Looking for a new hobby you can start at home? Try tablescaping! This easy, little to no-tools-needed activity has taken the world by storm with DIYers and homeowners alike, making it one of the most popular new hobbies.

 

Table setting is meant to be accessible, adaptable and affordable.

 

It requires nothing more than a table, a sprinkle of creativity and some patience. With just three or four different materials — you can transform any table into something that your guests will enjoy. 

 

What you’ll need to start your tablescape: 

 

You can start tablescaping with whatever you have at home! If, however, you’re in the process of choosing new dishes and silverware to make the most of your tablescaping hobby, here’s what I recommend:

 

1. White plates with gold or silver accents 

 

White is classic and elegant, yet provides the perfect backdrop for any colors you decide to use for your scapes. Gold or silver adds a tiny touch of glam and class – I like to use my silver accent plates with cool colors & pair the gold with warm colors.

 

Cool colors are purple, forest green, blue, silver, black and gray; 

Warm colors are burgundy, red, orange, yellow, gold and brown.

 

2. Simple silverware set

 

The best silverware sets for daily use are typically made of stainless steel. I love these no-frills sets because they pair up well with any table – all you need is a complete set!

 

3. Cloth napkins 

 

In my own tablescapes, I prefer cloth napkins over their paper counterparts – they’re so much more sophisticated, can be folded in numerous ways and even adorned with so many different napkin rings. 

 

Below you can see a gallery of DIY napkin rings I’ve created using rope and Studio NooSH cloth napkins. 

 

4. Clear glassware 

 

Drinking and serving refreshments is a matter of presentation and the types of drinking glasses you choose go a long way towards your guests’ experience. Unless the event you’re hosting has a high potential for breakage – such as children’s parties – then I recommend having a complete set of clear glassware. 

 

Clear glassware is versatile and can be used for events with many different themes. 

Now that you have the essential tools for your new hobby, it’s time to start tablescaping! 

 

Tips to keep in mind as you’re creating your table setting

 

1. Planning is an integral part of the tablescaping process, helping you to decide what look you’re going for, what materials you’re going to use and how you’ll incorporate them into your table design.

 

2. Find your inspiration. This can be anything from looking at pictures of other tablescapes online or by thinking of creative ways to incorporate your event’s theme. Get fresh ideas from my latest tablescapes here! 

 

3. Think about your textures. Your materials and textures are the backbone of your design so use them wisely to create an inviting, cozy ambiance.

 

As I mentioned in my How to Create a Tablescape post, table cloths can be anything. I love to use old curtains, unused leather, wrapping paper, packing paper or practically anything that can be flattened. ⁠

 

Textured leather is one of my favorites. All I have to do is trim the edges with a zig-zag scissors and ⁠voila – I have a textured tablecloth! 

 

4. Add dimension and visual interest by layering your materials. Remember, it’s the combination of elements that makes your design unique. For example, one super easy way to do this is to use both a tablecloth and placemats. ⁠

 

5. Create movement and interest by placing items at different heights on the table. Don’t be afraid to use any decorations you already own – I always reuse my candleholders in new & unique ways. 

 

Go around your home and find any objects that can fit this purpose. It will make your tablescapes look fresh and lively. 

 

6. Create balance, contrast and unity when choosing your materials by intentionally thinking about the colors, textures and shapes within your design. 

 

7. Let yourself be inspired by your location and occasion. Tablescaping is all about finding beauty in ordinary moments and making them extraordinary. 

Most importantly – have fun with your new tablescaping hobby. Any meal is a new opportunity to let your creativity flow and make your table something that reflects your unique personality. Just relax and experiment.

I hope you enjoyed this quick tutorial on how to start tablescaping. Don’t forget to visit my other posts, like the 5 Elements of a Tablescape, before starting a project at home! And don’t hesitate to share your tablescape creations with me on Instagram using the hashtag #ascapeliving!  

 

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