Three Ways to Dress Up Plasticware for Your Thanksgiving Table

The turkey is done and the family has arrived. But who really wants to spend all their time doing dishes instead of enjoying the company of those you love? Instead of using real silverware this year, these three ways to dress up plasticware for your Thanksgiving table should help.

Plasticware Packets

Creating packets for the plasticware is one way to give it character. Many party supply stores and online retailers offer printed paper bags, usually flat and reserved for gift card giving. If the bags you find are plain, dress them up with rubber stamps, ink, markers, or other scrapbook supplies. This is a great way to get the kids involved, as well. Insert a full set of plasticware (plastic fork, knife, and spoon) into the packet bag. Fold over the top to secure. Arrange the packets in a wicker basket or on a fancy tray for style.

Ribbons

Ribbons are a really inexpensive but really easy way to add style to plasticware. Gather one fork, one knife, and one spoon together. Wrap them inside a paper napkin. Cut a length of ribbon that coordinates to the rest of your Thanksgiving table. Tie the ribbon around the napkin and plasticware to secure. Again, a basket or tray can hold piles of these utensils wrapped in ribbon.

Thankful Notes

For those wishing to add a little sentiment to their table or who want to include the kids, consider dressing up plasticware with thankful notes. Have your child write what they are thankful this year on a one inch wide strip of construction paper. Wrap the strips around a set of plasticware that has been wrapped with a napkin. (This is similar to the ribbon concept.) Secure the paper with a bit of glue stick. As your guests unwrap their utensils, they can read aloud what is written on the paper and discuss what they are thankful for, too.

One important trick to remember when choosing the plasticware you intend on dressing up is to choose a higher quality, as plain white just will not do for the holidays! Many party supply stores sell colored or silver painted plasticware that gives the look of real utensils without the need for washing.

The most important thing to remember is that dressing up plasticware does not have to be complicated. Include your style, let the kids help in the creation, and have fun!