I need something to place on the table so that I can build my PC (I'm not allowed to scratch the table). Would a thin tablecloth work? How do I discharge static electricity from it?
I wouldn't recommend it but it's fine if you keep in mind that there is static electricity present. Plug your power supply in and touch it to ground yourself. Do this every couple minutes. I usually build my systems on the ground LOL. I grew up this way so I build like that.
It's fine. The concept of destroying your system with static electricity is overblown. If you just touch your case once in a while that's enough to discharge any (harmless) static electricity.
I've built my computer on carpet and they've worked just fine.
Guys thank you very much for the immediate responses. I appreciate it. I'm going to try the cardboard idea since 1) I don't have enough floor space for the job and 2) I'm deathly afraid of taking risks since this is my first build. Again, thank you.