How to make a simple Tablescape with Vintage Linens

The addition of a beautiful set of vintage linen hand embroidered napkins and a couple of candles can transform your tablescape into something really special whether it's Sunday lunch with family, or a gathering of friends. For this tablescape I layered a gray linen tablecloth with some vintage ironstone plates then added these vintage lovely hand embroidered linen napkins.

It takes the same amount of time to layer vintage linens on your table as it does to place boring napkins and synthetic placemats , not to mention the sustainability of owning and using a vintage set. Here I layered vintage hand embroidered linen madeira placemats over some linen tea napkins used as coasters, then I added some vintage damask Irish linen napkins, I love the mixture of textures against the simple white porcelain plates.

Vintage napkins are the perfect way to start a vintage collection, they make a beautiful gift to treasure. They add so much to a table and are a lot easier to care for than imagined, they are built to last, or they wouldn't be vintage would they !

More on my tips for linen care to come soon, hand wash or delicate cycle, no harsh chemicals and air dry do not tumble dry are the basics to longevity.

How to make a Simple Tablescape with Seasonal Flowers

Paper whites are an inspiring way to start 2021 , I'm always inspired by what flowers are in season and available locally, so after the Holiday decor was finally taken down, I was looking for something fresh and easy !

To create this tablescape I layered some vintage white linen placemats over a matching table runner, then I added some simple gold bordered antique plates and my simple everyday flatware. Next came the glassware, I used some victorian opalescent swirl tumblers for water and some vintage Swedish etched goblets for wine. Then I added some vintage opaline glass salt and pepper little bowls.

So after I have all of the functioning parts of the table in place I add the more decorative parts , I used my favorite candle bowl as a centrepiece and some white votives in vintage pewter cups. Then I added the paper whites, I used three vases and cut them and just casually put them in a row. Then lastly I added the napkins, I always do this last as I feel that napkins should be the freshest part of a table !