Different tablecloths there are to choose from

Whether or not one needs tablecloths and napkins is purely a matter of taste. But where it is appropriate, its’ right selection may become the main factor in setting the mood of the room.

Dining room table covers are divided into several types - the main, lower and upper.The lower cover, or muleton, protects the tabletop from possible damage during cooking or eating, muffles sounds from dish and cutlery rearrangements and keeps the main tablecloth from sliding. Muleton can be dense and table perimeter-size, or can be fitted to hug the table edges.The top cover, or naperon, is used to protect the main tablecloth from stains and abrasion. In addition, it is a decorative tablecloth. Nowadays, naperons are rarely used and can only be seen in restaurants.

What occasion might I need a tablecloth for?

Dining room tablecloths can serve different purposes on different occasions.Tablecloths for everyday use are normally made from practical, cheaper fabrics. The main requirement for them is ease of care and low wrinkling.

Tablecloths on an event table for holidays, celebrations and formal tablecloths are usually made from expensive materials - classic linen, subtly austere or luxury tablecloths with lush décor - they make a significant contribution to creating a special mood during a festive meal. Holiday table linens look very warm and sweet - for example, Easter table linens of delicate shades or a tablecloth with bright accents of green and red of the Christmas table linen. A festive tablecloth should create a mood, be in harmony with the overall color scheme of the room or dishes, or serve as a proper background.

Shape is a matter of taste

The generally accepted rule states that the shape of the dining tablecloth must match the shape of the table. That is, if the table has a rectangular, oval or round shape, the fabric covering it should be of the same shape. A table can also be decorated with a runner - a rather narrow strip of fabric compared to the width of the table (a runner can be pretty long with overhangs). You can use a table runner with matching placemats or napkins, and you can also use it for decorative purposes atop of the main tablecloth. The runner of a contrasting color fabric will look beautiful.

Whatever the generally accepted rules for choosing a tablecloth set or the requirements of "dining fashion" are, the most important rule (if it is not a public place, but a house) is this - the item you are choosing must please you! And if it is an expression of your individuality - great! It is these little things that make our routine and everyday lives more appealing.