How to use placemats to create a gorgeous table setting

The art of creating a gorgeous table setting lies in the details, and placemats play a pivotal role in this creative process. These versatile pieces are not just practical; they are a canvas for expression, setting the mood and theme for any dining occasion. They transform the dining experience, making it more inviting and special, whether it's a formal dinner party or a casual family gathering. With the right choice of materials and colours, place mats can complement your dinnerware and add a touch of elegance and personality to every meal.

Colour Coordination is Key

Understanding the importance of colour coordination is crucial. Placemats offer a canvas to introduce or complement the colour scheme of your dining area. Choosing hues that harmonise with your dinnerware and room decor can elevate the overall aesthetic. For example, dark blue place mats can beautifully offset white porcelain, creating a striking contrast.

Adding Depth to Your Dining Table

Texture adds depth to your table setting, which can add beautiful detailing to your decor without feeling too ornate or overwhelming. Materials like linen, rattan, or seagrass have tactile appeal which transforms them from simple tools of utility to functional decor pieces. It is important to remember that the texture of your placemats should complement, not clash with, your dinnerware.

Patterned Placemats Add Flair

Embracing patterns in placemats is a fantastic way to add personality and flair to your table setting. Whether it's a rustic check pattern or a delicate floral design, each pattern has the potential to spark conversations and delight guests. When pairing with patterned dinnerware, a key tip is to opt for placemats with less busy designs to create a balanced visual appeal. This thoughtful selection ensures your table setting is stylish without being overwhelming, making each meal a visually engaging experience.

Considering Shape and Symmetry

The choice of placemat shape plays a crucial role in complementing the design of your dining table. Round or oval placemats create a fluid, cohesive look, which can harmonise with a round table, or soften the look of a rectangular table. In contrast, rectangular or square placemats are a classic choice that enhance the angular structure of a similarly shaped table, or can add some drama to a round table. This consideration of shape and symmetry creates a sense of balance and harmony in your dining space.

Correct Proportions for a Balanced Table Setting

Achieving the correct proportion of placemats to the table size is essential for both aesthetics and functionality. Placemats should be large enough to comfortably accommodate your dinnerware, but not so large that they overcrowd the table or overlap with each other. This balance ensures that each guest has sufficient space to dine comfortably, while also maintaining the elegance and structure of your table setting.

Coasters: Small but Mighty

Coasters, while small, play a vital role in protecting your table from spills and stains. When selecting coasters, it's important to choose materials that not only protect your table but also complement your choice of place mat and overall table decor. Materials like cork, ceramic, and rattan offer both functionality and style, enhancing the aesthetic of your table while serving a practical purpose.

Changing Things Up with the Seasons

Seasonal changes offer a wonderful opportunity to refresh your table setting with appropriate placemats and coasters, which keeps your dining area dynamic. In the warmer months, light and bright colours, along with floral patterns, bring a sense of freshness and vibrancy to your table. As the cooler weather sets in, switching to placemats and coasters with warm tones and earthy materials can create a cosy and inviting atmosphere.

Layering Place mats

Layering placemats is an innovative way to add depth and interest to your table setting. By placing a smaller, contrasting placemat atop a larger one, or even a circular placemat atop a rectangular placemat, you can create a unique and visually appealing arrangement. This technique allows for a blend of colours, textures, and patterns, offering a canvas for creativity and personal expression.

Harmonising with Centrepieces

Centrepieces are integral to creating a cohesive and attractive table setting. They should be chosen to complement the style and colours of your place mats and coasters. Whether it's a floral arrangement, a candle display, or a basket of seasonal fruit, the right centrepiece can tie the entire table setting together. It serves as a focal point, adding elegance and character, and creating a harmonious environment.

Matching Placemats to Decor Style

Matching place mats to your decor style can enhance the overall ambiance. For a farmhouse style, opt for rustic, natural materials like rattan placemats or cotton placemats. Hamptons style suits blue and white patterned placemats, or seagrass placemats. French provincial style calls for elegant materials that evoke a sense of vintage charm think cork placemats or a cast iron trivet for serving dishes.

Placemats offer much more than practicality; they are a key component in setting the tone and ambiance of your dining experience. They can transform your table into a reflection of your personal style and the desired mood. Remember, a beautifully set table is an invitation to enjoy not just the meal, but the entire dining experience. Discover our range of durable and stylish table place mats to find pieces you will love, online at French Knot.