Beth Cox

Some of my favorite projects start with a story. These napkin rings were made from old drawer pulls that came off my husband’s Granny Jane’s dresser. The same dresser sitting on my porch of the little shed I call the General Store. It felt right to bring a little piece of that history to my dining table for this year’s Fall-o-Ween setup. I paired the vintage pulls with chocolate brown satin ribbon, which makes the mix of aged metal and soft ribbon feel like fall — warm, simple, and full of meaning.

What You’ll Need: 

  • Vintage or antique drawer pulls (one per place setting)
  • Scissors
  • Fabric or linen napkins
  • ¾ inch ribbon

Step 1: Hunt for Character 

Start by finding a few old dresser pulls with personality — maybe from a thrift store, a flea market, or your own stash of vintage hardware. Look for ones with unique shapes, worn patina, or that perfectly aged brass tone that feels timeless.

Step 2: Add the Satin Touch 

Cut a length of brown satin ribbon long enough to wrap around your napkin and tie securely — usually about 10 to 12 inches. Thread the ribbon through the handle or opening of the drawer pull, centering it so the pull becomes the focal point. You can tie the ribbon straight to the handle like I did or wrap the ribbon around your napkin and tie it in a knot or simple bow at the back.

Step 3: Style the Fall-o-Ween Table 

For the tablescape, I draped a plaid throw blanket across the table in place of a tablecloth and used a few of my favorite vintage plates and bowls. For the centerpiece, I started with an old tractor plowing blade as the base, layered in a copper jack-o’-lantern I DIY’d, added Spanish moss, a few pie pumpkins, and a vintage candlestick for a little glow. I even tucked in an old rake head for an extra rustic layer. It’s a mix of textures and old pieces that tell a story. Each napkin ring carries a little piece of Granny Jane’s story, and I love how something so small can hold so much meaning. It’s the perfect mix of cozy, vintage, and just a touch of Fall-o-Ween magic.

Styling Tip: Don’t worry about everything matching perfectly. Mix metals, use what you have, and let your table tell a story — those are always the spaces that feel the most welcoming. Happy Decorating!