An Overdue, Simple Little Project

[John Ziebron]

This is one of those little projects that I've procrastinated on too long. Past purchased napkin holders, including my present one, were all the type where napkins are held in a vertical position. They look fine when they're full or almost full but as they get used it becomes harder to get just one especially because they start sagging down in the slot.

I had always planned to make one where the napkins lie flat. My original concept was to basically have a flat, square bottom with 4 upright angle pieces in each corner so access was available to any of the 4 sitting positions at my dining table. But paper napkins only have the one folded edge which would make it more difficult for someone to grab only one from any of the other 3 sides. I have used lazy susans in the past but only for larger projects and just recently discovered that they make very small ones as well. With that new found knowledge I changed my design so only the folded edge is available to any seating position.

This napkin holder is made of cherry. The box part has 3/8" sides and bottom and is 7 3/8" square. The 6" round base is from 3/4" thick stock. I used a 4" lazy susan. In order to prevent the holder from sliding around on the table I used 4 silicon pads on the bottom but recessed them .1" to help prevent them from coming loose.

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[Mike Burke]

Cool project John. Very nice!!
I’ve often thought about making tissue box covers similar to your napkin holder.
Maybe you’ve sparked my interest in me.
Thanks.

[Jay Aubuchon]

Nice! If we used paper napkins, I would steal this.

[Ron Citerone]

Clever design right there! Would grace any table!

[John Ziebron]

Thank you all for the kind words.

[Ken Fitzgerald]

That "simple little project" supports a very common issue with a certain amount of class! Well done, Sir!

[Bill Carey]

Nicely done John. And a great idea recessing the silicone pads. I had the same issue with the upright holders, so made a Stickley revolving bookcase, after making sure the napkins would fit. But it takes up a lot more room. I like your solution.

[John Ziebron]

Thank you Bill. It seems like the rubber/silicon pads don't seem to stick as well as they used to, even the ones that claim they have 3M adhesive. I started recessing them years ago and never looked back.