Monday, December 21, 2009

Layer A Round Dining Table

Dishware and accessories will be the top "layer" of your dining table.


Layering a round dining table can add style and panache to an eating space. Depending upon the weight and style of your chosen material, as well as your dining accessories, layering your table can dress up or dress down your dining area. A few simple steps will ensure your dining table looks professionally designed and inviting at the same time.


Instructions








1. A monochromatic tablecloth


Clear and wipe down your dining table and center your longest tablecloth (floor length) on it. Your longest tablecloth should be the darkest in color (darker than your half-length and square topper). For a dressy table, choose a long cloth with satin threads or damask embroidery. To dress down your table, choose a linen fabric in stripes or plaids. Choose a monochromatic pattern if possible (a single color in different tones); this will anchor your table and prevent it from looking "busy."


2. Plain white tablecloths can create a "corporate" dining feeling.


Center your half-length table cloth over the top of your first layer. Choose a half-length cloth in a pattern that is contrasting to your first layer but carries a complementary color. For example, if you've chosen a black damask floor-length cloth, choose a white or light gray half-length cloth with black detail work. Remember, shine in fabric dresses up a table, while linen and other matte material dresses a table down. Remember to choose a half-length cloth that is lighter in color than your long cloth but avoid solid white, as it evokes a "restaurant" or "corporate" feeling.


3. Contrasting table topper and dishware.








Place a square table-topper in the center of your table as the third layer. It's best to choose a table topper in a solid color and in a lightweight fabric. Think of your table topper as the canvas for your last layer (your dining accessories). Select a color that will contrast nicely with your dishware. This layer can be lighter or darker than your second layer, depending on your dishware, but should not be darker than your first layer.


4. Choose a napkin color that complements your table decor.


Place dishware at each place setting. Turn glasses top down to create a more stable base and place ringed napkins in the center of each plate or place setting. Napkins can be rolled and placed flat on the plates or standing up using the napkin ring as a base. If you desire more height to your table, stand your napkins.


5. Floral centerpieces are a popular choice for a formal setting.


Place your centerpiece of choice in the middle of your table as the finishing touch to your top final layer. Your centerpiece should coordinate with your color palette and can be formal or informal, depending on your intention. The size of your centerpiece should be in relation to the surrounding room decor. For example, if you have a low-hung chandelier, choose a low centerpiece.

Tags: your table, your dining, dining table, than your, darker than