Dining room table

[TickledOnion]

I have a nice oak table and chairs pushed up to one wall of the dining room and an oak dresser on the opposite wall. The table has a computer on it and gets used for homework and playing on, colouring etc. Occasionally we eat there if there are more than 4 people eating.
As it gets used by the kids it is covered in an ugly brown cushioned thing. I think it’s a heatproof mat that goes under a table cloth.
What can I put on the table to protect it that looks attractive? Or shoul I just leave it uncovered and expect it to get ruined?

If it gets used for computer, and for homework, colouring and playing on, I'd keep the cushioned cover. I mean you can get a more funky one if you want to, but it makes sense to keep it covered and have it in nice condition when you want to eat at it. As a 'useful table' covered with dcs things, it isn't going to look fancy even without the cover.

Buy a length of oilcloth or whatever it's called now to go over the ugly brown thing.

Nice table cloth (waterproof if DC are young) over the ugly brown cushion mat thingy.

Agree to the oilskin. John Lewis have some.

DCs are 9 and 7 so past drawing on tables. If they want to do messy craft they have to use the kitchen table.
I’m trying to decorate the dining room so that is more than just a passage from the lounge to the playroom. I can see that oilcloth is practical but it’s not pretty. I think I’d rather have the table on show (it’s not that fancy, it’s just a shame to cover it up). I’m think I’m going to get a runner to compliment the decor and tell the DCs to be careful when they use the table.

In that case have large dinner mats that the DC have to use under there paper - that will prevent pen indents in the table.

A sheet of clear glass. Make a paper pattern from newspaper and take it to a local glass merchant.

I don't know how the table's currently treated (eg waxed, oiled, varnished), but have an oak table with Osmo oil on it; you can put hot mugs and stuff on it no probs, and paint and felt tip wash off fine. The only thing I'd put a mat down for is a really hot roasting dish out of the oven. I highly recommend that oil!