This is a simple sewing tutorial that shows you how to make cloth napkins. Quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion. This is the perfect sewing project for beginners and a great way to add a pop of color and texture to your dinner table. You might also like our easy sewing tutorial for making reversible placemats or our throw pillow cover tutorial.

Watch our step by step video!

This year has brought shortages of many items that we may have taken for granted before. Like napkins. Why are disposable napkins in short supply? Why have the shelves been empty the past two times I've gone grocery shopping, yet paper towels and tp are stocked? Cloth napkins are something that I had thought about making several times but ultimately came out of necessity this past month. Now that we've made the switch, I'm not sure why it took me so long.

white plate with chicken fettuccini next to cloth napkin

Cloth napkins add a simple elegance to any table setting. They are soft, absorbent, easy to wash, and make any meal look a bit fancier. They are easy to make, too!

Best Fabrics To Use for Cloth Napkins

Fabrics that work well for making cloth napkins are quilting cotton, linen, and lightweight home decor prints. I used a lightweight home decor print that I've had for years. The key is finding something that washes up well. If you are using something thin like quilting cotton you can make them double-layered (with a front and back) and topstitch all the way around for a decorative finish. If you have a window curtain panel that is still in great shape you can totally repurpose it to make a set of napkins (or a throw pillow). It's always nice to be able to use what you already have on hand.

Supplies Needed For This Project

Cloth
Measuring Tape
Scissors
Pins
Iron/Ironing Board
Sewing Machine
Thread