Facts about table linens

Any meal, whether a casual get together or a formal dinner party, can be given an extra special touch with the right tablecloth. Many people love to set a formal table, as there are so few chances to show off your elegant tableware. The elegance of your place settings can be further enhanced with the use of the perfect tablecloth.

Making your own table linens was the norm in years gone by. These homemade tablecloths and napkins would be carefully embroidered with a host of designs, including fruits, flowers, and others. Some people would embellish their runners, tablecloths, and napkins with a cross stitch pattern. These days people are more likely to make their own unique table linens using fabric paints.

Table linens these days are most often purchased, often in sets which include napkins and napkin rings, tablecloths, and runners. Some even include dollies and table pads.

There should be at least 15 inches of tablecloth hanging off the table for a formal tablecloth. If you are using one tablecloth it should match the shape of the table. Some people like to use more than one tablecloth in contrasting colors to add elegance to the table. In this case it may be fun to place a square tablecloth over a round one.

Placemats are becoming more popular than ever these days. You can find them in a great variety of materials, shapes, and sizes. You can find placemats that work well for both casual and formal dining occasions.

In days past it was very popular to use dollies under drinking glasses when entertaining. This is no longer a common custom.

There are standard sizes of napkins for various occasions. Napkins for cocktail parties are usually six inches, those used for luncheons are typically 20 inches, while formal dinner napkins are usually 24 inches. Napkins can either be in the same color and pattern as the tablecloth or a combination of complimentary colors. Napkins are also useful for lining bread baskets and other decorative functions.

Decorations are often placed on top of runners down the middle of the table. Runners are available in a variety of shapes and sizes, although they are most commonly long rectangles that can run the entire length of the table.

You can help protect your table from spills and other damage with the use of a table pad. While there use is not as popular these days, they can really help your table have a long and beautiful life.

Table liners are made from a variety of fabrics, including cotton, damask, chintz, polycotton, and calico. Choose the colors, patterns, and materials that are the best match for your home and your style.

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