Our elf has dressed for dinner. He has interpreted “smart” as “an enormous bow tie.” 🎀
The note says “Dress code: fancy”, and he is waiting patiently beside an empty plate.
This funny elf idea makes a quick outfit joke from a paper napkin.
What you’ll need:
- One official Elf on the Shelf doll (paid link)
- One red Christmas paper napkin (paid link), or a napkin already in the drawer
- A narrow strip of paper, tape and a small paper clip
- An empty place setting and a note
Setup:
Fold the napkin backwards and forwards into a short accordion. Pinch the middle and fan out the two sides to form a bow shape. Wrap the narrow paper strip around the centre and tape it to itself, keeping the two loops balanced. Sit your elf against a folded cloth near the empty place setting, then rest the bow across his chest below the white collar. A small paper clip attached to the cloth costume can hold it in position, without needing to tie anything around his neck. Leave his face and mittens clear and add the “Dress code: fancy” note. In the morning, the children can vote on whether the elf looks ready for Christmas dinner or whether his bow tie needs to be a little smaller. Try another napkin colour for a different outfit.
Make it cheaply:
Use a paper napkin left over from a party, or fold a small rectangle of scrap paper in the same way. The bow does not need fabric, sewing or a bought costume. If you want to make matching table decorations, fold a few more paper bows and lay them beside the empty plates.
Try the enormous glasses disguise or the teddy awards ceremony for another elf scene.
