How can you improve your appetizer presentation this summer?

How can you improve your appetizer presentation this summer?

With the Fourth of July only a few days away and the whole rest of the summer to show off your party-planning prowess, you may have more than your fair share of outdoor barbecues planned. While it's easy to throw a few burgers and hot dogs on the grill and let your guests have at it, you may wish to whet their palettes with something a bit more delectable when they first arrive. If you'd like to hold an appetizer or cocktail hour before the grill gets fired up, one of the most important factors in your presentation is finding the right plate to display it on. This year, you can really wow your guests with a Birds of a Feather Snack Plate - it's idyllic design will blend right into your summer decorative scheme and will provide a fitting backdrop for your delectable appetizers.

A multi-colored plate is a fabulous choice to pair with vibrant napkins, tablecloths and other summer-inspired décor, and creating an intricate bird shape will show off your crafting abilities. Start with a Dinnerware Bisque Designs Snack Tray and apply varying shades of Duncan Concepts® Underglazes to create a unique effect. After letting each coat dry after application, you should be ready to move onto the next, and more difficult, task of cutting a design into the center of the plate.

Using a sgraffito-duster, you can cut intricate designs into the surface of the plate to recreate the look of a bird's feather, leaves or anything else that works with your colorful backdrop. Start by mapping out your design with pencil and then tackling each one with the tool. Be sure to remove any excess paint chips and plate particles and then finish the surface of the plate with Duncan® Pure Brilliance® Clear Glaze. This will give your snack tray a dazzling shine that is sure to improve its aesthetic appeal.

Whether you're serving a delicious antipasto plate or one of your own unique summer creations, your appetizers will only be as impressive as the vessel they're served on. This year, you can surprise your family and friends with your creative abilities and add a dynamic new piece to your collection. Your loved ones may just start asking you to make them a few of your dazzling serving plates as well!