When selecting the best fabric for tablecloths, the options are many. So which fabrics top the list?
Cotton, polyester, and linen are generally the best fabrics for tablecloths. Cotton is light and breathable, making it comfortable to use. Polyester is durable and stain-resistant, while linen is a luxurious and elegant choice.
Continue reading to learn more about the price, sewing convenience, durability, stain resistance, and where to find cotton, linen, and polyester fabrics.
Table of Contents
1. Cotton Fabric
Cotton fabric is made of natural cotton fibers harvested from the cotton plant.
It’s incredibly soft and breathable, making it a popular choice for tablecloths. Plus, it’s easy to clean, and you can use it for formal and casual occasions.
Additionally, cotton tablecloths come in various colors and patterns, allowing you to find the perfect look for any event. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or a backyard barbecue, cotton is an excellent choice for your tablecloth.
Where to Find
You can visit your local fabric specialty stores to find some beautiful colors and patterns in cotton fabric.
Alternatively, you can shop online for some fantastic deals on cotton fabric. You can even find great bargains on pre-made tablecloths made from cotton fabric. Whichever your decision, you can never go wrong.
Average Price
Shopping for a cotton tablecloth doesn’t have to be a budget-breaker!
On average, you can expect to spend around $20 for a solid-colored one and $50 or even more for a medium-weight cotton fabric.
The price may vary depending on the size, the quality of the fabric, or other special features. However, no matter your budget, you should be able to find a cotton tablecloth that works for you.
Durability
Cotton tablecloths are ideal for most occasions because of their durability. Not only are they machine washable and easy to care for, but they also last a long time.
The strong fiber protects your tablecloth from wearing out quickly, even with frequent use and washing.
However, how long the fabric will last depends on how you care for it. Some specific types of cotton may require special washing instructions.
Stain Resistance
Cotton fabric is known for its softness and comfort. But does this mean it’s naturally stain-resistant?
A loosely woven cotton fabric allows materials to seep deep into the fabric. Cotton can absorb water and oil-based stains, but you can easily clean it, so it remains as good as new. This makes it an ideal fabric choice for tablecloths.
One way to minimize stains on cotton fabric is to use an upholstery protector to pretreat it.
Furthermore, research shows that applying fluorocarbon finishes can produce cotton fabrics with powerful stain resistance and recovery properties.
Ease of Sewing
Sewing cotton tablecloths is a simple, enjoyable project you can efficiently complete. Its texture allows for easy folding and cutting, so you can create various shapes and sizes.
Many online tutorials offer step-by-step instructions on sewing a cotton tablecloth, making the task even easier. The best part is that you can customize the fabric to suit your style, whether you like a classic look or something more modern.
2. Linen
Linen is a popular fabric, and for a good reason! It’s lightweight, highly breathable, and durable, making it perfect for a tablecloth.
Made from spun fibers from flax plant stalks, linen has a natural elegance that many fabrics lack. It adds a classy touch to any dinner table.
Where to Find
You can find linen fabric in a variety of stores and online outlets. You can even find it on popular shopping websites like Amazon or eBay.
Specialty shops, such as Linens ’N Things, also provide a great selection of linen tablecloths in a variety of colors and patterns
If you’re looking for a specific type, such as damask linen or a loosely woven one, you may have to research a vendor that offers what you need. Many fabric stores offer linen in various colors and types, so shop around to find the perfect fabric for your project.
Average Price
The average price of linen fabric varies depending on the type, color, weave, and quality. Generally, linen fabrics start at $8 per yard, so they can be pretty affordable.
Higher quality linen fabrics can be more expensive, but they are known for their value.
Whichever type of linen fabric you choose, you can find something that suits your budget and needs.
Durability
Linen fabric is one of the most durable fabrics available on the market. It is highly resistant to wear and tear and is also known for its breathability.
With proper care, linen fabric can make a timeless addition to your dining table. You can best care for the fabric by washing it with mild detergents specially made for delicate fabrics.
Stain Resistance
Linen naturally repels stains and dirt, but this doesn’t mean it’s 100% stain resistant. Linen is naturally moisture-wicking and dries quickly, so spilled liquids easily clean up without leaving behind a stain.
Although it’s a great fabric, you must take the necessary precautions to ensure it stays clean and stain-free. This can include pretreating stains, using a gentle detergent, and avoiding over washing the fabric when laundering.
Ease of Sewing
Sewing linen fabric to make a tablecloth is surprisingly manageable! All you need is some linen fabric, scissors, a sewing machine, and other supplies.
Depending on the size of the tablecloth you’re making, you may also need an iron or some pins. Once you have all your supplies ready to go, do this:
- Cut the fabric to the desired size.
- Iron the edges.
- Use a sewing machine to stitch the edges together.
It’s that simple! If you need help, many tutorials online can guide you through the process from start to end.
3. Polyester
Polyester tablecloths are also an excellent choice for busy households because you can wash them multiple times without them losing their aesthetic appeal.
In addition, polyester is an affordable fabric available in a wide variety of designs, making it easy to find one that fits your style perfectly.
Where to Find
You can find polyester tablecloths online, in retail stores, and in specialty shops.
Many department stores, such as Walmart, Macy’s, and Target, offer a wide selection of polyester tablecloths. Plus, online stores often offer sales, discounts, and low-cost to free shipping, making it easier to find the perfect tablecloth.
Average Price
The average price of a polyester tablecloth is quite reasonable.
Depending on the size and quality of the fabric, the cost can range from about $10 for a basic tablecloth to around $150 for a high-quality product.
Of course, if you’re looking for a unique design or pattern, you might have to pay a little more.
Polyester tablecloths are a great way to add style and color to any table setting without breaking the bank.
Durability
Polyester tablecloths are built to last longer than you think!
Polyester is strong and sturdy and won’t easily rip or tear. This feature makes polyester tablecloths an excellent choice for events that require a lot of activity and cleaning, like parties, barbecues, and family dinners.
Polyester tablecloths are an excellent value for the money. You will use them for years and on different occasions.
Stain Resistance
Polyester tablecloths are made from a durable and stain-resistant material. You won’t need to worry about accidental spills and stains ruining the look of your tablecloth.
These fabrics are easy to handle. They are often machine washable and can be ironed or steamed to get a crisp, polished look.
Ease Of Sewing
Polyester tablecloths can be a great choice when it comes to sewing projects. You can sew on a regular machine without trouble.
However, depending on the structure and weight of your fabric, you may need 70/10 or 80/12 needles .
Polyester has a beautiful sheen to it, but a silky one may give you difficulty gripping when sewing. So, it’s important to pay attention to the ballpoint needle size you use.
Final Remarks
Cotton, linen, and polyester are all great tablecloth fabrics, each with unique features.
Ultimately, with different tablecloth fabrics available, your choice of fabric should be based on personal preference, budget, and lifestyle.
With the right fabric, you can create a beautiful and timeless tablecloth that will set the mood for any occasion.
Resources
- https://sewport.com/fabrics-directory/cotton-fabric
- https://www.thesprucecrafts.com/sew-a-custom-tablecloth-2977987
- https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/2/1/192/htm
- https://nourishandnestle.com/diy-a-linen-tablecloth-and-napkins/
- https://www.contrado.co.uk/blog/what-is-polyester-a-closer-look-into-this-love-it-or-hate-it-fabric/