A tablecloth is a linen that most people are familiar with but may not think too much about. They’re used most often during the holidays, but these linens can be a great asset year-round. People can recognize a tablecloth when they see one, but the average person may be unable to say much more. This blog covers different kinds of tablecloths and focuses on other important dining products, such as placemats and other forms of surface protection for tables.

Different Kinds of Tablecloths

There are many tablecloth shapes, but rectangular, round, and square tablecloths are the three main types. The chart below explains which tablecloth size to use for each table size.

Complementary Table Décor and Protection

Table Runner- A table runner can either completely replace or complement a tablecloth. It serves as a primary or secondary layer on the table and can be placed horizontally or vertically to add pattern and color. They can be an elegant way to add a finishing touch to the overall décor, giving it a pleasing and finished look for guests.

Dining Accessories — Red Poppy Blossoms Placemats

Placemats- A placemat is a small pad that covers an individual spot on the table, protecting the table from scratches, food and water spills, and excess heat from a hot plate or bowl. It can also hold a menu and/or serve as a decorative piece by adding color and texture. Table runners and placemats don’t always have to match but can complement each other, along with the centerpiece on the table. You can create a dramatic effect by coordinating the style and pattern of the place settings.

Hospitality Coasters — Go Neutral Coasters

Coasters- Coasters are mats you can place drinks on to help protect the table surface from condensation from cold drinks. On the flip side, they can also protect the table from being burned by hot beverages such as coffee, tea, and hot chocolate.

Napkins- Decorative napkins also add color and visual appeal to any table. They come in various colors to help complement the rest of the table and room design. Napkins can be folded to add dimension and flair to your table design; see the blog on how to properly fold a napkin. Two common napkin styles are cocktail and dinner. Dinner napkins are usually rectangular or square, larger, and are placed on your lap while eating to prevent food spills. Cocktail napkins absorb condensation from wine and cocktail glasses to prevent drips. They are usually square-shaped.

Layering a Table

Hospitality Tablecloth — Embassy Rose Tablecloth

A table layered properly can include a table skirt, tablecloths, placemats, coasters, napkins, etc. You can build color schemes using table linens, centerpieces, silverware, napkins, flowers, and place settings. Tablecloths serve as the foundation for the table and generally come in a variety of colors and patterns to create the mood associated with your design. Placemats and table runners go on top of the tablecloth and can add color, texture, and protection. Napkins add color and usefulness for guests and are always important. Coasters will protect the table from condensation from drinks.

InnStyle has a Large Selection of Table Linens

Table linens will be valuable to any hospitality property. Tablecloths add decoration and style, making the table look more inviting to guests. Other table linens, like placemats and coasters, can also add style while protecting the table from spills and heat. Please call InnStyle with any table linen questions you may have. Their account managers would be happy to assist you and offer their own recommendations. They can be reached at 267-354-6020. Their website is https://www.innstyle.com/.