Ruffles from plastic tablecloths? Yep. Easy and darling. Here’s how I made them for our Activity Day Mother-Daughter Dinner Recognition Night (click here and here for more info). I saw this tutorial and decided to try it out. However, instead of needing my ruffles to run down the center of long tables, I wanted them to travel in a circle around the centerpiece of each round table. This required some adjusting of the instructions.
These took about an hour to create. I made 8 ruffles in that time. They were the last thing on my list and after a crazy week, I wasn’t sure if they were going to get done. After setting up for the evening I had about an hour to run home and make dinner. Instead of slaving at the stove I decided to see if I could get these done in time. I did. And aren’t you glad? They turned out really cute and were the finishing touch on an already great-looking party. Give them a try! They were worth serving PBJs for dinner.
First, cut down the length of a long rectangle plastic tablecloth. Create 4 strips, all the same width. I used the fold marks as a guide and it was very easy. Fold one strip over lengthwise so that you have two layers of plastic, one about 2″ shorter than the other. This will create your layered ruffle look.
Sew a gathering stitch (longest that you can on your machine) about 1/2″ from the fold. This stitch will go through both layers.
After stitched along the entire length of the plastic, tie the threads at one end together in a knot. This will secure the ends so you don’t pull the thread all the way through, leaving you without any stitching. Next, take one thread from the other end of your plastic and pull gently. It should start to gather your plastic. Carefully use your fingers to shift the gathering down the length of your plastic ruffle, spreading out the gathering evenly as you go. Pull it as gathered as you need it. I based mine on how large I needed my circle to be. Gather your ruffle to the length you need it to be and tie off the ends of the string. Trim threads.
You’re done! Now you just need a party! Use these ruffles as centerpiece runners, swag them from tables or walls or other decor to create backdrops. Attach them to edges of tables or doorways for a fabulous trim. Whatever. The possibilities really are endless! I’m thinking they would look great this weekend at your Memorial Day BBQs. Enjoy!
