It would seem that what could be easier than buying a tablecloth? But, faced directly with the selection process itself, many housewives begin to get lost in the variety of types, sizes, colors and textures of tablecloths that are presented in our stores today.
There are square, rectangular, oval, and round tablecloths in shape, that is, today you can choose this accessory for a tabletop of any shape. Therefore, before you decide to purchase a new tablecloth, you will have to answer a number of the following questions for yourself.
Firstly, why do you need it? If you will use it exclusively for special occasions - festive feasts, anniversaries and receiving dear guests, then a white tablecloth made of thick fabric is more suitable for this than ever. Agree, white color is very easily soiled, but it is better not to find it in order to emphasize the solemnity of the event.
Its functional purpose is that, firstly, it protects the tabletop from mechanical damage, and secondly, it serves as a soundproofing agent - it muffles the sound of cutlery such as plates, glasses and wine glasses. This is especially welcome at large noisy feasts, when guests communicate and talk with each other, make toasts and congratulatory speeches, and the clatter of cutlery does not interrupt or distract. In addition, by laying a tablecloth on the table, you will not be afraid that your plate or wine glass will “elude” you, especially if the tabletop is varnished.
If you need a simple tablecloth to cover the kitchen table at which you have breakfast, lunch or dinner every day, then there is undoubtedly a more practical option, both in color and quality of fabric, so that you don’t have to do it every day. wash the tablecloth.
Crocheted tablecloths look very beautiful and elegant. Unfortunately, they are not suitable for a large noisy feast, but they look great on a coffee or country wooden table, bringing an atmosphere of special warmth and comfort to the room.
The shape and size of the tablecloth depends, of course, on the size of the table, on which you are going to lay it. Remembering the rules of etiquette, you should not purchase a tablecloth of the same size as the tabletop. It should be larger so that its edges descend from the tabletop by 15-25 centimeters. A properly sized tablecloth is an important condition for high-quality table setting.
The materials used for sewing today include both natural and synthetic fabrics. Natural fabrics, unfortunately, wrinkle very easily, so today many housewives prefer to use synthetic or semi-synthetic tablecloths for feasts. They are easy to care for and stains from food and drinks can be easily removed from them. The main thing in this case is to choose a tablecloth from a material that matches the style and aesthetics of the appearance of the table.
As mentioned above, a white tablecloth is best for a formal event. However, if a children’s party is planned in your home, then the tablecloth should be selected accordingly - bright, with cheerful patterns.
For daily meals in the kitchen, an accessory that does not require too much care and frequent washing is suitable. Many housewives do not even cover their kitchen tables with a tablecloth, or use a Teflon-coated tablecloth, which you just need to wipe with a damp cloth and it looks like new. You can safely place a hot pan or plate on such a tablecloth.
When choosing the color of the tablecloth, remember that it should be in harmony with the color of the cutlery. For example, if the accessory is very bright and colorful, then the snow-white dishes will “get lost on it,” and vice versa, a dinner service with exquisite painting will look ridiculous on a cotton tablecloth with a simple check or stripe.
Table setting, in this case the use of a tablecloth, also leaves room for experiments and flights of imagination. For example, you can set the table with two tablecloths in contrasting colors, laying them asymmetrically on top of each other, and choosing cutlery in a color that is different from both tablecloths. Or you can choose one original accessory in accordance with the theme of the holiday.
Be that as it may, there is only one conclusion: without a tablecloth, the table looks boring and shabby.
How can you quickly refresh a boring kitchen interior or create a festive atmosphere in it? It’s as easy as shelling pears – just lay a new tablecloth on the table! For those who are looking for ideas for textile decor, or want to buy or sew a tablecloth with their own hands, we have prepared a large selection of inspiring photos and a 6-step selection guide.
A tablecloth is a table decoration, an important detail of it and the entire kitchen interior. It muffles the sound of appliances and protects the surface of the countertop from household dirt.
Depending on the purpose for which you want to purchase or sew a tablecloth, the choice of material and its size depends. Tablecloths can be banquet, wedding, decorative or tea, but since we are talking about choosing a tablecloth for the kitchen, there are only 3 options:
Before going to a store or studio, measure the tabletop - for a round one we measure the diameter, for a square one - the length of one side, otherwise:
Now let’s determine what length of overhang you need. It can vary from 20 to 40 cm - a larger length is suitable only for banquet and decorative tables, and a smaller length will look too short.
If you buy a tablecloth in a store, then in order not to make a mistake with the size, you can calculate the desired parameters and look for ready-made models that are as close as possible to them:
Everything is simple here:
The color of the tablecloth depends on your personal preferences, the color scheme of the kitchen/dining room interior, and also on whether you want it to act as a color accent or, conversely, to balance the bright table setting and decor of the room.
The design and decor of a tablecloth depends on its purpose and the style of the interior. Here are some tips:
Embroidered cotton or crocheted tablecloths with lace, flounces and ruffles, floral or checkered patterns are appropriate in the style, and bright fabrics with stripes, with drawings or inscriptions, sewn using the patchwork technique, etc. are suitable.
For an everyday tablecloth, you need practical, easy-to-care fabrics:
However, unlike oilcloth material, a Teflon tablecloth is not afraid of hot dishes or mold, since Teflon covers only the cotton fibers, without clogging the holes between them and allowing the canvas to “breathe”. Another plus is that they often have a very original design. For example, you can easily find tablecloths in the Provence style - checkered, polka dot, burlap or linen. A Teflon tablecloth also has disadvantages - it is a limited choice (compared to natural fabrics) and the short service life of the Teflon impregnation, which will become damaged and peel off over time.
For festive table setting, it is better to choose natural fabrics:
If you wish, you can complement the tablecloth with napkins, plate covers or a runner, that is, a narrow tablecloth-runner that resembles a Slavic towel.
And now we present to you a selection of ideas and photos of beautiful tablecloths in a variety of styles - from Provence to Scandinavian.
The tablecloth is the basis of table setting, but not only its decoration, as many believe. The tablecloth is the basis of table setting, but not only its decoration, as many believe. When choosing a tablecloth for a dining or banquet table, you need to know what material it can be made of, what size and shape are required.
In general, any table setting item has its own meaning and function. The tablecloth has three of them:
Today, stores offer ready-made sets of tablecloths and napkins. The classic material for them is linen and cotton fabric. But these high-quality and dense fabrics wrinkle quite easily. Therefore, for table setting, it is advisable to purchase table linen made from mixed fabrics containing artificial fibers - this is more practical.
The main shapes used in tablecloths include oval, round, rectangular and square. It is worth following the rules for selecting a tablecloth according to the shape of your table.
Ready-made tablecloths for table setting in the most common sizes: 130×160, 130×230 cm (for rectangular tables) and 130×150, 160 cm in diameter (for round folding tables).
However, it often turns out that the purchased tablecloth is not suitable for setting the table - the dimensions of the tabletop do not have a clear standard, such as table height. Therefore, the most reasonable solution is to sew a tablecloth, having first taken the necessary measurements.
The main rule for determining the size of the tablecloth: according to the rules of etiquette, the length of the tablecloth descending from the tabletop should be no more than 15-25 cm. So, for example, the size of the tablecloth for serving a square table of 1 × 1 m will be 150 × 150 cm, and for serving a rectangular table size 1.3×1.6 m-180×210 cm. The golden rule of table etiquette says: it is better to have a tablecloth that is too long than a little short.
But that is not all. In upscale restaurants, at respectable receptions and other feasts with a high level of service, it is customary to lay not one tablecloth, but two, for table setting. The lower tablecloth is called a muleton or protector, in contrast to the elegant upper one, it is sewn from only one type of fabric - cotton flannel, white or bluish. It is small in size - it covers the tabletop, and the length of the descent is equal to the thickness of the tabletop. From each corner, two ribbons are sewn to this tablecloth, with which it is tied to the legs of the table so that it does not slip. It is designed to protect the countertop from mechanical damage, exposure to high temperatures or accidentally spilled liquids.
Another option is made from a fabric of contrasting color, which spreads over the main tablecloth and serves not only for decorative purposes, but also to protect the main tablecloth.
If we talk about color, then a white tablecloth still remains unrivaled for table setting, but only at formal formal feasts. Of course, it looks very elegant, but it’s too much trouble: after all, if there is even one pale spot on it, it’s already indecent to use such a tablecloth. In addition, white linen tablecloths must be properly starched, not over-dried after washing, and ironed without stretching.
For informal events, colored tablecloths are ideal for setting the table: they are practical, and in addition, bright, rich colors lift the mood and give the feast additional charm. The color can be any, but one condition must be observed: the tablecloth must be in harmony in color with the dishes.
Modern etiquette invites you to show your imagination and, instead of the usual linen and cotton, use tablecloths made of non-traditional fabrics and materials for table setting. It can be gauze, brocade, lining silk and even faux fur with a small pile. If the fabric is too narrow (most often the fabric width is 90 or 150 cm), you can sew two fabrics together.
In addition, no one will prohibit the use of plastic film, foil, wallpaper, etc. as a “tablecloth”. Such options are especially relevant in the country or for decorating a table at a picnic. After use, such a tablecloth can be safely thrown away.
Review of fabrics for tablecloths
No catering establishment that respects itself and its customers can do without table textiles. How to choose the right fabric for tablecloths and napkins so that the products last as long as possible and do not lose their presentability and aesthetics? Let's consider the main types of tablecloth textiles, their characteristics and properties, as well as methods of care.
Table linen is a product that a person has to deal with not only in his own kitchen, but also in restaurants, cafes and other “food” establishments. Therefore, before you go shopping for fabrics, you should imagine what exactly will be sewn from them. The usual list of table textiles includes:
Interesting to know! In order not to make a mistake with the size of the tablecloth, you need to add an overhang to the length, width or diameter of the tabletop - the part of the cloth that hangs from the sides. An overhang of 20 cm on each side is considered classic.
The main purpose of table linens is to make the dining table look elegant and bring pleasure to customers. Therefore, fabrics should be attractive, bright, and pleasing to the eye.
But do not forget that during use, table textiles are in a high-risk zone - drinks are spilled on it, pieces of fatty food or sauces get on it, traces of lipstick or dirty hands remain. That is why specific requirements are imposed on tablecloth fabrics:
An important aspect for restaurant or cafe owners is the cost of the fabrics from which cutlery is made. The optimal option is when a material that meets all the above requirements has a low price.
Tastefully selected table textiles can enliven any interior, giving it new colors and placing the necessary accents. And if not only tablecloths and napkins, but also curtains and furniture covers are sewn in the same style, then the room will look especially cozy and harmonious.
Natural, synthetic and mixed fibers are used to make tablecloth fabrics. Depending on the composition, their main properties also differ.
The most important advantage of cotton fabrics is their high hygroscopicity: they absorb moisture well. But this property can also be considered a disadvantage, since, quickly getting wet from spilled wine or water, the tablecloth immediately loses its appearance.
Cotton napkins are convenient for blotting your lips or wiping your hands: they do not smear fat and lipstick. In addition, they are easy to wash and can be ironed well with a hot iron.
Most often, percale is used for tablecloths, which has sufficient strength and wear resistance, and calico is used for napkins. For special occasions, satin is suitable, which, thanks to its special weave, has a smooth iridescent surface and resembles silk.
The big advantage of cotton products is their low price compared to other natural materials. Therefore, many restaurateurs can afford to have several sets of table linen made from these fabrics.
Linen tablecloths and napkins can be seen on the tables of the most respectable catering establishments. They not only look elegant, but also emphasize the high status of the restaurant or cafe.
This natural material has many undeniable advantages, including:
In addition, it is well known that linen has an antiseptic effect and is resistant to rot and mold. Tablecloths and napkins made of this material do not generate static electricity and can reduce radiation from a computer or TV.
It is important to know! Linen fabrics wrinkle greatly during use and during washing and are difficult to iron. In addition, they are afraid of organic acids contained in some fruit juices. Fibers from contact with them not only become discolored, but can be completely destroyed.
This beautiful tablecloth fabric with a poetic name is produced in Belarus, but is widely known abroad. Thanks to the optimal combination of natural cotton fibers and polyester, the material is consistently in high demand not only among restaurant and cafe owners, but also among ordinary housewives.
Zhuravinka has in its collection more than 40 weaving patterns and almost fifty colors and shades. The fabric is treated with dirt- and grease-repellent compounds, and the high density of the weave saves it from immediate getting wet.
A significant advantage of Belarusian fabric is its inability to absorb odors, which is very important in the field of public catering. It is also important that the fabric is considered hypoallergenic: it has passed dermatological tests and has the appropriate certificate.
Currently, the production of models with satin or satin weave has been launched, which makes it possible to reproduce a variety of patterns on the fabric, alternating matte and shiny surfaces. Such tablecloths and napkins are suitable for special occasions because they look elegant and rich.
It is important to know! Products made from cranes can be washed in a machine; the water temperature should not exceed 400C. The main condition is not to use bleaches and other aggressive substances. In order to restore the protective properties of the fabric, it must be ironed with an iron, the control of which is in the “silk” position.
The material appeared on the textile market not so long ago, but has already gained many fans. This is facilitated by innovative technologies that were used in the production of fabric.
The fabric consists of more than 60% cotton, to which polyester is added to enhance strength and abrasion resistance. The fabric is not only monochromatic: there are models made in two colors.
The most popular are canvases with a “reverse effect”, where the front and back sides are made using the “positive-negative” technique. Decorators play with this in a very interesting way, choosing sets of table textiles for establishments, consistent with the same interior design.
Mati has more than 20 designs, some of which combine matte and glossy fibers in an original way. The material is pre-treated with an oil-repellent preparation from the German company Tubiguard, which guarantees its complete safety for human health.
If drops of ketchup, mustard, juice or wine get on a tablecloth made of mati fabric, they should be quickly blotted with a paper napkin. Dried stains can be easily removed with a soft sponge or brush.
It is important to know! The only thing Mati is afraid of is cigarette ashes, which can burn a hole in her. Therefore, it is not recommended to cover tables with this fabric in establishments where smoking is allowed.
In summer, many restaurants and cafes set up tables in open areas or verandas. In this case, the textiles are subjected to additional exposure to sunlight, wind and rain. In order to provide tablecloths and napkins with maximum protection, special Teflon impregnations or coatings are used.
The peculiarity of this treatment is that it is applied not to the entire product as a whole, but to each individual fiber. Therefore, the fabrics are completely water-repellent: drops of moisture roll off their surface freely without penetrating inside.
It is extremely easy to care for impregnated Teflon materials: they do not require washing, much less ironing. It is enough to wipe the front side with a damp cloth to make the tablecloth clean and shiny again.
Interesting to know! The Teflon coating is not afraid of high temperatures: you can freely place hot dishes on the tablecloth. There are fireproof models that are not afraid of open fire.
The modern textile industry also offers tablecloth materials made of jacquard, organza, guipure and other fabrics, which are sold wholesale or retail. There is always the opportunity to choose materials that are perfect for both a cozy home kitchen and formal banquets in the most fashionable restaurants.
According to their purpose, tablecloths are divided into: holiday, kitchen, dining, tablecloths for every day, tablecloths for outdoor use.
There is an opinion that choosing a tablecloth for the kitchen table is very simple, or that few people pay attention to such a tablecloth. In fact, the color of the tablecloth, its size, and the quality of the material from which the tablecloth is made have a huge impact on the atmosphere at the table. Also, the tablecloth is a kind of business card of the hostess of the house.
The people you invite to the table pay attention not only to what you have prepared. Cutlery and tablecloth also attract the attention of guests. It is much more pleasant to appear in their eyes as the owner of good taste than as a simple housewife, absolutely devoid of imagination.
The tablecloth is an important element of the festive table. A properly selected high-quality and beautiful tablecloth gives the table an elegant and sophisticated look.
When choosing a tablecloth, you need to consider for what occasions it will be used. A tablecloth for a family dinner is significantly different from a tablecloth for a children's party.
When choosing a tablecloth, you need to take into account the color scheme of the room, what color your dishes and cutlery are. The tablecloth should fit into the overall color scheme. For example, if you have olive-colored curtains and light-colored walls, the tablecloth in this option can be white, light green, or beige.
If everything in the room is in the same color scheme, you can choose a tablecloth of the opposite color. This decision can be supported with decorative pillows in the color of the tablecloth.
Tablecloths of cream, light beige, white and gold are considered neutral color solutions.
For special moments in life, it is better to choose a white tablecloth.
The choice of tablecloth primarily depends on the shape of the table.
The table can be round, oval, square or rectangular. Accordingly, you need to choose a tablecloth of this shape. You should not compromise and take a square tablecloth for a round or oval table.
When you have decided on the shape of the table, you need to find out the size of the table by measuring the tabletop.
The width and length of an oval table are measured. The length of the tabletop is a large diameter. The width of the tabletop is small diameter.
The diameter of a round table is measured.
In a rectangular table you need to measure the width and length.
For a square table, it is enough to measure only one side.
The length of the overhang is added to the dimensions of the table ( the tablecloth should hang 25-30 cm from the edge of the table) from each side. If the tablecloth is lowered, the table does not look beautiful; if it is lower, it is not comfortable for guests to sit. There may be more droop if the tablecloth has a beautiful pattern. An overhang of up to 40 cm is allowed. If you have a table of 100x200 cm, you need to add 60 cm to each size, as a result you need to buy a tablecloth measuring 160x260 cm.
The main rule is to choose the right size tablecloth.
It is better to have a tablecloth a little longer than shorter. If your table size is in the middle of standard sizes, choose the size that is larger.
You can buy in our online store SALON ELSON.
