Every one of us who lived in the 1970s will never forget the bright and often clashing colors in our homes and clothing. The basic colors were warm earthy browns, oranges, reds and yellows, but homes were decorated with bright colors, in bold geometric patterns and large floral prints. The garish colors, the plastic furniture and home accessories were all the rage.

Design: Revontulet in red (Northern Lights)

At the turn of the decade to the 1970s, after linen and cotton had dominated in home textiles, it was time for a new innovation: disposable tablecloths!

A Finnish company Suomen Vanu had developed a non-woven cloth-like wood fiber “Finnweb” fabric that was soft and draped nicely. Previously used for bedlinen, it was a revolutionary material for tablecloths – affordable, cheerful and easy to use. If you spill coffee, just throw the tablecloth away! 

 "A new tablecloth brings new vibe to your table!" 

Textile artist Lena Rewell designed patterns for these disposable tablecloths branded Kimara. There were many different designs in several color combinations, mostly abstract shapes with inspiration from nature, as so often in Lena’s designs. 

Design: Tuulenpuuska in green (Gust of Wind)

The vivacious Kimara patterns were Finnish design at its best, and the tablecloths were small artworks. Colorful, fun, cheery spirit for parties and everyday tables matching to your tableware and mood. They cost no more than an ordinary fiber product, buying a new design or color was possible for everyone. 

The material did not rip, it could be ironed and also carefully washed. The discarded tablecloths could be burned without any harmful effects, and being wood fiber they also decomposed.

The budget-friendly fabric also inspired people to turn the cheery patterns into party dresses. The cloth-like fiber material was durable enough to sew and use a few times, no worries for spilled drinks!

Designs: Mänty in yellow (Pine), Regatta in pink

In the coming years the Kimara family grew with paper napkins and disposable cups and plates, and Lena also designed new patterns.

Kimara was exported all over the world, and verifiably it was fit for a King-to-be! When the Crown Prince of Sweden visited Finland in April 1970, the tables were adorned with blue and white Kimara. 

The Crown Prince of Sweden second from left, with President Kekkonen in the middle.

"Use and throw away. Kimara, Madame."