Styling a rectangular table can be tricky. You don't want to end up with a tablecloth that's too short or too long, but what can you do if the rectangular tablecloth you have is bigger than what you need? Well, there’s an easy solution for that – a DIY fitted rectangular tablecloth also known as a DIY drape tie.
As long as the overhang of the cloth is equal on all sides, drape tying your rectangular tablecloth will keep excess material tucked away while giving it a neat and tidy look, which can greatly impact the overall look of an event. This can help prevent people from tripping on the cloth and people can sit comfortably without stepping on the tablecloth. If the tablecloths size is too small the desired sleek and elegant aesthetic will not be possible.
Steps On How To DIY A Fitted Table Cover
Step 1:
Place the tablecloth on the table. Make sure that the drop is even on all sides.
Step 2:
Find the center of the small side of the table. Lift the bottom of the tablecloth over the table from the center point.
Step 3:
Take the two corners of the tablecloth and tie them together with a double knot on top of it.
Step 4:
Drop the fabric to the floor and ensure the tie is tucked in.
Step 5:
Repeat steps one to four with the other side. You should have a seamless and fitted rectangular tablecloth, ready for heavy foot traffic.
Fitted vs. Standard Rectangular Tablecloth
A DIY fitted tablecloth is quick and easy to place on a table and can help prevent the tablecloth from slipping off. While you can opt for spandex fitted tablecloths, standard rectangular cloths work well and are fairly cheaper, too.
Unlike spandex stretch rectangular tablecloths that are a snug fit on tables, fitted tablecloths drape over the tables with a sleek fitted look that loosely contours to the edges of the table.
Spandex is a type of material of synthetic fabric that is commonly used because of its elasticity. The stretchability of spandex reduces wrinkles once stretched over tables and chairs, making tablecloths and chair covers easy to use for large events.
Fitted tablecloths, on the other hand, can be made from just about any rectangular tablecloth material such as polyester, which is the usual fabric used for all sorts of applications.
Can You Sit At Tables With A Fitted Tablecloth?
Yes, but not as comfortable when using standard table linens. On the other hand open-back spandex tablecloths are ideal for functions that require a person to sit behind the table such as catering events, conventions, trade shows. DIY tablecloths made of linen fabric, stretched to cover the entire table, will have more give and may not get in the way of people’s legs as much. However it's ideal to use them for buffet tables, gift tables, or favor tables unless the overhang is loose enough to accommodate legs.
How Much Overhang Should A Rectangular Tablecloth Have?
The ideal drop of rectangular tablecloths varies based on the event style and personal preference. Some ideal drops include a six to eight-inch drop from the edge of the table to the bottom of the tablecloth for informal events such as a casual dinner or a birthday party.
On the other hand, there should be at least a 15-inch drop for formal events like weddings and business occasions. In other words, the tablecloth should reach the floor but not have excess material puddle on the floor.
It might not seem like it but this small detail helps a lot when setting the tone for the entire event.
What Is The Difference Between Oblong And Rectangle Tablecloths?
Oblong tablecloths will have rounded corners that will fall smoothly on the floor around the corners on the table. They fit well on rectangular tables and can be used as a great alternative for oblong tables.
Rectangular tablecloths, meanwhile, have squared corners that may result as excess material on the corner floor sections.
Oblong covers give a more rounded and sophisticated design while rectangular covers give a more sharp and more polished look specially when turned into a fitted table linen.
What Do I Do If My Tablecloth Is Too Big?
Rectangular tablecloths come in different sizes ranging from 60"x102" to 90"x156". CV Linens has small linens that are perfect for overlays and large ones that can cover six to eight feet table lengths.
If the tablecloth you have is too big for your table, you can always incorporate DIY fitted rectangular tablecloth ideas to it or tuck the excess underneath the table. However, it is always best to use the perfect size and length of tablecloths for your tables.
How Do You Measure For A Fitted Tablecloth?
Measure the length, width, and height of the table then take advantage of our rectangular table calculator to find the ideal tablecloths size for your rectangular banquet table.
To learn more about fitting tablecloths for rectangular tables, here is a visual and detailed demonstration of how to do it:
If you want a cleaner look on your rectangular tables for your next event, you might want to consider doing this quick and simple DIY hack to make your tablecloths drop more elegantly on your tables.
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