156
Regardless of fashion and fashion trends, a table covered with a tablecloth always looks solemn and creates comfort and coziness in the room. In addition, the tablecloth reduces the sliding of dishes on the surface of the table and protects the table surface from damage. Therefore, it is important to know how to choose it correctly for table decoration.
Basic selection rules
When choosing a textile for serving, it is recommended to take into account that it performs certain tasks:
- decorative — decorates the dining surface;
- noise-absorbing - muffles the sound of cutlery during meals;
- anti-slip — reduces the sliding of utensils and dishes on the table.
Before buy a tablecloth, it is recommended to consider some criteria. The most important of them is its purpose, which determines its length. There are standard variants of its hanging along the edges:
- about 15-20 cm for daily use;
- for festive dinners - about 20-30 cm;
- for solemn, official receptions or banquets - about 40 cm;
- for buffet service - the edges completely cover the legs of the table.
If you need to choose a covering for the working area, you can choose a waxed product that completely covers the surface, but does not hang over the edges.
The following criteria are color and the presence of an ornament. In order to make the right choice, it is worth remembering that the product should be a harmonious addition to the interior of the room and decorate it. Based on the design of the tablecloth, towels and napkins are selected so that everything looks in one style.
Material is an important criterion when choosing. Many manufacturers prefer natural fabrics, such as cotton and linen. They prevent the tableware from sliding on the surface, reduce the noise from the appliances well, and add elegance and comfort to the decor.
The size of the tablecloth
Ready-made products with standard sizes are sold for table setting:
- rectangular — 130×160 cm, 130×230 cm;
- round — 130×150 cm, 160 cm.
If it is planned to sew a product to order, then first measurements of the table are made. To do this, measure the length and width with a centimeter tape, and for the oval model, determine the diameter.
For the required rectangular models, the following calculation is recommended: add allowances multiplied by two to the measured length and width. For example, if the surface is 100 cm wide and 150 cm long, and the required slope is 15 cm, then 100 cm should be added to the 150 cm wide and 30 cm long. The product should be 130 cm wide and 180 cm long.
The main thing is to remember the golden rule of serving: the tablecloth can be longer, but it should never be short.
