DIY Entertaining Idea: Custom Wooden Flatware

This post was originally published on DIY Network’s blog Made + Remade in August 2013.

Let’s talk flatware for a second. You’re throwing a classy summer party and you have a color theme, so you pick yourself up a package of plastic utensils, maybe in the chosen color if you’re lucky … but with the rest of your decorating and planning, plastic feels kind of ho-hum, and classic silverware is still out of the question.

Here’s an alternative: Customized Wooden Flatware.

Wooden! So eco-cool, so compostable, so happenin’. Sets are most commonly found in Birch, Aspen, or Poplar (the pieces in the set shown are Birchware). Wooden utensils might cost a little more (about $1 per place setting, give or take based on the size of your order) but the impact – especially when customized – puts a smile on my face. They even makes Brussels sprouts taste better.

Whether striped, spotted, ombre’d, or chevron-covered, guests are going to be quick to notice and appreciate the craftiness and intent. Use non-toxic paints if you’re going to be applying anywhere that’s inclined to touch food, and let the designs dry well before using.

Color-gradient dots look fab:

Or go bold with a color block theme:

Or floral for a little girls’ birthday, or a 60′s-theme party, or a garden party. Flowers are versatile, am I right?

I even tried hand-painting names onto a set to see how it would work. Verdict? Make sure you’re using a very, very fine brush. Or consider emblazoning into the wood with a wood burning tool like I demonstrated in this DIY custom wooden jewelry box project. Or if you have old silverware lying around or found a stash at a thrift store, try painting it like Ellen did for her upcycled silverware post. All of these ideas would be a great addition to a backyard barbecue!