How to make a Napkin Template

Instructions

I make a lot of stuff and so I use templates. Some of the instructions on this website use printable templates or patterns. Some will require a homemade template. An example is napkins where you want to be able to determine the finished size napkin and then make a template. Different functions require different size napkins. (luncheon vs dinner).

I have a custom template maker - my husband. I tell him the size I want and shortly thereafter I have a template made out of masonite.

I realize that not everyone is as fortunate as I am to have a custom template maker. So, I've devised a way to easily make your own templates using a rotary mat, paper and tape. It's easy and allows you to customize your own templates. Everyone can do it.

The instructions below are to make one 18 x 18 inch square. You can lay the paper out to create any size you like.

Items needed:

	Rotary Mat
	Paper (8.5 x 11)
	Tape

The basic idea is to use the grid on the rotary mat to make square template by overlapping sheets of paper and taping them together. If you are only making one or two items then you probably could just use this as a template. I would suggest taping all pieces securely together. It would also be helpful to line up a quilt ruler on top of the template and fabric and use the quilt ruler to cut a straight edge. To make a more permanent template place this one on a sturdy material such as cardboard and cut.

In the photo series below you can see how I took 5 sheets of 8 1/2" x 11" paper and used the rotary mat grid to overlap them to make an 18" x 18" square. Make sure to tape as you as you go.

How To Make Your Own Templates

Instructions

Items needed: