rakhi thali...

In the Raksha bandhan thali, the rakhis are kept along with differnent items. Traditionally the Rakhi thali is almost same as the thali for the pooja of the deities. The Rakhi Thali contains a diya, roli or tika, rice, sandalwood, incense sticks and some sweets.
The thali or the plate could be of silver or brass or simple steel. Brass or silver or silver plated rakhi thali are considered most auspicious. One of the essentials is drawing a Swastika in the middle of the rakhi thali, the symbol of Lord Ganesha.
The Rakhi thali can be decorated with a yellow or red cotton bandhani cloth and gota ( Golden lace) or moli. Proper care should be taken that diya and the burning encense sticks don't come in direct contact with the cloth.
One can also create a sacred aura by placing a jute mat and asans and arrange your things on it. It is upto ones own imagination and the traditional perspectives to decorate the rakhi thali and perform the ceremony. Be your innovative self and enjoy the auspices of the day.