Do You Use Chargers With Placemats? Styling Dos & Don’ts
It’s a common question for home decorators: Should you use chargers with placemats, or are they interchangeable? Understanding the difference can transform your table setting game. In this guide, we compare the functions and styles of chargers and placemats, explaining when to use each—or both—for a layered, elegant look. Let Artera Home’s artisan-crafted pieces help you set the scene in style.
The Role of a Charger in the Dining Table
Charger plates are also known as charger plates. They are designed primarily to enhance the aesthetics of your dining table while keeping it tidy. They act as bases for other plates, such as salad plates or dinner plates, and remain on the table throughout the meal. By catching any spills or drops, they protect your tablecloth or table surface from stains.
These plates not only add style and color to the table setting before food is served, but are also essential in formal table settings. However, they can also elevate casual gatherings, adding a touch of sophistication. The Dark Brown Rattan Wicker Charger Plate Set with its natural materials and warm brown tones not only adds elegance and class to your party, but also adds an eco-friendly sustainability to your living space.
>> Explore: The Best Wicker Charger Plates Must-Have for Your Table Setting
Dark Brown Rattan Wicker Charger Plate Set
What Does a Placemat Add to the Table?
Placemats aren’t just decorative—they play a practical role in protecting your dining table from heat, spills, and scratches caused by everyday use. Acting as a stylish barrier between your dinnerware and the table’s surface, they help preserve your furniture while adding depth and dimension to your setup.
Beyond function, placemats bring texture, color, and personality to your table. They help unify your tablescape, complement your centerpiece, and reinforce the overall theme—whether you’re setting the mood for a casual family dinner or an elegant gathering.
Depending on style and purpose, woven placemats come in a variety of materials and designs from the unique Black Swirl Seagrass Woven Placemat to the elegant Rectangular Neutral Seagrass Placemat.
>> Read more: Top 10+ Wicker Placemats for Stylish Dining Table
Black Swirl Seagrass Woven Placemat and Rectangular Neutral Seagrass Placemat
Do You Use a Charger With a Placemat?
The answer is that chargers and placemats can be used together. If you’re aiming for a formal dining space, combining both placemats and charger plates is an ideal way to elevate the aesthetic. The combination of materials, colors, and textures, when arranged delicately, creates a striking visual effect — especially suitable for creating a luxurious and attractive party.
Deciding whether to use a placemat and charger plate or not depends entirely on the aesthetic style you want to express and the level of protection you need for your tabletop. Combining the two will create a dining table rich in detail and depth. Conversely, removing both will create a space that is minimalist, streamlined, and clean — ideal for those pursuing a simple, modern style.
If you want to create a rustic, natural look, you can combine the patterned rattan charger with the Round Sunburst Seagrass Placemat for a warm, cohesive atmosphere. If you prefer a more modern, minimalist style, choose the sleek charger paired with the simple, neutral Round Water Hyacinth Woven Placemat.
>> Read more: What Is the Size of a Standard Placemat for Your Dining Table
Black Swirl Seagrass Woven Placemat and Rectangular Neutral Seagrass Placemat
Can a Charger Be Used Instead of a Placemat?
The answer is YES! Sometimes, a serving platter can be used as a placemat, but there are a few important things to keep in mind.
Serving platters are larger than dinner plates, so they can provide surface protection, similar to a placemat. However, serving platters are usually not as large as a placemat, so they may not provide as much protection to the table. Additionally, serving platters are often purely decorative and do not provide the same level of utility as a placemat, which helps catch crumbs and absorb moisture.
A placemat can be most effective as a placemat replacement for lighter meals, buffets, where protecting the table is not the primary function but rather decoration and setting the tone. However, if the meal includes hot or more spill-prone dishes, a placemat may be a more practical choice.
>> Read more: How to Clean Woven Placemats Safely and Effectively
Charger plates
How to Style Chargers and Placemats Together
When you decide to use both chargers and placemats, styling them together requires some thought and creativity. Here are some tips to help you get started:
Layering Techniques
Start with a placemat as the base layer and add a charger on top. This creates a layered, dimensional look that can elevate the table. The charger acts as a backdrop for the dinner plate, adding an extra layer of style.
Color and Texture Harmony
Consider using placemats and chargers with complementary colors and textures. For example, if you have a natural wood dining table, pair it with a light-colored placemat and a neutral-toned charger. For a more vibrant look, choose placemats and chargers in colors that match your overall table theme.
Material Pairings
Play with different materials. You can pair a charger with a Rectangular White Stripe Seagrass Placemats or combine a metal charger with a fabric placemat for contrast and texture. Material combinations can help you achieve a modern yet cozy vibe.
>> Related: What Is the Best Material for Woven Placemats? Expert Reveals
Rectangular White Stripe Seagrass Placemats Set
Styling Mistakes to Avoid
When styling your dining table, there are a few common mistakes you should avoid:
Overcrowding the Table
Using both chargers and placemats can create a cluttered look if not done thoughtfully. Avoid over-styling by keeping things simple and balanced.
Mismatched Materials
Be careful not to mix materials that don’t complement each other. For example, pairing a shiny metal charger with a textured fabric placemat may not always create the harmony you want.
Neglecting Practicality
Remember, table settings are meant to be both beautiful and functional. Avoid focusing too much on aesthetics and forget the protective qualities of placemats. Always keep functionality in mind, especially when using materials like natural woven fibers that not only protect the table but also enhance the overall ambiance.
>> Read more: 15+ Unique Boho Table Decor Wedding Ideas for Your Big Day
The banquet table has a subtle combination of Chargers vs Placemats
Artera Home – Elevate Your Dining Table With Natural Craftsmanship
1. 100% Handmade – Each Product is a Masterpiece
Completely handmade by skilled artisans from traditional Vietnamese craft villages such as Kim Son – Ninh Binh, Artera Home products are a blend of rustic spirit and sophisticated craftsmanship. Each placemat or charger is unique, the beauty of timeless handmade value.
>> Read more: Explore Kim Son Craft Village
Wicker placemats and charger manufacturing process in Kim Son village
2. Sustainable Materials
We use eco-friendly materials such as water hyacinth, seagrass, rattan, jute and sedge, which are not only durable but also bring a sense of closeness and warmth to the living space. Each product not only helps you decorate the dining table but also conveys the message of green living - living responsibly with the environment.
3. Suitable for all styles
From boho-chic, coastal, rustic to modern-farmhouse, round, rectangular or plate-shaped placemats from Artera Home are easy to coordinate with many types of dishes and tablecloths. Whether it is an everyday meal or a grand party, our products are always ready to create a classy highlight for your dining table.
Artera Home’s wicker charger and placemats
4. Exceptional Customer Service
At Artera Home, customer satisfaction is at the heart of everything we do. Our team is dedicated to helping you find the perfect pieces for your home and ensuring a smooth and enjoyable shopping experience. From personalized recommendations to hassle-free returns, we are here to assist you every step of the way.
5. Exclusive Offers & Competitive Pricing
We believe in offering high-quality, handcrafted decor at accessible prices. Artera Home is proud to offer special promotions, seasonal discounts, and bundle deals that make it easier than ever to add elegance to your dining experience without breaking the bank. Plus, our direct-to-consumer model means you’re getting the best value for your investment.
Artera Home’ dining table
When choosing between charger plates and placemats, it is important to consider the purpose and occasion. Both can add elegance and charm to your dining table, but when used correctly, they can add a touch of sophistication to your dining space.
Let Artera Home help you create a classy dining space with our exquisite and sustainable handcrafted products. Whether you choose charger plates or placemats, the clever combination of them will make your dining table stand out and attract attention.
