Last weekend the hubs and I stopped by the Country Living Fair for a quick trip around the park. I didn’t have anything specific on my shopping list and love to go to the fair because it always so inspiring.
While I didn’t spend much money (a whopping $3.00) and didn’t take many photos, I did come across three entertaining ideas I really loved.
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I’ve always loved setting a table to unique paper products but never thought of using vintage player piano rolls as placemats. The rolls are functional and add so much character and charm to the table. I was so smitten with this idea that when I got home I went on a search of player piano rolls and found tons of really affordable options on Etsy.
The next idea I spotted takes the music theme to a new level. Pages from a music book were set up as a collage and used in place of a placemat and runner on the table. I love the eclectic feel of the this table and think it would be really fun for a causal jazz themed dinner party or entertaining around Christmas. I’ve scored some great sheet music books from Goodwill over the years so keep your eyes open when shopping.
The third entertaining idea I saw so such a simple touch but really added a lot to the table–fabric silverware pockets. I spotted these at the Cutlery Couture booth, which was packed with shoppers. The ladies behind this company use simple fabrics and everyday embellishments to create these fun pouches.
As usual, there are always a few items I pass up at the fair that days later I wish I would have gotten but I did pick up business cards from those vendors so I can order online.
If you’re wondering what I bought, it was these three brass stencil letters for a holiday project I’m working on.
I’d be so worried about ruining the pianola rolls! I’m a music teacher and often make my own sheet music when I need it (eg for Christmas cards- nothing like using your own original Christmas carols). I love these ideas.
The best idea though was the cutlery pockets. My dad collects the thick paper ones from some the clubs where we dine. For a while he had so many, I thought he was going to wallpaper with them! Yet, I’d never thought of making him some fabric ones. My parents are fairly traditional- always eating at the dining table, with a tablecloth and cutlery set out in the right order, so I hadn’t thought of changing things up. I might just get around to making my dad some special cutlery pockets now!
Thanks for the inspiration. I can’t wait to see what you do with the JOY brass templates.
Hi Lou,
Sorry of the delay in responding to you. My blog has been down but thankfully is back up and running.
You should definitely make cutlery pockets for your parents to enjoy–maybe a special way to dress the table for Thanksgiving.
Thanks for stopping by the blog.
Shelly
I love the sheet music and piano paper ideas. I have to share with my sissy. She’s a retired music teacher. I’m sure you had a great time.