My rule for Ramadan and Eid party favors is that they must be delightful to the eye and useful. So I decided to make placemats for all the Muslim children in my life. I got the idea from my son’s teachers, who sent home laminated placemats for Thanksgiving.

First, I created a template on Photoshop using free vector art online. I debated between making something educational for the kids vs. something more pleasant to the eye. I opted for something pleasant to the eye (with a side of education) because I have to look at this placemat every day. If you would like to download the 11×17 PDF files just right-click Save As on But First, Bismillah Placemat Template.

If you have a printer and laminator at home, you might be able to do it all yourself. But I opted to send the file to my local UPS Online Printing location (closer to me than Kinkos). I printed it under the following specifications:

• 11×17 Ledger Paper
• Normal Paper Weight
• Laminated
• One-Sided

I loved the final outcome. Due to the size of the paper, the final cost per placemat is approx. $4-$5, but I wouldn’t go smaller. Not sure how well lamination stands up to wear and tear, but I think the placemat should at least get the kids through the rest of Ramadan.

I wrapped up the placemats in this lovely moon and star wrapping paper I found at target and gifted it to all the children at my Iftar this year. A great add-on to the placemat is a gifting an Islamic book. I found all of these books under $10.

Peace & Salam,

Natasha