Whether hosting a family gathering or a formal dinner, table linens can elevate your dining experience.
Tablecloths and place mats protect your dining table from stains and crumbs, and they dampen the sounds of knives and forks being laid down. But what type of table linen should you choose? What size, colour, and material are right for your table – or for a special occasion? In this blog post we will guide you to the right choice.
The right choice for different occasions
For everyday use, a vinyl tablecloth is very useful – especially if you have children. Before and after each meal, you can wipe it clean, and it looks as good as new. It protects your dining table from stains, scratches, and crayon, and looks almost like a “real” tablecloth. At JYSK, you can also find coated tablecloths - a regular tablecloth with a non-slip backside.
Tablecloths
For more formal or festive occasions, a fabric tablecloth can be the right choice. Fabric tablecloths fall softly around the table and can add an unmatched elegant feel to a dinner party. Match it with fabric napkins for an exclusive look.
Table runners
If you want to dress the table up even further, you can roll out a table runner on top of the tablecloth.
Table runners can add an extra touch of elegance to your dinner party. A table runner can be placed straight down the middle of the table or across the short side of the table, as a creative take on placemats for your guests sitting at the table.
Place mats
Place mats are a balanced mix between a formal and informal look. You can place them directly on your dining table or on top of a tablecloth to protect it from spillage.
There are several benefits to place mats:
1. They fit on all types and sizes of tables
2. They can make it easier to set the table
3. They leave you plenty room for creative ideas and table decoration. You can mix and match colours and shapes, create a pattern in combination with the napkins etc.
Tablecloth size
A tablecloth should of course be of the same size of your table and then some. An overhang of 20-25 cm at each side of your table is ideal and allows your guests to easily get their legs under the table. This goes for both square and round tablecloths, as well as table runners.
Most placemats are sized to comfortably hold a dinner plate and the necessary cutlery. This means you don't have to stress about selecting the right fit. Curious about how to set a table properly? Read this blog post about the etiquette and rules of table setting.
Colour and pattern
The ideal colour for your table linen depends on your own preferences. White is always a great colour choice: It is neutral, classic, elegant and goes well with other colours. However, if you want a more personal touch, consider other light colours. They are inviting and offer a lovely backdrop for your tableware. While they are more sensitive to stains this can be counteracted by choosing a tablecloth with a pattern. Stripes or florals can effectively mask stains.
Darker colours can add a more cave-like feel to your dining room and are ideal for a late-night supper with friends or a New Year’s Eve.
A patterned tablecloth not only disguises stains, but it can also create an optical illusion. For example, a striped design elongates your dining table. A design with little flowers can add a touch of whimsy and charm, while larger flowers or a more subtle pattern can create a more elegant and sophisticated look.
Adding a table runner or place mats on top of your tablecloth is another wonderful way of incorporating vibrant colours such as yellow or pink and giving life to your table setting.
Materials and cleaning
Different types of materials have different benefits and must be maintained in different ways.
Vinyl tablecloths are out of PVC or have an acrylic coating that protects the dining table underneath. The coating prevents spillages from seeping through to the table and they can simply be wiped with a damp cloth. They cannot be washed.
Coated tablecloths are made of a mix of polyester and cotton and have a practical non-slip backing that keeps them in place. Most can be washed (but always check and follow the instructions).
Tablecloths and table runners can be made from a variety of materials from polyester to cotton or linen. Each have its benefits both when it comes to functionality and aesthetics. They are typically washable, but make sure to check the instructions. Also check the instructions before you iron your tablecloths – or choose a tablecloth in a non-wrinkle material, such as polyester (or a polyester mix).
Place mats can be made from a variety of materials. Some are out of an artificial material such as polypropylene or polyester, making them easy to wipe with a damp cloth. Others are out of natural fibres such as jute, palm, paper or maize. Placemats with a textured surface can be challenging to wipe down, but a quick shake and spot cleaning usually does the trick.
Square or round tablecloth?
A round tablecloth for a round table and a square tablecloth for a square table – that is the classic choice. But you can also mix things up a bit. A square tablecloth on a round table will overhang at the edges adding a bohemian touch to your dinner table. The square tablecloth can also be placed diagonally on a square table, allowing the corners of the dining tables some airtime. Conversely, you can use a round tablecloth on a square table, to create an interesting and unconventional visual contrast.
Use your table linen to convey your personal style
By carefully considering factors such as occasion, size, material, and colour, you can create a dining experience that is both stylish and functional. Remember, the most important thing is to choose table linens that reflect your personal style and make you feel comfortable and happy.
Happy table setting!
