Summary:
Correctly sizing your tablecloth is key to achieving a polished and professional event setup. Whether you’re planning a wedding, a birthday party, or a corporate event, the right tablecloth length and drop can transform your tables into beautiful focal points. In this guide, we break down how to measure for tablecloths based on table shape, standard sizes, drop preferences, and more.
Explore our collection of tablecloths wholesale for every event style and budget.
When planning your reception setup, adding chair covers for wedding can help create a polished, cohesive look.
Choosing the right tablecloth size can make your table setting feel polished and complete. Whether you’re hosting a wedding, setting up a corporate event, or decorating for a backyard party, knowing how to measure your table properly is key.
At CV Linens™, we’ve put together this practical guide to help you find the right fit for your tables – round, rectangular, or specialty shapes. From formulas to fabric choices, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know.
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Why Tablecloth Sizing Matters
Choosing the right tablecloth size is more than just aesthetic. A properly sized cloth ensures uniformity across all tables, prevents trip hazards, and supports the overall design theme of your event. Ill-fitting linens can distract from your décor or even look sloppy in event photos.
1. Measure the Width and Length or Diameter
Use a tape measure to get accurate dimensions of your table.
2. Choose Your Drop Length:
- Casual/Informal Drop: 6–12 inches
- Formal or Floor-Length Drop: 30 inches or full coverage, a 15-inch drop or even floor-length adds a more refined look.
3. Calculate Tablecloth Size
- For round tables: Measure the diameter straight across the center. Add drop twice to diameter (e.g., 60” + 15” + 15” = 90”)
- For rectangular tables: Measure both the length and width. Add drop twice to each side.
If you’re using round tablecloths, getting the size just right will ensure your setup looks balanced and intentional. Many event planners choose wholesale tablecloths to achieve both quality and value. For even greater savings, explore our bulk table linens to stock up on essentials for any event size. Enhance your event décor with our wholesale chair covers for a polished and cohesive finish.
Shop our full collection of premium tablecloths to find your perfect fit.
Tablecloth Size Formulas
Use these easy formulas to calculate the right tablecloth size:
Round Table:
Table diameter + (drop x 2) = tablecloth diameter
Rectangular Table:
- Table length + (drop x 2) = tablecloth length
- Table width + (drop x 2) = tablecloth width
Example:
A 60” round table with a desired 15” drop:
60 + (15 x 2) = 90” round tablecloth
If you’re using spandex table covers, you can skip the drop calculation—these are designed for a snug, stretch fit around the table.
Round Tablecloth Sizes
Here’s a quick guide for common round table cloth sizes:
- 30-inch table → 90-inch cloth (floor-length)
- 48-inch table → 108-inch cloth (floor-length)
- 60-inch table → 120-inch cloth (floor-length)
- 72-inch table → 132-inch cloth (floor-length)
For a handy breakdown of measurements, check out our visual tablecloth size chart. Bookmark it as a quick reference the next time you’re planning your event.
How Do You Calculate Fabric for a Tablecloth?
If you’re buying or cutting your own fabric, here’s how to determine how much you need:
- Add your desired drop and hem allowance to all sides.
- Divide the total length by 36 to convert inches to yards.
- Consider your fabric width. If it’s narrower than your total size, you may need to piece together panels.
Example For A Round Tablecloth:
60-inch table + (15 x 2) + (1-inch hem x 2) = 92 inches total diameter
92 ÷ 36 = about 2.6 yards of fabric
When working with specialty textures like fabric rolls, always round up slightly to ensure enough coverage for adjustments.
Should a Tablecloth Reach the Floor?
This depends on the type of event and your personal preference.
- For casual dining, a short drop (6–8 inches) is fine.
- For weddings, galas, or formal banquets, a floor-length drop adds a refined, seamless look.
Use rectangular tablecloths for long banquet tables where clean lines and symmetry are important.
How Many Inches Should a Tablecloth Hang Over the Side?
Here’s a general guide for choosing your drop:
- Casual events: 6–8 inches
- Semi-formal: 10–15 inches
- Formal or floor-length: up to 30 inches
You can adjust this depending on the table height and guest comfort. For example, a sweetheart table or cake display might call for a longer, fuller drop.
Standard Tablecloth Sizes to Consider
Many big stores like Walmart, Target, and event supply retailers carry the following tablecloth size
Rectangular Tablecloth Sizes
- 52” x 72”
- 90” x 132”
- 52” x 114”
- 52” x 120”
- 90” x 156”
Square Tablecloth Sizes
- 52” x 52”
- 62” x 62”
- 72” x 72”
- 85” x 85”
Round Tablecloth Sizes
- 64"
- 72"
- 90"
- 120"
- 132"
If you’re shopping in bulk, rectangular tablecloths and round tablecloths come in a wide range of sizes.
Layering Options with Overlays
To add depth and contrast, consider layering your base linen with overlays. This adds a stylish visual element without needing to swap out your main tablecloth.
Tips for Event Planners
- Account for Table Height: Most banquet tables are 30” high. If using risers or platforms, measure from the floor.
- Uniformity is Key: Ensure all tables use the same drop length for cohesive styling.
- Fabric Choice Affects Fit: Materials like polyester, satin, or spandex drape differently. Choose based on your event’s aesthetic and function.
Explore Table Linen Options at CV Linens™
Whether you’re planning a simple dinner or a full-scale event, CV Linens™ offers a wide selection of wholesale party supplies. From classic polyester to shimmer and stretch styles, you’ll find options to match every table and theme.
Choose from fitted spandex, elegant floor-length cloths, or durable options for high-traffic use. Whatever your setup, we have the right linen to fit your table perfectly.
FAQs
How do you measure a tablecloth size?
To measure for a tablecloth, begin by measuring the length and width of a rectangular table or the diameter of a round table. Then decide how much fabric you want to hang over the sides (called the drop). Multiply your preferred drop by two and add it to each dimension.
This ensures the cloth covers the table and hangs evenly. For example, if your table is 60 inches wide and you want a 15-inch drop, you’ll need a tablecloth that is at least 90 inches wide.
What size table does a 90x132 tablecloth fit?
A 90x132-inch tablecloth is typically used for a standard 6-foot banquet table (30x72 inches) with a full drop on all sides. It can also provide a half-drop for an 8-foot table. This size is common for weddings and formal occasions when you want the cloth to reach the floor for a neat, elegant look.
How many meters for a tablecloth?
To calculate fabric in meters, first determine the desired size of the tablecloth in centimeters (including the drop). Divide the total length by 100 to convert to meters.
Most fabric bolts are sold in widths of 110 cm to 150 cm, so account for the fabric width too. For a round cloth, multiply the diameter (plus drop) by 1.1 to get enough fabric to cut a circular shape. It’s always better to round up and buy extra to allow for hemming and shrinkage.
What size tablecloth fits a 6ft round table?
A 6ft round table is 72” in diameter. For a floor-length drop, use a 132” round tablecloth. For a shorter, informal drop, a 108” round tablecloth works well.
What is the standard drop for formal events?
Formal events typically use a floor-length drop, which is about 30 inches. This gives a clean, luxurious look, especially for weddings and banquets.
What’s the difference between rectangular and oblong tablecloths?
Rectangular tablecloths are symmetrical, ideal for standard rectangle tables. Oblong tablecloths are rounded at the corners and sometimes used on oval tables.
Can I use a rectangle tablecloth on a round table?
It’s not recommended. Rectangle cloths won’t drape evenly on round tables and may look uneven or messy. Round tablecloths are best suited for round tables.
How do I measure for floor-length tablecloths?
Measure the table height (usually 30”) and add that length twice to the width and length of the table (or diameter for round). That gives you the full dimensions for a floor-length fit.
How do you calculate fabric for a tablecloth?
To calculate how much fabric you need, start by deciding on the finished size of your tablecloth. Add your preferred drop on each side, plus 2 to 3 cm for hems.
Once you know your desired dimensions, check the fabric width. Divide the total width required by the fabric width to determine how many panels you’ll need. Then calculate how many meters of fabric are required for those panels.
This approach works for both round and rectangular cloths, and it’s especially useful when making custom table linens.
8 comments
My table is round and 6 feet across. It has a 29 inch drop to the floor. What size tablecloth do I need to order? I do want the cloth to touch the floor
My table is 30 inche round Table and 30&1/2 inches tall ( from floor to the top)
What size table cloth should I order. I want a floor length. ( formal table cloth)
Thanks
My tabletop is 60 inches and I would like to have 15 inch drop which would be 75 inches I do not see this size shown. There is a table cloth I would like to purchase but its 60 inches so my understanding the table cloth would not have a drop am I correct?