Holiday Linens Inspired by a 1930s Design Icon, Exclusively at Food52

In the 1930s, a time when America’s decorative arts movement was dominated by male designers, self-taught artist Marguerita Mergentime blazed a trail for herself as an innovator who introduced bold patterns to American homes. Though she designed many household items—flatware, glassware, china, and more—she is best known for her printed fabrics that blend folk art with asymmetrical or typographical touches. Her table linens were quite literally conversation starters—just take a peek at her “Food for Thought” tablecloth, featured in the Museum of Modern Art’s online collection.

Today, Marguerita’s vision feels just as fresh as it did then—which is why we’re so excited to announce the launch of our exclusive Food52 Mergentime Collection. In collaboration with Marguerita’s granddaughter, Virginia Bayer, who helped bring the designer’s extensive archive to life, we curated a selection of table linens, dish towels, and tree skirts that revive Marguerita’s bold designs. Just in time for the holidays, her iconic patterns will be the talk of your holiday table and home. Here are all the festive finds in our Mergentime collection, perfect for giving and getting.

Food52 Mergentime Garland Tree Skirt, $150

All of your presents and holiday photos will pop with this garland motif—or Mergentime’s angels holiday skirt—around your tree. Like the entire Food52 Mergentime collection, it’s made of machine washable cotton and linen, so you can keep it pristine for holiday seasons to come.

Food52 Mergentime Angels & Birds Table Runner, $75

Elevate your holiday table, bar, or credenza with this runner featuring a festive pattern of angels and birds.

Food52 Mergentime Garland Table Throw, $75

This table throw’s bold garland motif comes in red or green, and adds instant flair to your holiday spread.

Food52 Mergentime Birds Napkins, Set of 4, $75

Pair these darling napkins with the Mergentime table throw or runner, or use them to dress up a table linen you already own.

Food52 Mergentime Angels & Birds Dish Towel, $35

Add some cheer to a friend’s kitchen or spruce up your own with this festive dish towel.

More gifting inspiration from Food52

• 11 Gifts for the Bourbon Lover in Your Life
• 30 Coffee Gifts That Baristas Actually Like
• Our 41 Best Gifts for Cocktail Lovers
• The Best Gifts for Chefs—According to Actual Chefs

---

Are you fan of Marguerita Mergentime’s designs?