How To Choose A Tablecloth: Tips When Selecting The Right Inches, Size & Materials

Learning to choose a tablecloth begins with taking accurate measurements of your table’s dimensions to ensure an optimal fit. Naturally, you should match the shape of your tablecloth with the table for a polished look, so choose round tablecloths for round tables, and rectangular tablecloths for rectangle tables. However, with a little creativity, you can conjure elegant table settings with non-matched tablecloth shapes.

One important consideration is choosing the best table covers for events of different types. Here are some simple suggestions:

• Formal events: Opt for luxurious fabrics and choose classic colors.
• Casual gatherings: These may benefit from cotton or polyester covers with vibrant patterns or colors for a more personalized look.

Ease of maintenance is another important consideration. Machine-washable fabrics are best for frequent use. Ultimately, the right tablecloth will complement your dining space, enhance tableware, and set the tone for a memorable experience.

Getting the right tablecloth size requires accurate measurements and a strong understanding of your desired drop length - the amount of fabric that hangs over the table’s edges. Here is a little advice:

• Formal settings: Common choices include a drop length of 15 inches to achieve an elegant look.
• Casual settings: These typically require shorter drop lengths, often in the range of 6-8 inches, for practicality.

Measure your table’s length and width to ensure your tablecloth fits properly. Then, make use of online resources like tablecloth size charts and size calculators for a simpler solution to get the right measurements. These tools help you get a tailored fit, and you can use our custom service to order the optimal size and shape as well as personalizing the appearance of your table cover.

How Do You Measure For A Tablecloth?

If you need some guidance, here’s how to measure for a tablecloth based on different table shapes:

• Rectangle/square tables: Measure the length and width of the table with a tape measure. Decide on your desired drop length, then add twice that drop length to each dimension to determine your tablecloth size.
• Round tables: Measure the diameter of the table. Choose your drop length, then double it and add it to the diameter to find the appropriate round tablecloth size.

Obtaining accurate measurements is important. Make sure you use a flexible measuring tape for precision, and round up to the nearest inch to ensure the table cover hangs nicely. Always be mindful of the table’s shape and what sort of occasions you intend to use the tablecloth for to determine the drop length.

Accurate measurements ensure a good fit, and we offer an array of sizes for you to get the perfect look on your tables.

What Size Tablecloth Do I Need?

Let’s take a look at some popular tablecloth sizes for different table shapes:

Rectangular tables are common for both formal and casual settings. Popular sizes include:

• 60 x 84 inches (152 x 213 cm)
• 60 x 102 inches (152 x 213 cm)
• 60 x 120 inches (152 x 366 cm)

Round tables are another common choice, and particularly popular for restaurants and wedding venues. Popular tablecloth sizes include:

• 70 inches (178 cm) diameter
• 90 inches (229 cm) diameter
• 108 inches (274 cm) diameter

These table cover sizes are commonly used on tables that seat a range of numbers of people, in settings both casual and formal. You will need to explore the specifics of your needs and determine whether any of these tablecloth sizes are a good fit for you.

When exploring how to pick a tablecloth, there are several factors that should play a part in your decision-making process.

1. Color and pattern: Consider how the design will harmonize with your room’s decor and the occasion. Neutral tones are more versatile, while bold colors can make a big statement. Utilize color theory if you need a little help.
2. Durability and maintenance: Fabrics like cotton and polyester are great for easy care and longevity. And choose a tablecloth that can easily be machine washed if you will be using it frequently.
3. Size and shape: These should be a good match for your table, ensuring you make the necessary allowances for drop length.
4. Ambiance: Formal dinners may call for traditional designs and elegant fabrics, while casual settings can benefit from more relaxed materials and aesthetics.

When you work with us, you can design a custom tablecloth for virtually any application, with an array of personalization options.

When choosing a new tablecloth, the drop length is an essential consideration for getting the right look. Here is a little guidance on standard practices:

• Casual settings: A standard overhang of 6-8 inches over the edge of the table is common. This presents a relaxed yet neat appearance, ideal for everyday use or informal gatherings.
• Formal events: A longer overhang, in the range of 8-12 inches, is typically recommended. This offers an elegant, refined look that creates a sophisticated ambiance for this type of occasion.

When you use our custom service, you have the option to adjust the drop length further to suit your preferences. For a dramatic effect, particularly in formal settings, you could choose an overhang of 15 inches or a floor-length drop. Conversely, for a practical solution, a very short drop could help prevent accidental tugs and spills.

For daily use, cotton, linen, and polyester are great materials to explore as you choose a tablecloth. Here’s how to differentiate between them:

• Cotton: This fabric is soft and breathable with a natural, comfortable feel. It is absorbent and can be presented in many patterns and colors. Potential downsides include easy wrinkling, requiring frequent ironing.
• Linen: This delivers an elegant look and is very durable. Linen becomes softer with each wash, adding a little luxury to your dining experience. Again, however, the fabric is very prone to wrinkling, and may need frequent washing and ironing.
• Polyester: These tablecloths are popular for stain-resistance and easy maintenance. The fabric is wrinkle-resistant, durable, and highly customizable. We supply high-quality personalized polyester tablecloths that offer all these benefits.

Stain-resistance and easy maintenance are important for everyday use, so polyester is a practical choice. And you won’t make any sacrifices in terms of style or customization.

Are Polyester Or Satin Tablecloths Better?

When considering how to choose between polyester and satin tablecloths, you should focus on aesthetics and durability.

• Polyester: You won’t find many fabrics that are more durable, stain-resistant, or low-maintenance than polyester. It is perfect for everyday use and can even work for formal gatherings. It resists wrinkling and can withstand frequent washing, so it is a reliable choice for restaurants and similar settings.
• Satin: These tablecloths, meanwhile, offer luxury and elegance with their smooth, glossy finish. They are ideal for occasional use at formal events and special occasions, where visual appeal is crucial. But the fabric is delicate, prone to stains, and harder to maintain.

Design your own custom printed tablecloths in polyester with our service if durability and practicality are important. Satin tablecloths should be reserved for special occasions only.

Think about how to choose the right tablecloth color - did you know that it can actually have a big impact on the dining experience. Matching the surroundings is important, but think about the following psychological impacts of different choices:

• White: Conveys purity and sophistication, traditionally used at weddings and formal dinners.
• Red: Warm and inviting, red stimulates the appetite and is great for festive occasions or intimate dinners.
• Blue: Calm and relaxing, blue is suitable for casual gatherings and outdoor dining.
• Green: Symbolizing freshness and tranquility, green is great for nature-inspired decor or eco-friendly themes.
• Black: Bring elegance and simplicity to chic, modern settings and evening events.
• Yellow: A cheerful and energizing color that is wonderful for breakfast and lunch.

Colors can influence mood to alter the dining experience. Warm colors enhance appetite and create a lively atmosphere, while cool colors radiate calm and relaxation.

When Choosing, What Color Of Tablecloth Is Best For Stains?

Color and patterns are crucial considerations in how to choose a tablecloth for its stain-masking capabilities. Dark colors, like navy or black, are very effective at hiding stains. If you are in a setting where spills are likely, such as family dinners or outdoor events, dark-colored tablecloths may be perfect. Light colors, meanwhile, look fresh and airy, but they don’t mask stains at all.

Patterns can be very useful for camouflaging stains. Design a custom tablecloth with one of the following busy patterns:

• Floral
• Plaid
• Geometric designs

This will help conceal minor spills and splatters. You could also choose textured fabrics for an extra layer of protection, as the weave variations may distract from blemishes.

For the ultimate stain-hiding tablecloth, choose custom waterproof tablecloths in a dark color with an intricate pattern. With this combination, your table will keep looking neat and refined even after minor spills. 

How Do You Set The Table With A Tablecloth?

If you are setting a table with a tablecloth, one popular choice is thoughtful layering. We call this tablescaping, and it helps enhance both aesthetics and functionality. Start by choosing a tablecloth that complements the dining space and works for the occasion, with an even overhang that is compatible with the formality of your event.

There are various elements you can layer to add depth and interest. Here are some suggestions:

• Add placemats that contrast or complement the tablecloth to define a space for each setting.
• Add a custom table runner down the center for a contemporary touch that adds extra protection.
• Incorporate napkins that match or contrast with the tablecloth and placemats. They could be folded neatly or tied in napkin rings.
• Choose appropriate dinnerware, glassware, and utensils to bring everything together in a symmetrical layout.

With this layered approach, you create a visually-appealing, inviting table.

If you have a 10-foot (120-inch) table, you must consider the desired drop length to choose the right tablecloth size. For a standard drop of 6-12 inches, you should add 12-24 inches to the length and width, so the tablecloth length will be 132-144 inches.

For a formal setting, we recommend a longer drop of 15-30 inches. In this case, you will need to add 30-60 inches to the table’s length and width, resulting in a tablecloth that is 150-180 inches long.

If you need to accommodate a table extension, measure the total extended length and add the drop length as normal. For instance, if the extension makes your table 144 inches long, and you need a 15-inch drop, your tablecloth length should be 174 inches. Ultimately, the math is fairly simple, but you must always determine the optimal drop length and double it before adding it onto the table’s dimensions.

What Size Tablecloth Should I Choose For A 12 Ft Table?

If you are setting a 12-foot (144-inch) table, the desired overhang is a key part of how to choose a tablecloth. A standard drop length of 6-12 inches will mean your tablecloth should have 12-24 extra inches on the width and length. This means an overall length of 156-168 inches. For formal settings, where a longer drop of 15-30 inches is preferred, you will need to add 30-60 inches to the tablecloth’s length and width. This means an overall length of 174-204 inches.

You may find that standard sizes don’t meet your needs. In this case, our custom-made tablecloths can be an excellent option to find the optimal fit and style. We can accommodate precise measurements for many orders, ensuring an elegant and tailored look optimized for your large table.