How to Hook an Oilcloth Tablecloth on a Picnic Table

Prevent a flapping tablecloth with tablecloth clamps.

Oilcloth fabric is appropriate for use as tablecloths because it has a durable, shiny surface that repels moisture. Oilcloth fabric often displays bright patterns and colors, and you can cover both indoor and outdoor tables with oilcloth tablecloths. The oilcloth fabric provides a clean surface for food preparation and eating, protects the table surface and facilitates fast cleanup because the fabric surface wipes clean easily. Hook an oilcloth tablecloth on a picnic table to keep it snug and to prevent flapping fabric.

Things You'll Need

• 10 Tablecloth clamps

Instructions

1. Place the oilcloth tablecloth onto the picnic table, centering it precisely over all four sides and corners.

2. Fold one long edge of the tablecloth to the underside of the picnic table. While holding the tablecloth firmly, position a clamp onto the table over the tablecloth, centering the clamp between the two corners. Push the clamp onto the table firmly. Hold the tablecloth folded to the underside of the table at the corners and place one clamp into position at each corner. Repeat the same process on the opposite edge of the picnic table with three more clamps.

3. Fold the corners along the short edges of the picnic table, arranging the fabric of the oilcloth tablecloth neatly as you tuck the fabric up to the underside of the table. Place clamps at each corner on the short edges of the picnic table.

Tips & Warnings

• Tablecloth clamps have metal prongs that slide over the table, attaching firmly to the top and bottom. When you attach the clamps to the table with the tablecloth in place, the clamps hold the tablecloth tightly to prevent flapping or blowing.

• Purchase tablecloth clamps wherever you purchase tablecloths online or in stores. They may be found with camping supplies, outdoor dining furniture and supplies or recreational supplies.

• Some oilcloth may have an adhesive backing that enables you to affix it directly to a picnic table surface for a more permanent covering.

• Other oilcloth tablecloths have elastic along the edges, enabling you to attach them neatly to a table, with the elastic holding the cloth in place.

References

• Cath Kidston's in Print: Brilliant Ideas for Using Vintage Fabrics in Your Home; Cath Kidston and Pia Tryde

Resources

• Coghlan's: Picnic Combo Pack