Table Runners & Tablecloths

Setting the Table With Tablecloths

Tablecloths make a fabulous addition to any table setting. They add rich visual texture while also protecting surfaces from damage. They can be used to hide existing blemishes, scratches or stains, and they help dampen noise from silverware and dinnerware being moved about during a meal.

Table runners often act as the anchoring piece to your table setting, bringing all of the elements on your tabletop together. They're useful for creating a divide down the middle of your table and they can be used as a base upon which to place your favourite centrepieces. Like tablecloths, they can help protect your table's surface, as well as bring textural interest to your space. Plus, they are suitable for use on square, rectangular and round tables.

Styles & Colours

At Pottery Barn Canada, you'll find tablecloths full of contemporary character and style. Discover warm, organic tones and soothing blue and gray hues. If you want to add creative textural detail, choose a piece with soft fringe, frayed or knotted edges. Explore other designs, such as our embroidered throws and basketweave table runners. Or, showcase your classic style with either a buffalo check table throw or a striped table runner.

Remember, choosing the right colours, styles and patterns for your tablecloths and table runners can largely depend on how the rest of your table setting looks. For example, if you have busy patterns on your dinnerware, consider a neutral-hued tablecloth. If your other pieces are a solid white hue, perhaps a striped or floral table runner can add that dynamic eye-catching touch.

Materials

All of the materials you'll find in our collection are made with durability in mind. Choose from soft, absorbent cotton to breathable and flowy linen. European flax linen is particularly soft and versatile. Opt for an easy-to-clean oil-coated tablecloth or one made from TerraStrand® yarns for dual use inside your home and out on the patio.

Other Details

Tablecloths are generally used to cover the entire surface of your table so it's important to measure your table to determine the correct size of tablecloth you need. If your table is rectangular or square in shape, measure its length and width. For a round table, simply measure its diameter. Then decide how much fabric you want hanging over the side of the table. This is known as the drop length. A general rule of thumb is to allow about eight inches for casual table settings and 15 inches for more formal table settings.

Table runners should hang about six inches off either end of your table. You can also get one to fit the length of your table if you can still set place settings at each end. It's also visually appealing to add one on top of a tablecloth, so long as it's not longer than the tablecloth.

Perfect Pairings

After you've decided on your new tablecloths, why not explore other ways to enliven the aesthetic of your dinner table? Cast a warm glow with one of our flameless candles or weave decorative lighting and string lights around your favourite vases, floral arrangements and more on top of your table runner. Finally, think about how your dinner plates, bowls and mugs might complement the colour, pattern and texture of your new table linens. Browse our dinnerware collections for inspiration.