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Ever had your tablecloth decide to take a trip in the wind right as the roast lands on the platter? Tablecloth clips and weights are the unsung heroes of alfresco lunches, garden parties, and even indoor dinners where a stray draft can spoil the look. They keep cloths in place, protect your food and glasses, and give you the freedom to eat outside without holding every corner down. Think of them as tiny anchors—like mooring lines for your tablecloth—helping everything stay put so you can enjoy the moment.
Not all clips are created equal. Depending on the table edge, fabric thickness, and whether you’re indoors or outside, you’ll choose a different style. Below are the main types you’ll encounter, and what makes each one useful.
Spring or clamp clips look a bit like mini peg clamps and grip the table edge to hold the cloth securely. They’re quick to attach and remove, usually made from plastic or metal, and are great for picnic tables with a defined edge. If you need a no-fuss option that you can attach in a few seconds, spring clips are a solid choice.
Magnetic weights come in pairs or sets and clamp the cloth by magnetic attraction. These are ideal for metal tables like bistro sets and you won’t need to overhang the cloth as much. They’re discrete, often decorative, and work well on patios where the table top is metal or has a metal trim.
Weighted hems are sewn into the edge of the tablecloth—perfect for a neat, elegant finish on patio tables. Chain weights are small links that slide into a hem, adding a low-profile weight that keeps the cloth from billowing. Both options are almost invisible and great for more formal settings where you don’t want visible clamps.
Some solutions use straps that wrap under the table and clip together, securing the tablecloth from beneath. These are excellent for tables without a lip to clamp onto or for heavier fabrics that need more holding power. They work like a snug belt that prevents the cloth from lifting.
When it comes to buying tablecloth clips and weights in the UK, you’ll find a mix of specialist retailers, department stores, and online marketplaces. Below I cover the most reliable places, why they’re worth checking, and the kinds of products they typically stock.
Amazon UK offers the widest selection—from basic plastic clips to decorative magnetic weights and sewn-weighted tablecloths. The huge range means you can compare brands, read user reviews and often grab a multi-pack for under a tenner. Prime delivery helps if you need something fast for a weekend BBQ.
John Lewis is a go-to for quality homewares. Expect elegant, designer-led options like weighted hems and metal clamp sets that look the part at a dinner party. Prices are generally higher than discount stores, but you get reliable materials and customer service that many people trust for home entertaining gear.
Lakeland focuses on kitchen and dining gadgets, so their clips and table accessories tend to be practical and well-designed. They often stock clever clamp systems and weatherproof options for outdoor use, perfect for people who love entertaining and want durable, tested solutions.
Dunelm is strong on value and variety, with budget-friendly clip packs and occasional decorative weights. If you’re decorating a big table for a family reunion or need multiple sets, Dunelm often offers the best balance of cost and selection.
Argos is a convenient place to pick up inexpensive clips and weight sets, especially if you like reserve-and-collect. They generally cover standard clip types and some magnetic options, making them handy for last-minute purchases without breaking the bank.
IKEA doesn’t always carry specific tablecloth clips, but they offer weighted tablecloths and clever kitchen textiles that can do the job. If you’re after minimalist, Scandinavian-style solutions and affordable design, IKEA is worth a look—especially for heavy fabrics with sewn-in weight options.
Wayfair has a broad homewares catalogue with everything from decorative magnetic weights to luxury weighted hems. Their product range is ideal if you’re shopping for a specific aesthetic or want a curated look with matching table accessories.
Stores like Robert Dyas and The Range often stock practical, garden-friendly table accessories that include clamp clips and outdoor weights. They target homeowners who want durable, everyday solutions at a reasonable price—and often have multi-packs for big tables.
For unusual or vintage finds, eBay is a treasure trove. You can pick up handcrafted weights, decorative magnetic sets, or bulk packs at auction prices. It’s perfect if you like a bargain hunt or need a custom style that’s not available in mainstream stores.
Picking the right clips is not just about looks. Think about the table type, cloth fabric, local weather, and how often you’ll use them. Below are practical characteristics to prioritize so you don’t end up with clips that slip or rust after one season outdoors.
Metal clips (stainless steel or coated metal) last longer and resist rust, especially if you leave them outside occasionally. Plastic clips are lightweight and cheap, but can become brittle in cold weather. If you plan to use them for years, spend a bit more on good materials—think of it as investing in a little peace of mind.
Look for clips with adjustable grips or rubber pads. The grippier the contact surface, the less likely the clip will slip. Measure your table edge—if it’s less than an inch thick or more than 2 inches, you’ll need to choose clips that fit that range. Most universal clips fit edges between 1/2 inch and 1 1/2 inches.
Weights are often sold in ounces; common options range from 0.5 oz weights for light linens to 4 oz or more for heavier fabrics and windy conditions. For a windy terrace, aim for heavier weights—around 3 to 4 oz per corner—so the cloth behaves like it’s anchored. Lightweight options work well for indoor tables or calm days.
If you use tablecloths outdoors, rust resistance and UV-stable materials matter. Stainless steel, brass finishes, or UV-treated plastics handle sun and rain better than untreated metal. Don’t forget to store clips inside after use to extend their life—think of them like little sun hats that need to be put away at night.
For alfresco dining I recommend magnetic weights for metal tables and heavy-duty clamp clips for wooden or plastic garden tables. Look for 3 to 4 oz weights at each corner or a set of clamp clips with a firm spring and rubber teeth. That combination keeps napkins, place cards, and napkin rings from launching into orbit when a gust hits.
If you’re setting up a picnic or buying for a large event, go for multi-pack plastic clips or sewn-in chain weights that are inexpensive and efficient. Multi-packs from retailers like Dunelm, Argos, or online marketplaces often work out cheaper per clip and can cover several tables without much fuss.
For dinner parties and weddings, opt for discreet weighted hems or decorative magnetic weights in metals like brushed brass or chrome. John Lewis and Wayfair often carry designer-looking pieces that won’t disrupt the table’s aesthetic. These options keep everything elegant while solving a practical problem.
Placement matters. Start by smoothing the cloth, then attach clips at each corner and midpoints on longer sides if necessary. For a rectangular table, clips every 2 to 3 feet work well; for round tables, three or four evenly spaced clips prevent flapping. If you’re using weights, position them near the edge and avoid placing them where plates or hot pans will sit to keep the table both safe and tidy.
Short on budget? Try DIY weights by filling small fabric pouches with sand, rice, or pebbles and sewing them into the hem. You can also use colourful pebbles, vintage buttons, or metal washers in small pouches as decorative weights. These creative tricks let you match a theme—think rustic burlap pouches for country-style events or satin bags for a wedding afternoon.
Keep clips and weights dry and clean. Rinse off salt or sticky residues and dry metal parts thoroughly to prevent corrosion. Store magnetic weights in a small box to avoid scratches and keep spring clips away from direct sunlight, which can degrade plastic. Simple upkeep extends their life by months or years, saving you money over time.
Sign up for newsletters from the major retailers—Amazon UK, John Lewis, and Dunelm—because they often send out seasonal discounts and bundle deals. Black Friday and spring outdoor seasons are prime times for bargains. Also check marketplace sellers on eBay for bulk lots, and watch Wayfair and Argos clearance sections for discounted designer items.
On a tight budget? Grab multiple packs of plastic clips from Argos or Dunelm and add a couple of DIY weighted hem pouches. Want something low-profile and elegant? Pick a weighted hem from John Lewis and add small magnetic weights for extra security from Wayfair. For long-term outdoor use, invest in stainless steel clips from Lakeland or Robert Dyas—think of it as choosing between a rental and a tool you’ll keep forever.
Before clicking buy, make sure you’ve checked: table edge thickness in inches, fabric weight (light, medium, heavy), indoor vs outdoor use, desired aesthetic, and how many clips or weights you’ll need—typically four for small tables, six to eight for larger rectangular tables. This short checklist prevents awkward returns and last-minute improvisation.
Want to make your outdoor table look magazine-ready without a professional stylist? Use matching weights as part of your table decor—choose metallic weights that echo your cutlery finish or rustic pouches that match place cards. Little touches like these keep the table practical and beautifully coordinated.
Conclusion: Tablecloth clips and weights are small investments that make a big difference. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or a formal dinner, the right clip or weight keeps your table looking tidy and your guests comfortable. With options across UK retailers—from budget packs at Argos and Dunelm to designer pieces at John Lewis and Wayfair—there’s something to suit every table, season, and budget. Pick materials that match your usage, measure your table in inches, and don’t be afraid to mix DIY flair with store-bought convenience.
| Tablecloth Clips & Weights | Price | |
|---|---|---|
| Coghlans Dugklemmer | kr. 38,- |
