Tablemats add to the beauty, convenience and effectiveness, wherever they are placed and are definitely one of the most important pieces of table accessories in any home. There are lots of distinct designs and styles in which tablemats are fabricated and the buyers can choose the right kind that would suit the purpose. Tablemats are designed to stand normal wear and tear of use for many years. Right from chic styles to traditionally designed patterns; the impressive collections of tablemats are made durable and long lasting, adding a special ambiance to the decor. They are available in different shapes and sizes; they may have a host of interesting patterns that include paisleys, floral, geometric and various abstract prints.

Attractive tablemats set impart color and style that provide just the right elegance to the table setting. These can be used for both formal as well as for a slightly casual ambiance to place the serving dishes. Ideal for use in homes, offices and restaurants and cafeterias. Tablemats are used to protect the surface of a table, counter, or bar. They are installed at each place setting at a table, and they are designed to accommodate plates, glasses, silverware, and other dining equipment so that the table does not become stained, scuffed, scarred, burned, or otherwise damaged. Tablemats are available in a dizzying array of options, ranging from paper tablemats designed for disposable use to hand-beaded tablemats for upscale dinner parties.

The primary function of a tablemat is to protect the table. Tablemats tend to be thick, insulating the table from heat, and many are water-resistant so that spills will not seep through and stain the table. Many are also ornamental in addition to functional, and they are designed to coordinate with napkins and other table décor.

A wide variety of other materials can be used for tablemats. Some of the most common ones are:

- Wood: Wooden Tablemats look elegant and suave

- Bamboo: bamboo Tablemats are a great option if you want to create a typically eastern theme.

- Cork: Cork Tablemats are durable and add a touch of old school to the table décor.

- Cotton: simple, durable, cheap and washable. What more can you ask for! Cotton Table mats are available in a medley of colors, designs and styles.

- Linen: although a lot of maintenance is required for linen Tablemats, they are perfect to create an elegant and sophisticated look.

- Jute: Ecofriendly! That's all there is to it. Jute Tablemats look chic and are available in all kinds of price ranges. Perfect to use daily.

- Paper- disposable, these mats are generally used in Restaurants and fast food joints. A great option for kids parties. Paper mats may be printed with information about the restaurant or the area. Some restaurants offer tablemats as drawing pads, encouraging customers to use crayons, pens, or pencils on their tablemats to amuse themselves while they wait for food.

- Beaded: Beaded Tablemats are perfect to create a festive look.

- Plastic: Plastic Tablemats are a great option for daily use. Apart from serving as place mats, they can also be used as trivets for hot pots and pans.

The mat is often flexible so that it can be rolled or folded for storage. An assortment of geometric shapes can also be used. Round, oval, square, and rectangular tablemats are very common, but it is also possible to find octagonal tablemats, or designs that are cut into irregular shapes. Home users tend to prefer permanent tablemats, which may be laminated or sealed to increase their durability. Some people keep several different designs in storage, so that they can coordinate for different events, while others use a basic set of tablemats for all occasions. A set of purchased or hand-made tablemats can make an excellent housewarming gift, especially in the case of people who are setting up house with a brand new table. When choosing tablemats as a gift, it is a good idea to think about the taste of the person who will be receiving them, and to consider purchasing coordinating napkins as well.