Round tablecloths can add charm and elegance to any event setup, but improper folding can leave you with frustrating creases and wasted storage space. Whether you’re prepping for your next rental or trying to keep your own linens in pristine condition, learning how to fold a round tablecloth the right way makes a big difference.
Why Proper Folding Matters
Folding your round tablecloths correctly helps prevent stubborn creases and extends the life of your linens. It also saves time during setup and reduces the risk of damage during storage or transportation. This is especially important if you’re frequently handling event inventory like high-boy spandex tablecloths or polyester napkins, which also require proper care.
Common Mistakes When Folding Tablecloths
Many people make the mistake of folding round tablecloths the same way they do rectangular ones. This leads to bulky corners, uneven folds, and more ironing later. Avoid folding while the cloth is still damp or tossing it directly into bins without smoothing out wrinkles. Folding too tightly or randomly also shortens the fabric’s lifespan.
Round Wedding Tablecloths Folding Instructions
Step 1:
Place the tablecloth on a flat clean surface. Do a crosswise fold, creating a semi-circle or half-moon shape.
Step 2:
Create a long rectangle by bringing the rounded edge of the tablecloth to the flat folded edge. (If you're planning on hanging your tablecloths this will be your stopping point.)
Step 3:
Create a smaller rectangle shape by folding the tablecloth lengthwise. Your two tablecloth ends should meet here.
Step 4:
Fold the tablecloth lengthwise again creating a smaller rectangular shape. Depending on your storage bin size, you can leave the tablecloth folded over once like this or fold it smaller to fit a smaller space.
Step 5:
Fold your tablecloth an additional time if you desire to fold it as a small compact square that can fit in most storage bins. Once you store your tablecloth you're all done!
If you’re a visual learner, watch our step-by-step video tutorial on how to fold a round tablecloth:
The Benefits of Using Round Tables
1. Accessible
So, why are round tables more beneficial than rectangular tables? For starters, they’re easily accessible since most venues will offer them in multiple sizes, colors, and materials.
Lastly, most wedding venues, hotels, and banquets offer round tables as part of their package. For this reason, it's always good to ask your venue what type of tables and chairs they will provide!
2. Space Savings
They can also save more space by occupying less floor area but can accommodate more guests.
3. Versatility
Round tablecloths can also be used as a substitute for rectangular tablecloths when sized up, but rectangular tablecloths cannot be used for round tables as they are too narrow for their round shape.
4. Budget-Friendly
It’s safe to assume sticking to a budget is a must when it comes to planning a party! Decorating a round table is more economical than most people think because they typically only require one centerpiece unlike rectangular tables, which usually require 2 or more centerpieces depending on their length.
5. Encourages Interaction
While it may seem minuscule, round tables can increase guest interaction. Since the guests will all be facing the same direction, it makes it a lot easier for them to interact with each other than if the table was divided in half by floral arrangements or centerpieces.
Having easy access to each other is a plus for photo ops and starting up fun conversations and memories that will last forever!
Most Common Round Tablecloth Sizes
On the question of whether size matters, when it comes to tablecloths the size can be crucial! Round tables vary in size by their diameter and height. However, the most common round table cover sizes available have 48”, 60”, or 72” diameters and heights of 30”.
Taller tables, also known as cocktail tables or tall boy tables, are also available in smaller diameters. However, they are much less common as they are usually used for specialty tables such as guest book tables, cake tables, or cocktail tables instead of guest tables. Usually, 120 white polyester round tablecloths, 132" tablecloths, or spandex cocktail table covers are used for these tables.
Like table sizes, tablecloth sizes also vary to help provide medium or full coverage for your tables. The most common round linen sizes are 90”, 108”, 120”, and 132”.
Some examples are 108-inch round polyester tablecloths and 108 round white polyester tablecloths.
The shape and versatility of round linens set them apart from rectangular sizes as essentially, one tablecloth size can be used on several different-sized tables, especially if medium coverage is preferred.
For example, a 90” tablecloth can be used on 48”, 60”, or even 72” banquet tables if you don't want your tablecloth to touch the floor. You can also use larger tablecloths on a smaller round table for a ruched pooling effect on the floor.
If full coverage to the floor is preferred, a 108” round tablecloth is needed for a 48" round table. If you have a 60" table you'll need a 120" round one for the tablecloth to touch the floor. Round 72" tables will require a 132" tablecloth for a full drop to the floor.
Storing Your Tablecloths with Other Essentials
Properly folded tablecloths can be stored alongside matching napkins or charger plates for efficient setup. Keeping your linens grouped by size or color can also save time when preparing for events like weddings or corporate functions.
If you’re preparing for a dinner party or need decor for a special event, having your round tablecloths neatly folded next to other essentials like centerpieces makes your workflow smoother and more organized.
FAQs
How to fold a round tablecloth?
Start by laying it flat, then fold it in half into a semicircle. Continue folding into quarters or smaller segments until compact. This prevents creasing and keeps your storage organized.
How to fold round tablecloths without wrinkling?
Use a clean, smooth surface. Flatten the fabric before each fold and avoid overly tight folds. Store in breathable containers away from humidity.
How do I store round tablecloths?
Make sure linens are clean and dry before folding. Store in a closet, bin, or drawer lined with tissue paper or cloth to prevent pressure marks.
How to fold and store tablecloths?
Lay flat, fold into halves, and then into manageable squares. Use drawer organizers or shelf dividers for storing. This applies to all table linens, including high-boy spandex tablecloths.
How to fold tablecloths so they don’t get wrinkled?
Smooth out the cloth after each fold. Avoid tight folds and don’t overload storage containers. Store flat whenever possible.
How to store tablecloths long term?
Store in cool, dark areas inside breathable cotton bags. Rotate your linens every few months to avoid permanent creases. Keep them away from moisture and sunlight.
How to get wrinkles out of round tablecloths?
Use a steamer or iron on the appropriate fabric setting. For gentle fabrics, try hanging the cloth in a steamy bathroom or using wrinkle-release sprays.
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