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Mitered Corner, Envelope Corner
The terms mitered corners or envelope corners refer to the diagonal seams at hem corners, as commonly used in tablecloths, napkins, toppers, or table runners. The diagonal seams run toward the center of the tablecloth and resemble the back of an envelope. The hem allowance is usually several centimeters wide. The fabric corners are folded, cut, and sewn diagonally from the tip, following the hem width. Table linen with mitered or envelope corners looks very neat and elegant. Such envelope corners are especially popular in linen tablecloths and linen napkins. A mitered corner can only adorn the corner seam of a rectangular tablecloth; round or oval tablecloths never have mitered corners, as they are hemmed all around.
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Dyeing Processes
Various dyeing processes are available for the yarns of tablecloths and napkins. They depend on the type of fiber and the dye used: In direct dyeing, the water-soluble dye directly coats the fiber, with no pretreatment required. Unfortunately, fabrics dyed this way are not washfast. In developed dyeing, the dyestuffs are formed directly on the fiber, as the name suggests. This process requires two components that react chemically on the fiber to produce a specific coloration. In vat dyeing, which is a type of developed dyeing, normally water-insoluble dyes (often indigo) are converted into a water-soluble form with a reducing agent and then applied to the fibers.
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Damask Tablecloths
In the vocabulary of table linens, damask refers to a woven fabric with intricate patterns. Damask tablecloths are highly valued for their beautiful light reflections and elegant finish. While damask patterns are not limited to a single fiber, they are most commonly crafted from high-quality mercerized cotton, sometimes from silk or blended fibers. At tischdecken-shop.libusch.de, you will find only white damask tablecloths made of 100% cotton or durable cotton-linen blends. The refined patterns are created by alternating different satin weaves, giving each cloth a sophisticated character. Most damask cotton tablecloths are available in plain colors, where the design becomes visible in angled light—subtle yet striking. This makes them perfect for weddings, festive dinners, and stylish home interiors. Traditional motifs include floral designs with blossoms, flowers, and leaves, adding freshness, delicacy, and timeless elegance to any dining setting. For further details, you can also visit the related Wikipedia entry on Damask.
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Shrinkage (Einlauf/Einsprung)
In the vocabulary of table linens, the shrinkage of brand-new tablecloths after the first washes is referred to as shrinkage or einsprung. Depending on quality, the shrinkage of table linens is usually between 5–8 percent. This factor should always be considered when choosing the correct tablecloth size. Many of our damask tablecloths are already produced slightly larger than stated to minimize the effect of shrinkage. If you have further questions, please feel free to contact us at Tel. 0251-60656913.
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Woven Fabrics
In the specialist vocabulary of tablecloths, woven fabrics refer to manually or mechanically produced textiles originating from weaving mills, such as cloth, velvet, linen, damask, and other fabrics consisting of at least two thread systems crossed at right angles. The longitudinal threads in cloth napkins and tablecloths are generally called warp threads, while the cross threads are referred to as weft threads. These threads are interlaced at different rhythms to form the weave. The denser the warp and weft threads are woven, the stronger and more durable the fabric becomes. This results in a firm, high-quality texture, giving premium tablecloths a longer lifespan and a luxurious feel.
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Half-Linen (Halbleinen)
The term half-linen refers to smooth or patterned fabrics used for tablecloths and napkins that are woven from both flax (linen) and cotton yarns, with the fibers divided between warp and weft. By definition, the linen content in half-linen fabrics must be at least 40 percent in order to be classified as genuine half-linen tablecloths. This blend combines the natural elegance and durability of linen with the softness and easy-care qualities of cotton, making half-linen a popular choice for both everyday use and festive occasions.
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Hemstitch (Hohlsaum)
Many tablecloths and linen napkins feature a decorative hemstitch. A hemstitch is a decorative seam created by drawing out warp or weft threads from a woven fabric, such as in tablecloths or cloth napkins. Linen fabrics are particularly well suited for this technique. To create a hemstitch, two to eight threads are withdrawn in one direction. The remaining thread bars are then embroidered or grouped, producing various elegant patterns depending on how the threads are bundled. Embroidery thread for hemstitching is usually linen or cotton, and its thickness should approximately match that of the fabric threads.
Hemstitch tablecloths and hemstitch napkins are highly valued because they add a refined, handcrafted detail to the fabric. Their timeless look enhances any festive table setting, creating a sophisticated and elegant atmosphere. Especially in linen table linens with hemstitch, the delicate transparency of the drawn thread work conveys craftsmanship and luxury, making them ideal for weddings, formal dinners, or elegant family gatherings.
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Home Textiles (Heimtextilien)
The term home textiles refers to all textile products used for interior furnishing and decoration. This includes items such as tablecloths, banquet cloths, throws, bed linen, table linen, cloth napkins, towels, curtains and drapes, as well as window and bed coverings.
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Jacquard Weaving (Jacquardweberei)
Many tablecloths are also known under the name Jacquard. Jacquard weaving, named after J.M. Jacquard (1752–1834), is a weaving technique that allows the creation of complex and elaborate patterns. The motifs on tablecloths emerge through the contrast of warp and weft satin, as well as through different light reflections. Thanks to the special weaving system, each warp thread in a Jacquard tablecloth can be controlled automatically to form intricate designs. Jacquard fabrics are used, for example, for damasks or brocades.
See also the related Wikipedia entry on Jacquard weaving. -
Warp Threads (Kette)
In textile terminology, the term warp or warp threads refers to the threads that run lengthwise in a woven fabric, such as in a tablecloth. They are interlaced with weft threads to form a stable and durable fabric.
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Linen (Leinen)
Linen is, alongside cotton, one of the most popular fabrics for tablecloths and has experienced a remarkable revival in recent years in the textile sector. Linen is a bast fiber, obtained from the stalks of the flax plant. Unlike cotton, linen fibers form so-called bundles consisting of separate individual fibers. Linen is often woven in plain weave, but Jacquard and other weave types are also common in linen tablecloths.
Linen fibers are easily divisible and can be spun into fine yarns, making them suitable not only for table linen but also for clothing. Linen is lint-free, resistant to dirt and bacteria, and naturally bactericidal and antistatic. It is highly tear-resistant but unelastic, which makes it prone to creasing – a characteristic often referred to as the “noble crease effect.” This durability makes linen tablecloths extremely long-lasting, often kept in families for decades and still appreciated by younger generations.
Linen tablecloths withstand detergents, washing agents, and boil washes remarkably well. For those who prefer a smooth look, linen can be ironed or pressed while still damp. However, tumble drying should be avoided, as excessive dry heat can damage the fibers. Caution is also advised when bleaching: full bleaching results in significant weight loss. Dyeing linen, on the other hand, is possible and often enhances its natural beauty.
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Tablecloth Size (Maße Tischdecke)
The ideal tablecloth size is determined by measuring the tabletop and adding an overhang of approx. 20 cm to a maximum of 30 cm on each side. This simple rule guarantees a perfectly fitting tablecloth that is neither too short nor excessively long. If you prefer a larger drop, please keep in mind the legroom of your guests!
When calculating the correct tablecloth dimensions, it is also important to consider shrinkage (called “Einsprung” in German) during the first wash. For high-quality table linen, this shrinkage is usually around 5–8%. In our collection, the shrinkage has already been factored in during production – meaning the stated size corresponds to the final size after washing. For a detailed guide on how to correctly calculate the right tablecloth dimensions, please see our dedicated page here. -
Mercerization (Merzerisieren)
In the specialist terminology of table linen, mercerization refers to a finishing process applied to cotton fabrics. It gives cotton tablecloths a luxurious, silk-like sheen that remains durable even after repeated washing. Additionally, mercerization improves the fabric’s ability to absorb dyes, while also increasing strength, elasticity, and luster. This makes mercerized cotton particularly popular for elegant and long-lasting table linens.
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Molton
Molton refers to a lightweight, loosely woven cotton fabric that is either sewn into a tablecloth as an interlining or used as an underlay beneath a tablecloth. A table set with molton feels thicker, and dishware noises are softened by the padding. Molton underlays also protect the table and create a pleasant cushioning effect when sitting at the table. In addition, the tablecloth drapes more elegantly over the table edges when used with a molton underlay.
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Pastel Colors
Pastel-colored tablecloths are a true classic: pastel tones are soft, light shades characterized by a high proportion of white. They are especially popular because they create bright, friendly, and subtle atmospheres without being overpowering. Particularly in demand are pastel tablecloths in delicate light blue, soft green, or pale yellow. These colors can also be easily combined with one another. In natural daylight, pastel tones develop a gentle glow. To avoid monotony, it is advisable to set visual accents with flowers, colorful porcelain, or decorative elements.
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Weft (Schuss)
The term weft (or weft threads) refers to the horizontal threads in the fabric structure of tablecloths or cloth napkins, which cross the warp threads at a right angle.
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Lace (Spitze)
In the vocabulary of table linen, lace describes materials with an openwork design, usually in white, made from silk or cotton. Lace edges add a particularly charming and elegant touch to tablecloths, while lace hems bring a romantic atmosphere to any dining table.
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Banquet Cloth (Tafeltuch / Tafeldecke)
A banquet cloth or tafeldecke refers to a tablecloth designed for large banquet tables. These tablecloths are made from high-quality, natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, damask, or silk, which create a magnificent impression. A true banquet cloth is characterized by its heavy, substantial quality. Many are also lined underneath, ensuring they lie smoothly and luxuriously on long tables. High-quality banquet cloths are often unique pieces, appreciated for their elegance and exclusivity.
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Textile
A textile is a flexible material made from fibers, such as tablecloths, table runners, centerpieces, or cloth napkins. The term covers fibers, yarns, woven or knitted fabrics, and finished products. While the words “fabric” and “cloth” are often used synonymously with textile, they technically refer to fiber-based materials shaped into surfaces by weaving, knitting, or other processes.
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Textile Finishing (Textilveredlung)
Textile finishing refers to the processes used to enhance the texture, appearance, and performance of textiles so they fulfill their intended purpose. These processes typically include pretreatment (such as bleaching), dyeing, printing, and additional finishing treatments. Key methods include bleaching, coloring, optical brightening for brilliant whites, finishes to resist bacteria, dirt, pilling, or lint, as well as softening treatments and flame-retardant finishing.
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Tablecloth
A tablecloth is a piece of fabric placed over a table to protect it from dirt, scratches, and other damage while also giving it an attractive appearance. Tablecloths can be made from various materials such as cotton, polyester, silk, or linen, and are available in many different sizes, colors, and patterns. They are often used on special occasions or when dining with guests to create a festive atmosphere. In addition, tablecloths help protect the table from stains and other damage that can occur during meals.
For further details, see the related Wikipedia article on tablecloths. -
Full-Twist Yarn (Vollzwirn)
The term full-twist yarn refers to fabrics woven exclusively with twisted yarns in both the warp- and weft directions. This means that two or more yarns are twisted together before weaving. As a result, full-twist fabrics – such as those used in our tablecloths and cloth napkins – offer exceptional durability, optimal washing properties, and a long lifespan. Especially in the hospitality industry, cotton full-twist tablecloths are standard because they must withstand heavy use. Our Padua tablecloths with satin border are made from premium full-twist yarns.
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Twisted Yarn (Zwirn)
Twisted yarns are produced in weaving by twisting together two single yarns. This process significantly increases the strength of the fabric used in a tablecloth and also improves the uniformity of the woven textile. As a result, twisted yarn ensures a durable, long-lasting, and high-quality table linen structure.