A Tablecloth Guide

Setting a pretty table adds a gracious note when entertaining family and friends for parties, special events and even simple get-togethers. The foundation of your table setting is the tablecloth. Tablecloths come in a wide variety of materials and colors to help you create exactly the right mood for your dinner. The size of the table used and the kind of occasion should be your guide in deciding what tablecloth to purchase. Does this Spark an idea?

The Right Tablecloth for the Right Occasion

The first consideration when choosing a tablecloth is the occasion of the event. Any occasion that includes children should include a tablecloth that is stain resistant and washable. Outdoor dining requires an easy-care material as well. More formal, adult occasions can include a lace or damask tablecloth or an antique material that can be a conversation piece as well as a table decoration.

Measuring Your Table

Measure the shortest length of your table first, which is the width. Add a 10- to 12-inch overhang to this number to allow for an attractive draping over the edge of the table. Eight inches is considered the minimum amount for the drop over the edge, according to TheHomeInstitute site. Measure the longer side next, which is the length of the table. Add 8 to 10 inches for overhang, which will give you the size of the tablecloth you need to purchase.

Round Tablecloths

Standard round tablecloths are available in 60-, 70- and 90-inch sizes. Tables of this size will generally seat four to six people. A 60-inch cloth will fit tables from 36 to 48 inches in diameter. The 70-inch size fits tables from 48 to 58 inches in diameter. The 90-inch tablecloth will fit tables between 66 to 78 inches.

Oblong Tablecloths

Oblong tablecloths offer a wide variety of sizes. The 52 x 70-inch cloth fits tables from 28 x 46 inches to 40 x 58 inches, seating four to six. The 60 x 80-inch size fit tables from 36 x 60 inches to 48 x 72 inches, tables which seats six to eight. The 60 x 104-inch size fits tables from 36 x 80 inches to 48 x 92 inches, for eight to 10 people. The 60 x 120-inch size fits tables from 36 x 92 inches to 48 x 108 inches for 10 to 12 people. The 60 x 144-inch size fits tables from 36 x 124 inches to 48 x 126 inches, seating 14 to 16.

Square Tablecloths

The standard 52 x 52-inch square tablecloth fits tables that are 28 x 28 inches to 40 x 40 inches. Tables of this size seat four people.

Oval Tablecloths

The 60 x 48-inch oval size fits tables that are 36 x 60 inches, which seats six to eight people. The 60 x 104-inch size fits tables from 36 x 36 inches to 80 x 92 inches, seating 8 to 10 people.