Make Utensil Pockets

Utensil pockets are the equivalent of the packages you get at the deli or salad bar that contain a napkin and plastic utensils. You can make these pockets ahead of time and keep them on hand for those on-the-fly moments in summer when you are heading to a picnic at the park, having friends over for lunch, or celebrating an event outdoors. They are easy to assemble and add a charming look to your meal.

Materials needed to make Utensil Pockets:

• Small colored paper bags (found in party stores and in the celebration aisle in a craft store)
• Wide width washi tape
• Napkins
• Plastic or wooden cutlery
• Scissors with patterned edge of your choice

Directions for making Utensil Pockets:

1. Fold the bottom of a gift bag upwards.
2. Place washi tape along the upper edge of the flap and then around the back of the bag. This will hold the flap down and simultaneously create a pocket for your utensils.
3. Place a strip of washi tape along the top rim of the bag where it normally opens. Apply the tape so that it folds over the rim. This will seal the top of the bag closed.
4. Add washi tape along any of the edges desired for decoration. The wide width allows you to fold over the edges as needed.
5. Cut napkins to a smaller size if needed. My paper napkins were oversized and so I trimmed them in half.
6. Use decorative scissors to make a patterned edge to your napkin. Make sure you trim the edge that will be seen behind your utensils.
7. Place the napkin in the pocket so that the decorative edge is showing.
8. Insert your utensils.

Store your utensil pockets until needed. I put mine in this small photo box and added washi tape to match.  This way, if we have a larger event I can just bring the whole box out. Otherwise, grab and go with these pockets during the summer – they are perfect for those spontaneous picnics and BBQs.