I started with a table runner. It breaks up the space and creates a visual weight to the centerpiece.
If you don’t already have one, then here is what I would suggest. I purchased a $5.00 twin size flat sheet from Walmart! ( Obviously, I purchased red.) This requires a “beginner level” of sewing. I made my table runner 16″ wide. The length of your table runner will be determined by the size of your table. It is a simple turn over hem. If you need more instructions, there are basic hem instructions here.
For the centerpieces I found berry garland at the Dollar Tree ( it was QUITE UGLY, I wish I had take a “before” picture). With the help of white spray paint I fixed that. Once DRY , I lined vases with the garland.
In order to beef up the centerpiece I used $1.98 pine garland from Walmart. For only $2.00 I was able to fill a lot of space.
I wanted to incorporate a little more white to the base. You can do this by either using canned spray snow, or making these “Frosted Branches”. There are a lot of different approaches to making these. I used the cheapest option, which consisted of sticks/or fake branches, white spray paint, hot glue gun , and epsom salt!
It is a little time consuming, and they really don’t last for more than one season, but for CHEAP/free I will take it!
I wanted to add vertical lines to the centerpiece. I opted for sticks. Yup, sticks. I just went in the back yard and used some from the yard.
For the finishing touch, I used two stems of decorative berries, and ripped them apart so I could use the individual berries. I then wired each berry to different sticks, to add a pop of color to the branches. I LOVE the look it created.
To keep this cheap, I used brown packaging paper from Dollar Tree. You will typically find it in rolls (like wrapping paper). I cut the pieces up to create place mats. I cut mine about 12″x16″. Easy Peasy!
As you recall, we already made all the napkins up in Step 1. Next, we need to make them pretty, and add some personal touches. I purchased the chalkboard name tags from the Dollar section at Target, it included 8 for $1.00. I then purchased a 10 pack of snowflakes from the Dollar Tree for $1.oo, along with a roll of jute/twine, for also $1.00.
I meant it when I said I purchased EVERYTHING but the silver ware. I was able to buy the plates and the glasses from the Dollar Tree. I also picked up a 6 pack of pine cones, and two $1.00 packs of ornaments from the Dollar Tree, that I placed in the glasses, and then added some of the ornaments to the center garland.