Christmas dinner with family and friends is the time to pull out all the stops when setting your table. Show your guests how much they mean to you with a delicious meal and a fabulous table.

You don’t need special Christmas dishes to create a festive setting. Use what you already own! The key (and you’ve heard this from me before) is to build up layers and make it personal.

Chalkboard paint and chalk drawings are hugely popular this year. I’m seeing them everywhere. I had planned to use these frames as placemats, but it turned out so darn cute, I decided it’s better as a back drop. If I make enough, each guest can take one home.

I found the frames at Goodwill for $1.99 and removed the glass. If you don’t find a white one, paint it. You have two options: paint the cardboard insert with black chalkboard paint following directions on the can. Since I’m running out of time, I went with option two … I purchased a black chalkboard cloth at the fabric store, cut a piece to fit the frame and glued it in place. Write a Christmas message with chalk (if you want to be able to erase) or colored pencils (if you want a permanent picture).

For each place setting, I started with a red charger, added a white plate with a black border, a red napkin and finally a polka dot bowl.

In keeping with the frame and chalkboard theme, I painted the mini-wood frames red and added another little piece of runner to make place cards. You could add a little ribbon to the top so they become tree ornaments.

I’m not a knitter, but I love hand-made mittens. Tuck silverware in mittens and lay them next to the plate. This is also a great idea for a buffet! Guests don’t have to worry about balancing forks and knives as they pile food on their plates!

Who would have thought you could create a pretty, festive table setting using black-and-white dishes?

Merry Christmas!