What can replace the tablecloth on the table?

How to choose a tablecloth for a festive table or for every day?

Who would have thought that choosing a tablecloth would be so difficult? Choosing a tablecloth is a difficult decision that should be approached with all responsibility. It's not as easy as it might seem. You need to take into account the design, kitchen interior, the occasion for which the table is set, the presence of children in the house, etc. Before choosing the ideal tablecloth, you need to find out as much as possible about what they are like and, most importantly, what quality they are.

Elegant, practical, almost any tablecloth for the table is back in trend today.

Manufacturers and prices

Let's find out which of the manufacturers today offers us the best selection of transparent kitchen tablecloths at reasonable prices.

NIKLEN

The Canadian manufacturer offers the most elegant models made of PVC. The work is so delicate that from a distance a confident impression of natural lace is created. Ornaments are traditional: floral, plant. A product 110x140 cm rectangular in shape will cost 352 rubles.

Agness

This Chinese trading and manufacturing brand offers high-quality polyester products. The models are real works of art - beautiful, but at the same time practical. The cost of a transparent lace product 85x85 cm is 1,776 rubles.

Gray Textile

The Chinese brand offers elegant models of PVC lace weaving. The cost of a product with a floral pattern 85x85 cm is 780 rubles.

If you want to purchase a strict, practical model without lace or other decor, suitable for everyday use and fitting into modern, laconic interiors, opt for Russian products with a strict rectangular shape. These tablecloths are a smooth, dense PVC film that protects the tabletop with an ideal transparent layer. Or opt for a set: tablecloth and chair covers in the same color scheme.

Such products are very inexpensive. For example, a tablecloth measuring 180x120 cm will cost only 57 rubles. Photos of various tablecloths for the table can be seen here.

Where to start looking for a tablecloth for the table?

Beautiful tablecloths can be found everywhere, but not all are suitable. Size, quality, material, occasion, design, color, room interior and much more are important. Before you start choosing, you need to answer a few questions.

With this accessory you can transform the appearance of your kitchen, refresh its design and create an atmosphere of home comfort, warmth and celebration.

1. Do you need a tablecloth for the table in the living room or kitchen?
2. Do you need it for every day or just for holidays? If for a holiday, which one?
3. Are there children in the house? (In this case, practicality should come first.)

Among the modern options, it’s easy to choose a stylish and practical tablecloth for the kitchen.

From this you can understand what to focus on when searching.

Coating options

As we have already found out, in order for a tabletop to serve for a long time, it must be durable, reliable, and have a heat-resistant and water-repellent surface. Industrial models made of metal and artificial stone meet these requirements. It is more difficult to protect wood or products made from chipboard, MDF. They are laminated, covered with PVC film, plastic, paints and liquid glass.

Oil and paint coatings

There are two types of such coatings: oil and wax based, using paints and varnish. At home, the worn surface is cleaned of the old finish, then sanded and a protective layer is applied again.

The countertop will be reliably protected by industrial oils: citrus, tung, linseed. Two or more layers should be applied to the surface, each of them must dry thoroughly before subsequent application. These are environmentally friendly compounds, they do not have toxic odors or fumes, are able to repel water, and protect the surface from scratches.

Self-adhesive film

This is the simplest option with which you can update an aged countertop. Before laying the film, the surface should be thoroughly cleaned with sandpaper and brought to complete smoothness.

Cover with a sticker carefully, carefully expelling air bubbles from under the film

Soft glass

Housewives try to cover tables with all kinds of tablecloths and oilcloths to preserve their appearance, but the table mats quickly wear out and become unusable. The best solution for this task is to cover the surface with a special film.

The flexible coating looks like a transparent table cover; instead of a tablecloth, there is a silicone backing. It is made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The lining is resistant to household chemicals, easy to care for, it is not afraid of high temperatures and scratches, and has water-repellent properties.

Liquid glass

This beautiful and reliable coating was invented at the beginning of the 19th century by Professor Johann Fuchs. Liquid glass is a transparent polymer (epoxy resin). The material does not change color, does not crack or peel. It is resistant to mechanical stress and is not afraid of hot dishes and spilled coffee. The smooth surface is easy to care for.

Glass is made from sodium and potassium silicates. Potassium polymer does not produce glare, but soda glass is more suitable for countertops.

You can also use liquid glass at home; it is diluted with simple tap water. To make the coating look truly glass, before pouring the composition, the countertop is cleaned of dirt and polished. Then the resin is applied in a spiral motion and leveled with a spatula - from the center to the sides.

Material

For most people, life is all about practicality. This applies to the interior and, of course, the tablecloth. A stain that cannot be removed can ruin your mood.

A tablecloth will help make your interior more complete.

Tablecloths are made from various materials.

Most often they are made from:

• cotton;
• flax;
• synthetics;
• Teflon;
• burlap;
• silks.

For a classic-style kitchen, it is better to choose a tablecloth made of linen or cotton.

They all have their own advantages and features.

Cotton ones are very popular due to their beauty and practicality. Cotton tablecloths are not fussy, and stains on them can be washed off quite well. Cotton is suitable for both daily use and holidays.

Cozy small kitchen in light colors with an ombre tablecloth.

ATTENTION! You should not buy a cotton tablecloth in a snow-white shade if you plan to use it more than once. She will quickly lose her whiteness. Although it will look great on the holiday table.

Also, some housewives prefer a linen tablecloth. The list of its advantages includes only a presentable appearance. But this option cannot be called practical. Ironing such fabric is a whole problem. And after washing, they quickly and irrevocably lose their shape and decrease in size, which is not very pleasant. But as a decor it has no equal.

It looks especially good on massive wooden tables in the living room.

But tablecloths made of synthetics or oilcloth cannot be called a festive option. But it is perfect for everyday use in the kitchen. In a house with children, oilcloth is the ideal solution. Although for many housewives the presentable appearance of the kitchen is very important. But even here you can find a solution. You can lay a transparent oilcloth over the cotton cover. It's practical and beautiful at the same time.

After all, just because it's a tablecloth for the kitchen table doesn't mean it can't look elegant.

But there are also tablecloths made of synthetic fabric. In this case, practicality loses to appearance. As with oilcloth, this is only suitable for the kitchen. This will not look good in the living room. And the fact that they are made of synthetic material means that they are highly flammable. You should be careful and vigilant with them. This option is resorted to by people who wonder: “What can I put on the table instead of a tablecloth?” Oilcloth can hardly be called a tablecloth, because it completely lacks all the disadvantages inherent in a regular tablecloth.

A round checkered tablecloth looks very interesting.

Few people know about Teflon. But this in no way means that this is a bad option. They are made from natural material and covered with a water-repellent layer on top, which is very convenient. This cover does not require special care. All you need is a damp cloth and you can forget about stains. It can be laid instead of oilcloth on the kitchen table.

The choice of material from which the tablecloth is made directly determines its purpose, service life and practicality in general.

Burlap tablecloths are not so popular. But recently, more and more people are starting to pay attention to them. And for good reason, because amazing wedding and holiday tablecloths are made from burlap.

Very often such models can be seen at weddings, but they are also suitable for other celebrations.

With silk everything is a little more complicated. This material has more advantages and disadvantages than others. It looks very solemn and even luxurious. Silk will last a very long time, as it is resistant to moisture and very durable. But at the same time, this option is quite difficult to maintain and is also very expensive.

A silk tablecloth can confidently be called the most festive option for a table for a special occasion.

Size selection

The thickness of the silicone pad can vary from 0.25 mm to 0.2 cm. This layer of film copes well with its protective function and is minimally noticeable on the table. As a rule, the transparent coating is selected so that it is several millimeters smaller than the countertop area.

Typical sizes of silicone mats for different types of tables differ from each other:

1. The following dimensions are suitable for coffee tables: from 53.5 cm to 90 cm in width, from 90 cm to 120 cm in length.
2. For the dining table you can choose the following overlays: from 107 cm to 180 cm in length, from 100 cm to 135 cm in width.
3. The average size of a kitchen table cover is 120 cm by 150 cm.

If necessary, you can trim the edges of the silicone backing at your discretion; this procedure will not damage the product.

However, everything must be done extremely carefully and precisely so that the tablecloth subsequently looks aesthetically pleasing. If you do not have such skills, it is better to purchase a custom model. The manufacturer will produce a silicone mat of non-standard sizes and shapes at the request of the buyer.

Form

This is also a very important criterion when buying a tablecloth. But there are not as many options as when choosing a material. If the table has already been purchased, then the variety is not so great. First of all, you should rely on the shape of the tabletop. The outline of the tablecloth can strictly correspond to it.

A rectangular shape is perfect for square and oval tabletops.

Everything mostly depends on taste and preference. Some people prefer classics, while others prefer modern style.

How to measure a table when choosing a tablecloth?

Before going to the store, as a rule, the question arises of how to correctly measure the tabletop in order to buy a tablecloth that will lie perfectly and not “ride” on it. To do everything right, there are several rules that you need to follow.

Everyday tablecloths can be decorative, effectively complementing the interior, or functional, for example, for dining, tea, etc.

1. If the tabletop is rectangular, first measure the length and width, then add 20 -30 cm, depending on how many centimeters the cover should hang. And at the end, multiply the results by 2.
2. If the tabletop is round, then measure its diameter and add twice the length of the edge that will hang down.
3. Oval and round tablecloths are measured in the same way as for a rectangular table.
4. If the surface is square, it is worth additionally measuring the diameter. To prevent the corners from being visible, the diameter of the selected cover must be larger than the diameter of the tabletop.

The materials from which everyday tablecloths are made are distinguished by increased performance.

If it is not possible to measure the table and you need to quickly decide what size tablecloth to buy, it would be better to choose a larger size. So the probability of making a mistake is small.

This option is ideal for both holidays and every day and will easily fit into any style of kitchen.

NOTE! The tablecloth should hang from the surface by at least 20 cm. If it is needed for a holiday, it should hang by 25-40 cm or even to the floor.

Important selection factors

Before we start sewing, let’s solve the following questions:

• we measure the dimensions of the tabletop to select the necessary fabric with a margin;
• in which room will we use the canvas - living room, kitchen, children's room or on the covered terrace;
• combination with the overall color of the room;
• We try not to exceed the budget, because when ordering a handmade product, the price will be very high.

Tablecloths on the table can help improve the interior

Regarding functions:

• Daily option . Cheap, reliable fabrics are used for sewing. The kitchen countertop is covered with a bright oilcloth that is resistant to thermal influences. Teflon fabric is also resistant to dirt and can be quickly cleaned with household chemicals.
• Hiking option . Reliable fabrics with a checkered or striped pattern are suitable. They take the linens with them for a picnic at their summer cottage, and set wooden tables.
• Holiday option . We sew attractive fabrics from expensive light fabric, decorate them with gold or silver embroidery, and decorate them with ribbons and bows. Served for holidays and wedding celebrations.
• Decorative option . Any material is suitable, we make colorful appliqués, sew on beads, embroider interesting pictures.

Liven up a boring interior

The fabric should hang from the table, covering the side areas and covering the legs to a length, depending on the purpose:

• for everyday use – 20 cm;
• festive – 30 cm;
• for weddings or receptions – 40 cm;
• for a buffet table, cover the legs to the floor.

Purchased tablecloths do not always fit into the interior of rooms. To decorate the tabletop we use knitted or sewn items, complemented with inserts and embroidery. Let's take advantage of Hand made offers - we make from leftover fabric and threads.

Protects the tabletop from scratches

Scraps to work

From the remnants of multi-colored fabric we make a colorful canvas in country style:

• cut the material into squares 20 by 20 cm, sew on the back side to the required dimensions;
• You can baste first to see the working result, or baste the edges of the squares;
• under the canvas we hem a lining of flannel or calico from below, placing its edges under the hem;
• starting from the middle, quilt;
• We make a border around the edges and steam it.

You can sew together not only squares of fabric. We use triangular scraps of contrasting colors and combine any remaining fabric. Bright canvases are suitable for table setting for children's parties and outdoor picnics.

Muffles the sound of dishes

Openwork crochet

For training, we knit a napkin with a selected pattern to find out the required thickness of the thread and the number of balls. To work, you will need a hook No. 1 or 2 and thin cotton threads. You can knit a round and circular fabric or several napkins with the same pattern.

Options:

• craftswomen will be able to knit a whole fabric, the work is troublesome, but there will be no need to sew parts of the product together;
• Beginners choose a simple pattern of leaves and flowers, knit squares with the same motif, and sew them together on the reverse side.

Knitted products will complement the rural and romantic style, Provence and Landhaus. A patterned canvas laid on top of a piece of fabric or oilcloth of the opposite shade stands out perfectly.

We sew fabric on a round tabletop

Option with pattern:

• measure the diameter of the tabletop;
• add 0.5 cm when cutting;
• set aside an additional 2 cm for the hem;
• on whatman paper we draw a pattern in the form of a quarter circle along the radius of the product;
• fold the material in four on the reverse side;
• we apply the pattern to the fabric, attach it with pins, cut it out;
• we trim the edges, stitch, decorate with decorations.

Option for a festive tablecloth with folds:

• cut out the base according to the pattern, leaving seam allowances;
• the round base must be overlaid;
• cut a fabric strip at least 35 cm wide and 3 times the length of the tabletop circumference;
• We bend and stitch one side, and sew the other to the base.

According to the shape of the table

A tablecloth that follows the shape of the tabletop looks most appropriate. If you can’t find one that fits the size, it’s better to use a long one, but not a short one.

Choose according to the shape of the table:

Beige suits every interior

A practical choice for a square tabletop is a tablecloth cover. The product will increase the service life of old tables, and thick fabrics with polyester are used for sewing, which do not change shape after washing, do not fade or wrinkle.

A tablecloth that follows the shape of the tabletop looks most appropriate

Playing with color

The choice of color determines the impression of the room. You cannot combine a colorful set with a light-colored panel, along the perimeter of which rhinestones and fringe are sewn. Instead of getting the right image, we get an extravaganza of colors that creates the impression of tackiness.

Secrets of color scheme:

• Material in neutral colors is very often used for festive serving. Any cutlery will stand out on white, milky or beige fabric; folk-style sets with bright flower patterns look especially good.
• Products made from light fabric are suitable for key tabletop coverings. We cover the top with a short cloth in a matching or contrasting color; you can put a path of colored fabric in the very center. The combination of a white bottom tablecloth and a bright top tablecloth is suitable for a corporate event or a youth fun event.

The choice of color determines the impression of the room

Select a color relative to the event:

• Christmas decorations include red, green, gold or silver shades;
• on February 14, we set the table with a long cloth of pink or peach shade; decoration with ruffles and bows is allowed;
• By March 8, we use products in juicy cherry, plum or emerald colors;
• For Easter, we cover the tabletop with a white, milky or cream-colored fabric. We embroider the tablecloth and napkins with floral and Christian motifs;
• for a holiday for children, we cover short light tablecloths with funny drawings in the form of cartoon characters;
• For a home celebration, we choose coffee or beige fabrics and complement them with napkins in the same color palette.

For any holiday, real light fabric with patterns that repeat the pattern on the service is suitable. The mood of people at the table depends on color understanding. Warm shades (red, orange) stimulate appetite and encourage communication . Cool tones (blue, purple) muffle the feeling of hunger and are restrained.

Real light fabric with patterns is suitable for any holiday

There are two secrets to changing a room:

Color and design

There are a huge number of types of tablecloths for the table. But the color and pattern must be chosen from personal preferences. We spend most of the day in the kitchen. While eating, you want to sit at a neat product of a pleasant color and material. Tablecloths by design can be divided into plain and patterned. Fabrics with plaid, polka dots or stripes are very popular. If you choose neutral colors, they will look appropriate in almost any kitchen.

The main task is to make the tablecloth fit into the kitchen.

In search of the ideal option, you can show originality and choose double tablecloths. It looks very stylish when the fabrics echo each other or, on the contrary, contrast. In any case, this stylish solution will not go unnoticed. Double tablecloths look very sophisticated and elegant.

Crocheted tablecloths with lace are also common. They are used for the living room.

It is worth noting that they look amazing.

Many people like to focus attention on the tablecloth and choose bright colors and patterns. It looks original and fresh. And the design, as a rule, is chosen to be modern in order to keep up with the times, or they prefer a design that will take several centuries into the past.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION! In no case should we forget about the interior. If the search has reached the color and pattern of the tablecloth, then first of all it should fit organically into the room.

A tablecloth in the kitchen will help create a festive atmosphere in it.

The color, pattern and design of the tablecloth should be determined in advance when planning the room. It should not be conspicuous and stand out from the background of the room. Or, on the contrary, the emphasis should be on the tabletop, if this was planned in advance. But you shouldn’t mix everything you like, forgetting that it doesn’t go well with each other.

To make the design even more original, you can complement it with contrasting paths.

This rule applies not only to the choice of tablecloth, but also to everything related to the furnishings of the room. If the variety is too great and you cannot settle on one option, then you should choose a neutral color and pattern. The main thing is that this does not spoil the whole picture. Later, if the hostess has made up her mind and knows what she wants, the tablecloth can always be changed.

A tablecloth in pastel colors on a round table is a very beautiful solution.

Design options

The good thing about a transparent silicone overlay is that it is almost invisible on furniture and allows you to clearly see the entire surface of the object. This option is suitable for those who want to protect an expensive, beautiful item from damage, while maintaining the opportunity to admire its interesting finish. But if the tabletop is not distinguished by anything special, and the owner, on the contrary, wants to somehow decorate it, update it, give it a more original look, it is better for him to choose decorated models.

1. Thematic print. Images can be very different, to suit every taste, for example, fruits, flowers, berries, vegetables, landscapes. A transparent tablecloth with fish, algae and other inhabitants of the seabed looks very unusual.
2. Ornament in the spirit of patchwork. The patchwork design technique is suitable for a children’s room; such an overlay will add coziness and become a bright accent of the interior.
3. Holographic 3D drawing. Looks modern and stylish. An unreal, cosmic atmosphere is created in the room; such a table will certainly become the center of attention.
4. Tablecloths with embossing. This finishing technique creates a relief pattern on the surface of the transparent overlay, which looks very impressive. There are many options for interesting patterns; you need to choose in accordance with the overall design of the room.

Drawing of a dressing table for making it yourself, stages of work

When choosing a silicone pad for a table, it is important not only to focus on the aesthetic properties of the product. Preference should be given to coatings from reliable, trusted manufacturers.

Additional accessories

Everyone wants to make the holiday table special and for this they resort to various additional accessories. What are housewives not ready to do to surprise their guests? There are several options for this purpose, one of which is sure to suit your taste.

• Runner.

This is often called a table runner. There are several runner options. You can lay one lengthwise (in this case it is not necessary for the tablecloth to hang down) or across (can be used as underplates).

Here it is a prerequisite that they hang from the surface.

• Under plates.

It is not necessary that they be made of the same material. They can even be made from wood, plastic, bamboo, rattan, etc.

If you want an unusual decor, then you should use several types of textiles.

• Cloth napkins

Napkins with unique colors and embroidery on the tablecloth can also decorate the festive setting and make it special. But they are rarely resorted to if it is an ordinary family dinner.

Such decorations are more appropriate for holidays or when meeting with friends and relatives whom you have not seen for a long time.