Directions for Round Tablecloths

Round table cloths are often referred to as decorator cloths and are most often found covering small round tables, called decorator tables, used as side tables or as corner fillers. Usually the cloth reaches the floor, covering the legs of the table and is often seen layered, with the under layer being full length, and the shorter top layer being a contrasting fabric or lace. These cloths are not difficult to construct, the most challenging task will be finding fabric that is wide enough to create a seamless table covering. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Measure your table to determine the finished size of your cloth. Measure across the top of the table. Note this number. Measure from the edge of the table to the length you wish the cloth to be -- this is called the "drop." Note this number.

Add measurements together: the drop on one side plus the width of the table plus the drop on the other side. For example: 20-inch drop on the left, plus 24-inch table width, plus 20-inch drop on the right equals 64 inches. Your finished cloth will need to be a circle 64 inches in diameter.

2

Add 1 inch for hem allowances -- this allows for a 1/2-inch hem all around. The diameter of the fabric circle to be cut will be 65 inches. If the fabric you purchase is not at least this wide, you will have to sew lengths of fabric together to create a piece of fabric in the required width. To locate wide width fabrics suitable for tablecloths, check your local fabric stores, or consider using king or queen flat sheets.

3

Fold your fabric lengthwise, with the folded edge toward you. You will have a cut edge to your right and to your left. Measure along the folded edge and mark the fabric width at the halfway point. If the cut measurement of the fabric circle is to be 65 inches, your half measurement will be 32-1/2 inches.

4

Fasten the fabric tape measure with a safety pin at the center mark on the folded edge, making sure the tape is secure on the center mark but will still allow you to move the tape in the arc as described next. An assistant will be helpful. You are going to hold the tape measure in your left hand and walk around your fabric counterclockwise, marking 32-1/2" every few inches along the arc that you are creating. You will see that you are drawing a half circle which will be the cutting line for your tablecloth. Cut the fabric, leaving the fold intact, to create a circular cloth that is 65 inches in diameter.

5

Hem your cloth with either a serger regular stitch or use the rolled hem setting on your serger if you have that -- trimming the 1/2-inch hem allowance as you go. For a double folded hem, press the hem up 1/2 inch all around and then fold again, pressing in the excess before you sew. With a sewing machine, stitch the hem in place with a straight or zig-zag stitch.