When someone thinks that something I DIYed is bought at a store, it is one of the best compliments ever! That is what happened to me with this adorable DIY XOXO Tablecloth and Table Runner. So many stores are now going for that freehand, brushstroke, homemade type of look on their products, so why not make it yourself? With that in mind, I thought that it would be really fun to make my own Valentine’s Day table linens.
Acrylic craft paint is really the only thing you need for this. I freehanded everything else! I chose a tablecloth and table runner for the DIY project, but you could really use any linens you like, such as napkins, etc. I would maybe stay away from silk fabric, since I can’t promise the outcome from the paint, but if you choose a simple cotton or polyester-type fabric, you will be in good shape.
When choosing the paint brush for this, you want to use one that is not very stiff. A simple, thin, pointed paintbrush should do the trick. If you are going to start crafting, I recommend investing in a few good paint brushes. The majority of the time I use the cheap foam paint brushes, because they can be beaten up and thrown away without me feeling bad about it. Then, when you want to actually do a nice project, like this DIY XOXO Tablecloth and Table Runner, it is the time to use your nice paint brushes. Don’t spend a ton of money on them, but if you buy cheap ones, the hair in the brush comes out very easy, which can mess up your design, and they fall apart quickly. Good paint brushes are like good make-up brushes. If you invest in something decent, and take care of them, they will last forever!
Make sure to play it safe in this project, and work on a covered surface. The paint can seep through the fabric and get on your table, floor, or whatever you are using as the surface. I used towels for mine, but keep in mind that acrylic craft paint will not come out after washing. That makes the XOXO Tablecloth and Table Runner great for future use, but not if the towels get paint on them. I have a pile of towels that I use for crafting purposes only! Something like an old bedsheet works as well.
As for the paint, choose any color you like! I am obsessed with copper and gold right now, so that was my choice this year. Just make sure to hand-wash these items with gentle detergent if needed.
XOXO Tablecloth and Table Runner Supplies
*Plain white tablecloth and pink table runner, or color of your choice
*Acrylic craft paint, any color you like
*Paint brush, try to choose one that isn’t extremely stiff, since that may be more difficult to work with
*Towels or something similar to cover the work surface
Directions:
*Cover your work surface with the towels, or something similar, like an old sheet
*Place the tablecloth or table runner on the work surface
*Freehand paint X’s and O’s
*For a fun Valentine’s Day idea, make the O’s hearts instead
*Allow to dry completely, preferably 24 hours, before use
For more great crafts and recipes, visit From Scratch with Maria. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.
-Maria