borddukar

Borddukar are textile coverings placed on tables to protect surfaces from heat, spills, and wear, and to provide decoration. They are used for everyday meals and festive occasions, and come in a range of materials, sizes, and designs. The usual shape is rectangular; round borddukar are used for circular tables or particular settings.

Etymology: The word borddukar is Swedish, formed from bord (table) and duk (cloth). The plural form borddukar indicates multiple cloths.

Materials and design: Common materials include cotton, linen, and cotton-linen blends; synthetics such as polyester are also used. Finishes range from plain weave to damask, embroidery, and lace edging. Edge finishing may include hems, piping, or fringes.

History and usage: Tablecloths have a long history in Europe; in Sweden and neighboring regions they were part of household linen sets and displayed social status in past centuries. Mass production in the 19th and 20th centuries made borddukar widely available. Today they are used for formal dinners and family gatherings as well as protective covers during meals.

Care and maintenance: Most cotton and linen borddukar are machine washable; check care labels. Bleaching, ironing, and gentle drying are common. Delicate fabrics may require hand washing or dry cleaning.

Related items include napkins, placemats, and table runners.