I love this idea of re-purposing vintage patterned sheets in to napkins. A really simple concept, and a great project idea to stash away for that day that you find really awesome, patterned sheets while thrifting. Check out the tutorial after the jump.
This is the type of project that would be really great if you're a beginner sewer, or looking to make some house-warming gifts to bring to a friend.
• Read More: In this full tutorial on Design*Sponge
(image: kojodesigns)
Must-See Small Cool Homes: Week Two
Beth's Romantic & Retro Residence
Good Food to Share 
The Big Book of Small, Cool Spaces 
Apartment Therapy Presents 
The Eight-Step Home Cure 
Commercial Flour Sa...
How to Cook Rice on the Stove
How To Cook Tender, Chewy Wheat Berries on the Stovetop
aw! lovely! I really wish I had some old vintage sheets handy. Guess I'll have to go out and find some! Nanny - hold that charity store run!
I just made these last night with old scraps of fabric and they came out fantastic. Took 2 hrs or so to make 10 and makes a great hostess gift.
Purposeful and pretty! I've found vintage sheets (and tablecloths) made from linen or densely woven cotton work great for napkins. Recently I turned old tablecloths into new kitchen towels for under $1 each! I posted instructions on my blog at www.healthyhomefabrics.com.
during that era bed sheets did not come in bright prints -- these must be from old yardage
Awww, those are sooo cute!
@greenridge1 - the 1940s and '50s were FULL of bright prints. In clothing, in sheets, in tablecloths.
Mostly I find cotton/polyester blend sheets at thrift stores, but as long as they feel nice (i.e. not '70s plasticky and pilly) and are a lovely pattern, I'll buy them. Always check for stains on sheets (and vintage tablecloths) before buying. If it's $1 for a sheet and it's got a small stain or two, you can just cut around it. If it's $10 and stained? Skip it. It's also a good idea to open it up to check for holes, tears, and weak spots in the fabric, especially since sheets and other large textiles are generally stored and displayed folded.