Creating a custom tablecloth for your round dining table not only adds a personalized touch to your home decor but can also be the base to transform an “ugly duckling” table to a touch of elegance. Whether you’re looking to enhance your dining experience for everyday meals, are hosting a special occasion, or sprucing up an outdoor table for a summer dinner on the patio with friends, a beautiful tablecloth can bring elegance and charm to your setting. With a few basic sewing skills and an easy cutting method for round cloths, you’ll be able to create a beautiful tablecloth that fits your table perfectly and showcases your personal style.
Measuring
Start by measuring the diameter of the tabletop through the center of the table from edge to edge, then divide this number in half to find the table’s radius. For example, if your table is 36″ wide, the table’s radius is half of that, or 18″.
Next, you’ll determine the side drop, which is the measurement from the top of the table to the bottom length for how low you want the tablecloth to hang.
- For a casual look, a drop of 6″ to 10″ is standard.
- For a more formal look, a drop of 15″ is a good choice.
- For an elegant look, go for floor-length which is usually 30″.
Once you’ve chosen your desired drop length, you can calculate the tablecloth’s cutting measurement by add together the tabletop radius + the drop measurement + the hem allowance.
Yardage
The following table will help you determine how much fabric you need. This also shows how much trim you’ll need for the edges if you choose to add it.
Cutting
Fold your fabric in half lengthwise, matching the selvage edges, then in half again, matching the cut edges this time. Then use a pin to mark the folded corner (fabric center). Pin your fabric around the edges to make sure it does not shift. Then position one end of a tape measure at the marked corner fold. Use the tape measure like a compass and mark the cutting radius every few inches, creating a pie-shaped cutting line. Finally, cut through all four layers of fabric at once along the marked line.
Finishing the Edge
Depending on your final look, choose a narrow hem for this finish, which could include a contrasting thread color, embroidery, decorative stitching, or a unique trim. You can also serge the edge for lighter finish.
