We are most certainly doing tablecloths this Spring and this is how. Taking inspiration from our Piecework Puzzles in all their crazy, kitsch, colourful madness, we have made over the Project Space into a celebration of seersucker table linens.
Shop The Seersucker Table Linen Collection ►
Who knew? The word seersucker is from the Hindi word ‘sirsakar’ which in turn is borrowed from the Persian word ‘shiroshakar’ (‘shir’ meaning milk and ‘shakar’ meaning sugar). There is some debate whether the milk and sugar refer to the smooth and bumpy texture of the fabric or whether the name evokes the tan (cane sugar) and white (milk) stripe of the original fabrics exported by the East India Company in the 1600s. The characteristic texture is achieved by the ‘slack-tension’ weaving process, where some of the warp yarns are pulled tighter than others, resulting in the classic waffle. The marvellous by-product of this puckered finish is that the fabric doesn’t need ironing, making it perfect for hardworking homewares.
Our seersucker tablecloths and napkins are manufactured in India, although no longer exported by the East India Company (which, since you’re asking, lost its administrative powers following the Government of India Act of 1858 and its Indian possessions and armed forces were taken over by the Crown. Our aim: to inform, educate and entertain). Our weaves are no longer tan and white stripes but incorporate some pretty shouty plaids and some lovely ginghams. If you’re planning any entertaining this Spring (and we really, really are), this might be a very jolly place to start.
We’ve done our fair share of table laying over the past few months. How to Lay a Table for Autumn and multiple options on How to Lay a Table for Christmas might have cropped up in your inbox on a few occasions in 2021. This time round we’re simply celebrating the cloth itself and the vibrant colours of an imminent Spring. Harriett has paired each colourway with its tonal friends from around the shop, and its fruity friends from around the greengrocers. We just wanted to shout about some brightness and joy and encourage you to make plans for longer, warmer days.
Are we getting ahead of ourselves? Seems that The Queen has a significant milestone to mark this Summer. Let’s think about a red, white and blue themed table. Mix and match napkins and tablecloth; a scattering of Tunnocks teacakes; some Falcon Enamel; and a cheery rendition of Land of Hope & Glory. And we’re all ready for the street party.
If you're feeling inspired by seersucker, shop everything here. And don’t fear the price. This is extremely affordable and extremely lovely.
