How to Decorate Tables With Butcher Paper

Butcher paper is the table covering of choice for a kids' table, but, with stylish details, you can elevate the look for the grownups' table. The material is a canvas that enables you to sketch some components of a traditional table setting. The degree of informality is adjustable according to the nature of your event. With the proper supplies, you can add luxe embellishments to the tabletop, surprise your guests with place settings that resemble artful calligraphy and prove that butcher paper is not just for the kids' table anymore. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Place the roll of butcher paper in the center of the table. Unroll the paper until you have received the desired length of the table covering. Cut the paper off the roll with scissors.

2

Repeat the process, if your butcher paper is not wide enough to cover the table in one sheet. Cover the table with two sheets that overlap 1 inch in the middle of the table. Place pieces of double-sided tape between the sheets of paper, where they overlap, to secure them.

3

Draw on the paper with markers to embellish each place setting. Use a metallic marker for more formal settings.

4

Draw a place mat at each seat. Use a template -- an actual place mat or another object of appropriate size and shape -- if you want to create a precise, uniform illustration. Precision is not required, though. If you want an informal, hand drawn setting, sketch your details in that fashion.

5

Sketch places for napkins, drinking glasses or flatware. Use a template or sketch freehand. Create an outline for these items, or write the words of the item that you will place in that spot.

6

Add the name of the diner designated for that seat. Write the menu for the event on the paper at one end of the table.

7

Add flourishes around the border of the sketched setting components. Use an interior decorating template, if desired. Fashion calligraphy-inspired details to make the drawn placemat resemble a frame for the guest's meal.

8

Cut shaped pieces of butcher paper to make garlands for the table. Die-cut the paper with a craft punch tool.

9

String the pieces together with needle and thread. Drape the finished garlands like swags on the side of the table. Secure the swags with small pieces of tape.