Work each medallion in three contrast colours, working in rounds of double crochet or a half treble stitch.

Abbreviations
ch        chain
htr       half treble
patt     pattern
rnd      round
sl st     slip stitch
tr         treble

Circular motifs
Using 3,25mm crochet hook and first yarn, work 4 ch, join with a sl st to form a ring.

1st rnd: work 10 htr into the ring. Break off first colour and join in second coloured yarn.

2nd rnd: work 20 htr into the ring.

3rd rnd: work 40 htr into the ring. Break off second colour and join in third colour

4th rnd: work 80 htr into the ring.

This sets the sequence of patt. You can make the circular motifs as large as you wish, changing the colours at random at the end of rnd.

Make each medallion about 5cm in diameter. Ideally 4-ply yarn is best to work with as you will be able to crochet several rounds and create more detail before you fasten off. You will need eight medallions for each napkin holder. For a more colourful effect, make two holders per napkin, as shown in the photograph. Darn in the loose ends at the back of the work. Place the finished medallions in a row and neatly sew them together, catching the outer edge where the medallions meet with a couple of slip stitches. When all eight are stitched together, join the first and last ones to form a tube. Fold the napkins flat so they fit the crochet napkin holder perfectly. Press the napkins, then slip the holders over the linen.

Text and image: Ideas magazine