Wednesday 11 March 2015

Design Your Own Paper Plates

Decorative paper plates add a distinctive flair to any party or occasion. Whether you are planning for a child's birthday or the neighborhood block party, these colorful accents are sure to enhance the theme. Custom-designed paper plates are fun and easy to create. More importantly, you can be certain to impress your guests without overextending your budget. With a few simple crafting supplies, you can be on your way to a lovely and fashionable party table.


Instructions


1. Choose two different-colored paper plates of the same size: one for the base layer, and one for the top layer.


2. Use decorative scissors to cut at least 1/2 inch around the edge of the plate you have chosen as the top layer. Use decorative punches to make festive shapes along the circumference of the top layer plate. Pick shapes that will enhance your theme.


3. Apply the glue stick thoroughly to the back of the top-layer plate, being careful to avoid any holes you have punched. Press the top layer gently onto the base layer. Run your fingers along the edges to make sure the two layers have fully adhered to each other. Use decorative punches to create more shapes along the edge of the base layer, if desired.


4. Draw a basic design along the rim of the top layer using markers or pens. You can make colorful lines or waves, draw symbols that match your theme, write a message specific to the occasion, or include a favorite quotation. Be careful not to write or draw on the inside portion of the plate where your guests will put their food.


5. Allow plates to dry for at least 30 minutes before using them for your party. Use a hair dryer to speed up the drying process. Set the hair dryer to cool and gently run it over your plates, holding it about a foot away.

Tags: base layer, paper plates, decorative punches, hair dryer, layer decorative