Finding a Great look for your Table Setting in Layers
When organizing a party, of any size, one of the most crucial details is the presentation of a table. There are many ways to create a memorable and stylish spread. But the simplest and fastest is the use of overlays.
What is an overlay? An overlay is a visual effect created by a solid beautiful surface layered with an equally beautiful patterned one. The effect is not only elegant, but fun. Furniture designers have been using the technique with wood and materials such as marble and iron for generations. But for an afternoon social occasion a temporary overlay effect can be achieved with the simplest of materials.
The Base Layer
Always start with a sturdy fabric to cover a table. This could be cotton, linen, or even velvet. Normally the tone and season of the event will dictate what would be an ideal base layer. Good suggestions would be linen for spring, silk for fall, and velvet for winter. It all depends if a light fluttery look is desired or a thick plush look is needed.
Also decide if the fabric needs to cover the whole table or just drape across it at an angle. Both looks leave many options open for a creative spread. It's all a matter of how intricate the design would be.
A Top Layer
Normally this top layer is a sheer material like organza or tulle. But the top layer can be as complex as a table size doily, or as simple as a silk scarf spread out in the middle of the table. A top layer can have cut-outs throughout the fabric or just a swag of color. Great top layer materials are lace, afghans, and various netting. Anything that will create a nice pattern or create a unique color effect... like blue and yellow. Embroidered material can give a table a lovely sophisticated feel.
Many Forms of Layers
Multiple layers of the same fabric in different hues can make a light festive display. Silk is perfect for this feel. Smaller sized squares than the table can be used to make a layered effect when they are turned slightly. The same effect can be done with circular fabric covers in a nesting fashion. The look is much like the petals of an up-side down flower. Very pretty for a little girl's parties or a garden party
Pile the layers as high as desired, nothing says two layers are the limit, but after a while a table begins to resemble an over bundled child on a winter morning. Make sure the fabric chosen doesn't catch on the dishes and keep it short enough so that people aren't going to step on it when they leave the table.
Where to Get the Look
Overlays are very popular and are rented and sold all over the country. If it is easier to just buy the table treatments then there shouldn't be a problem in finding that perfect combination. But those with bit of a “do-it-yourself” bug, a trip to the fabric store can open up so many ideas for an overlay.
Just measure the table, and decide on the style of overlay. Take home the custom-cut pieces and stitch around the bottom to make a nice clean seam. Remnants also offer little surprises to an overlay look, there is no telling what only an eighth of a yard of fabric can do for a display.
The Perfect Overlay
Overlays are a simple and cost effective way to dress up a formal occasion table or just a family gathering. An overlay can give a table sophistication or just that nice finished look. Whatever the need, there is an overlay look to fit the mood.
