Friday, March 11, 2016

Table dressing

I just had to chase the cat off my tablecloth and it wasn't even on the table.  I'd left it lying in the floor when unpacking my show stuff, and kitty decided it would make a nice napping spot.  She wasn't happy about being bothered, but was soon content with napping in her bed.

When I started doing craft fairs I was trying to do everything an inexpensively as possible, and did several on a plain table without coverings until I realized just how terrible it is.   Check out these photos to see how much of a difference it makes.



Photo credit: Urban Woodswalker via VisualHunt / CC BY-NC-ND

This booth has nice looking jewelry, but the uncovered table isn't helping the display.  When someone looks at your booth you want them to focus on what you're selling, not your legs, tote bags, or anything else that's under there.   Table dressing gives everything a polished and more professional look, and the better it looks the more sales you will have.  




Photo credit: jannypie143 via VisualHunt / CC BY

This booth's foundation is much better.  The tablecloth looks nice and makes both the product and overall booth more attractive.  You can still see underneath, but the cloth helps keep patrons focused up toward your products.




Photo credit: anneheathen via Visualhunt.com / CC BY

I love this red tablecloth!  The floor length cloth looks professional in any setting, and gives you a great hiding space for bins, back stock, or anything you'd rather keep out of sight. 



Those floor length tablecloths aren't cheap, but there are ways to be budget friendly and still have a nice table.  If you're looking for options, consider the following:

Bed sheets -  Any solid color flat sheet will work. 

Sew your own - If you're handy with a sewing machine, you can make your own.  And...if you sew pennies or washers in the corners, it'll help weigh the corners down if a breeze blows through.

Plastic party tablecloth - They're super cheap.  Unfortunately, they also look that way and don't last for very long.  These aren't the best option, but if you're in a pinch or on a super tight budget, they get the job done.  

Fabric tablecloth -  Discount stores have them in standard sizes, and they're not terribly expensive.  Washable and durable, they'll last a long time and keep you looking great.

Do you have a favorite?  What type of table covering do you usually use?

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