What kind of table cloth should you use for a holiday meal? Does the wine glass go on the left or right? And how about the dessert spoon? Read on to find out.
The Traditional Table Setting Table Covers: The first step in setting the table is deciding on the table covering. Conflicted about using a tablecloth or placemats? If you have a beautiful table, consider using placemats instead of a tablecloth. Mats can be plain or patterned, woven or made of rush, as long as they're heatproof. If your table surface needs to be protected or is already damaged, use a tablecloth. The cloth should be big enough to drape 6 inches over each side of the table. Some tablecloths need a heatproof protective mat laid under them to prevent spills from penetrating through to the table surface.
White tablecloths are traditional for formal meals, but you can also use lace or plain-colored cloths. Patterned cloths are okay, as long as they don't make the table look too cluttered once it's set. If a tablecloth is wrinkled or creased, throw it in a clothes dryer set on "Fluff" or "Air" along with a damp towel.
From readersdigest.com
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