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How to Make a Zebra Tablecloth

As far back as 40,000 years ago, prehistoric humans learned to use animal hides as clothing. Later, indigenous tribes across North America, Australia and Africa displayed animal skins on their bodies and in their homes to denote pride, social status and hunting skill. Today, animal prints exist throughout American popular culture, including in clothing, furniture, celebratory decorations and home decor. The next time you are throwing an animal-themed dinner party, as an added touch, consider constructing a zebra print tablecloth.

Things You'll Need

  • Measuring tape
  • Paper and pencil
  • Zebra print fabric
  • Fabric scissors
  • Glue gun
  • Safety pins
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Instructions

    • 1

      Measure the exact dimensions of the table you wish to cover with a measuring tape and jot them down with paper and pencil.

    • 2

      Choose a zebra print fabric from a fabric store. Tablecloths can be made of cotton, polyester, silk or a variety of blends. If you are unsure as to which fabric to choose, consult a store employee.The length of fabric you purchase will depend on the size of your table; make sure it is at least 2 yards longer than your table.

    • 3

      Cut out your tablecloth from the center of the fabric swatch with fabric scissors. The dimensions of this section should be 1 foot longer than each dimension of your table. For example, if your table is 72 inches by 48 inches, the fabric section should measure 84 inches by 60 inches.

    • 4

      Place the fabric, pattern side down, flat upon the floor so that it is fully spread out.

    • 5

      Fold one of the trimmed edges up toward the center of the cloth, creating a flap measuring about 1 inch. This will become a hem.

    • 6

      Apply safety pins to the flap to hold it in place, leaving about 1 inch in between each one.

    • 7

      Secure the hem with a glue gun, removing the pins as you work. For best results, start at one end and work your way toward the other.

    • 8

      Repeat steps 5 through 7 for the remaining three edges of the tablecloth. The side with the folded-up edges will become the tablecloth's underside, or the side that will face the table.

    • 9

      Lay the tablecloth over the table, and place a vase of flowers in the center of the table to help hold the cloth in place.