DIY Network

India Join Cathie and Steve for a crafter's virtual visit to India. From "Creative Juice" episode DCRJ-503

(Continued from page 1)

Bring the ancient art of henna into your home with a creative way to add style to plain napkins.

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	Henna-Stenciled Napkin Rings and Napkins
	Figure A

Henna-Stenciled Napkin Rings and Napkins

Materials:

four wide wooden napkin rings
rubber henna stencil made for arm or belly bands
glue stick
craft paint
small stipple brush
varnish
black or dark brown paint
textile medium
four brightly colored cloth napkins, prewashed to remove any sizing
optional: small craft mirrors, clear rhinestones and jewelry glue

1. For napkin rings, select a rubber henna stencil (available in craft stores and online) with a fairly open design (figure A). An intricate design will be more difficult to work with, and the end result may appear blurred.

2. Secure the stencil to one of the napkin rings (figure B). Using a small stipple brush and craft paint, transfer the design to the ring (figure C). Repeat with each ring, applying the stencil to the ring with a glue stick if the initial stickiness of the stencil wears way (figure D). Let each ring dry; when it's dry, apply a coat of varnish.

Figure B

Figure C

Figure D

3. To make the napkins, squirt a small amount of paint into a tray or onto a piece of waxed paper and mix with an equal amount of textile medium (figure E). Apply a square portion of a henna stencil to the corner of the napkin (figure F). Paint over the stencil with paint/fabric medium mixture (figure G).

Figure E

Figure F

Figure G

Figure H

4. Remove the stencil immediately to prevent the glue from sticking to and staining the napkin (figure H). Let napkins dry before any additional decorations are applied.

5. If desired, highlight certain parts of the pattern with small craft mirrors and rhinestones applied with jewelry glue.

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