
- Sprigs of holly or red berries for a pop of color.
- A small sprig of cinnamon sticks for an aromatic twist.
- Gold or silver accents on the ribbon for a more glamorous, festive feel.
7. Place the Decorated Napkins on the Table
Once your napkin is decorated, arrange it neatly on your place settings. The natural elements of the cedar will stand out beautifully against the backdrop of your table setting, bringing a touch of nature indoors. Place the napkins in a staggered fashion around the table to create a harmonious, balanced look.
Tips for a Polished Finish:
- Keep it Simple: Don’t overwhelm your napkins with too many embellishments. Cedar alone can make a bold statement, especially when paired with a simple bow or twine.
- Consistency: If you’re decorating a large table with multiple place settings, aim for uniformity in your napkin presentation. You don’t have to make each napkin identical, but try to maintain the same color scheme and style across the table.
- Experiment with Shape: If you’re feeling creative, try folding the napkin in different ways. A simple pocket fold, for example, can hold a small sprig of cedar while still creating a neat appearance.
Why Natural Decorations Matter
Incorporating natural elements like cedar into your Christmas tablescape not only enhances the aesthetics of your holiday meal but also brings a sense of warmth and authenticity to your celebration. Nature-inspired decorations evoke feelings of coziness, nostalgia, and tradition—perfect for setting the mood of your Christmas gathering. Cedar, in particular, with its evergreen beauty, symbolizes longevity and resilience, qualities that resonate with the season’s spirit of togetherness and celebration.
Final Thoughts
By using cedar to decorate your napkins, you’re not only adding a rustic charm to your table but also incorporating the beauty of the outdoors into your Christmas celebration. Whether you opt for a simple sprig or embellish it with pinecones and berries, cedar will make your holiday table feel extra special and festive. So this holiday season, give your napkins a touch of nature, and watch as your guests marvel at the thoughtfulness and creativity of your Christmas tablescape.
Happy decorating, and may your Christmas be filled with warmth, beauty, and holiday cheer!
