I have a sneaking suspicion this one worked in reverse. Most paper shredders "notice" when something is poked into the slot. If the tablecloth was close enough to be eaten, it probably climbed into the mouth of the shredder first.
That said, I would have the wiring checked for sure.
I've also seen sewing machines that like to sew on their own ( a newer Singer is freshest in my mind) and it's possibly a short or else a problem with the board. Either way, you don't want defective electrical or electronic devices in your home.