{guest post} diy dessert table backdrop from lauren elise crafted

Hello Postcards & Pretties readers!  I am so excited to be guest posting here on P&P.  My name is Lauren from Lauren Elise Crafted and today I will show you how to make a whimsical dessert table backdrop.  Your yummy desserts should be the main focus at your reception so this backdrop was designed to be minimal and subtle but still unique.  The wood branch and muslin fabric add a rustic touch and because it is neutral, it pairs well with most color combinations.  The materials are simple and inexpensive and the entire backdrop can be completed in just a couple of hours.  I just love how the fabric hangs from the string.  To me it creates a dreamy atmosphere for your desserts!             

Materials ::

◦ wood branch

◦ white thread

◦ muslin fabric

◦ lace

◦ scissors

◦ 2” circle template

◦ tea or coffee to stain the muslin (if so desired)

◦ needle

◦ scotch tape

Directions ::

◦ Find a wood branch that the fabric can hang from {image A}.  Use thread to hang the branch.  The backdrop is light so there shouldn’t be a problem supporting it.

◦ Use a 2” circle template to cut fabric circles out of muslin and lace {image B}.  I cut about 110 circles for my example.  Use whatever fabric and colors that coordinate with your wedding or party.  Muslin is an inexpensive fabric option and you can dye it various colors or stain it with tea or coffee.  To stain it, put instant coffee or tea bags into hot water.  Let the fabric sit in the water for 30 minutes to an hour {image C}.  Vary the amount of tea and coffee to get a deeper stain.  Test a sample beforehand.

◦ Tie the thread onto the branch in a double knot {image D}.  The thread should hang down and reach the floor.  Cut the thread at the floor and then thread the end through the needle. 

◦ Thread the needle through the fabric circles {image F}.  After each circle, tie the thread in a knot so that the circle will stay in place.  I varied the spacing of the circles so that the backdrop would look less uniform and more organic.  When you finish the first row, put a piece of tape at the end to secure it {image G}.  When you finish with the first row {image H}, begin the next row and follow the previous steps again. 

◦ Thread the rest of the circles, varying their spacing if so desired {image I}.  When finished {image J}, hang the backdrop behind a dessert table for a simple decoration.

Thank you so much for having me here today Chris!  I hope you all enjoy this DIY and that it inspires you to make something special for your wedding.

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