Step 1: Table covers
First, decide on what you're going to use to place over your table to protect it. Conflicted about using a tablecloth or placemats? If you have a beautiful table, consider using placemats instead of a tablecloth. Mats can be plain or patterned, woven or made of rush, as long as they're heatproof. If your table surface needs to be protected or is already damaged, use a tablecloth, which will also elevate the formality of your Thanksgiving meal. The cloth should be big enough to drape 6 inches over each side of the table. Some tablecloths need a heatproof protective mat laid under them to prevent spills from penetrating through to the table surface.
White tablecloths are traditional for formal meals, but you can also use lace or plain-colored cloths. Patterned cloths are OK, as long as they don't make the table look too cluttered once it's set. If a tablecloth is wrinkled or creased, throw it the dryer on "fluff" or "air," along with a damp towel. You could also use butcher paper for a conversation starter, says Diane Gottsman, national etiquette expert and owner of The Protocol School of Texas. "It serves as a tablecloth, and you can pick it up and throw it away," she says. "Kids can draw on it, and adults can write what they're grateful for."
If you want a neutral tablecloth that can work for Thanksgiving and other formal occasions throughout the year, try this ColorBird Stitching Tassel Tablecloth. The linen will look great with pops of fall colors and it comes in a few different patterns. Follow these tricks for keeping your sanity if you're hosting Thanksgiving.
Here's Exactly How to Set Up a Table for Thanksgiving, Source:https://www.rd.com/list/the-ultimate-guide-to-thanksgiving-table-setting/
