You've got a bunch of leftover table linens probably from a wedding event, and you're wondering what to do with them. Or perhaps the years are beginning to leave their mark on your curtains and tablecloths, but disposing of them isn't your idea of helping the environment. There's a whole lot you can do with your old tablecloths and curtains, for example, repurposing the fabric into gift wrappings or kitchen rags.

Well, we've got even more creative ideas.

Read on to learn how to recycle used table linens and curtains, including vintage linens grandma might have left behind.

12 Ways to Repurpose Curtains and Table Linens

1. Upcycle Old Curtains into Bedsheets and Pillowcases
2. Decorate Your Home with Vintage Linens
3. Repurpose Old Table Linen into Gift Wrappings
4. Upcycle Vintage Linen and Curtains for Clothing
5. Turn Table Linens into Unpaper Towels
6. Reuse Old Linen Fabric as Cloth Napkins
7. Repurpose into Reusable Bags
8. Use Old Curtains as Hanger Coverings
9. Recycle Old Curtains into Car Play Mats
10. Upcycle Table Linens to Tea Towels
11. Repurpose Old Curtains as Shower Curtains
12. Recycle Tablecloths into Apron

Upcycle Old Curtains into Bedsheets and Pillowcases

If you have tailoring skills, you can sew a cover for your throw pillow using your leftover tablecloths and curtains.

You can also combine pieces of vintage linen to create a patchwork bedsheet.

If what you have is embroidered linen, count yourself lucky. Super adorable!

Decorate Your Home with Vintage Linens

If you've been lucky enough to inherit vintage linen from grandma, you don't want these quality fabrics to go to waste.

Vintage table linens are antique items that can be repurposed as a decorative piece. Whether it's a tablecloth, table runner, or napkin, the quality and colorful patterns of vintage linen will not only impress visitors but also add that antique charm to your interior.

To display vintage linen, frame pieces of the fabric or stretch them over a canvas to create unique wall art. It can be a good touch-up for your holiday decor.

If you have embroidered linen tablecloths, curtains, or napkins, cut and sew them into throw pillows and cushions.

There are several ways to decorate your interior with vintage linens. Pinterest is a good place to start.

Repurpose Old Tablecloths into Gift Wrappings

How much do you spend each year on gift wrap paper? Save money by upcycling your old curtains and tablecloths into decorative gift wraps.

Converting old linen tablecloths into gift wraps makes each present more unique, thoughtful and sustainable. Perfect for an eco-friendly holiday party.

If there's no holiday around the corner, store your old linen tablecloths and curtains until the season comes around. And if the linen fabric feels too dull, get creative by using dyes, embroidering, or patching up different fabric colors.

Upcycle Vintage Linen and Curtains for Clothing

If you're wondering what to do with old tablecloths, turn them into gorgeous outfits. The larger, intact sections of vintage linen can be used to sew shirts, blouses, or even summer shorts.

If you sew as a hobby, perfect! If not, get a tailor near you to do the job. There's no awkwardness about it; it's all about creativity, commitment to a zero-waste lifestyle, and care for the environment.

Linen is breathable and comfortable, making it ideal for warm-weather garments. Vintage linen will work best as clothing material. But any leftover tablecloth or old curtain will be functional, too.

Combine different linen pieces creatively for a unique patchwork effect if desired.

Turn Table Linens into Unpaper Towels

Paper towels are so yesterday! Not only are they bad for the environment, but you need to buy a fresh pack almost every week. But you've got some old table linens or curtains, haven't you?

Breathe new life into your old tablecloths by repurposing them as unpaper towels.

- Cut old tablecloths into smaller pieces to create reusable cloth towels.

- Hem the edges to prevent fraying and ensure durability.

- Use them instead of disposable paper towels for cleaning up spills, surfaces, or any mess in the home.

Reuse Old Linen Fabric as Cloth Napkins

If you have some old, beautiful block-print curtains you don't want to throw away, upcycle them into cloth napkins.

Repurposing curtains into cloth napkins is as simple as ABC:

- Cut linen remnants into smaller squares to make elegant cloth napkins.

- Embellish with embroidery, fabric paint, or appliqué to add a personalized touch.

- These block print cloth napkins can be used for everyday dining or special occasions, reducing waste from paper napkins.

A beautiful addition to your table setting. Plus, you'd be saving some bucks!

Repurpose as Reusable Bags (Tote Bags, Lunch Bags, Etc.):

Repurpose an old tablecloth into a tote bag for shopping or carrying everyday items. A perfect sustainable gift idea.

You'll want to line the fabric for added durability and to prevent items from poking through.

In addition to tote bags, you can create smaller lunch bags or produce bags for a more sustainable alternative to plastic or paper.

Use Old Curtains as Hanger Coverings

Photo Credit: Bloomin' Blinds

Has your clothing ever slipped from a hanger? Doesn't it just annoy you? Aside from that, did you know you could brighten up those bland-looking hangers into something spectacular? It's easy!

Cut old curtains into long strips and wrap them around your hangers. Start at the hook and use a masking tape to hold it in place. Use the next strip to cover the masking tape and wind down, ensuring every part of the hanger is covered.

Fabric-covered hangers are an easy and creative way to repurpose old curtains and tablecloths without sewing.

Recycle Old Curtains into Car Play Mats

Repurpose old curtains into a car play mat and save yourself time and money. It's more affordable than the one you'll get in stores, machine washable, plus you can fold and keep it easily.

Making car play mats is a no-sew way to upcycle old curtains and table linens.

Upcycle Table Linens to Tea Towels

Transforming old table linens into tea towels offers a creative and sustainable way to recycle these fabrics. Plus, linen is highly absorbent and can polish glass and silverware without soap pretty well.

Cut larger pieces of old linen or cotton tablecloths and curtains into smaller, functional sizes and create cute tea towels. Whether you choose to embellish them with simple hems or decorative stitching, each tea towel becomes a practical yet delightful addition to your daily culinary routines.

Repurpose Old Curtains as Shower Curtains

Your shower needs a refresh? Turn your old curtain into a shower curtain. If it's a grommet or tab-top curtain, no tailoring is required. So if you don't have a sewing machine, you definitely can try this.

Recycle Tablecloths into Apron

A fun way to recycle old tablecloths is to make an apron out of them—if you sew, that is. If you have a bunch of old cloth napkins, you can sew them together to form a layered apron. Think about Joseph's coat of many colors. Super creative.

What Is the Best Way to Store Table Linens?

Got a heap load of linens you can't use all at once? Or maybe it's your wedding—after the ceremony concludes, you wouldn't want the leftover event fabrics you bought to go to waste. You must store your event linens properly to keep them in pristine shape.

Here are ways to store table linens and curtains:

• Arguably, the best way to store table linens and prevent wrinkles is to hang them over a padded hanger. Fold them neatly to minimize creases and save space. Consider using acid-free tissue paper to prevent yellowing over time.
• Another way to store table linens is to compress and protect them with vacuum-seal bags. This method reduces bulk and protects fabrics from dust and moisture.
• Make sure your linens are clean before storing them.

How Often Should Table Linens Be Changed?

It depends on how frequently they're used. Wash everyday-use cloth napkins after each meal if they're visibly soiled or after a couple of uses if they appear clean. For tablecloths and placemats, wash once a week or as soon as you notice stains.

If your table linens have gained visible wear and tear, permanent stains, and discoloration, it's time to replace them.

How Many Years Do Table Linens Last?

Table linens can last 3-5 years, depending on usage. For a tablecloth or table runner you use once or twice a week, the durability can be two times more. You can repurpose table linens when they wear out.

Where to Buy Sustainable Curtains and Table Linens

You have to replace the old linens, don't you? If you need quality eco-friendly tablecloths, table runners, napkins, or curtains, shop Ichcha. With a wide variety of fabrics hand-made with fun patterns and natural dyes, you're sure to find something perfect for your home. Shop now.