How to Create a Thanksgiving Tablecloth
A Family Activity for the Thanksgiving Holidays
Each person at the table thinks about what they are thankful for from the past year and writes it on the tablecloth. When everyone is finished, guests take turns sharing what was written down. When the holidays end, it can be tucked away with the decorations. Next year as the tablecloth is being ironed, you can read through each persons' thankful comments.
Tablecloths set the stage for the meals and fellowship of the holiday. Families spend time together eating and drinking and sharing their stories. Creating a special Thanksgiving tablecloth will bring to mind Thanksgivings of the past and those to come.
Find or Purchase a Tablecloth and Supplies
Cotton or linen tablecloths are best for this family tradition. The ink soaks into the material and will not rub off. Machine washable cloths make clean up easy, but be sure to wash in cold and on the delicate cycle to prevent removal of the written words.
If you need to purchase a linen tablecloth look for one that will cover the table, with room on each side. Look for white or beige as these colors will make the writing look distinctive. Discount tablecloths can be found in thrift stores or even yard sales.
Collect permanent or fabric markers for each member represented at the table. Fine tip markers make the words difficult to read after washing, so choose one with a larger tip. Choose colors that coincide with the Thanksgiving holiday. Red and orange stand out on the tablecloth, however, yellow tends to fade. Black and brown are always a safe choice.
Permanent marker may bleed through the tablecloth. Be sure to put something underneath to prevent staining the table. Use a felt table cover or a disposable tablecloth to protect it. Newspaper also works well to keep the ink from the table.
What are you Thankful for?
Don't worry about writing something profound. Write down the first thing that comes to your mind. Choose an event that took place this year and write about how grateful you may be about the outcome or situation. Encourage everyone to participate.
Younger children may have a difficult time with this activity. Take their hand, place it on the tablecloth, and outline it. You can write their comments inside the handprint.
Guests at the table may have a difficult time coming up with something on the spot. Mention to anyone that you invite that you have a tradition of writing down what you are thankful for on the tablecloth. This will give them an opportunity to feel comfortable participating.
Thanksgiving Table
|
Thanksgiving Dessert
|
What do you think about this article?
Comments
More in Home & Style
Latest Articles