In 2006, one of the words to be added to the new edition of the Oxford American Dictionary was the word "tablescape." The word has been in use since 1991, but it has not come into common usage until recently. Tablescape basically means "everything you put on a table." Although that is a simple definition, the possibilities of what a tablescape actually looks like are endless. Table-scaping is the art of decorating your table with a variety of different "tools," in the form of tablecloths, runners, napkins, and placemats.

A tablecloth can be described as simply a covering for your table, but it is far from simple. There are many fabric choices, quality, style and shape, to choose from. The tablecloth will offer the most protection for the table, as it will usually cover the entire surface.

A table runner is similar to a tablecloth, but does not cover the whole table. Runners can be used to protect certain parts of the table while revealing the surface of the table in areas as well. For example, placing runners across the width of the table can be used as placemats on each side. A runner could also be placed down the center of the table to provide a place for other decorations so that they do not scratch the table surface.

Napkins and placemats are also available in a variety of choices. Although paper napkins and plastic placemats are good for picnics, when sitting down to dinner, a quality set of placemats and napkins can add a great deal of sophistication to your tablescape.

When it comes to tablescaping, the way you decorate your table can be as elaborate or simple as you like. The style you choose is entirely your own, which makes the possibilities endless. This could overwhelm some people, but if you approach it piece by piece, designing a tablescape can be very enjoyable. The secret is to start with a simple color theme or style design, and then stick to it. Once you decide on the main idea, the choices become much more limited, making the project less intimidating. For example, if it is the winter holiday season and you would like a snowy theme, the best colors to start with would be white, blue, and light shades of purple. With this foundation, your options become more limited and focused.

Many people may ask why go to all the effort to create a tablescape. There are two reasons for why it is worth it. First, if you have chosen a quality, beautiful piece of furniture for your table, protecting it is important. The table is a furniture piece that is used constantly, possibly many times a day. The longevity of the table is key. Protection of the finish from scratching and marring is provided by use of a table linen or runner.

The second reason for tablescaping is the need to create a peaceful and attractive place for you to enjoy your meals. Having such a place to eat meals at is much healthier for you than simply grabbing food and eating it over the counter. Research studies have show that people who sit and eat meals at a table eat more health foods, digest those foods more thoroughly, and gain the most benefit for their bodies. Eating slowly, turning off the television and other distractions, and eating with other people have been shown to help this as well.

In short, a peaceful, attractive, and pleasing tablescape can do wonders for your mind and body. It not only provides you with a healthier style of eating meals, but also offers a unique decoration to your home that you can be proud of creating.