Frugal Living at The Dollar Stretcher


Inexpensive Table Pads

Related Articles

Quality, Inexpensive Furniture: Can It Be Done?

The Importance of the Family Dinner Table


Inexpensive Table Pads

My problem is the high cost of table pads. We bought a Koa wood dining table and six chairs about 30 years ago and recently had them refinished and repaired. My husband and I are now looking for an inexpensive method of making our own table pad. Table pads start at four cents a square inch on eBay. My husband wants to buy linoleum and cut it to fit. I say, "No way." Can you give us any good ideas?
Judie

Inexpensive Table Pads: A Simple Felt Table Pad

I have used heavy felt as a table pad for many years. It can be cut to any size. I even have pieces that fit when the leaves are used to extend the table. Occasionally I place a vinyl tablecloth over the felt to keep the decorative tablecloth from sticking to the felt. It has worked very well on my valuable antique table. I do use hot pads under the dishes coming directly from the oven or microwave. Try it! Felt is less expensive and works well.
Betty

Inexpensive Table Pads: Look at the Finish

Determine what type of finish was used on your table before using any type of plastic table pad (not sure about the linoleum). Some plastics will cause a reaction with certain varnishes, causing the varnish to become sticky.

I use a heavy cotton mattress pad on my table. If you have a serger, you could cut to fit and surge the edges and add some tapes to tie to the legs. I let mine drape because the tablecloth covers it. I also cover my tablecloth with a piece of heavy clear plastic so that my tablecloth stays clean and only needs washing with the change of seasons.
Carol

Inexpensive Table Pads: Try Silence Cloth Table Pad

I've used something called Silence Cloth on my antique dining room table for many years. I machine wash it every few months. It is sold by the yard. It's an extra thick flannel-fleece pad. I have never had any damage to my table surface. It is best to use a trivet or potholder under extremely hot pans. I bought my Silence Cloth from the catalogue of the Vermont Country Store. A tablecloth then covers the Silence Cloth. Spills are absorbed by the Silence Cloth and don't damage the wood. I think linoleum would scar the finish.
Clare

Inexpensive Table Pads: In Your Fabric Store

In the upholstery/household section of most fabric stores, you can find a wonderful material that is similar to a plastic tablecloth on one side and foam on the other. It comes in a wide width. I bought a piece long enough to cover the table and extend on both sides. It is pliable and any tablecloth will cover it gracefully. When not being used, it can be rolled up and stored in the corner of a closet. Wait for a sale or a coupon and you are set!
Glenda

Inexpensive Table Pads: Vinyl Table Pad Option

I bought an inexpensive flannel backed vinyl tablecloth and cut it to fit my table. It cost $2.50. Previously, I had purchased a similar pad for which I had paid approximately $25. I use my regular tablecloth over the pad and have no problems with heat marks or scratches.
Kathy

Inexpensive Table Pads: Glass Cover

You can have a piece of heavy glass cut to fit the top of your table. It is relatively inexpensive and can be purchased at most home stores. Glass protects the wood without hiding it.
Melissa

Take the Next Step:



Stay Connected with TDS





Subscribe to TDS Newsletters

Join over 250,000 other subscribers!

Surviving Tough Times
Dollar Stretcher Parents
Dollar Stretcher Tips
The Dollar Stretcher

(text-based)

Financial Independence
TDS Special Offers
The Computer Lady
Computer Lady Lessons
Healthy Foods


View the TDS privacy policy.













Money problems?
The Dollar Stretcher can help:

Afraid to lose your job?

Struggling with credit card debt?

Help for your mortgage?

Can't pay your debts?

Need some extra income?

Fighting bad credit?

What you need to know about bankruptcy?

Become money smart?

Trouble repaying student loans?





Get free money-saving articles in your inbox!

Sign up for our free weekly eNewsletter Surviving Tough Times.

Your Email:


Ask The Dollar Stretcher

Looking for an answer to a frugal living question? Click here to ask a
Dollar Stretcher Stretchpert!




Copyright 1996 - 2013 "The Dollar Stretcher, Inc." All rights reserved unless specifically noted.

Contact the Dollar Stretcher at:
Dollar Stretcher
PO Box 14160
Bradenton FL 34280
941-761-7805


"The Dollar Stretcher, Inc." does not assume responsibility for advice given. All advice should be weighed against your own abilities and circumstances and applied accordingly. It is up to the reader to determine if advice is safe and suitable for their own situation.






Dollar Stretcher Community

TDS Forums Forums TDS Blogs Blogs


Also In This Week's Issue

In The Dollar Stretcher Community

Reader Favorites