There’s something undeniably joyful about a crab boil. It’s casual but festive, a little messy but totally delicious ... and best of all, it brings people together around the table (or picnic table, or newspaper-covered patio). But just because you’re cracking crab claws and piling shrimp shells doesn’t mean you have to skimp on style. With the right linens, your crab boil can go from backyard bash to Southern-chic soirée.
Here’s how to throw a crab boil party that’s finger-lickin’ good and easy on the eyes!
Start with the Table (Yes, Even if It’s Covered in Kraft Paper)
Traditionally, crab boils are all about utility — newspaper, brown kraft paper, or butcher paper gets rolled out across the table for easy cleanup. But what if you layered that casual charm with a pop of color underneath? A bold Greek Key Navy Blue Tablecloth or classic striped runner adds instant polish while keeping that laid-back vibe. Think of it as the party equivalent of wearing a cute sundress with flip-flops.
Brighten Up with Napkins
This is where the magic happens. Hen House dinner napkins and guest towels in fun, summery hues! Think grenadine, coral, citron, navy, or ocean blue — these not only elevate your table, they’re practical too. Roll them up and tuck into a little basket, tie with twine, or tie around a mini crab cracker for a charming place setting. Bonus points if you fold one into a bib (trust us, it’ll come in handy).
greek key navy blue tablecloth | greek key navy blue table runner | latticework ocean blue guest towel | petit fleur-de-lis grenadine red orange dinner napkin
Set the Scene for Seafood
Add in a few festive extras that nod to your theme:
• Lemons cut in half (for squeezing and for color)
• Bowls of Old Bay seasoning
• Tiny galvanized buckets for shells
• Mason jars for cold drinks
• A bucket of cold beer or sweet tea on ice
Linens in punchy prints or coastal colors help tie all these elements together. A runner down the center of the table or some coordinating placemats, and you’ve got instant ambiance — no candles required.
Add a Pop of Personality
Every good host knows the best parties are in the details. Tie a napkin around a wine bottle like a bandana. Print out menu cards and crab-eating tutorials (download for free here). Scatter a few mini flags and patriotic elements for flair. Stuff little baskets with everything your guest needs to enjoy the meal - crab crackers, little mallets, and lots of napkins. This makes a great take home party favor too! These little touches, especially when they echo the colors or prints of your linens, make a big impression.
Cleanup? Easy-Peasy
When the party’s over and the last cob of corn has been picked clean, your linens are ready for the wash. Our easy-care cotton gets softer with every spin, and it’ll be ready for your next round of low-country fun in no time.
Whether you’re hosting in your backyard, at the beach, or on the front porch with newspaper and good company, linens bring personality and polish to even the most casual gatherings. So next time you plan a crab boil, don’t just bring the Old Bay ... bring the color, too.
Because even when there’s butter on your fingers, your table can still look fabulous!
Ready to dress up your next crab boil? Browse our summer favorites here and get cracking! 🦀🍋💛
