How to Measure for a Custom Tablecloth

The building block of your table setting at any event, whether a multi-day conference or a one-day community marathon, is a well-fitting tablecloth. 

A generic tablecloth that’s too large or too small will affect the overall look of your booth. 

But a custom tablecloth, one tailor-made according to your table’s shape and size, offers more benefits than just its sleek, elegant look. It:

• Attracts attention to your booth and makes your display stand out from your competitors
• Is an easy and affordable way to add a professional touch to your table and draw in serious clients and potential collaborators
• Is reusable and easy to transport, making it a perfect branding tool on-the-go.

Fortunately, there is a custom tablecloth for every shape, whether round, rectangle, square, oval, or even oblong.

All you need to know is how to measure your table correctly, which we’ll show how to do with these easy-to-follow steps. 

How to Accurately Measure for a Custom Tablecloth

Trade show tablecloths are made to fit standard folding tables in 4ft, 6ft, and 8ft lengths with the drop of the tablecloth going all the way to the floor. The general measurements for these tables are: 

• 24" wide x 48" long x 29" tall for 4ft length tables
• 30" wide x 72" long x 29" tall for 6ft length tables
• 30" wide x 96" long x 29" tall for 8ft length tables

Always measure your table to see if it’s a standard size. MVP Visuals’ tablecloths are designed to fit these standard tables. 

To calculate the fit for your custom size table cover, we need these major dimensions:

1. Measure the length and width of its tabletop (or the diameter, if it's round)
2. Measure the height from the tabletop to the floor.

However, it's important to note that different tablecloth shapes and styles may require a few extra details about your table for us to ensure that perfect fit, specifically stretch custom table covers. Let's see how to measure for these in addition to the steps above.

How to Measure for Round Tablecloths

Accurate measurements are essential to ensure a perfect fit for your round stretch tablecloth. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you measure your round table correctly:

Step 1: Measure the Diameter

1. Identify the Center Points: Place the measuring tape across the top of the table from one edge to the other, passing through the center point. Ensure the tape measure is straight and level.
2. Record the Diameter: Note the measurement from one edge to the opposite edge. This is the diameter of your table. For a standard cocktail table, this is typically 30 inches.

Step 2: Measure the Height

1. Measure from Top to Bottom: Place the end of the measuring tape on the floor beside one leg of the table and extend it to the top edge of the table. Ensure the tape measure is straight and vertical.
2. Record the Height: Note the measurement from the floor to the tabletop. For a standard cocktail table, this is usually 42 inches.

Example Measurements

For standard cocktail tables, your measurements should look something like this:

• Diameter (C): 30 inches
• Height (H): 42 inches

How to Measure for a Rectangular Tablecloth

Accurate measurements are key to ensuring a perfect fit for your rectangular tablecloth. Follow these steps to measure your rectangular table correctly:

Step 1: Measure the Length

1. Identify the Longest Side: Place the measuring tape along the longest side of the table, from one edge to the other. Ensure the tape measure is straight and parallel to the table edge.
2. Record the Length: Note the measurement from one end to the other. This is the length of your table.

Step 2: Measure the Width

1. Identify the Shortest Side: Place the measuring tape along the shortest side of the table, from one edge to the other. Ensure the tape measure is straight and parallel to the table edge.
2. Record the Width: Note the measurement from one side to the other. This is the width of your table.

Step 3: Measure the Height

1. Measure from Top to Bottom: Place the end of the measuring tape on the floor beside one leg of the table and extend it to the top edge of the table. Ensure the tape measure is straight and vertical.
2. Record the Height: Note the measurement from the floor to the tabletop.

Example Measurements

For standard folding tables, your measurements should look something like this:

• Length (A): 72 inches (for a 6ft table) or 96 inches (for an 8ft table)
• Width (B): 30 inches
• Height (C): 29 inches

Common Measurement Mistakes to Avoid

When measuring your table for a custom tablecloth, accuracy is crucial to ensure a perfect fit. Here are some common errors people make and how to avoid them, along with troubleshooting tips for common fitting issues.

Mistake #1: Ignoring Table Edges

Problem: Measuring only the tabletop surface without considering the edges can result in a tablecloth that doesn't cover the table properly.

Solution: Measure from the outermost edges of the table to get the full length and width. If your table has a lip or overhang, include that in your measurements to ensure complete coverage.

Mistake #2: Using Inaccurate Measuring Tools

Problem: Using a rigid ruler or an old, stretched-out measuring tape can lead to inaccurate measurements.

Solution: Use a flexible measuring tape designed for fabric measurement. Ensure the tape is in good condition and provides precise readings. For best results, use a new or well-maintained measuring tool.

Mistake #3: Measuring Alone

Problem: Measuring a large table alone can be challenging and may lead to incorrect measurements due to difficulty in handling the measuring tape.

Solution: Enlist the help of a partner to hold the tape in place and ensure it is straight and level. Working with someone else can make the process easier and more accurate.

Mistake #4: Not Accounting for Table Shape

Problem: Assuming all tables are rectangular can lead to issues when measuring round, oval, or uniquely shaped tables.

Solution: Measure each unique dimension of your table. For round tables, measure the diameter and height. For oval tables, measure the length, width, and height. Provide detailed measurements for any irregular shapes to ensure a custom fit.

Mistake #5: Overlooking the Desired Drop Length

Problem: Failing to decide on the desired drop length can result in a tablecloth that either doesn’t reach the floor or drags excessively.

Solution: Determine the drop length before measuring. Measure from the tabletop to your desired drop point, whether it’s mid-length, knee-length, or floor-length. This ensures your tablecloth meets your aesthetic and practical needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a rectangular tablecloth on an oval shaped table?

You can use a tablecloth made for rectangular tables on an oval shaped table. However, the draping will be a little different and you may have to experiment a few times before finding a good fit. We always recommend ordering a tablecloth made to fit the table you're using.

Q: How much should my tablecloth hang over?

Industry standard for tradeshows, conferences, and brand events is typically a full drop - for normal folding tables like we mentioned at the start of the article, this would be 30". 

However, if you have a different personal preference for your tablecloth's drop length, simply request a quote and let us know so we can configure a custom order for you!

Q: What should I do if my tablecloth is too long?

You can shorten your tablecloth by adding a temporary or permanent hem to the customized dimensions. 

For a temporary hem, insert brooches or decorative pins beneath to hem the excessive fabric; while for a permanent hem, trim and finish one or two cutting edges of the tablecloth to shorten it.