Quick Answer: How to Create a Beautiful Christmas Table on a Budget

To decorate your Christmas table affordably, start with a quality tablecloth in a timeless colour, then layer a simple table runner through the centre. Add natural décor such as foliage, pine cones and candles, and finish with reusable cloth napkins tied with twine. Choose handmade or UK-made items that you can bring out every year instead of disposable decorations. Keep your colour palette simple and let texture, layers and lighting do the work.

Why Christmas Table Décor Matters (Even on a Budget)

Christmas dinner is often the centrepiece of the whole day – the place where family and friends gather, cameras come out and memories are made. A thoughtfully dressed table instantly makes the meal feel special, cosy and festive, even if the décor itself is quite simple.

A well-chosen tablecloth or table runner can transform a tired table, tie your room together and set the tone for your theme – rustic, traditional, Nordic, minimalist or colourful. You don’t need dozens of pieces; you just need the right, hard-working ones.

Step 1: Start With a Quality Tablecloth

Your tablecloth is the foundation of your Christmas table. Choose the wrong one and the whole table can feel off; choose the right one and everything instantly looks more coordinated and intentional.

Choose a Christmas-Friendly Colour

• Classic deep red
• Forest or pine green
• Warm neutrals (cream, oat, taupe)
• Winter white
• Soft grey for a modern feel

Pick a Timeless Fabric

For Christmas dinners (gravy, red wine and little hands included), cotton or cotton-mix tablecloths are ideal. They’re durable, washable and look far more premium than disposable plastic or paper coverings.

Get the Right Size

For the table to look elegant, your tablecloth should hang roughly 20–30cm over each edge. Most homes have tables that don’t match standard shop sizes, which is why a custom-size tablecloth can make such a difference to the overall look.

Our tablecloths are handmade in Devon and can be cut to any size you need – perfect for Christmas hosting, awkward-sized tables and extendable designs.

Shop handmade tablecloths made in Devon »

Step 2: Add a Table Runner for Instant Luxury

A table runner is one of the most budget-friendly ways to add depth and make your table look professionally styled. Running down the centre of the table, it:

• Adds texture and colour
• Frames your centrepiece
• Protects your table from hot dishes
• Instantly makes the setup look more “finished”

Choose a festive tartan, plain linen or a winter-inspired print that compliments your tablecloth and Christmas decorations.

See festive table runners »

Step 3: Use Natural, Low-Cost Decorations

Some of the loveliest Christmas table decorations cost very little – and some are completely free. Try using:

• Fresh or faux foliage (from your garden or local florist)
• Pine cones – leave natural or lightly spray with white or gold paint
• Branches or twigs popped into glass jars
• Cinnamon sticks tied with twine
• Dried orange slices for a beautiful scent and warm colour

Weave these along your table runner to create a rustic, Scandinavian-inspired Christmas table that feels cosy, natural and welcoming.

Step 4: Choose Reusable Cloth Napkins

Disposable paper napkins look flimsy and end up in the bin within hours. Cloth napkins, on the other hand, instantly make your Christmas table feel more luxurious – and they can be washed and reused for years.

Try these simple styling ideas:

• Fold napkins neatly and tie with twine and a sprig of rosemary or greenery
• Place napkins under the cutlery for a relaxed, layered look
• Use red or forest green napkins on a neutral cloth for classic Christmas colour

Browse handmade cloth napkins »

Step 5: Layer Lighting for a Warm Christmas Glow

Lighting is the secret ingredient of every beautiful Christmas table. The right glow makes everything – from your roast potatoes to your tablecloth – look better.

Use a mix of:

• Tealight holders dotted along the runner
• Elegant candlesticks for height and drama
• Battery-powered fairy lights for sparkle (especially useful around children and pets)

Aim for soft, warm lighting that feels inviting rather than bright overhead lights that wash everything out.

Step 6: Add Handmade Touches for a Personal, Premium Feel

This is where your Christmas table really comes to life. Handmade items – especially those created in the UK – add authenticity and charm that mass-produced décor simply can’t match.

Consider adding:

• Handmade fabric coasters and placemats
• Mini personalised name tags tied around napkins
• A handmade fabric centrepiece or runner
• A custom-size tablecloth that fits your table perfectly

These details don’t just look beautiful; they also support small UK makers and give your guests something to notice and talk about.

Explore handmade homeware gifts »

5 Budget-Friendly Christmas Table Ideas You Can Copy

1. The Nordic Natural Look

Use a white or neutral tablecloth, a simple linen runner, pine cones and white candles. Add fresh greenery down the centre for a rustic, Scandinavian feel.

2. The Classic Red & Green Table

Combine a red tablecloth with green napkins, warm metallic accents and berries or foliage. It’s timeless, cosy and instantly festive.

3. The Cottagecore Christmas Table

Try a gingham or check tablecloth, handmade napkins, jam jars as candle holders and plenty of natural textures like twine and wood.

4. The Tartan Christmas Table

Use a tartan runner over a neutral cloth, with gold cutlery and simple white plates. Add greenery and candles to keep the look rich but not cluttered.

5. The Modern Minimal Christmas Table

Choose a grey or white tablecloth, black or brass candlesticks and eucalyptus stems for a clean, contemporary finish. Keep decorations simple and repeated for a calm, stylish effect.

Why Handmade UK-Made Décor Is Better This Christmas

Buying handmade, UK-made items means:

• Better quality fabrics and finishes
• Supporting local makers and small businesses
• Ethical production and lower transport miles
• Pieces that last for years, not just one season

Your Christmas décor becomes part of your family traditions – something you look forward to bringing out every December – not something that ends up in the bin on Boxing Day.

Christmas Table Décor FAQs

What’s the best colour tablecloth for Christmas?

Red, green, gold, cream and white are the most popular festive colours. Pick one that works with your existing decorations so everything feels coordinated.

How far should a Christmas tablecloth hang?

A drop of around 20–30cm gives a polished, hotel-style look while still being practical for guests.

How can I decorate my Christmas table cheaply?

Focus on one quality base item – a tablecloth or runner – then use natural foliage, pine cones, candles and reusable napkins. These low-cost pieces can be styled beautifully and reused each year.

How can I make my small dining space feel festive?

Use a well-fitted tablecloth, slim centrepieces and soft lighting. Avoid bulky decorations and keep the colour palette simple so the space doesn’t feel overcrowded.

Create a Christmas Table You Love – Without Overspending

A beautiful Christmas table doesn’t need to be complicated or expensive. With a few well-chosen pieces and some thoughtful styling, you can create a cosy, welcoming setting that your guests will remember.

If you’d like to elevate your Christmas table with handmade, custom-size, UK-made table décor, explore our range of:

• Handmade tablecloths (made to any size)
• Cloth napkins in festive colours
• Festive table runners
• Handmade homeware gifts and accessories
• PVC Vinyl Tablecloths
• Oilcloth Tablecloths

Your Christmas table deserves something special this year – and it doesn’t need to cost the earth.