12 Clever Ways to Reuse Old Tablecloths, From Napkin Sets to Gift Wrap
Spring is the perfect time of year to refresh your space. Whether through purging, organizing, or cleaning, you often end up with a pile of items that can be donated, tossed, or repurposed. If you’re like us, you have old or stained tablecloths you’ve convinced yourself to keep all these years, and they’re starting to pile up. Hesitant to part with them? Try repurposing them.
For inspiration on where to start, we’ve gathered ideas for using your old tablecloths—even if they’re not in the best shape. Some ideas involve sewing, while others don’t. Ahead, we chatted with linen and organizing experts about the best ways to give new life to old tablecloths.
Decorative Pillow Covers
Dana Gallagher
A beautiful tablecloth doesn’t have to go to waste. If you love the design of the cloth, consider using the fabric to create decorative pillow covers. You can cut the material into any shape, and add zippers or buttons for easy removal. Lisa Jacobs, founder and CEO at Imagine It Done Inc, suggests creating a patchwork of different tablecloths to make your own unique fabric.
Aprons
Keep the tablecloth in the kitchen by turning it into a unique apron. It’s a practical way to reuse the fabric and a fun way to mix different patterns together, says Jacobs. Tablecloths are often made from thick, absorbent material, making them ideal for aprons.
Reusable Bags
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Old tablecloths make great scrap fabric for sewing all sorts of things. With a few simple seams you can create reusable tote bags for groceries, shopping, and more.
Clothing
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“If you are handy with a sewing machine, this option is for you! As spring and summer approach, use a fun scalloped edge or a lace tablecloth to create an up-cycled piece that is one of a kind. The options are endless here,” says Jacobs. If you don’t have a sewing machine, consider taking the fabric to a seamstress to create a one-of-a-kind piece from your old tablecloth.
Gift Wrap
Anusha Rajeswaran
Using an old tablecloth as gift wrap is an adorable and eco-friendly way to present a gift. “Fabric wrapping (furoshiki style) adds elegance while avoiding single-use wrapping paper,” says May Wang, founder of Linens N Love. Fabric wrap works best for wrapping sturdy or pre-boxed items such as baked goods, wine, books, and candles, says Jacobs.
Framed Art
Lennart Weibull
Framing fabric patterns make for a unique art display. Cut the old tablecloth into your desired shape and secure it in the frame just as you would a picture.
Reusable Paper Towels
Lucia Kindernayova / Getty Images
Cut rectangle pieces from an old tablecloth and reuse them as paper towels. They will serve as useful, practical, and long-lasting cloths, says Wang. Once they’ve done the job, simply throw them in the wash to reuse. “For extra absorbency, wet them with water before use,” says Jacobs.
Curtains
Martha Stewart
Whether you want to spiff up your dining room with new drapes or swap out your shower curtain, your old tablecloth will do the trick. For shower curtains, you can keep the shape and just add holes for the curtain hooks. To make drapes, we recommend working with a professional seamstress for the best results.
Quilt Base
Lennart Weibull
Reuse your old tablecloth the next time you need a quilt base, or cut up old pieces to add to a patchwork quilt. It’s a great way to infuse memories of sharing meals with your loved ones into your work.
Car Seat Cover for Pets
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Your old tablecloth can be used to create a car seat cover for pets. It’s a machine-washable cover that you can use repeatedly to protect your car from pet hair and scratches. If you already have a dog car hammock, Jacobs suggests sewing the tablecloth onto it to add your own personal touch.
Napkin Set
Lennart Weibull
For stained heirloom tablecloths that you want to keep in the family, try turning them into a napkin set. This keeps the memories alive while dining in a different, functional form. To tie it all together, add a fun decorative napkin ring, says Jacobs.
Outdoor Blanket
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Old tablecloths made from thick, sturdy material are great for outdoor use. For grassy or sandy areas, Wang suggests layering multiple tablecloths for added comfort when laying down or enjoying a meal outside.
