Choosing the perfect oilcloth tablecloth for your home can be an exciting yet challenging task, especially when shopping online. While fabric swatches are often considered helpful, they can sometimes be misleading when it comes to oilcloth and fabric. Let's explore why this happens and how you can make the best choice without relying on physical samples.
The Limitations of Oilcloth Swatches
Small sample pieces of oilcloth often fail to provide an accurate representation of the full design. This is because oilcloth patterns are typically larger and more intricate than what a small swatch can showcase. The scale of the pattern, colour variations, and overall aesthetic can be easily misinterpreted when viewed in a limited sample size rendering samples useless.
Ordering physical samples by post might seem like a good idea, but it can seriously slow things down. With many couriers no longer prioritising letter services, it can take up to a week for a sample to arrive, delaying your decision and pushing back the time before you can enjoy your new tablecloth. On the other hand, choosing your design online means you could have your tablecloth delivered as soon as the next day. Plus, there’s the environmental cost to consider, sending out multiple samples uses extra packaging and transport, increasing your carbon footprint. Shopping online is not only faster, but also the more eco-friendly choice.
Why Online Selection Can Be Superior
Choosing oilcloth online offers several advantages over relying on physical swatches:
Full Pattern Visibility: Online we provide high-resolution images of the entire pattern repeat, giving you a better understanding of how the design will look on your table. Whilst you can even request additional photos or videos from us of the design to help you make a decision. Whilst waiting on a sample to be delivered will also take several days, delaying you in receiving that perfect new tablecloth.
Accurate Colour Representation: Professional photography and colour calibration techniques ensure that the colours you see online closely match the actual product as closely as possible.
Detailed Product Descriptions: We also offer comprehensive information about the oilcloth's thickness, texture, and durability, which can be more informative than a small swatch.
Tips for Choosing the Perfect Oilcloth Online
To make the best decision when selecting an oilcloth tablecloth without physical samples, consider the following tips:
1. Assess Material Quality
Look for information about the PVC coating thickness and the quality of the fabric base. A thicker PVC coating and a sturdy, tightly woven fabric base indicate a more durable and long lasting oilcloth.
2. Consider Your Table Size and Shape
Carefully measure your table and choose an oilcloth tablecloth that provides adequate coverage. Remember to account for overhang when selecting the size.
3. Evaluate the Design in Context
Look for lifestyle images that show the oilcloth in real-world settings. This can help you visualise how the pattern and colors will look in your home.
4. Check for Colour Accuracy Guarantees
Some retailers use advanced colour calibration techniques to ensure that the colours displayed on their website accurately represent the actual product. Look for information about these practices when shopping.
The Importance of Proper Measurements
Accurate measurements are crucial when selecting an oilcloth tablecloth. Here's a quick guide to measuring your table:
For rectangular tables: Measure the length and width, then add twice your desired drop length to each measurement.
For round tables: Measure the diameter and add twice your desired drop length.
For oval tables: Measure the length and width at the widest points, then add the drop length as with rectangular tables.
Conclusion
While fabric swatches have their place in interior design, they can be misleading when it comes to oilcloth tablecloths. By leveraging the detailed information, high-quality images, and customer feedback available online, you can make a more informed decision about your oilcloth purchase. Remember to consider factors such as pattern scale, colour accuracy, and material quality to ensure you select the perfect oilcloth tablecloth for your home.
By following these guidelines, you'll be well-equipped to choose an oilcloth tablecloth that not only looks great but also meets your practical needs, all without the potential confusion of misleading fabric swatches. If you need any additional images when selecting a design just send us a live chat message or email and were be pleased to assist you!
