Photo: Shawn Lor/PixelPix Studio
When it comes to a Japanese-style table setting, there's no need to splash out. Instead, head to Daiso for thrifty tableware finds to add a little zen to your dining. Need help? These are our top five styling tips:
1. It’s a classic cliché, but flowers are always a good idea. If you’re not into flowers, then might we suggest fruits, herbs or vegetables - think lemons as place cards or succulent table runners. We used twigs picked up by the side of the streets. You can too.
2. Patterns: they’re made to match, but are more fun when they’re mixed. Here’s a crash course in clashing courses: if you’re unsure, choose compatible colour palettes; layer dense-patterned plates with the not-so-dense; and remember, some repetition is good.
3. Try some DIY decoration – think candles in old wine bottles and glasses, flowers in rustic wood boxes as centrepieces, or drape vintage jewellery over silverware.
4. Improvise, improvise, improvise. If you can’t fold napkins, just roll them up. Use linen curtains as table runners or wood cutting boards for cheese platters. There are shortcuts. Find them.
5. Add some finishing touches to your tablescape. We like a final bit of shine and sparkle with some gold-plated cutlery to set the scene.
All items from Daiso 1 Utama (03 7732 9588), Avenue K (03 2188 7500), Mid Valley (03 2201 9696) and Publika (03 6206 3282). All items at only RM5.30 each.
Styling by Ng Su Ann, assisted by Joyce Koh.