How To Make Luxe Looking Plates With Only A Few Dollar Tree Finds

From dinner parties to afternoon tea — having beautiful, on-theme dinnerware to decorate a dining table is a surefire way to elevate any event. But quality, decorative dishes can be quite expensive, sometimes costing more than $100 for just four patterned plates. If that price tag just made your jaw drop, don't worry. With minimal effort you can make your own luxe patterned dinnerware with just a few Dollar Tree plates, patterned napkins, and some modge podge.

In addition to being a far more affordable alternative to buying fancy dining plates, this DIY project also serves as a creative way to use decoupage in your home. The craft is simple and comes together in just a few minutes, making it perfect for crafters of all levels. Although you can technically eat off of these plates, great care will need to be taken when washing them. Because of this, it's best to only place dry goods like crackers and cookies on these plates. Better yet, use this project to make easy and stunning DIY wall decor with Dollar Tree plates instead.

For this project you will need clear glass plates. You can thrift these or grab some clear glass dinner plates and clear glass salad plates from your local Dollar Tree. It's important that your plates are clear as you will be applying decoupage to the bottom of each plate. You will also need patterned napkins, some modge podge, and a foam brush.

Start by peeling the two layers of your napkin apart. You will only need the side with a pattern for this project so you can discard the other part or save it for a future project. Then, using your foam brush apply a layer of modge podge to the entire backside of your clear plate. Next, lay your napkin over the modge podge, patterned side down. Use your finger or the foam brush to carefully flatten any bumps in the napkin then cut off any overhang. Finally, apply another layer of modge podge and allow the plates to dry completely.

When it comes to adding a custom spin to this project, there are a few things you can try. If you're not concerned with actually eating off the plates, you can use gold or silver paint around the edge of your plates for an elevated look. Another fun idea is to save napkins from special events and make these plates as gifts. A friend's wedding napkin on a plate makes a sweet and thoughtful first anniversary gift, for example.

There are also a wide variety of ways to use these plates as decor in your own home. You can mount them to the wall using adhesive discs or spring-style hangers. Alternatively, get some plate display stands and show off your DIY dinnerware on your shelves, bookcases, or mantels. You also don't have to limit yourself to plates. The same technique and materials can be used on clear glass bowls as well.