Elegant Doilies & Table Linens – UK Handcrafted Picks

Elegant Doilies & Table Linens: Where to Buy Handcrafted Styles in the UK

Why doilies still matter in a modern home?

Doilies might feel like a whisper from the past, but they have a way of making a room feel carefully curated. Think of a doily as the finishing accent on a well-dressed table—like a silk scarf for your favourite vase. They soften hard surfaces, add texture and invite a second look. Whether you love vintage charm or prefer a minimalist twist, a well-chosen doily can make a coffee table, sideboard, or dining table sing.

Styles and materials to know before you shop

Doilies come in a handful of familiar fabrics: cotton, linen, and delicate lace are classics, while modern options include bamboo blends and machine-knitted cotton. Crochet doilies are handworked and show the little irregularities that prove their handmade origin; lace doilies often feature fine motifs and scalloped edges. If you like rustic looks, go for unbleached linen or natural cotton. If you want a polished, formal table, choose fine white cotton or lace with neat, tiny stitches. Knowing the material helps you predict how it will launder and how it will hold up on a tabletop.

Sizing guide: pick the right doily for your table

Size matters, but it’s simpler than you think. Small doilies—around 6 to 8 inches—work well under candles or small plant pots. Medium doilies, roughly 12 to 14 inches, are perfect for serving platters or centrepieces. Large doilies run from 18 to 24 inches and can act as the main table mat on a small side table. For round dining tables, measure the table diameter in feet and choose a runner or large doily that complements rather than covers the whole surface. Visual balance beats exact rules: think of a doily as punctuation, not the whole sentence.

How to style doilies in modern decor

Doilies don’t have to scream vintage. Layer a small lace doily over a wooden tray for contrast, or place a runner-style doily along a chest of drawers to break up block colour. Pair white crochet doilies with industrial elements—metal lamp bases or exposed brick—to create a playful contrast. For contemporary tablescapes, combine plain cotton placemats with a delicate round doily at the centre: it’s like adding a cameo to a modern outfit. Mix and match textures—linen, glass, and brass—to let the doily shine.

Where to buy handcrafted doilies in the UK

Finding handcrafted doilies in the UK is easier than you might think. From big retailers offering artisan lines to dedicated marketplaces where individual makers sell directly, you can track down everything from heirloom-quality crochet to machine-finished linens that mimic the handmade look. Here are some reliable places to start your search.

John Lewis & Partners

John Lewis blends tradition with modern sensibility, stocking finely made table linens in classic cotton and linen. Their selection includes elegant lace-style doilies and well-cut runners that fit a formal dining arrangement. Expect consistent quality and neutral tones that suit both contemporary and traditional interiors. If you want something that travels from Sunday roast to weekday supper without fuss, they’re a solid, dependable pick.

Not On The High Street

Not On The High Street is a go-to for curated, handmade items from small UK designers. You’ll find unique, personalised doilies—sometimes embroidered with initials or customised dates—alongside vintage-inspired pieces. The platform makes it easy to support independent makers while browsing a broad stylistic range, from playful motifs to classic scallops. If you want a one-off piece that feels special, this marketplace is worth exploring.

Etsy (UK sellers)

Etsy is the digital craft fair: thousands of individual sellers list crochet and lace doilies, often made in small batches or to order. Search for UK-based shops to speed up delivery and support local makers. Etsy listings will vary from delicate heirloom crochet to modern, eco-friendly cotton blends. Read seller reviews, check photos closely for stitch detail, and don’t be shy about asking the maker about sizing in inches or custom colours.

Laura Ashley

Laura Ashley leans into country-chic aesthetics—think floral patterns, soft linens and romantic lace. Their table linens often echo vintage motifs, so you’ll find doilies and placemats that pair beautifully with floral china or English country décor. If your home channels a soft, nostalgic feel, Laura Ashley provides a cohesive look that’s easy to coordinate with cushions and curtains.

The White Company

The White Company is ideal if you want crisp, minimalist linens with premium finishing. Their pieces skew toward refined simplicity—neutral colours, careful hems and luxurious feels. While they may focus more on napkins and runners than tiny decorative doilies, their high-quality cotton and linen options make great foundation pieces that elevate any doily placed on top.

Dunelm

Dunelm offers a practical mix of budget-friendly and higher-end linens. You can find machine-made lace doilies and crochet-effect placemats in a range of sizes. If you’re decorating a flat on a budget or buying multiples for a large table set, Dunelm balances price with decent quality. Look for seasonal ranges if you want holiday-specific patterns, like snowflake-inspired doilies or autumnal hues.

Oliver Bonas

Oliver Bonas injects personality into homeware, so expect quirky patterns, unexpected colours and interesting textures. Their table linens often have a modern twist—bold trims, embroidered details and playful shapes—which can be a great way to introduce doily-inspired accents into an eclectic living room or dining area. If you like your decor with a dash of charm, this retailer is a friendly place to browse.

Anthropologie (UK)

Anthropologie blends bohemian flair with artisan touches, offering hand-look textiles that feel collected rather than bought. Their doilies and table linens tend to feature intricate patterns, embroidered motifs and rich textures that make a statement. These are perfect for layered tablescapes where each piece tells part of the story—the cloth, the runner, the doily, the vase.

Marks & Spencer

Marks & Spencer is a classic go-to for well-made, approachable home linens. Their ranges include embroidered table linens and machine-finished crochet doilies that mimic the handcrafted look. M&S often balances affordability with durability, making it a sensible stop if you want reliable pieces that stand up to regular use while still feeling tasteful.

How to spot real handmade quality

Handmade doilies have telltale signs: slightly uneven stitch size, tiny knots where threads join, and a softness that comes from being worked by hand rather than churned out on a machine. Look for consistent tension across a piece and tight finishing at the edges—those tell you the maker took care. If you’re buying crochet doilies, inspect the centre motif and count a few stitches to see if there’s regularity; perfect uniformity can sometimes mean machine production rather than handcraft.

Care and maintenance: keep your doilies looking fresh

Treat doilies gently to preserve their detail. Hand wash in cool water with a mild detergent, or use a gentle machine cycle inside a mesh bag if the instructions allow. Avoid hot water and harsh bleach, which can weaken natural fibres. Lay flat to dry on a clean towel, reshaping to original dimensions—small doilies of 6 to 8 inches dry fast, while larger pieces may take longer. If ironing is needed, use a low setting and press through a cotton cloth to protect delicate lace.

Creative uses beyond the table

Doilies are surprisingly versatile. Use them as liners on shelves, stitch a few together to create a decorative cushion front, or frame a vintage doily as wall art. A delicate doily under a lamp can soften light and add visual layers, while a cluster of different-sized doilies makes a charming gallery on a hallway table. Think of them as fabric jewellery: small pieces that draw attention and add personality without overwhelming a room.

Buying tips: value, customisation and budget

Decide whether you want authentic handcraft or a machine-made piece that looks handmade—both have their place. Handcrafted doilies may cost more, but they carry character and can become keepsakes. If you’re on a budget, shop for machine-stitched options in neutral colours and add a single handcrafted centrepiece as a focal item. For personalised gifts, marketplaces like Not On The High Street or Etsy let you request initials or dates stitched in for a small extra fee. Always check measurements in inches, supplier photos, and seller reviews before you buy.

Conclusion

Doilies and pretty table linens are more than nostalgic nods—they’re flexible, affordable ways to add texture, warmth, and personality to a home. Whether you seek heirloom crochet from a local maker or a modern linen runner from a national retailer, the UK market offers plenty of choices. With a few smart decisions about size, material and care, you can introduce handcrafted charm into everyday spaces and keep it looking beautiful for years.

Doilies FAQs

What size doily should I use under a vase?

For a standard vase, a small doily around 6 to 8 inches often works best; it creates a neat halo without crowding the base. If the vase is wider or part of a larger arrangement, consider a medium doily around 12 to 14 inches for better balance.

Are crochet doilies washable in a machine?

Many crochet doilies can be machine-washed on a gentle cycle if placed inside a mesh laundry bag, but hand washing in cool water is safest to preserve stitch integrity. Always check the care guidance from the maker, and avoid hot water and harsh bleach.

Can doilies be used outdoors on a patio table?

Yes, but be selective. For outdoor use, choose doilies made from sturdy cotton or treated fabrics that resist mildew, and bring them indoors when not in use. Avoid delicate lace if you expect exposure to sun, wind or damp, as natural fibres can degrade faster outdoors.

How can I incorporate a vintage doily into a modern living room?

Layer vintage doilies over contemporary items—place a small doily under a modern glass lamp or frame a standout piece as art. Mixing textures, like a sleek metal tray with a soft cotton doily, creates contrast that feels intentional rather than dated.

Is it worth buying customised doilies?

Customised doilies—embroidered with initials or a special date—make meaningful keepsakes for weddings, anniversaries or housewarmings. They cost more than off-the-shelf items, but the personal touch adds sentimental value and a sense of uniqueness that ordinary linens can’t match.