DIY: How To Make Handkerchief Bowls...

I don't know about you, but I have a bit of an issue with collecting things...

I mean, I'll collect just about anything! My latest calling has come in the form of vintage handkerchiefs. So dainty & pretty - far too good to blow your nose into!

So today I thought I would share a little tutorial to make use of your lovely little napkins without getting them snotty and gross... Lets make handkerchief bowls! 

This diy project can be done with fabric stiffener/starch spray if you have it, but we decided to do it with PVA glue as that's what we had kicking around Vivid HQ. You'll also need your handkerchief and a big bowl. You are going to get a bit messy with this one, so maybe an apron and some gloves if you're bothered.

To start, pour a couple of tablespoons of glue into a glass, then add one more of water to thin it down a little. PVA is a great glue because it dries clear and is really durable. It's going to let our bowl hold the shape without ruining it as you can easily wash it off with some warm water and washing up liquid if you change your mind!

Once the glue and water is mixed together well, submerge your hanky in it and get it totally soaked. If you are using the fabric stiffener/starch spray, you will need to completely cover the material like this too. We would recommend letting the handkerchief sit in the fluid for around 30 seconds as it is much thinner and you want it to get a good chance to absorb all the goodness.

When ready, ring it out and splay your hanky out over the outside of your bowl...

Smooth it down and get out some of those little wrinkles!

Once you're happy with how it's looking you need to do the hardest part... let it dry!

After a couple of hours, you should slap on some more of the glue. You'll want to repeat this step 2-3 times to get your lovely hanky to stand proud. It's worth the wait, we promise!

On the last round, when the fabric was tacky-dry, we turned down our corners to give our bowl a little more class. The greatness about this project is that the fabric holds shape really well when it's got a decent amount of glue in it, meaning you can shape it however you want. Pretty cool right?

*Ta*Da*

Once dry, this handkerchief is out of that drawer and pride of place on my dresser. Now I can look at it and keep my pretty things all in one neat and pretty place... 

Practical + Cheap = Happy Camper! 

It's lovely to see these vintage hankies re-purposed and in good use; now everyone can enjoy them rather than just my little runny nose. How lady like!

Happy Making

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