Editing Tablecloth (section)

==History==
The oldest known reference to tablecloth dates back to around 100 AD, when it was mentioned by ancient Latin Spanish poet [[Martial]].<ref>{{Cite book |last=Knisely |first=Tom |chapter-url=https://books.google.com/books?id=o6h1DgAAQBAJ&dq=tablecloth+Martial&pg=PA3 |title=Handwoven Table Linens: 27 Fabulous Projects From a Master Weaver |date=2017-04-30 |publisher=Rowman & Littlefield |isbn=978-0-8117-6542-8 |pages=3–4 |language=en |chapter=History of Table Coverings}}</ref>

In many European cultures a white, or mainly white, tablecloth used to be the standard covering for a dinner table. In the later medieval period, spreading a high quality white [[linen]] or cotton cloth on the table was an important part of preparing for a feast in a wealthy household. Over time, the custom of arranging tableware on a cloth became common for most social classes except the very poorest.<ref>{{cite web |title=The Tablecloth In History |url=https://yourtablecloth.blog/2013/03/20/the-tablecloth-in-history/ |website=Your Tablecloth |date=20 March 2013 |access-date=June 1, 2021}}</ref> As eating habits changed in the 20th century, a much greater range of table-setting styles developed. Some formal dinners still use white tablecloths, often with a [[Damask#Modern uses|damask weave]], but other colours and patterns are also common.