You don’t have to spend a lot of money to have a great tablescape for breakfast or any other meal. Everything on this breakfast table was thrifted with the exception of the flatware and the centerpiece which my funny number one guy put together for me.
The china is L. L. Bean’s “Evergreen” pattern. Here I showed the four piece place setting which includes a dinner plate, soup bowl, salad/dessert plate and coffee mug. I loved this pattern when I found it at the Humane Society Thrift store (one of my favorites) as it works for Winter as well as for Christmas. The pattern has an evergreen branch with a pinecone and some cedar branches with little red berries. I purchased 6 complete place settings with a couple of extra dessert plates and mugs for a total of $15.00.
The china sits on a white place mat. The other side of the placemat is decorated with gold thread so can be used to dress up the table for a special occasion.
Looks like little Christmas trees. Four placemats were $1.00. They had a few spots but those disappeared after I washed them.
The glasses are hand blown with bubbles and were 50 cents each. I bought them in the summer last year but they work. Finally, the napkins are a red, white and green plaid to add a pop of color. My daughter showed me how to make them into little roses to add some fun to the place setting. The napkins were 50 cents a piece.
The whole table setting was about $20.00 and I will be able to use it throughout the winter and for many years to come.
Thrifting Tips
When buying china check for cracks, chips and knife marks on the plates. My rule of thumb: if there are four complete settings in good condition out of the china set on sale, I will consider buying the set. You can always dispose of the chipped pieces.
Check linens for spots and damage. If you think it will wash out, go ahead and buy it. Most of the time you can remove the soiled parts by washing.