How To: Oilcloth Tablecloth

Oilcloth is a great way to protect a tabletop from the inevitable scars and stains left behind by messy eaters and enthusiastic arts and crafters. We've seen many oilcloth tablecloths before, but they usually have a kindergarten classroom quality to them. Kathleen of Twig & Thistle recently made a sweet tablecloth that, with a few smart decisions on her part, has a nice adult quality to it.

We wish there were better choices in oilcloth to begin with (they seem to be disproportionately loud and Hawaiian-inspired) but Kathleen's choice of red and white polka dot goes a long way in toning down the inherently shiny quality of oilcloth. Her real stroke of brilliance however was to scallop the edges which elevates the whole look.

Kathleen walks you through this diy project with plenty of helpful photos on her blog, Twig & Thistle.

Comments (4)

I have been thinking about making some kind of oilcloth cover for my 1-year old son's place at the dining table, but when I looked into buying oilcloth, I realized that it is vinyl-coated and therefore phthalate-coated--not so good for a kid who eats directly off the table.

The only oilcloth that I've found sans-phthalates are made by Marimekko. They are gorgeous, although they boast a steep price-tag and are not, in fact, stain resistant. Seems that those pesky phthalates are good for some things.

Has anyone come across sources for toxin-free, non-porous oilcloth or have suggestions for a likewise material?

posted by greermydear on March 25th 2009 at 8:25pm
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There's a how to on BurdaStyle about making oilcloth. It involves ironing clear contact paper to fabric. That way you could use whatever fabric you want. Link here

posted by ica171 on March 25th 2009 at 10:47pm
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Thanks very much for the report about Marimekko. I didn't realize that non-phthalate oilcloth even existed. I wonder if it is because it imported, meets EU standards which are much stricter on phthalates.

Also, the directions on how to make. Great info.

posted by JudiAU on March 26th 2009 at 11:58am
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Cath Kidston stocks some brilliant oilcloths. Only thing is they should be wiped very soon after spillages as they can still stain from things like ketchup and coloured felt pens.

I've also seen some used as covers and stapled to the underside of the table for a permenant and very neat cover.

posted by CamillaC on March 30th 2009 at 10:53am
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