How to Make a Dining Table Cap

Sometimes referred to as a table bonnet, a table cap is a device that protects the surface of the table from scratching and other forms of damage. Unlike a tablecloth, the dining table cap snugly fits across the tabletop and under the lip of the table. The proper fit for a dining table cap is not unlike that of a fitted sheet on a mattress. While it is possible to buy commercially produced dining table caps in many home stores, you can make your own with relative ease.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Pattern Measuring tape Basting tape Straight pins Material or other fabric Sewing machine Scissors Elastic or decorative cording

1. Choose the material you want to use for your dining table cap. A dining table cap can be created with any type of durable material. You may use natural fibers or synthetic blends. The material may be a solid color or feature a print of some kind. Make sure to choose material that is machine washable and will hold up to a lot of wear and tear.

2. Create the pattern. This can be accomplished by measuring the tabletop and allowing several inches for hemming and stitching in a channel for the elastic or cording. Use scissors to cut out the pattern.

3. Lay the pattern on top of your choice of fabric or other material. Carefully cut out the body of the table cap, including the additional material for the channel and the hem. Once the material is cut, use pins and basting tape to secure the hem and create the channel.

4. Use a sewing machine to create the hem. Using a double stitch will provide the table cap with additional strength and also help to define the channel for the elastic or cording in more detail. Make sure to maintain an opening for the insertion of the cording or elastic by leaving one to two inches between the ends of the hems.

5. Insert the elastic or cording into the channel. Slowly work the cording through the channel until it comes out the opposite end. If using cording, tie a knot in each end so that the cord cannot slip back into the channel. The cording will function as a drawstring, allowing you to adjust the security of the table cap with ease. Remember to tie the ends once the cap is in place. If you prefer to use an elastic, measure the amount needed to create a secure fit, run the elastic through the channel and secure the two ends of the elastic together. After securing the two ends, finish the hem and close the channel.

Tips & Warnings

• Always allow a little extra material when cutting our your pattern. It is possible to trim a little more off if necessary, but it is impossible to add material where none exists.
• A table cap does provide some protection, but works better when it is used in conjunction with padding. In order to maximize protection of the tabletop, place a tabletop pad on the table and then secure the table cap in place. The extra padding not only protects the table from scratching, but also provides protection from damage cause by hot serving dishes or liquid spills.