How To Make A Kraft Paper Tablecloth For Outdoor Party

One of the least expensive ways to decorate an outdoor party table is to make a Kraft Paper Tablecloth! Here is an easy, inexpensive way to make the tablecloth creative and festive. A unique one-of-a kind idea that you don’t have to worry about getting damaged.
We are planning a Low Country Boil Party and if you’ve ever been to one, you know they are messy.
NO WAY am I using any of my vintage linens for this party. However, I want the tables to look cute and fun so here’s what I did.
What Supplies Do You Need For A Kraft Paper Tablecloth?
First, purchase a roll of Kraft Paper. You will be able to cover several tables with a roll and have plenty left over for other projects.
I like to keep a roll of Kraft Paper on hand.
It’s great for wrapping paper in a pinch and I use it for protecting tables during craft projects.
In addition, I’ve used it for many craft projects.
Next, you will want some Large Sharpies in colors that work with your theme.
You can also use stamps to create designs on the kraft paper. I used this crab stamp from this set.
Instead of using an ink stamp pad, I used this red paint and this brayer roller to flatten the paint.
Note: This was a seafood dinner and therefore the black and red colors work for my theme. You will want to consider your theme before purchasing your supplies.
What size is your table?
To begin your project, you need to determine the size of your table.
I always cut the kraft paper approx. 12 inches longer than the table length, allowing a 6 inch drop on each end. If a guest will be seated at the end of the table, shorten the drop to about 3 inches on each end.
For this project my outdoor tables are almost exactly the width of the kraft paper roll which is very convenient.
What Is Your Party Theme?
Next, decide on your theme and begin to determine what you want your tablecloth to look like.
Our Low Country Boil Party is an adult event and normally I would set the table with chargers and beautiful dishes. However, for this casual party, we are using paper plates and paper napkins in a buffet style.
So here’s what I did first.
Draw The Plate Chargers on the Kraft Paper
First, draw a circle or plate on the kraft paper at each place setting.
I used a paper plate to trace a circle, using a large black sharpie pen.
Then to enhance the area, I continued to draw circles around the original traced circle.
Add A Stamp Design
Once all the circles are drawn, use the paper plate as a pallet and pour a small amount of the red paint into the plate. When working with stamps of decorative rollers, you want to flatten the paint with Brayer Roller.
You may remember this technique from these Painted Flour Sack Napkins I shared earlier this year.
Next, press the rubber Crab stamp into the paint and begin pressing randomly onto the circles you’ve drawn on the kraft paper tablecloth.
You will need to reapply paint to the stamp approx. every two times your stamp the design.
To finish each place setting, I used a red sharpie to add a menu to the center of each place setting.
It’s just a list of what coming out of the Low Country Boil Pot.
Isn’t this just the cutest?
Finally, you can now add your centerpieces to the table and you are ready for your Low Country Boil Party.
Once the evening is over, you don’t have to worry about spilled butter or cocktail sauce. Guest can even throw their shells right onto the table as well.
Just roll up the tablecloth and toss it in the trash.
The Buffet Kraft Paper Tablecloth
In addition to the dining tables, we also have a table for the appetizers, sides and dessert. Therefore, I added one more Kraft paper tablecloth.
Taking the same theme, I randomly placed the crab stamp all over the tablecloth and then added the boil pot ingredients as well.
This is such a fun and inexpensive way to dress up your outdoor tables for a casual party.
Be sure to see How to Host a Low Country Boil for more tips for a casual party.
I look forward to seeing what you do with your Kraft paper tablecloth ideas. Be sure to share them with me.
Thanks so much for stopping by and stay tuned for some inexpensive centerpiece ideas for the Low Country Boil Party. You can see How to Make These Free Herb Centerpieces Here.
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Enjoyed the project?
Suggested materials:
- Kraft Paper (Amazon)
- Crab Stamp (Amazon)
- Paint (Amazon)
- Sharpie (Hobby Lobby)

Frequently asked questions
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