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.
