SOFT FURNISHINGS TABLE LINEN
Pure linen will always have its place at a formal dinner table as a partner to porcelain, silver and sparkling cut crystal. Napkins should be made in fabric with some absorbency. Again, linen is the ideal choice. As napkins are reversible, the fabric needs to be plain or a woven design such as a gingham or stripe. Hems should be neatly unobtrusive unless they are contrast bound, scalloped or trimmed with lace or crochet.
The cut of the cloth Match table linen to curtains and they will draw that color or pattern into the room scheme, or if cushions provide pattern contrast in a sitting room, cloths for side tables could be matched to them in a strong supporting role. Tables, sideboards and even mantelpieces were once draped with cloths, often in thick fabrics and heavily fringed or overlaid with layers of linen and lace.
Even in our much simpler interiors, the full-length cloth over a side table can add style to a room. Though the table beneath may be of humble chipboard, when draped with an antique kelim or a paisley print in rich colors, and used as a base for a collection of objects, it becomes highly decorative. A full-length circular cloth can be cut over long so that it swings out at the hem.
A knee- or floor- length edge can be bound, frilled, padded or fringed.
Cloths can be used in tandem: a small circle or square can be laid as contrast over the main cloth; Madras muslin can be draped or knotted over a creamy cotton or dark contrasting base cloth, and lace can be swaged over gathered voile for a romantic bedroom. Side tables with sweeping over cloths have a place in the sitting room as an alternative to conventional wooden occasional tables to hold lamps, books and objects. In the bedroom they can take on the role of bedside or dressing table, perhaps hiding a portable television beneath the skirt. Such an elegant table provides a useful surface in the hallway by a front door.