Different Types of Table Linens

 Nicely decorated table and a stylish tablecloth not only make you a perfect host, but they can actually contribute your food to taste better. Either you're on a quest to host a backyard picnic, weekend breakfast, or formal dinner – it will all feel more festive, more stylish, and elegant with a touch of clean, crisp table linen set. From tablecloths to table runners and napkins, you have an endless variety of combinations and designs to choose from and spruce up your dining table. 

Tablecloths

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Thought a tablecloth's primary function is to protect the table, today they're much more than that. A tablecloth can set the tone for your event – only by its length and fabric. That's why they're very customizable and you can buy table linens in a wide range of shapes, sizes, colours and materials. 

For instance, using a smooth damask cloth with a bit of shine that pairs nicely with silver, crystal and porcelain, will be a perfect fit for formal dinner. For casual gatherings, you can use pottery dinnerware and set up your table with rough-weave fabric, or cotton tablecloths.

Besides good quality and durability, cotton tablecloths are very versatile in colour. To make your table look like from heaven you can choose this type of table linen with hand painted prints. And to get the most out of it, follow the care guidelines.   

When it comes to the length of the tablecloth, a rule of thumb is the more traditional the event – the longer the cloth. 

A half-drop cloth covers the table and falls about midway to the floor, while full-drop is a floor-length cloth and you should always use it when setting up a buffet table. 

For an ornate table treatment, you can go for a puddle-drop. Place half-drop over a full-drop for extra décor impact, plus you can whisk away the top cloth and have the table ready for the second meal.  

Table Runners

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A table runner transforms a plain cloth into a themed setting – you can choose it according to the occasion or even a season. Typically they are a long strip of fabric going through the middle of the table – and stops at the end, or hang off the table ends as a decoration. 

Elves and candy canes will look perfect on a green tablecloth and sparkle a spirit of Christmas, while a runner of autumn leaf shapes in fall or over-lapping palm leaves in shades of aqua, pink and green in summer will evoke the season. 

If you place something in the middle of the table, table runners will definitely highlight it. 

If you're DIY lover, you can make your own DIY table runner at home. Take a  plain canvas dropcloth, cut it 40 cm wide, measure and mark each centimetre with permanent black laundry marker – and you'll get a clever ruler runner. Draw the centimetre numbers with a stencil of fabric paint and pair it with alphabet placemats. Set it on the kitchen table for your kids' after school snack time. 

Napkins

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A dining necessity, cloth napkins are key table linen for formal events, but it can be a true statement piece for dinner parties with friends. Napkins can match your tablecloth or go in contrast with it.

If you have elegant damask or linen tablecloth go with fancier fabrics, but a silver-grey table cloth will look nice with mixed pastel napkins in candy colours. On a tablecloth printed with jungle vegetation pick the same print napkins for wow effect, or you can go for pretty hibiscus-pink, lime, and green mint cotton napkins to maintain the heat on. 

An extra napkin can be used to line a breadbasket or wrap a bottle of wine. Fold it in a neat and nice way or use napkin rings for an elegant finish. 

Placemats

Placemats represent individual settings and if no tablecloth is used, serve to protect the surface of the table. They are a quick way to set the table, and simple to wipe down or toss in the wash. Besides regular ovals or rectangles - they can be trimmed into interesting forms – scalloped, hexagonal, ruffled or lace-edged. 

Depends on the style you choose, they can be useful for creating cohesive visual patterns on the table. They are very decorative and helpful for occasions with a certain theme ( such as Christmas dinner) and in addition, they'll protect your tablecloth from spills and stains. 

Bamboo and cork are informal and natural placemats ideal for daily use and are a good option if you want to stay sustainable and your table to look great. 

How to Set Up Your Table with Linens

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While you are free to let yourself be creative, there are certain guidelines that will help you frame your ideas. In general, a standard-setting is all about layers. Begin with the base which is a tablecloth, and then start adding other linens such as overlays or table runners. Finishing touches include placemats and napkins, and decorations like flowers and candles. 

For casual events, you have limitless possibilities and can feel free to mix and match. 

However, linens for tables barely go out of style. You might not afford satin and silk for everyday use, but certain table covers every lady must have in her cupboard.