How to Make a Funky Tablecloth

What makes this tablecloth funky is the unexpected use of zinc washers as fringe for the netted fabric. It's an easy project that's quick and fun to do. This funky tablecloth is an updated look to the traditional crocheted version.

Just two basic crochet stitches are all that's needed. Even if you're a novice at crochet, five minutes into the making of this funky tablecloth and you'll have the technique mastered.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• cotton crochet thread
• size 5 crochet hook
• netted fabric
• 2 boxes 1/4" flat zinc washers (100 per box)
• 2 boxes #10 flat zinc washers (100 per box)
• sewing scissors

1. 
   Cut fabric to size.

   Cut netted fabric for the funky tablecloth to desired size depending on measurements of table. Make sure to include adequate length for sides of table before you cut.

2. 
   Metal washers.

   Pick up the two different sized zinc washers. Notice one side of the washer is flat and the other side is more rounded. Remember the dress side of the washer is rounded and this is the side which will show when the funky tablecloth is completed.

3. 
   Metal washer fringe.

   Lay fabric for funky tablecloth in your lap with right side facing up. Make a slip knot with crochet thread on hook and chain one stitch. (Link under resources to basic crochet stitches.)
   
   Insert crochet hook through one loop of the netted fabric and one of the larger zinc washers from front to back. Make one single crochet stitch, enclosing the washer in the single crochet. Note: It's important to ensure the flat side of the washer is facing you when it goes on the crochet hook. Chain one stitch again.

4. 
   Funky Tablecloth

   Insert hook through next loop of fabric, front to back and make a single crochet stitch, this time without a washer. Chain one stitch.
   
   In third loop of fabric, insert hook front to back and make another single crochet stitch this time threading a smaller washer onto the crochet hook. Chain one stitch.
   
   Repeat process, alternating washer sizes and skipping washers every other loop until entire fringe is completed. For future laundering, make sure to gently hand wash the funky tablecloth and lay flat to dry.

Tips & Warnings

• Throughout making the fringe, remember this pattern...first loop use the large washer, second loop, no washers, third loop, small washer, and so on and so on.
• If this is your first time to crochet, it's a simple matter to unravel a few stitches if you don't like the way your project is looking and try again.
• Have fun with this project!

Resources

• Basic Crochet Stitches

[jseven]

on 7/11/2009 You are really clever, Pam.

[langleycornwell]

on 6/30/2009 Very clever. I love the suggestion for using zinc washers as fringe. Great idea.

[bossypants]

on 6/30/2009 Way too cute to be called funky! And, I'm with Shirley -- this is a terrific table topper for an outdoor picnic, as it won't blow away! Another 5 star article!

[slphilbrick]

on 6/29/2009 Washers do double duty to weigh the table cloth down ! You're right, it's funky ! :-)

[AmyRose]

on 6/28/2009 This sound really fun, I'm going to keep it as a favorite, 5*