Some Simple Ideas for Fourth of July

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

25 Jun 2008 10:27 AM

With more and more families staying at home or doing things together such as camping, we find that items featured in stores this time of year are geared toward activities such as eating outdoors. Camping and picnic gear is very popular and you can find a great variety not only in disposable tableware but also in reusable, hard plastic items.

From plates to tumblers you can choose from a large assortment of brightly colored solids or prints. If using paper plates, look for colored plate holders.

For some patriotic table setting at your Fourth of July get-together, try stacking solid red, white, and blue. Stacks cups, plates, and bowls, alternating the colors (and filling the table with foods that look great with these colors). Stack napkins alternating each color, and turning napkins so the points are placed to form a stack that looks like a star.

A smooth rock or small block of wood can be painted in red, white, and blue (ahead of time) to make a great paperweight. Then, you won't have to worry about your perfectly patriotic stack of napkins blowing away.

Check your favorite nursery to see if potted flowers or flowering plants are on sale. Many are this time of year. Add some potted red, white, and blue flowers (or even just one of these colors) to your deck or patio. Crisp, clean white pots with bright red flowers make a great touch, so pick up flowers in enough time to paint the pots if necessary. If you don't have time to paint, you can wrap pots in colored foil, wrapping paper, wide ribbon, or patriotic fabric if desired.

Make your own place mats by laying out strips of ribbon or fabric and weaving them together. Quickly stitch the outside edges together or hold firm with fabric glue. You can also use existing place mats by cutting slits in them and running ribbon through the slits to create a more textured look or simply to add more color.

Other Articles that May be of Interest:

Decorate for Fourth of July

A Few Fourth of July Party Planning Tips

Festive Ideas for Fourth of July

Set a Festive Table for Fourth of July

Fourth of July Centerpieces

Learn more about Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a work at home mom and freelance writer. Married to her best friend, Sherry and her husband are raising their family in a quiet rural setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

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