9 Best Scalloped-edge Tea Towels Hosts Love
Why Eco-Conscious Hosts Are Raving About Scalloped-Edge Tea Towels
If you’ve ever hosted a brunch and felt a twinge of guilt about all the disposable napkins, you’re not alone. I’ve made a conscious shift to reusable textiles in my kitchen, and the difference is huge—not just for waste reduction, but for style. Scalloped-edge tea towels are having a moment, especially among hosts who care about sustainability and aesthetics.
I first spotted these beauties on some of my favorite YouTube channels (think The Domestic Geek and A Beautiful Mess), where seasoned home decorators share their best finds. The scalloped edge isn’t just for show—it signals attention to detail and elevates even the simplest kitchen setup. If you’re looking for something that’s both gorgeous and good for the planet, this guide is for you.
What Makes Scalloped-Edge Tea Towels So Special?
Before we jump into my top picks, let’s talk about why these towels stand out. The scalloped edge adds a soft, feminine touch that’s so much more interesting than straight hems. Plus, they’re usually crafted from high-quality natural fibers like cotton or linen, making them durable and absorbent.
I always consider these factors:
- Material: Is it organic cotton or linen?
- Absorbency: Can it handle spills and drying?
- Design: Are the colors and patterns versatile?
- Size: Is it big enough for hosting duties?
- Care: Machine-washable is a must!
And now, let’s get to the list—you’ll see exactly why YouTube’s top hosts can’t stop recommending these.
1. Anthropologie Scalloped Tea Towels
YouTube Favorite: Featured by @TheDomesticGeek
Anthropologie’s scalloped tea towels are a visual delight. I’ve used their pastel set in blush pink and sage green—each towel measures about 28” x 20”, which is generous for drying glassware or lining bread baskets. The cotton is soft but sturdy, and the embroidered scallop trim is just the right amount of fancy.
Features:
- 100% cotton, machine washable
- Wide color selection: blush, sage, mustard
- Subtle embroidery along edges
- $24 for a set of two
These towels always look fresh on my marble counter, and I love how they double as napkins when I’m short on linens. If you want something that feels curated but not too precious, this set is perfect.
Personal Tip: Wash them once before first use—the cotton gets softer and more absorbent!
2. Maison d’Hermine “Colmar” Scalloped Edge Kitchen Towels
YouTube Favorite: Recommended by @ABeautifulMess
Maison d’Hermine’s “Colmar” tea towels bring French country charm to any kitchen. The scalloped edge is embroidered with delicate floral motifs in rich blue and yellow tones. Each towel is 20” x 27”, made from 100% cotton.
Features:
- Vibrant prints inspired by Provence
- Scalloped edges with floral embroidery
- Fade-resistant, machine washable
- $18 for a set of two
I love pairing these with rustic serving boards—they instantly make every meal feel more like an event. They’re absorbent enough for hands and dishes but pretty enough to drape over a bread basket.
Personal Testimonial: My guests always ask where I got these whenever I host weekend brunch!
3. Pottery Barn Scalloped Linen Tea Towels
YouTube Favorite: Endorsed by @HomeWithStefani
If you love understated elegance, Pottery Barn’s linen tea towels are a dream. The scallop trim is subtle and sophisticated, offered in muted hues like oatmeal, dusty rose, and seafoam. Linen dries quickly and feels luxuriously crisp—perfect for drying stemware.
Features:
- Premium European linen
- Size: 18” x 28”
- Available in neutral tones
- Machine washable
- $32 per towel
These have become my go-to for fancier dinners or holiday hosting. They’re also a thoughtful hostess gift—just tie one around a bottle of wine!
Practical Advice: Linen wrinkles easily, but I find the texture adds relaxed charm.
4. Martha Stewart Collection Scalloped Cotton Kitchen Towels
YouTube Favorite: Shared by @LivingWithLydia
Martha Stewart’s kitchen towels are always reliable. Her scalloped-edge series comes in vibrant stripes—think melon orange or turquoise—with a thick embroidered edge that resists fraying. Each towel is 16” x 26”, made of absorbent terry cotton.
Features:
- Terry cloth for maximum absorbency
- Bold stripe patterns
- Reinforced scallop trim
- $15 per set of two
I keep a few in my picnic basket—they’re sturdy enough for outdoor use but still have that playful look. And they survive countless washes without losing color.
My Experience: These are my “workhorse” towels that still look cute for casual hosting.
5. Magic Linen Scalloped Edge Kitchen Towel
YouTube Favorite: Highlighted by @ApartmentTherapy
Magic Linen’s towels are all about texture. Their kitchen towel features oversized scallops in contrasting thread—available in stone gray, forest green, and cinnamon pink. Made from Oeko-Tex certified linen (so no harmful chemicals), each towel measures about 20” x 27”.
Features:
- 100% European linen
- Oeko-Tex certified (eco-friendly!)
- Oversized scallop detail
- Colors: cinnamon pink, stone gray, forest green
- $19 each
Linen is naturally antimicrobial, so these towels don’t get funky even after heavy use. The tactile edge makes them extra photogenic—perfect for Instagram shots of your tablescape.
Practical Note: Linen gets better over time; expect each wash to soften the fabric.
6. Williams Sonoma Scalloped Edge Tea Towels
YouTube Favorite: Used by @HomeSort
Williams Sonoma’s tea towels combine durability with classic style. Their scalloped-edge collection comes in crisp white with colored trim—navy blue, red, or pale green. The towels are crafted from heavyweight cotton (20” x 30”).
Features:
- Thick weave for extra absorbency
- Embroidered scallop trim in contrast colors
- Machine washable
- $32 per set of two
These are perfect if you want something neutral but not boring. I use mine for drying large pots and pans—the size is generous and the trim doesn’t unravel.
Buyers’ Tip: Match the trim to your kitchen accent color for a cohesive look.
7. April Cornell Scallop Edge Dish Towel Set
YouTube Favorite: Featured by @TheInspiredHome
April Cornell’s dish towels are bright and cheerful, with bold florals and playful scallop edges in colors like sunshine yellow or cornflower blue. Made of high-quality cotton (19” x 27”), these towels are both decorative and practical.
Features:
- Vibrant floral prints
- Stitched scallop edging
- Durable cotton construction
- $24 per set of two
I pull these out when I want to make my kitchen feel extra happy—especially during springtime hosting. They’re great conversation starters!
Personal Testimonial: Every time I gift these at a housewarming party, they get rave reviews.
8. Sophie Allport Bees Scalloped Edge Tea Towel
YouTube Favorite: Loved by @MrsHinchHome
Sophie Allport’s bee motif is iconic among UK hosts. Her scalloped-edge tea towels feature delicate hand-drawn bees scattered across a cream background, finished with mustard yellow scallop trim. Each towel measures about 18” x 29”.
Features:
- Signature bee print
- Mustard yellow scallop edge
- Thick woven cotton (highly absorbent)
- $15 each
These are ideal for summer picnics or garden parties—I always get compliments! Plus, the bee print feels quintessentially British.
Practical Advice: Buy extras—these make adorable hostess gifts or party favors.
9. Crate & Barrel Scalloped Stripe Kitchen Towels
YouTube Favorite: Recommended by @CleanMySpace
Crate & Barrel’s stripe towels are understated yet chic, with scalloped edges in bold accent colors like coral or teal against neutral stripes. Made from soft but sturdy cotton (18” x 28”), they hold up beautifully through repeated use.
Features:
- Soft woven cotton
- Striped pattern with colored scallop trim
- Machine washable
- $16 each
I mix and match colors depending on the season—coral for summer, teal for winter gatherings. They’re easy to layer with other linens if you want a put-together look without much effort.
Personal Tip: These work just as well as hand towels in powder rooms!
Material Matters Organic cotton or linen feels best against the skin, absorbs well, and lasts longer. Check if the towel is Oeko-Tex certified if you’re concerned about chemicals.
Size & Absorbency Look for towels at least 18” x 26”—anything smaller is better as a napkin than a workhorse towel. Thicker weaves catch more water.
Scallop Quality Not all scallops are created equal! Embroidery should be tight and even; loose threads mean less longevity.
Color & Pattern Pick colors that complement your kitchen decor but don’t be afraid to go bold—tea towels are an easy way to switch up style seasonally.
Easy Care Machine washable is essential; some linen towels get softer with each wash while cotton ones maintain color better.
FAQ: Your Scalloped Tea Towel Questions Answered
Are scalloped-edge tea towels just decorative?
Not at all! While they look stunning hung over an oven handle or draped on your table, most of these picks are highly functional—perfect for drying dishes or mopping up spills.
How do I keep my tea towels looking fresh?
Wash them on gentle cycles and avoid bleach (it can fade colors). For linen towels, tumble dry low or air dry for best results.
Can I use these as napkins?
Absolutely! Many are generously sized and soft enough to double as napkins at brunches or dinners.
What’s the best way to gift a tea towel?
Wrap it around homemade bread or tuck it into a basket with jam—a thoughtful touch every host appreciates.
Buying Advice: Finding Your Match
When selecting your perfect set, consider what matters most in your space—do you want vibrant patterns or calming neutrals? Is sustainability your top priority? Or do you simply want something photogenic for your next gathering?
My favorites balance style with practicality. If you’re eco-minded like me, opt for organic materials and skip heavily processed fabrics. If you entertain often, pick sturdy options like terry cloth or thick linen that can keep up with frequent use.
Most importantly, choose something you’ll love seeing every day—because these little details turn everyday routines into moments worth savoring!
Final Thoughts: Why Hosts Love These Picks
I’ve tested dozens of tea towels over the years and always come back to scalloped-edge styles—they’re just so charming! Whether you’re prepping for a dinner party or looking to upgrade your kitchen basics, these nine favorites combine function with flair in ways that truly impress guests (and delight hosts).
If you haven’t tried them yet, trust me: there’s something special about reaching for a beautiful towel that feels good and does good for the planet. Happy hosting!