Determining the ideal size of a tablecloth is a quick and simple process. The guidelines given below will help you determine how low the elongation of your tablecloth should be. Even if the shape of your table is unusual, you can measure it as a rectangle or a circle, depending on the difference in length and width.
Step
Method 1 of 2: Measuring a Square, Rectangle, or Oval Table
Step 1. Increase or decrease the size of the table according to the time of use of the tablecloth
If your table has a section that can be removed to change its size, decide which size will work best for you. If you want to make a tablecloth that can be used every day, use the size of the table you normally use. If you want to make a formal tablecloth for entertaining guests, you may need to measure the maximum size of your table.
If you want a tablecloth that fits all sizes of your table, measure the maximum table size, and choose a tablecloth that hangs no more than 15 cm from the edge. Be aware that this tablecloth may appear uneven in size when used on a smaller table
Step 2. Measure the length of the table
Use a tape measure to measure the longest part of the table, or any side of a square table. Measure directly in the center of the table, not the edges, especially if your table is oval.
Take note of the size of your table so you don't forget it
Step 3. Measure the width of your table
Measure the other side, perpendicular to the previous measurement. Take this measurement even if your table is square; because sometimes it may be difficult to distinguish a square and rectangular table.
Step 4. Decide how low you want your tablecloth to hang
The length of the tablecloth hanging under the table is called the "drop length". Most dining tablecloths have a "drop length" between 15 – 30 cm, not lower than the dining chair. A more formal dining tablecloth may hang down to the floor, as well as a tablecloth intended to cover the feet of a person eating.
To help you determine your desired "drop length," hold a cloth or paper hanging over the edge of the table. Place the chairs and other furniture that you will place when using this tablecloth
Step 5. Calculate the length and width of your tablecloth
Multiply your desired "drop length" by 2, as this will hang on both sides of the table. Add your values to the table length and width to get your ideal tablecloth width.
If your table is oval in shape, you can purchase an oval or rectangular tablecloth of this size
Step 6. Buy a larger size tablecloth if you can't find the right size
If you can't find a tablecloth that fits the size of your table, and you don't want to buy or make a tablecloth of that size, buy one that's slightly larger than your table size. Larger tablecloths will hang lower, while smaller tablecloths may not cover the entire tabletop. Like other fabrics, tablecloths can also shrink during washing, and may decrease in size by up to 10 cm over time.
You may also want to consider other options, such as buying a rectangular tablecloth that covers the entire length of the table but doesn't cover the entire width
Method 2 of 2: Measuring a Circular Table
Step 1. Measure the diameter of the table with a measuring tape
The diameter of a circular object is the distance of a straight line from one edge to the other, past its midpoint. For most tablecloths, you can immediately estimate the diameter just by looking at it. But if you want a more precise measure measure from several positions and calculate the average of your measurements. A more precise way of measuring is to sit in the center of the table, with the hanging part left between 0 - 5 cm.
This method can also be used on hexagon-shaped tables or other unusually shaped tables, as long as each side of the table is the same length
Step 2. Determine the length of the hanging part
For most applications, a drop length of 15 cm is considered appropriate. Any length less than that will probably make your tablecloth look too small for the table. For a more formal event at a table with no chairs underneath, you may want to create a tablecloth that hangs all the way to the floor.
Measure the difference between the height of the table and chair to determine the maximum "drop length" so that there is no pile of fabric on the chair when it is put under the table
Step 3. Calculate the diameter of your desired tablecloth
Multiply the length of the hanging fabric you want by 2, as it hangs on both sides of the table. Add this value to the diameter length you measured from the table to get the ideal length for your tablecloth.
Step 4. Consider your options if you can't find a tablecloth of the right size
If you can't find a tablecloth of the right diameter, and you don't want to make your own, try a tablecloth a few centimeters larger, as there will be less trouble than a smaller tablecloth.
You may also be able to use a square tablecloth on a circular table. Follow the recommended table size for the square tablecloth, or measure the diagonal length of the tablecloth. This length should be the same as the diameter you got in the step above, or slightly larger
Tips
- If the size of your tablecloth does not match the size of a regular tablecloth, you can order a tablecloth at a tailor. It's just that, the costs you spend may be greater than buying what is already available.
- Measure the length of the hanging tablecloth ("drop length") with the chair inserted under the table. So you don't make a pile of cloth cloth on the chair when it is inserted.
