Design Ideas for Buffet Table Linens

The right table linens set the mood for a buffet meal. Typically, diners help themselves at a buffet meal spread out on a long table. Formal buffets are set with chafing dishes, while casual casseroles grace potluck suppers. The decorative touch that table linens present adds a welcoming note for your guests. Does this Spark an idea?

Formal

Use a solid white tablecloth that hangs to the floor for a formal buffet table. Drape fabric around the table by using thumbtacks or a staple gun to attach gauze to the edge of the table. Add a white lace table runner and white linen napkins held by formal napkin rings. The white theme works well for weddings. Doing the same treatment but using black fabric instead of white creates a formal buffet table for a cocktail party. Finish the table with formal dinnerware and crystal vases filled with roses.

Casual

Set a casual buffet table with unusual linens. Buy a length of burlap in a vivid color for the tablecloth and hem smaller squares of burlap in contrasting colors for napkins. Use a long tatami, or straw mat traditionally used as flooring in Japanese homes, as a table runner. Set round, rattan placemats on the tatami to use as hot pads for serving dishes. Finish the buffet table with vases filled with cattails or pussy willows and mismatched Fiestaware-style plates.

Kid's Party

A little spillage is expected at a younger kid's party, so set the buffet table with a checked, plastic picnic tablecloth held in place with tablecloth holders. Set paper napkins in a basket at one end of the table and fold a flat fitted sheet with cartoon characters to use as a table runner. Use a musical theme for a teen party. Set the table with a white cloth and set vinyl records side by side to make a faux table runner. Use black and white striped napkins that mimic musical staffs.

Themed Party

Find a tablecloth with a nautical theme such as ships or in a deep, navy blue for a pirate buffet table. Slide colorful bandannas into napkin rings adorned with anchors to use as napkins and use a length of sailcloth or canvas as a table runner. Set the scene for a pool party with terry cloth beach towels sewn together to make a tablecloth, and use smaller squares of terrycloth for napkins. Forgo the traditional table runner, and set palm fronds down the center of the table.