Tablecloth Size Calculator
Table of contents
What size tablecloth do I need? Formulas behind the tablecloth size calculatorHow much drop should there be on a tablecloth?Tablecloth size charts: square & round tableclothsWhat size tablecloth for 6 foot table? An example on how to use the tablecloth size calculatorFAQsIf you'd like to figure out what size of tablecloth you need, look no further - our handy tablecloth size calculator is here to ease your burden. We've prepared a tool that is much better than tablecloth size charts (though we do still have them for square & round tablecloths if you're a traditionalist) — just input your table's shape, dimensions and preferable drop, and we'll work out the rest.
So don't rack your brain on a question such as "What size tablecloth for a 6-foot table?" - calm down, sit back, read on, and simply use our tool!
What size tablecloth do I need? Formulas behind the tablecloth size calculator
That's precisely why we've created this tablecloth size calculator — to help you find the perfect tablecloth size for your table! If you're wondering what size tablecloth you need, enter the table's dimensions and your preferred drop, and we'll tell you everything.
However, if you're curious about the math behind this tool, check out the formulas we implemented for different shapes of tables & tablecloths:
- Rectangular tablecloth (oblong tablecloth)
We assume that the drop is the same on each side:
length = table_length + drop × 2
width = table_width + drop × 2
- Square tablecloth
It's almost the same as the rectangular tablecloth, but as the sides are equal, so you need only one formula:
side = table_side + drop × 2
- Round tablecloth
Assuming that your tablecloth is the same shape as your table, the formula looks the same as for the rectangular tablecloth:
length = table_length + drop × 2
width = table_width + drop × 2
- Booth tablecloth
As the table is set next to a wall, you don't need the drop on that side:
length = table_length + drop
width = table_width + drop × 2
Don't forget to fix the tablecloth to prevent slipping off the table!
- Conference/wedding tablecloth
You may choose a drop from the side you're sitting (e.g., short/middle drop, for a comfortable seat). The remaining three sides have a full floor-length drop for a more formal and elegant look:
length = table_length + table_height × 2
width = table_width + drop + table_height
- Tablecloth runner
The runner is a type of tablecloth put in the middle of the table. It may be used for decoration but also for protecting your table from spills and damage.
length = table_length + drop × 2
Usually, the runner tablecloths hang over the table. If you prefer one that stays in the middle of the table only, choose the 'Custom' option and input the appropriate negative value (how far it should be from the table edge, e.g. -5 in).
How much drop should there be on a tablecloth?
The drop length is a matter of preference, but there are some general rules you may want to follow:
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Standard recommended drop, for casual, daily use:
Short drop, 6-8 in (15-20 cm)
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Drop for more formal occasions:
Half drop, 14-16 in (35-40 cm)
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Weddings, banquets, conferences:
Full drop to floor, usually 30 in (76 cm)
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Special occasions, decoration:
Puddle drop that extends beyond the height of the table. The value depends on the material and the effect you want to achieve.
Usually, the smallest drop advisable is 2 in (5 cm) — if you choose a smaller drop, then your material probably won't fall and drop nicely.
Are you enjoying this tool? Then our curtain panel calculator may interest you too. Additionally, if you wish to create multiple tablecloths of duplicate sizes, our fabric calculator is just the tool to help you figure out the total amount of fabric you will need.
Tablecloth size charts: square & round tablecloths
Truthfully speaking, you don't need this tablecloth size chart anymore — we've prepared this awesome tablecloth size calculator especially for you. You can input your table dimensions, your preferable drop, and you'll get a tailor-made result.
But, if you insist, we've prepared them too — here are simplified tablecloth size charts for two popular table shapes — round and square.
The following chart concerns round tables and tablecloths. The rows correspond to the table diameters and the columns to tablecloth diameters.
70" | 90" | 108" | 120" | 132" | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
30" | 20" drop | floor length | puddle drop | too large | too large |
36" | 17" drop | 27" drop | puddle drop | too large | too large |
42" | 14" drop | 24" drop | puddle drop | too large | too large |
48" | 11" drop | 21" drop | floor length | puddle drop | too large |
54" | 8" drop | 18" drop | 27" drop | puddle drop | too large |
60" | 5'' drop | 15" drop | 24" drop | floor length | puddle drop |
66" | 2'' drop | 12" drop | 21" drop | 27" drop | puddle drop |
72" | too small | 6'' drop | 18" drop | 24" drop | floor length |
Let's look at square tables and tablecloths. Similarly, the rows correspond to the table sizes and columns to tablecloth sizes.
54"x54" | 60"x60" | 72"x72" | 84"x84" | 90"x90" | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
24"x24" (2'x2') | 15" drop | 18" drop | 24" drop | floor length | puddle drop |
30"x30" (2'6"x2'6") | 12" drop | 15" drop | 21" drop | 27" drop | floor length |
36"x36" (3'x3') | 9" drop | 12" drop | 18" drop | 24" drop | 27" drop |
48"x48" (4'x4') | 3" drop | 6" drop | 12" drop | 18" drop | 21" drop |
60"x60" (5'x5') | too small | too small | 6" drop | 12" drop | 15" drop |
72"x72" (6'x6') | too small | too small | too small | 6" drop | 9" drop |
When it comes to rectangular tables, the sizes of tables & tablecloths differ a lot from manufacturer to manufacturer. Thus, we suggest using the tablecloth size calculator to find the perfect fit.
What size tablecloth for 6 foot table? An example on how to use the tablecloth size calculator
Theory aside — let's use the tool and make it work! We'll focus on the often-heard question - "What size tablecloth for a 6-foot table do I need?"
- Pick the table shape. You don't need to change it here, as the rectangle is the default value.
- Choose the preferable drop. Let's assume you'd like to have a lap-length drop of 12 in. Select that value from a list. If your chosen drop is not listed, select Custom and input the data manually.
- Enter the table's dimensions. The length of our table is 6 ft, and the width is 36 in. Remember that you can change the units at any time — e.g. to feet, inches, centimeters, or ft and in.
- The tablecloth size calculator shows the perfect fit for your table: it's a 96"x60" tablecloth.
If you can't find this size of tablecloth, go for a slightly larger size. It's better to have a bit of a longer drop than to get a too small tablecloth, with it rolling up or even not covering the whole table.
What size tablecloth do I need for a 5ft round table?
Assuming that it includes a drop of 6 inches from the edge of your table, you will need a tablecloth with a diameter of 72 inches to cover a round table that is 5 feet wide.
What are the standard dimensions for a circular tablecloth?
The most common diameters you will find for circular tablecloths are:
- 70 inches for a small table;
- 90 inches for a medium size table; and
- 200 inches for a large table.
Keep in mind how much of a drop length you would like your table to have because it can add a lot of elegance to the dinner table.
What is the ideal drop length for a tablecloth ?
The ideal drop length typically depends on the look you are aiming to achieve and on your personal preference:
- For a classic look, the ideal drop length should be between 10 and 15 inches.
- To obtain a more minimalist and sleek look for your table, add a drop length of about 8 inches.
- For formal settings, a drop length between 15 and 20 inches can truly add a bit of sophistication to your table.
What size tablecloth is needed for a round table of 60 inch diameter?
You need a tablecloth that is 76 inches in diameter to cover a round table that is 60 inches in diameter while considering an overhang of about 8 inches (standard length for a tablecloth drop).
How do I calculate the tablecloth length for a round table?
To determine the tablecloth length for a round table, you can use the following instructions:
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Measure the diameter of your round table.
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Choose your desired drop length.
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Calculate the tablecloth diameter with the following formula:
diameter of table cloth = diameter of the table + drop length