The Crochet Lace Tablecloth

Lace for the harvest table

Crochet lace has been on Thanksgiving tables for generations, and it still looks right with pumpkins, brass and candlelight. This cloth is worked in an open geometric pattern in a warm beige, close to oatmeal, which sits better with fall colors than bright white.

There are two styles:

• Scalloped has an open lattice pattern and a pointed, scalloped border.
• Tasseled has a pattern of crocheted diamonds and small tassels along the edge that give it a little swing.

Layering it

Because the lace is open, whatever is underneath shows through. Over bare wood it gives a farmhouse look and lets the grain show. Over a solid cloth in rust, sage or chocolate brown it becomes a two-tone table, and over white it turns classic and formal.

The Water-Repellent Tablecloth in Dark coffee makes a good base layer: the beige lace stands out against it, and its coating catches spills that drip through the holes. On a wood table without a base cloth, use trivets under hot dishes and a felt pad if you want more protection.

Choosing your size

Add twice your drop to the table's width and length and pick the nearest size.

• 55 x 55 in (140 x 140 cm) for a 36 in (91 cm) square table
• 55 x 63 in (140 x 160 cm) for a 36 x 48 in (91 x 122 cm) table seating 4
• 55 x 79 in (140 x 200 cm) for a 36 x 60 in (91 x 152 cm) table seating 6
• 55 x 87 in (140 x 220 cm) for a 36 x 72 in (91 x 183 cm) table seating 6 to 8
• 55 x 98 in (140 x 250 cm) for a 36 x 78 in (91 x 198 cm) table
• 71 x 71 in (180 x 180 cm) for a 48 in (122 cm) square or round table, with the corners falling in points

Care

Wash by hand, or machine wash cold on a gentle cycle in a laundry bag. Lay flat or hang to dry, easing the lace back into shape while it's damp. Don't wring it, since open lace can stretch. Iron on low through a pressing cloth if needed. Returns are accepted within 30 days.