DIY Polka Dot Stamped Tablecloth

A couple weeks ago I spotted this Kate Spade tablecloth and just loved it so much. I mean, polka dots are kinda a neutral. They go with just about everything, they are perfect for pattern mixing and they are already a staple in our home (our guest bathroom is proof). So I looked around my office, grabbed a few supplies, and made my own version using supplies I had on hand.

I used some natural cotton twill fabric I’ve had for years to make my tablecloth but you can definitely use an already made white tablecloth or even a canvas dropcloth. If you’re using a drop cloth or making your own using cotton canvas fabric, you’ll want to hem the edges using a sewing machine or iron-on hem tape. I chose to sew the hem since I plan on using (and washing) my tablecloth a lot.

The polka dot pattern was created by dipping the eraser end of a new pencil in craft paint. I used the Martha Stewart craft paint in Deep Sea. It’s a deep grayish navy color and I thought it would be a good any-occasion polka dot color. If you’re using the same paint, I recommend letting the paint air dry completely then tossing the tablecloth in the dryer on high for one long cycle. The heat sets the paint and makes it washable.

Even though this project is simple the number of dots can seem a bit intimidating but the good news is that it took me less than an hour and a half to stamp a tablecloth that was about 52″ x 70″. I just put on some headphones and listened to NPR while I dotted away and before I knew it I was done!