Crafts for Crocheted Tablecloths

A tablecloth is the second biggest traditional crochet project, but can be made manageable by working in motifs.

Because of the work entailed and the fact that mesh doesn't actually protect a tabletop, crocheted tablecloths are more often for display than for use, but anyone who's held a hook can appreciate them. Large tablecloths are often done in strips or motifs for ease of handling. Though motifs may use designs encountered in smaller pieces, for use on a real table they need to be lightweight and two-dimensional. Especially for display on a table of dark wood, however, a tablecloth is especially appropriate for filet crochet, which is composed of open and filled squares of double crochet worked from a chart similar to one for monochrome cross stitch embroidery and traditionally in white or ecru.

Strips

You can assemble a tablecloth of any size by crocheting a set of strips of different patterns and widths and connecting them side by side. Give the piece a modern look by using geometric patterns in the strips or connecting strips of white filet crochet with patterns worked in vibrant colors. Finish the tablecloth with a border to tie the ends of the strips together.

Motifs

A lovely tablecloth can be constructed from granny squares, small filet panels, or floral motifs worked closely together or floating in an open web of chain stitching. Designs can also be mixed for a crazy-quilt effect. In choosing motifs to use, however, remember that a tablecloth is meant to have dishes, or at least a centerpiece and candelabra set on it, so avoid three-dimensional patterns.

Round Table Toppers

Crocheted table toppers are essentially large doilies that can be used to cover small side tables; they are often displayed with dark or bright solid cloths underneath. Choices of pattern include extended versions of a traditional pineapple design, worked from the center out to the edge, or scalloped filet panels worked from one side of the circle to the other. Make a square topper with a rose or a bunch of lilies depicted in each corner and hang a tassel or a string of beads from each point.

Extending a Fabric Center

Add an elegant crocheted border to a fabric tablecloth, runner or embroidered antique dresser scarf. Work each side of the border just as you would crochet strips, connect them at the corners and sew them to the edges of the fabric. Look for interesting border designs in patterns for valances for windows or shelf edging in new or vintage pattern books. Their long straight lines are also well suited to a tablecloth border project.

References

• "The Filet Crochet Book"; Chris Rankin; 1990