Finding Keepers
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Swathe your patio table in a fresh new look this spring with bright, festive Mexican oilcloth.
“Rosegall Blue” and “Forever Yellow” oilcloth, $9 per yard or $3 per foot. Mira 101 West Marcy Street, Santa Fe, NM, 505/988-3585, mirastore.com.
"Istanbul” and “Stella Aqua” (cherries) oilcloth, $9 per yard or $3 per foot. Mira 101 West Marcy Street, Santa Fe, NM, 505/988-3585, mirastore.com.
“Mariposa Seafoam” and “Mums White” oilcloth, $9 per yard. Waechtersbach turquoise dipping bowl, $7. Decorative cherries, 75¢ each. The A Store 3500 Central Avenue SE, Albuquerque, NM, 505/266-2222, theastore.com.
“Polka Dots Pink” 7-inch zipper bags, $10 each; on “Orchids on Bandana Pink” oilcloth, $9 per yard. The A Store 3500 Central Avenue SE, Albuquerque, NM, 505/266-2222, theastore.com.
3½-inch small coin purses, $6.50 each; on “Polka Dots Red” oilcloth, $9 per yard. The A Store 3500 Central Avenue SE, Albuquerque, NM, 505/266-2222, theastore.com.
This article first appeared in Spring 2010 Su Casa
Oilcloth dates back to the 18th century and its popularity spans generations, making it a true New Mexican tradition. Formerly made with linen coated with oil and paint, today’s oilcloth consists of printed vinyl bonded to woven cotton mesh. These days you’ll find it fashioned into bags, aprons, place mats, and bibs at your favorite folk art or housewares stores. Sold from bolts so you can cover the longest tables, this durable, colorful fabric looks beautiful and stands up to outdoor use.
Oilcloth patterns and availability vary, so it’s best to stop by the store. Finished tablecloths are also available from these retailers.