Here are some ideas to get you started: A cotton tablecloth decorated with an African-inspired pattern makes a fresh alternative to gingham.

Consequently, and not to satisfy any low material desires, I was bargaining for a hand-woven cotton tablecloth in Nafplio.

A 56-inch-square cotton tablecloth is $58 at Anthropologie, (800) 309-2500 or www.anthropologie.com.

Utensils and a checked cotton tablecloth are included with the picnic.

I bought the cotton tablecloth I'd admired in the wine tasting room.

Saint watched her a moment after spreading out one of Lydia's checkered cotton tablecloths.

The communal tables, at which single workmen sit and eat, are covered with red-and-white-checked cotton tablecloths (could this be where it all began?)

Then I bought a pink cotton tablecloth from Williams-Sonoma (www.

Among new pieces are pillowcases of vintage ticking ($140 to $165) and cotton tablecloths from Provence ($56 to $66).

She added a white cotton tablecloth, draping it over the inexpensive wood, then stood back to admire the effect.